Neck Resizing Only

[valkrider8]

Hello Guys,
I have been contemplating getting into reloading for several years and finially pulled the trigger and bought a RCBS starter kit. This last year I have been reading many manuals, researching forums, and of course been hanging out here for many years. I think I am ready to take a swing at this. I want to start getting the dies that I need and have already got some questions. :lol: The two cartridges I want to start with are my 22 Hornet and 350 Rem Mag. There are two die sets and three dies set for each. Some one told me you can just resize the neck on these if you are shooting them in the same rifle. Here are the questions I have:

1) Does it save the life of the case if you only resize the neck?
2) Is it true what I was told about you can just resize the neck only if shooting the same rifle?
3) Should you resize the case every third time( for example) when just resizing the neck?
4) Do you recommend resizing the whole case / is only doing the neck a short cut?
5) Are Redding dies any better in quality and/or better to work with than RCBS dies

A little confused,
Valk

 

[mattsbox99]

1 - yes
2 - yes
3 - I full length size whenever I will be hunting with that cartridge. With the hornet I only size the portion of the neck that holds the bullet.
4 - I really don't own any neck dies, but back off the full length die a 1/4 to 1/2 turn so it only partially full length sizes the cases.
5 - no, just more expensive. They have some features that RCBS doesn't, but you can make just as accurate ammunition with them.

While I haven't used them, the Hornady Custom Grade dies have a very good bullet seater that prevents runout and I would go that route if starting over for whatever they make. They are a few bucks more per set but also include a free box of bullets if you like Hornady bullets.

 

[pbslinger]

I use Lee collet neck dies for cartridges in bolt guns and single shot pistols. They are easy to use, require no lube, and make very accurate ammunition. They are an ingenious design. I wish other die makers made them just to spur innovation, though not much improvement is needed.

 

[mike7mm08]

I neck size for all my calibers. I also use the lee dies. Only thing I have to add to what has been said is regarding your 350. Unless order a specific sizing die for belted cases neck sizing is the only way to go. If you try full length sizing your 350 brass you will end up with a bulge just ahead of the belt. In worst case scenario you might only get two or three loads out of a case before it will no longer chamber. Even new cases I just neck size. The 350 lee neck size is a special order. Presently lee is not taking special orders. It is not as simple as the lee die but any die can be adjusted to neck size only.

 

[David Bradshaw]

Reloading, like marksmanship itself, thrives on COMMON SENSE and NO DISTRACTION.

Neck sizing works better with some cases than others. Yes, you neck size for the gun you fired the case in. By preventing stretch above the web, neck sizing prolongs case life. Except in a chamber with oversize neck, where excess brass working is unavoidable.

Neck sizing works when the neck remains straight after sizing. If the cartridge/die combination produces loaded bullet RUNOUT, it is better to partial-size with a full length die.

Partial FL sizing usually calls for minimum sizing----to prevent the case body flowing forward, thereby pushing the shoulder forward. Often, this means less than a 1/4-inch of the neck is sized. This method method holds the case in alignment and often produces less runout than a neck die, which does not support the body at all.

Run sized brass through the action before loading. You should barely feel the case as the action closes.

Whatever you do, do not use your firearm as a reloading press!

As a rule actions and locking lugs desire lubrication. In contrast, T/C specifically warns against lubricating Contender locks lugs.
David Bradshaw

 

[Rick Courtright]

Hi,

Please let me join those who've praised the Lee Collet die! I only use it on one caliber at the moment, the .303 British which is notorious for being hard on brass. W/ full length sizing, I was tossing brass at 3 loadings. Switching to neck sizing w/ the collet die, I've seen six and seven loadings.

That's the only caliber I have where I'm only loading for one, bolt action rifle. I may set aside some brass for "my '06 only" and try another collet die next...

Rick C

 

[valkrider8]

Just returned from a few days at camp and followed up on my post. Thanks to all who took the time to respond, really appreciate the info. Looking forward to getting started on this reloading adventure.

Valk

 

[volshooter]

I have dedicated brass for certain rifles. I ony neck size and trim these cases. I have a 25/06 built before 68 and the neck angle is different from current ammo. I have very good results only neck sizing with bolt action rifles. Do check the overall length and trim if needed. There is no reason to full length resize if you do not use the same cases in different rifles.

Many of my 25/06 cases started out as 30/06. They were ugly coming out of the resizing die. Oil dents and sholder marks were the norm. These were trimmed and loaded with target loads. After initial firing I neck sized and trimmed. These cases fit my chamber better than factory.

I would only full size a case for a new rifle or any semi auto. Yes, brass life is better with neck sizing.