I've been reloading for pistol calibers, 9mm 45acp, 380, 38spl and 357 for the past few years now. But I have not done any work with bottleneck rifle cartridges. I have components and dies for 30 carbine and have prepped and trimmed some of the brass, but thats not quite the same kettle of fish. Thinking about getting a set of dies and projectiles to feed my S&W Sport II. I have a fair amount of brass, as I can't seem to toss brass away even if I don't currently reload for the caliber...a practice which has saved my bacon this year with 9mm. In any event, a few questions before I set out in this endeavor. My current set up is a Lee Value turret press and a Lee Breechlock (not challenger) single stage press. Are either of these suitable for 223/556? Apart from a die set, and the correct trimming arbor, is there any other equipment I need to consider before getting started? Is annealing necessary?, and if so, I know it can be done with a lead pot, but should it be? I know these would be more labor intensive than pistol rounds, just trying to wrap my head around how much more so.
These rounds would be for general plinking, staying proficient with the platform, not so much for match or hunting use. Mainly to conserve the factory rounds that I have in stock. As it looks like we're going to be short on supply for quite a while, thought it would be wise to have an alternative source of ammo for that rifle.
As far as components, I'm good on brass and primers, I have a source for some CFE223 and a limited source for jacketed 55gn but I'm not opposed to casting bullets if need be. Love to hear your thoughts and if there's anything I just haven't considered yet. Thanks!
These rounds would be for general plinking, staying proficient with the platform, not so much for match or hunting use. Mainly to conserve the factory rounds that I have in stock. As it looks like we're going to be short on supply for quite a while, thought it would be wise to have an alternative source of ammo for that rifle.
As far as components, I'm good on brass and primers, I have a source for some CFE223 and a limited source for jacketed 55gn but I'm not opposed to casting bullets if need be. Love to hear your thoughts and if there's anything I just haven't considered yet. Thanks!