RavenVT100
Member
- Joined
- Aug 18, 2004
- Messages
- 1,107
I've been reading all the 'starting out' threads in preparation for taking the reloading plunge. I'm going to go with either the lee turret press or the RCBS rock chucker. Reloading will be for .45 ACP and .223 (autoloading rifle).
There appear to be many testimonials about how much care needs to be taken with regard to proper measurements when reloading for an autoloader. That said, I'm confused on a few concepts regarding gauges and dies.
WRT dies: There are three dies, if I understand correctly. The first die punches the spent primer out and simultaneously resizes the brass back to spec. The second opens up the mouth in preparation for bullet reseating. The third crimps it. Is this correct? Can you get a die that sizes all the way down to the base of the cartridge?
WRT gauges: I have read about cartridge gauges, case length gauges, and OAL gauges. And calipers. If I have a cartridge gauge, do I need the case length gauge also? Is the OAL gauge required to reload safely? Finally, can you do the same thing with the calipers that you can with the gauges?
Thanks.
There appear to be many testimonials about how much care needs to be taken with regard to proper measurements when reloading for an autoloader. That said, I'm confused on a few concepts regarding gauges and dies.
WRT dies: There are three dies, if I understand correctly. The first die punches the spent primer out and simultaneously resizes the brass back to spec. The second opens up the mouth in preparation for bullet reseating. The third crimps it. Is this correct? Can you get a die that sizes all the way down to the base of the cartridge?
WRT gauges: I have read about cartridge gauges, case length gauges, and OAL gauges. And calipers. If I have a cartridge gauge, do I need the case length gauge also? Is the OAL gauge required to reload safely? Finally, can you do the same thing with the calipers that you can with the gauges?
Thanks.