Please Help Identify RCBS 308 Win Dies

[Andy]

I just acquired three dies for the 308 Win. One is a seater, but the other two are both stamped on top as F/L sizers, although with different codes. They are:

RCBS 308 WIN S8 FL 89

and

RCBS 308 WIN FL 90

I sized two fired cases and the dimensions came out slightly different - I suspect the latter is a neck-sizer, but it sized the body a bit as well and the neck was not as tight. Could they be F/L Sizers dies made to different specs?

Perhaps someone could look at their own RCBS 308 Win dies, or can reference the codes?

 

[Etter]

Don't know for sure but one could be a small-base die.

 

[CyaN1de]

RCBS 308 WIN S8 FL 89

If the S8 is actually a SB then it is probably a Small Base die which is recommended for Auto-Loader 308's

 

[240gord]

The first one I think is a small base SB not S8.
Gord.

 

[Andy]

Yes, that's it - thanks. The "S8" is an "SB". I measured again, and it makes the case slightly smaller and a bit shorter than the other dier.

 

[X-man]

RCBS 308 WIN S8 FL 89

and

RCBS 308 WIN FL 90

First is .308 Winchester, Small Base, Full Length Made in 1989

Second is .308 Winchester, Full Length (Standard) die Made in 1990.

If you're shooting bolt guns, use the second one. If you've got a semi-auto with a tight chamber or you have extraction problems, the first one is better to use.

 

[Sasquatch807]

Small base dies can also be useful for rifles with very tight chambers such as a Rem. Mod. 600 Mohawk I own. If I use regular dies with that rifle I have a very hard time closing the bolt.