lee collet resizing die - multiple gun reloads?

[cereal killer]

Hi,


Question from a somewhat newbie reloader.

I had previously did some reloads on 7.62x54R, with no issues to report.


Now looking to get into 8mm mauser, and since I'll be reloading for a single bolt action rifle, I though I'd check to see what the hype was about with the lee collet dies and ordered a pair.

Now, I completely forgot one detail, I've got a large amount of brass that was fired from a similar model (yugo m24/47 to czech k98), but different gun still. My understanding of the collet dies is that they are meant for same gun reloads, if different rifle they'd need to be full length resized.

I don't have a FL resize die for this caliber (probably should have bought one when I ordered my stuff), would I need to get one to do a full length resize on the first load or can I get away with the neck size only of the collet die?

I did check, and a fired case seems to chamber fine, which would lead me to believe the original chamber is within close enough tolerances that a neck only resize would do the trick, but would like to get feedback from the more experienced reloaders.


Please share recommendations

Thanks
Eric

 

[old enfields]

The lee collet die doesn't size anything but the neck.
If the fired brass chambers you should be okay. You will probably want to chamber check all of it.

I have a No.4 that will take anything you put in the rifle but my E.A.L. needs brass that has been fired in it.

Being a battle rifle the chambers tend to be loose so that even the worst spec ammo can be chambered and fired.

The lee deluxe set includes the full length die and collet die for just a bit more. It is good for using once fired that isn't from your own gun. You can FL size it then continue with neck sizing.

 

[ajarmst]

I'd ordinarily full-length resize when moving to a different chamber, just so I'm starting from a standarad index on all the rounds (I also full-length new brass). But, if the brass chambers OK, I wouldn't say that it is something you have to do by any means. Reducing the number of full-length resizings should extend the life of the brass -- but in this case, it's only one extra sizing.

So, short version -- I don't think it matters much in this case.

 

[vviking]

Eric,
Seems to me you are doing well.
It's a bonus that the other brass will chamber, you may not need a F.L. (or a body) die for a few more firings. Depends on how hot you load. That said, when dealing with headspace, it's prudent to KNOW. Not guess.

If you don't have already, get yourself a decent dial vernier caliper.
Then research the acceptable maximum headspace for your rifle(the specs for go, or field, H.S. gauges).
With your vernier, start inserting various thickness shims between the bolt and cartridge head till you feel light resistance on closing the bolt. Then measure. I like Lee Valley's brass shim stock assortment for this. Even layers of masking tape have worked in a pinch. If the dimensions are out of spec., ... then don't shoot it!!.
After 40 years of putz'n about, it's Lee collet, Redding body, Lyman"M", Forster/Redding benchrest seating dies, and four thou. or less headspace, for this old guy.