Seating Die Issues.....

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I think I already know the answer to my question, but I'm going to ask anyways.

I'm running the RCBS Comp FL die set and trying to seat some bullets.

I put the die in the Coax, and no matter what I do, I can't get my OAL less than 2.885"

The inside dimension of my mag is 2.901"

I'd like to get down to about 2.870 so I'd have a little more clearance in the mag.

Is the only option to cut off the end of the seating die, to allow more travel in the press, which would allow a shorter OAL?

Or, am I missing something?

 

[2aBaC̶a̶]

Maybe a different seating stem?

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I've taken this one apart trying to figure out how to extend it.

I could use a longer bolt and put a spacer between the dial part and the stem, making it "longer," but it may not be concentric after this.

 

[KnowNothing256]

But do they have different stems for VLD bullets? Some do.

And I’d talk to the manufacturer before cutting the die, that seems like you’re missing something or something’s wrong.

 

[2aBaC̶a̶]

What caliber? I dont know anything about the RCBS so I Just watched a video and they have an extended shell holder for the smaller 308 cases. Is that still a thing?

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[Precision Underground]

Make sure the stem isn’t just turning/backing out as you screw the micrometer down. The Forster will do this if the stem isn’t locked with the jam nut. Not sure if the RCBS has something similar.

 

[KnowNothing256]

Can personally confirm the Forster die does this

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

It's for 308.

The Comp FL die set does come with the extended shell holder, but it won't work with the Forster.

I should have mentioned this.

 

[Cr1775]

Get a press that you can use extended shell holder or a different die that doesn't need one

 

[Precision Underground]

The video shows the extended shell holder being used for 308 as it goes into the die and allows you to seat deeper. That’s what you need to use.

 

[powerspc]

You need to adjust the depth of the seating stem by using an allen key in the top of the die (you'll see a hole on top). Turn it clockwise to lower it; the key should have been provided with the die.

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I see what you're saying, but there's nothing to "lock" the stem in place after adjusting the cap screw, so OAL would start to vary after a few rounds.

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I don't have another press as I sold them after buying the Coax.

I may have to cut the die down.

 

[powerspc]

You know what, I'm totally wrong anyway I think. I was confusing RCBS with Redding, I'm not sure with RCBS how to solve. Sorry!

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

Using the extended shell holder would work.

I didn't realize it actually slides into the seating die when seating bullets.

Dammit. Anybody want to buy a set of dies?

 

[Precision Underground]

Just buy a different die. You can get a Forster micrometer for less than $100 or a Lee for $30. I have some Lee dies and have no issue with them. You’ll hear people say they are cheap or no good but the couple that I have make 1/2 MOA ammo just like the more expensive dies.

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I found a Forster Coax Conversion plate that will allow the use of a standard shell holder.



It's less than a set of dies with shipping so I'm going to give it a try. I already have a #2 shell holder so I'm set there.

According to this thread, it seems to work well and leaving the shell plate screws just a little loose allows the plate to float and it helps eliminate any concentricity issues.

 

[Cr1775]

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