Headspace Variation in Resized Cases?

[Chris Rhines]

I'm trying to do some load development for my .223 AR, using a Lee Reloading Press and a Redding Competition full-length sizing die with bushing. During the sizing operation, I'm getting a lot of variation in the headspace of my sized cases. I'm trying to size to a headspace of 1.460", and I'm getting 4-5 thou of error between cases. All the cases are once-fired Remington commercial.

What could be going wrong here?

- Chris

 

[USSR]

What lube are you using?

Don

 

[Chris Rhines]

One-Shot. Works very well.

 

[30Cal]

They're not going to come out exactly the same. Variation will be made worse if the inside of the case necks aren't lubed. Either way, as long as they cycle fine, the affect on accuracy is nil.

 

[Chris Rhines]

Variation will be made worse if the inside of the case necks aren't lubed.

I should have mentioned - I removed the expander ball from the sizing die, using the neck bushing alone. Nothing touches the inside of the case neck.

I can accept a little variation, but 5 thou? That cannot be good for accuracy, especially when I'm trying to test a new load.

- Chris

 

[USSR]

One-Shot. Works very well.

Cough, cough, er, if you say so.

Don

 

[Chris Rhines]

*shrug* I've been using One-Shot for several years and many thousands of rounds. It has never given me any trouble. The trick is to let it dry for 5-10 minutes before you start loading. If you just spray it on your brass and go to town, you'll get stuck cases.

Anyhow, I stuck the sizing die back in my Dillon and my troubles all went away. There may be a couple Lee single-stage presses for sale, cheap, in the next couple days.

- Chris