Problem with Lee Collet Neck sizing dies

[roberti11]

In the attached photo you can see several of my prized fire-formed Lapua Match Brass. I have used this die on hundreds of cases and on this batch of cases at least 5 times, and then suddenly I noted increased pressure and the cases came out crushed. I tried lubing, but all the same. Finally I took the die apart, then put it back together and the problem stopped. After 15 cases it started again.

After some trial and error, and unfortunately a lot of damaged cases I found the problem. I had run low on Lapua brass and had added a few Norma match brass, every time I collet sized one of the Norma's the next Lapua had a problem. It seems the softer Norma Brass is allowing the collet to "form tight", and unless I take the die apart and allow the collet to spring back it crushes the Lapua cases. As long as I do not mix the cases that I resize the problem never comes back. If I resize Norma necks in my collet die, I need to open the die and remove and replace the collet, this allows it to spring back and the problem is solved.

 

[lcq]

The die appears to be adjusted in too far and is crushing the case. Read the sectionon buckled cases in the instructions it offers detailed troubleshooting.

Brian

 

[doc25]

Had a problem with the 303 adjusted in too deep as well.

 

[Levi Garrett]

What a shame , back it off
Frank

 

[JasonYuke]

Yes I did the same with a few 7mm Rums, had to back it out a bunch.
Just too deep bud thats all, we have all been there!

 

[Ritchie]

Here:

 

[savagefan]

Take the die apart, clean thoroughly and lightly lube the collet, works better for me that way.

 

[HPL]

You don't have to crank super hard on the press handle with collet dies. It takes a surprisingly small amount of pressure to form the neck. Try a lighter pressure and that also might keep the collet from sticking closed.