Revolver Dies
- Thread starter Bitumen
- Start date
(((Echo)))
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Old Man Land, AB
They're 90% the same. Just the length differs.
If I remember correctly, you can reload 357 on 38 special dies, but not the other way around. The shorter die can be backed off to accommodate the longer case, but the longer die can't shrink for the shorter case.
(E)
If I remember correctly, you can reload 357 on 38 special dies, but not the other way around. The shorter die can be backed off to accommodate the longer case, but the longer die can't shrink for the shorter case.
(E)
They're 90% the same. Just the length differs.
If I remember correctly, you can reload 357 on 38 special dies, but not the other way around. The shorter die can be backed off to accommodate the longer case, but the longer die can't shrink for the shorter case.
(E)
I've been thinking about a .357 mag for Christmas and my buddy has a set of Redding .38 special dies that he would give me, so maybe I could just use those dies.
(((Echo)))
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Old Man Land, AB
At one time RCBS supplied a shim with their die sets that were sold as 38 Sp. / 357 Mag and also the 44 Sp. / 44 Mag.
I have both types and the shim is nothing more than a thick washer to put under the respective die when going to 357 Mag.
The washer thickness is the difference between case length of the two.
I have both types and the shim is nothing more than a thick washer to put under the respective die when going to 357 Mag.
The washer thickness is the difference between case length of the two.
No. No. No.
All brands of dies work the same way.
Most brands of dies are marked 38S/357. There is a washer enclosed with them which is the same thickness as the differnce in lenght between the two cases.
In loading 38 special cases, just use the dies.
When loading 357 cases, the washer is inserted under the dies.
Kevan I read your post after I posted mine, so I am likely wrong by stating, "Most brands of dies are marked 38S/357."
I was thinking of the RCBS I used for a lot of years and thought they would all be that way.
I have ordered a Redding .357 mag titanium-carbide 3 die set. It says it comes with a sizing, expander and seating die. I went with the titanium-carbide so I don't have to use lube. I have been reloading rifle for a few years now, but this is my first "kick at the cat" with handgun reloading.
Is the expander die used for the flare you have to do on the case? What about crimping? Do I need a crimping die? If so, why was it not included in the set I wonder?
Is the expander die used for the flare you have to do on the case? What about crimping? Do I need a crimping die? If so, why was it not included in the set I wonder?
Yes, the expander die is for expanding the mouth to enable a cast bullet to go in without shaving lead. A jackete bullet needs no, or very minor expansion. A gas check bullet doesn't need quite as much expanson as a flat base cast bullet.
Regardless of what bullet you are using, give the case the very smallest amount of flare needed, in order to make the brass last longer. Experiment, and use the least amunt you can get away with.
A 357 with normally higher loads will need a crimp, to prevent the bullets in the cylinder from going forward, resulting in the cylinder being unable to turn.
I presume the seating die you have is a combination seating/crimping die and can easily be adjusted to give you the proper crimp.
Regardless of what bullet you are using, give the case the very smallest amount of flare needed, in order to make the brass last longer. Experiment, and use the least amunt you can get away with.
A 357 with normally higher loads will need a crimp, to prevent the bullets in the cylinder from going forward, resulting in the cylinder being unable to turn.
I presume the seating die you have is a combination seating/crimping die and can easily be adjusted to give you the proper crimp.
