Expanding die

Johnn Peterson

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Chemainus B.C.
Most of my rifle and pistol calibre's I reload cast bullets for are three die sets with one die being an expander die. I have some cast bullets I'd like to try in my .375 H&H but my dies for that calibre are only a two die set. A shooting friend in similar situations uses a Universal Case Expanding Die that I believe is made by Lee. Just wondering, before I order one, has anyone else had any experience with this die? If so, what do you think of it? How well does it work for using cast bullets? Worthwhile getting?
 
expanding die

I have just used the regular two die set for a 6mm Rem with cast bullets. Just as long as you do not get peeling of the lead as it goes into the case you should be fine. Could try a coouple of extra turns with your deburring tool?
 
John: The Lee die is made to bell the case mouths if that is what you are looking for. It works very well and can be used for pretty much everything by the switching around or elimination of one of the internal parts. I use mine a lot rather than buy more expensive dies which generally only suit specific cases. One of Lee's good things. If you have a three die set that includes an expander you may wish to continue using that. But, if you have a number of 2 die sets and wish to prepare for cast bullets the Lee is a do-all.
 
pdg300 & stocker, thanks for your input and opinions. Another 'CGNer' sent me a PM telling me of a little trick he uses. He puts the nose of a set of needle nose pliers into the mouth of the case and gives it a few turns while exerting a little downward preasure. That bells the case mouth enough to stop it from shaving the cast bullet.
A local CGNer, rodagra, has kindly offered to lend me his Lee expanding die to try. Very kind. I'll try these options and if the results of cast bullets in my .375 H&H warrant it, I'll pick one up. Thanks again guys, much appreciated.:)
 
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