For the last 2 years I've been reloading this caliber using Redding Type S dies for use in a factory rifle. Prior to ordering the bushings I measured the loaded necks of 3 types of factory cartridges and got .248, .247, and .247 so I purchased 1 .245 and a .246. I use unturned WW brass as they are available and the price is right. I sort them for weight, trim to length , and clean up the pockets and deburr the flash holes. The usual stuff but they are not benchrest type jewels by any means. I've shot about 700 rnds with various components under controlled circumstances with the expected differing results(usually). My three best groups (5 shot) have been .310 .325 and .337 at 100 yds. All of these are measured center to center and were on 3 different occasions. For a 41 year old unbedded totally factory firestick thats good enough for me and how much time and money I,m willing to put into this rifle. When I'v pulled bullets that have been sized using my bushings I,m surprised at how much effort is required to dislodge the bullets. Usually 4 or 5 non-wimpy smacks on a concrete floor are required. I'm wondering if there is too much neck tension and if I should be stepping up slightly in bushing diameter to relieve it. I know that benchresters pay a lot of attention to all facets of the neck, but they're running tight necks. Would anyone wish to comment based on their personal experiences?...Thanks in advance
.222 neck bushing diameter for SAAMI .255 neck
- Thread starter Quadra
- Start date
Load 5 rounds and use a caliper or micrometer to measure at the neck. Take an average of the 5 rounds.
Take that average dimension and get a bushing .001 smaller.
Unless you are turning your necks to clean them to a consistent thickness, you will have varying tension between rounds.
Take that average dimension and get a bushing .001 smaller.
Unless you are turning your necks to clean them to a consistent thickness, you will have varying tension between rounds.
