Lee LM and .223 question

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Cranberry

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I recently started loading .223 on my Loadmaster. First batch was using 25.2gr of Varget using a double pull on the .95 disk in the Lee powder measure. I just picked up the Lee double disk kit which seems to work just fine and gives me a lot more size-of-charge options. I'm upping the load to 26.2 gr but I've run into a problem. Because 26+gr of Varget fills the case fairly close to the top I occasionally get some of the load shaking out when the press cycles from the powder fill to the bullet seating station. This is controllable if I'm careful and gentle with the press lever but it's irritating. If I wanted to get closer to the max (27.8 with a 55gr fmjbt according to Lyman) it would be a real problem. Does anyone have a solution to this?
 
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Cycle the press slowly when it indexes, you can go as slow as you need it to go.

Full case loads on a progressive will spill. Reduce load or switch powders.
 
Thanks for the replies guys. owl, I don't think I can mess with the funnel because it's inside the mechanism. Can't make it longer and I don't think I could narrow the opening because the powder would start to jam up.

Kryo: yes, going slow is what I'm doing. I was hoping to find a technique to allow me to up the charge a bit more but maybe that's not possible with the Varget. It's ok though, my original 25.2gr load is shooting very nicely and quite accurate.

I did try putting the bullet in the case as the case comes out of the powder-filling die, before it reaches bottom of stroke and turns the shell plate. This does stop the spillage but it's a bit of a pain because you're working around the chain that resets the powder measure and sometimes the bullet can shake loose as the shell plate turns.
 
Take 5 minutes and polish the underside of the shell plate. 600 grit abrasive paper will take it to a mirror finish. Also touch up the top edges on the carrier, careful to not remove material. Once the press cycles buttery smooth I found that I was able to use a consistent force for indexing. This consistent force gives increased control and eliminated the jerky motion and bang-stop that happens if you've got to really slam it around.

A touch of grease or oil also helps. Do not over apply. Only enough that you can feel it, not see it. More lubricant is not better.
 
Thanks redruns. You've reminded me that I haven't polished my .223 shellplate. I did all my other calibres but forgot the .223, probably because I was so keen to get started!
 
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