Cases too short! What went wrong?

[Martin]

I checked my 7x57 brass today and found some cases a little too long. I guess the normal length is about 2.235 according to Lee. I used a 7x57 case length gage as you can see in the picture until the cutter stopped taking off material. After using the tool the length is actually far below 2.235. What am I doing wrong? I guess I have to use the lock stud, right?! I find it confusing as I thought the little pin acts only as a guide and the thicker gage body determines the case length but I guess I'm wrong?!

Thanks

Martin

 

[Mush]

I don't have my reloadings books handy, but the max case lenght and the trim to lenght are not the same.


Mush

 

[(((Echo)))]

Yes, you have to use the lock stud.

The final length is determined from the gage tip to the cutter face. The pin is there to act as a guide and to stop the lower part of the case from wobbling, screwing up your case mouth. It's long to counter variences in different case web thicknesses. The thicker gage body is to stop the upper part of the case from wobbling. All in all, when used right , it's a good, quick system.

(E)

 

[H4831]

You need the screw clamp that goes over the rim. The guiding pin then rests on the base of it, giving exact length of the case. Without this the pin just sticks through and length would depend on the thickness of the web on the base of the case.

 

[Martin]

Roger that! Thanks Gents!