Modifying a Hornady shell plate ?

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S1nnerman

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Hey guys, I need help here....

I reload with a Hornady progressive press and I just found out that Hornady doesn't make a shell plate for 338 Lapua. I also found out that I could use the shell plate for the 416 rigby (#38) instead and that it would work fine with the 338 lapua but I can't find one for sale anywhere not even in the US.

My question is.... can I modify an shell plate so it will accept the 338 lapua ? For exemple I could take my 45 acp shell plate and make the sluts bigger and use it for the 338 lapua ?

What do you say ? If it's not an option I'll have to buy a new single stage press and I'd rather not

thank you for you time

Mario
 
If they do not make a shell plate-- may be for a reason

338 lapua will it have enough height to seat a bullet and rotate ???

Sizing force will it have enough to size down with out breaking something

One of my presses will not load 308 but -- but it will do progressive 308 case size (not enough height to seat a bullet)
 
How are you going to ensure that you remove material evenly so that the cases remain close enough to centered to ensure a symmetrical sizing and loading? This isn't a job for hand tools or a Dremel unless you plan on a lot of luck in forming the cutouts or have access to some fancy machine tools.

The only way I'd consider opening up a plate with hand held tools is if you find a shell plate that is REALLY close to what you need and it just takes a few kisses with a Dremel or whatever to let the .338 cases fit correctly.
 
There was one company that was making aftermarket shell plates for the Hornady LNL. I can't recall where I saw them but I'll dig around tonight and see if I can find the retailer.
 
A word from experience.
Hornady shell plates are surface hardened. They are harder than blazes.
Tried to alter one, and a carbide cutter wouldn't even touch it.
Want to see for yourself? Try and mark one with a file. Good luck with that.
Best to buy what you need.
 
i have converted a lee 9mm shell plate to 38 spl using a dremel and appropriately sized cut off wheels. it got the job done but one was a bit lopsided and crushed several cases. i've since bought a proper plate.
 
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