Full length resize versus neck sizing

Busta Capp

Busta Capp

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Is there really accuracy gains to be had by using fireformed cases (from your own rifle of course) and neck sizing, versus full length resizing? Would prefer actual tested results versus "I think this one is better....".

I have a full length resizing die now for my .223 brass. It makes sense to use this for new brass, and any once fired (not in your rifle brass). Debating whether to get a neck sizing die for brass just fired in my rifle, but am having doubts this will result in any accuracy gains. It may stress the brass less overall than full sizing, but certainly will increase the stress in the neck and shoulder.

Thoughts?
 
It depends upon circumstance - what is the controlling limitation to accuracy for your rifle - rifle bedding, operator, bullet weight, etc? The slight improvement afforded by neck sizing may not be noticeable for most shooters.
You can easily mimick neck sizing by partially resizing using your FL die. Adjust the die out until the cases chamber with very slight interference - you're good to go.
 
For me the primary reason to get a neck sizing die is to increase the life of the brass. If it's more accurate all the better. When I order new rifle dies I get neck sizer also as it really isn't expensive versus what it saves in brass.

There is a difference between using a neck sizing die and partial sizing with a full length die.


Fudd
 
ElmerFudd said:
For me the primary reason to get a neck sizing die is to increase the life of the brass. If it's more accurate all the better. When I order new rifle dies I get neck sizer also as it really isn't expensive versus what it saves in brass.

There is a difference between using a neck sizing die and partial sizing with a full length die.


Fudd
Click to expand...

X2.......................:D
 
Same here, I neck size for the brass life factor. They are well worth the price for that alone. I haven't noticed any difference in accuracy from FL to neck sized rounds. Then again, I am shooting them in 60+ year milsurps..... :p
 
I have a set of Lee collet dies and I would highly reccommend them.I think it has helped the accuracy, but the best part is the fact that you don't have to use any lube and it really speeds up the process if you do a lot of shooting.As far as making the brass life being I have just reloaded some 223brass today {38} rounds out of a box of 50 for the 27th time.I think that I have got my nickles worth outta that brass.

Bearcat
 
I don't think any benchrest shooters use full length dies for regular reloading, generally they are used to 'bump' a shoulder back, or for case forming but not reloading. Most of the benchrest crowd uses hand dies, which means no full length sizing. All of those bench rest guys can't be wrong.
 
thoughts above hold relatively true but after a number of hits don't be surprised if you're cases might need or benefit a resize on the body to bring accuracy back in line...
 
Busta Capp, I hope that I don't seem to highjack your thread. I was about to ask this, but this seemed a good thread to include it in as it seems "on topic". :)

I just purchased a Lee collet die to neck size my .375 H&H. I've been using Federal brass that I bought as factory ammo and fireformed. I find that the neck doesn't seem to be tight enough. I can push or pull the Barnes TSX bullets in or out by hand. So, I turned the die down another 1/4 turn as per instructions, still a bit loose. I wonder if this is caused by thin brass, will my Remington and Winchester virgin brass that is on it's way have a thicker case wall and resolve the problem. :confused:
 
... In a semi-automatic you may NEED to full length to ensure chambering from the magazine. If in a bolt gun, and if you don't need a particularly fast second shot, then I'd go with the neck size only.... prolongs case life, ensures more constancy with chambering and less expansion at the moment of ignition, thus more consistency as to velocity, all of which translates into better accuracy. Whether you're a good enough shot to appreciate the benefits, is up to you. Personally, I'm not, and since I shoot the same caliber in different rifles, I full length resize. The benefits really are only important to the bench rest, and maybe the really long range shooters. ..... David K. .....
 
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