Introduction
A case sizing die is an indispensable tool used in the process of reloading ammunition. Its primary function is to resize a spent cartridge case back to its original dimensions, thereby enabling it to be reloaded and fired again. It's a critical step in reloading, as it prepares the case to correctly fit back into the firearm's chamber, which is pivotal for accuracy and safety.
Two types of case sizing dies
To fully comprehend the importance and usage of a case sizing die, we first need to delve into the two primary types of sizing dies and understand their differences and specific applications.
The first category of case sizing dies is the full-length sizing dies. As the name suggests, these types of dies resize the entire case, from the case body right through to the case neck, back to factory specifications. Full-length sizing dies are primarily used for semiautomatic, automatic, and lever-action rifles. The reason for this is that these types of firearms need reliable cycling, and the only way to ensure this is to return the whole spent case to the exact factory specifications.
The second type of case sizing dies is the neck sizing dies. In contrast to full-length sizing dies, neck sizing dies only resize the neck of the case. The benefit of this approach is twofold. First, by leaving the body of the case untouched, the life of the brass can be significantly extended. Second, this type of resizing could potentially improve accuracy, as the body of the case has already been fire-formed to fit the specific firearm's chamber. However, it's essential to note that neck-sized ammunition is generally recommended only for bolt-action rifles, where the brass will be re-fired in the same gun, and chamber fit is less critical for cycling.
Having established the differences between the two types of case sizing dies, let's now turn our attention to the actual usage of a case sizing die. The process involves several steps that need to be followed meticulously to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The first step in the process is the cleaning of the spent cases. Before any resizing can occur, the spent cases need to be cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt, residue, or other contaminants that might have accumulated. This is usually done with a case tumbler or an ultrasonic cleaner. The goal of this step is to make sure the cases are as clean as possible before resizing, as dirt or other debris could potentially damage the die.
After cleaning, the cases need to be lubricated before sizing. This is a crucial step because it prevents the cases from getting stuck in the die during the resizing process. Lubrication is typically done by applying case lube to the case body. However, it's important not to apply lube to the case shoulder or neck, as this could cause undesirable dents.
Once the cases are cleaned and lubricated, it's time to adjust the die. This involves inserting the shell holder into the press and raising the ram to its highest point. The die is then screwed into the press until it just makes contact with the shell holder. For those using a full-length die, further adjustment may be necessary to ensure it fully resizes the case. Consult the instructions provided with your specific die set for more detailed guidelines.
The next step in the process is the actual resizing of the case. This is done by placing a case in the shell holder and slowly lowering the press lever. This action raises the ram and pushes the case into the die, where it is resized. Once this step is completed, the lever is raised, which in turn lowers the ram and removes the case.
The final step in the process is inspection. After each case has been sized, it's crucial to inspect it to ensure it has been resized correctly and to check for any signs of damage. This step is vital for safety reasons and should not be skipped under any circumstances.
In conclusion, the use of a case sizing die is an essential step in the process of reloading ammunition. While the process might seem complex initially, with time and practice, it becomes straightforward. However, it's paramount to remember that safety guidelines must always be followed when reloading ammunition. These guidelines, along with specific instructions for your equipment, are often provided in the manual that comes with your reloading die set. Remember that each step, from cleaning and lubrication through to adjusting, resizing, and inspecting, plays a vital role in ensuring safety, effectiveness, and reliability in reloading your ammunition.
Consider joining a forum to discuss case sizing and other topics with fellow reloaders. An excellent forum for this can be found here.
If you know of any forums or sites that should be referenced on this listing, please let us know here.
