223 sizing die question

[remmag]

hello to all
i have full length resized some 223 cases for an ar , i have a case gauge on the way and will check my sizing die set up when it arrives

my question is this, if i need to adjust the sizing die to move the shoulder back what is the correct process

if i try to run the case back through the sizing die the expander button does not want to go back in the case
should the decapping pin be removes first, if so i would assume the neck tension will not be affected by running the case through the die with out the expander button

not trying to be a pita , just want to learn

thanks in advance

 

[MtnCreek]

The die sizes the neck down more then desired, the expander ball opens the neck back up to correct neck tension. W/O the expander ball in place, neck tension will be increased beyond cal spec.

The expander ball sould pass back through the neck. Does the ball have any taper on the bottom?

 

[rcmodel]

Size a case and check it in the case gage.

If the die needs adjustment, adjust it.

Any cases you sized first that are too long can be sized again with the expander in place.
It came out, it will go back in.

If you already sized a bunch of cases too short without a gage?
That was your first reloading mistake.

rc

 

[remmag]

rc
you definatly hit the nail on the head on that one

as long as we learn from them

thank you both for your advice and rc
you suggested a load for 357 mag, 158 grain swc and unique
loaded and shot several, they worked great

thanks