AR10 38 reloading

[Robert101]

Just started loading for my new DPMS Tac20. I purchased some Lee Dies and here is my problem with the sizing die: (brass is cleaned and lubed, prior loads are bare starting loads per Lee manual - no max loads, winchester brass and some NATO brass)
1. After firing I have to re-size in steps. Meaning, turn the die down in stages as to attempt a full lenght re-size (with lube) requires way to much effort.
2. I have followed instructions that say turn die down to 1/4 turn below contact of die and shell holder. Just seems to far down.

Also, the resized neck is so tight that if the bullets didn't have a boat tail I would not be able to use a flat end bullet.

Any thoughts or help is appreciated.

 

[rcmodel]

What kind of press do you use?
What kind of case lube?

.308 should not ever be so hard to resize that you can't do it in one operation.

As for neck tightness?
The die reduces the case to below minimum, then the expander enlarges it back where it needs to be when you pull the case back over it when it comes out of the sizing die.

Any chance you got the Lee Collet NEck Sizing die set?
If so, that right there is your problem.
You should have got the Pacesetter or RGB die set with a normal FL sizing die for use with your AR-10.

Also, you need to chamfer & debur each case after sizing for easier bullet seating.

rc

 

[W.E.G.]

I have followed instructions that say turn die down to 1/4 turn below contact of die and shell holder. Just seems to far down.

Get a proper tool.

 

[Iron Sight]

Was the Brass you are having trouble with originally fired in your Rifle?

 

[Robert101]

I'm using some new Winchester brass and once fired NATO brass Winchester. Both are acting the same really. I checked the Lee video and the resizing die looks appropriate. As to lube, vie tried the Hornady spray, Mobil 1, and RCBS case lube. I'm still baffled. The Mobil 1 works as good as the rest.

 

[Robert101]

Oh I'm using an old RCBS Rock Chucker and brass fired from my gun or new cases really act the same.

 

[dmazur]

Any chance the expander button is backed out so far it is trying to expand the neck while it is being resized?

As I understand typical resizing dies, the expander button enters first, before the neck is resized to a standard OD, then it re-establishes an ID correct for that caliber (but independent of brass thickness at the neck) as it is withdrawn. Due to the nature of the tool, it expands the neck twice, but only the last one is done after resizing.

If this adjustment is way out, I believe it can result in extreme effort to move the case into the die as you have two sub-processes fighting each other.

 

[Robert101]

I'll remove the expander and see if it has any affect on the resizing. Good idea.

 

[Iron Sight]

Could what this shooter/reloader is describing have to do with the problem?

http://www.303british.com/id36.html