.223 reloading die preference for Mini-14

[BB Rvlr]

I haven't loaded for my Min-14 yet and have never done reloading for any semi-auto rifle.

What dies do you all use to load for your Mini?

Are there any dies that I should avoid?

Am I asking silly questions because reloading for the Mini-14 is no more difficult that any other firearm?

 

[Hylander]

Loading the Mini is really no different than any other rifle.
Just make sure you full lenght size.
I prefer Redding dies, then RCBS
Don't like Hornady or Lee rifle dies
No need for Small base dies with the Mini, all they do is over work
the brass

 

[john guedry]

I use regular RCBS .223 dies and get good results.

 

[gregs45auto]

Plus one for RCBS dies. greg

 

[mattsbox99]

Regular RCBS full length dies are what I use to size, but I use the competition seater die for pretty much all my bullet seating.

 

[wizofwas]

Another +1 for the RCBS dies. Great customer service.

 

[RR]

I use RCBS for .223 for my AR they work just fine, never had an issue in 19 years that I've had them, can't say enough good stuff about them. I was told that Full Length Dies are the norm for autoloaders when I first started reloading for auto rifle.



RR

 

[Mobuck]

I use LEE dies for .223(and most everything else). Simple stuck case removal, adequate sizing for most chambers, good warranty-all features I find worthwhile. I do a LOT of 223 loading and the LEE dies do wear out or get scratched but I suppose other brands will also. I've physically worn out 3 LEE 223 sizer dies over the last 5-6 years but all were replaced under warranty. Keep in mind this is during the sizing of several 5 gallon buckets of range and military brass. This would amount to several lifetimes worth of loading unless you're a dedicated prairie dog or target shooter.

 

[anachronism]

Redding or Hornady. I keep both on hand, and use Hornady on purchased brass because their sizing die is a bit tighter, and is closer to a small base die when I don't know what sort of gun the brass was originally fired in. I use Redding dies for brass that's been fired in my own guns at least once, although this is really a redundant step, and the Hornady would dies work perfectly for everything. I like the seating dies that Hornady offers, and use Hornadys seating dies for all rifle calibers. When I crimp, which is really rare, I do it in a separate step, usually with the Redding die, with the seating stem removed.

 

[Rick Courtright]

Hi,

I don't load .223, but my brother in law does, for his Mini. He's used "standard" (not small base) dies from RCBS for a couple of years now and is happy w/ his results.

Rick C

 

[recumbent]

Lee dies work good for me.