Lee 9mm trimming pilot

[Onagoth]

Got this pilot off Ebay, came in the regular lee packaging and everything looked good.

I know trimming is overrated by many when it comes to pistol brass, but nonetheless, here is my problem.

The pilot bulges near where it screws into the cutter, the bulge is just big enough that it cannot fit into the mouth of the cases, (after being resized). I find that to make it work properly, I have to flare the case mouth before I trim.

Is this normal?

 

[CeeZer]

Man, you don't need to trim 9mm brass...

 

[Tex Critter]

No that is not normal. Some of mine are tight, but they all fit inside the case mouth.
Check the diameter with a caliper. If it is oversize, tell Lee about it and they'll send you a new one.

 

[RePete]

Trim the brass before resizing.

 

[Onagoth]

Trim the brass before resizing.

The pilot does fit if I trim before resizing, but doesn't measure right since the primer blocks the pilot from extending the whole way.

Also, theoretically, doesn't the case expand during resizing, and thus trimming should be done after, no?

Thanks for the help

 

[formerfarmer]

Trim pistol brass? Just keep reloading till it cracks, throw it away and get new stuff.

 

[glenliz87]

Also, theoretically, doesn't the case expand during resizing, and thus trimming should be done after, no?

Exactly right.