Competition Shell Holder or Die Shims?

[TrxR]

How do you guys setup you dies for the proper shoulder bump? Do you just adjust the die or do you use a set of competition shell holder or die shims? I have been thinking a set of Competition Shell holders or shims would be more precise but which would be a better way to go? The Shims are far cheaper.

Thanks

 

[bigedp51]

I use the shims under my lock rings and sometimes I wish I had the competition shell holders.

The idea behind the competition shell holders is for better case alignment and less runout as contact with the shell holder helps center the die in the press.

Before tightening the lock ring on the die a lubed case should be placed in the shell holder and the ram raised. The lubed case centers the die in the sloppy 7/8 x 14 threads and then the lock ring is screwed down tight. Then with the lock nut on the decapping pin loose the ram is lowered until the ball expander enters the neck and is centered and then the lock nut is tightened.

When using the shims there is a chance with the different thickness shims that the die could be locked down slightly off center because the die was adjusted while making contact with the shell holder.

If you have a normal factory chamber the custom shell holders might be overkill. Also I read recently a funny comment made by a well known competitive shooter.

"The cartridge case should fit the chamber like a rat turd in a violin case"

Meaning the case should be a loose fit in the chamber and let the bullet be self centering in the bore.