Question Regarding Case Length

[ThePunisher]

When reloading, I notice the charts always list the max trim length for the brass. On my .223 dies, it indicates maximum trim length is 1.76" on the brass (no bullet of course). As I have been prepping and loading the brass, I have noticed that some of my brass does need trimming (I have the Lee Case Length Trimmer), but others are actually under...some have measured at 1.73"-1.74". My specs call for an OAL (with bullet) of 2.20, which I always load to, but what effect does this shorter brass have (if any)? Is there a minimum trim length? All my info shows just the max trim at 1.76".

 

[SKS50]

Info on trimming

http://www.exteriorballistics.com/reloadbasics/trimmers.cfm

Lyman #49 Manual

Case length 1.760 "
Trim to length 1.750"

Your Lee trimmer will fall somewhere in between that,it could be right at 1.750" or slightly longer.

 

[ThePunisher]

Sorry guys - I might have phrased this wrong - what are the consequences (if any) of having brass under 1.75"? I know max is 1.76", but what is the min? Should I be pitching brass that is 1.74"?

 

[H4831]

The consequences are, if you put the cartridge in the chamber and pull the trigger, it will go bang.
Further, the bullet will fly the same as any other bullet you have loaded.
Quit worrying about such trivial matters!

 

[ThePunisher]

The consequences are, if you put the cartridge in the chamber and pull the trigger, it will go bang.
Further, the bullet will fly the same as any other bullet you have loaded.
Quit worrying about such trivial matters!

I figured it wouldn't be long until you commented...I didn't think it was important, but I couldn't find a straight answer. Not all of us have been reloading as long as you - might be a good idea to think about that instead of labeling everything as trivial.

 

[MauserMike]

FWIW, the RCBS documentation that came with my latest set recommends to trim all cases to 20 thou under maximum after resizing for the first time.