an update to check out new reloaders

[Helno]

I have made at least 200 rds of .223 so far and still have all of my fingers and both eyes.

I got a stuck case the first time aroudn because I didnt lube the case. I have had a few others get squished shoulders while getting the dies adjusted.

 

[mistahmojoryan]

I'm going to pick up some reloading equipment soon. I'm planning to get a Lee Anniversary Kit, probably a Lyman tumbler and Lee dies for 7mm RM and 300WM. I was going to get the RCBS kit but I put the extra cash towards a new rifle.

I'm considering IMR 4831 and Hodgdon's 4831 but I'm not sure what the difference is. I'm clueless about primers as well.

Any advice on the above is appreciated. I can't wait to get started!

 

['Boo]

I'm considering IMR 4831 and Hodgdon's 4831 but I'm not sure what the difference is. I'm clueless about primers as well.

About 5 bucks a pound!

Actually they are both great powders. The IMR version is a little faster burning than Hodgdons version. The Hodgdson powder is designed to minimize the velocity differences caused by different temperatures. This however is not a big deal unless you develop a maximum load in 5 degree temeratures and then shoot them when it is 30 degrees outside. (In truth ball powders like H380, H414, W760 etc are the worst for this)

Try one powder first and then if you are not happy with the results try the other.

For your 7mm Remington Mag I would try whatever large rifle magnum primer your local shop has on hand.

 

[Splatter]

Hodgdon makes (used to make) "trial packs" 4 small cans of similar use powders to experiment with.

 

[phronq]

I'm doing ok with my loading. I got all the bugs with the krinkled up cases worked out before I started using primer and powder.. I've had one of each calibre that I'm doing that didn't come out right about 600.

When I'm at the loading bench, hours just disappear. I had to put a clock down there so I can keep track of time.

 

[Winchester 1886]

Thanks a lot BOO,
I Adjusted my die 2 turns back after touching shell holder and it worked
like a charm.I reread my reloading books and I found the way to ajust for
crimping...One thing I have to tell the newbies:

REREAD YOUR RELOADING BOOKS

 

[fogducker]

Thanks a lot BOO,
I Adjusted my die 2 turns back after touching shell holder and it worked
like a charm.I reread my reloading books and I found the way to ajust for
crimping...One thing I have to tell the newbies:

REREAD YOUR RELOADING BOOKS

all right another lesson learned .....

 

[beltfed]

XD40 Chamber & hand load using brass that saw service through a glock.
Unfortunately this particular round caused me to poo poo an ipsc stage this last weekend
After that, I double checked all ammo that I have made and this is 1 of 9 rounds in 2000 that doesn't make the cut. I have previously fired about 1200 of my hand loads without hiccup.
All were bulged at the base that would not allow the round to chamber completely. Guess I should retract my KD statement

 

[Why not?]

I've been doing it for a few years now, but here's my (latest) screwup that needs help -do not overtighten the little brass set screw that holds the locking ring on an RCBS die. It's very soft and easy to strip. One of mine is now hopelessly stripped. I know RCBS offers replacements, but how do I get the stripped one out, short of drilling it (which I'm reluctant to do)?

Just turn the lock ring off the die and turn the brass screw all the way through.

Ted

 

[bushwhacker]

I have had a few screwed up cases, seems to be more lubing required with my equipment than you would think. I have got cases stuck in the die and yanked the rim off and broke one neck off with the inner sizing button, so now I lube OS with pad and IS with Qtip. I had the bullet seating/crimping problem. Loose bullets and crunched necks. Went back to the manual for the press and dies as suggested. Did have one potential serious powder charge problem but caught it in time. When you change powders, seat bullets and put away the loaded cartridges & 1st powder, before you reset your powder measure, scales and fill the measure with new powder. Weigh every charge until you are satisfied and then spot check every so often. Also, I managed to drop my powder measure and broke the handle off it. It is an oldie, so I quess I have to braze it.