Do RCBS small base dies use a different shell holder than normal dies? I cant find any info on the rcbs web site and I just ordered a set of AR series dies from a site sponsor but they didn't have any rcbs shell holders in stock. I have been using a set of lee red box dies that worked fine with a rifle I had with a standard 5.56 chamber but I have had the odd chambering issue with a .223 wylde match barrel. Will my existing lee shell holder work?
Small base die question
- Thread starter fridge450
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The cartridge base and rim do not change size depending on the die used, if it did I would need seven different shell holders.
I use the RCBS small base die the most because I buy bulk once fired military Lake City 5.56 and load for three AR15 rifles.
As a side note the Wilson and Dillon case gauges below do not check case body diameter and the red JP Enterprise does and is made with a finish chamber reamer.
I use the JP Enterprise gauge as the final "plop test" of my loaded rounds to ensure they were reduced in diameter enough.
Below you can see how far the base of the case enters the Wilson and Dillon gauge and how much smaller in diameter the JP Enterprise gauge is.
I do however use a Lee shell holder when small base sizing for a particular rifle that has a tight chamber as the Lee holder is slightly thinner and it allows that extra few thou of the base to resize. I find that particular holder also holds the shell more securely. That is just my ocd showing tho.
that's good to know because its match ammo that I'm loading and I want maximum reliability.
Shell holders can vary in size/deck height and your Lee shell holder could be taller.
Plus the case should be able to move freely in the shell holder, and a tight fitting shell holder can cause the case to be sized off center with the die. Meaning you will end up with excessive neck runout issues.
The deck hight of the shell holder shoulder should be .125
