Dies for M-14/M305?

cariboo_kid

cariboo_kid

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I'm looking at starting to reload for my norinco M305 and would like some advice on what dies to purchase.

I understand that full length sizing is the standard procedure for semi autos, but I also know some M305 users are successful with just neck sizing. I'm also wondering if a factory crimp die is a good idea for this rifle.

Any suggestions on what die package to purchase?

TIA
 
Many thanks czechitout, that was a great link. Funny thing is I thought about pm'ing Jerry (mysticplayer) cause I figured he'd have worked his way through all the nonsense to get down to what works. :)
 
I've used RCBS .308 Win dies (don't bother with the Small Base dies) and Hornady Custom Grade .308 dies with super results. Nothing fancy needed !

For a specific M305, I would turn the full length die back (upwards) about an 1/8 of a turn. I mean the adjustment of 1/8 turn should happen after you have made that little "bounce" contact with the shell holder and the sizing die. This gives you an approximate 10 thou necksize. Now, with thumb pressure, drop the resized case (of course it's empty) into your chamber. Should chamber without any difficulty.

See if this technique works for you. Back in the mid 80's, I competed with a new (to me) USGI M14 each month. I had just started teaching and money was scarce. First kid had landed and money was even more scarce, so I had to cut financial hobby corners. I tweaked EACH new (to me) M14 and competed in NRA High Power matches. I could not afford to buy and install my own match (Douglas, Hart, Obermyer) barrels, so I had to make do with the issued GI barrel and it's headspace that ranged from 14 thou to 25 thou by necksizing my brass to that rifle.

Find what works for you !!
 
Thanks for the advice Hungry. You measured the headspace from my fired ammo way back and it was 9 or 10 thou, so that trick should work great. :)

After reading that I ordered my dies and should have them this weekend. I chose Lee Deluxe dies because they include the collet die and a full length die.

I've also ordered some Nosler 168 grain BTHP J4s to see what this rifle can do.

Next step will be to decide on which hunting bullets to try, and get some suggestions on loads that have worked well for others in these rifles.

Thanks for the help guys. :cool:
 
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