K31 Swiss

[BoltOperated]

As I'm fast becoming disgusted with the prices in the surplus ammo market, I'm gearing up to start reloading for my K31 (and other) rifles... reading a lot, visiting the forums, etc.

I have an RCBS die set (yes, I know, not as good for the K31 as the Redding). For now, I'm not going to get into details about powders/bullets but have a question regarding the case/sizing issues. For the most part, I was intending to mimic the GP11 ammo, for obvious reasons, as far as case-bullet dimensions/AOL, etc.

Re: Use of Wolf-G/Prvi cases - If I fire reloads exclusively in the rifle the cases were originally fired in, will I encounter the same typical problems shooters seem to have with chambering, headspace, etc?

If this practice will be more beneficial, just how much resizing should I expect to have to do?

 

[Stinger]

I think you should at least partially full length resize the case. Does that make sense? I would do more than just neck size, but less than full length. FLR would resize the case more than necessary for the K31 and neck sizing could run into problems due to its lack of camming power with the straight bolt.

 

[BoltOperated]

Stinger,
I have heard similar opinions and yes, it does make sense. I think that FLR would probably be overkill and undue stress on the brass. I guess practical application of the real thing will be the only true test. Until then, I want to at least weigh all options. Thanks for the reply!
B

 

[[email protected]]

If it helps any I reload for my K-31 with the Graf & Sons brass that I believe was marked "Frontier" at the time it was the only boxer primed brass I could find. I use the LEE dies, FL size every time & load with 39.5 gr IMR4895 with a 165 Gr PSP bullet seated to 2.890. Works great in my K-31 & my 12 year old likes to shoot it too.

 

[Steve in PA]

I use the RCBS FL dies for reloading my K31 and never had any problems or issues.

 

[NuJudge]

My experience with K31 and 1911 Carbines is that you do have to full-length size. Anything less and you will probably find your bolt not completely closing on some cases. The K31 is less springy than the 1911 action, but it still does it a lot. You should "cam over" with the press, also while the press is cam'ed over look between die and shell holder and see if you can see any light.


Remember that the K31 also has practically no throat, so either pick bullets that taper quickly ahead of the cannelure, or seat the bullet deeply.

 

[qajaq59]

My 2 cents.

They are a little tougher to FL size then some, but do it anyway. Otherwise, in the end, the bolt is not going to close and you're going to have to pull them apart and start over.

 

[BoltOperated]

Bullet profile/dimensions

NuJudge,
Your second point is a good one, I will keep an eye on that.
B