.256 Win Mag

[68wj]

Gonna start loading for my Marlin .256 Win Mag. I have a few boxes of brass and a standard die set. However, I would like to know what is involved in creating new brass from .357 mag cases. I have never done anything beyond basic resizing. Thanks.

 

[MMCSRET]

I lubricate the case well with a fine quality lubricant, not a spray, and carefully run the case into the full length sizing die. Clean the lube off after extracting the case from the die, measure and trim. You will loose a few cases to collapsed walls and creased shoulders but it works well. I found that R-P cases were easier to form and I had fewer rejects, maybe because R-P cases tend to be slightly thinner in the upper walls.
You will experiment with techniques and develop your own way of fine tuning the operation.
Good shooting!!!!!!!!

 

[68wj]

Thanks for the response. So, with some patience, good lube, and a few sacrificial cases, I can use the standard sizing die and don't need anything special?

 

[J.R.W.]

I'd suggest sizing the cases with a .357 sizing die first, might make it a bit easier.

 

[MMCSRET]

Yes, I always ran the 357 die first, didn't think to mention that step. Forming dies are most definitely not needed. After you try a few your losses will decrease. I never lost an much as 10%, even when trying Federal cases.

 

[Red Cent]

Used to have one many moons ago. I could get two, maybe three reloads and case separation would occur. Factory ammo. About 1/2" above the rim. Traded it in for a Rem 700 22-250.

 

[68wj]

Thanks everyone!