Loading Blocks

[under_dawg]

I need to know what size drill bit I should use to make a friend a loading block for .243 and a .270. I used a 1/2" for my 30-30 and .308, and it worked fine. Is 1/2" a good size for for .243, and .270? I don't reload those those calibers so I don't have a case to use as an example. Aren't .243, .270, and .308 all based off the 30-06 (just necked down and shortened for the .308)?

 

[rfwobbly]

1/2 should work great if it's about 3/4 deep. Use a"plug bit" and it will leave a square bottom hole.

 

[ReloaderFred]

Yes, they're the same base for all those calibers. I used to make my own loading blocks, but now I'm lazy, so I just buy the ones from Midway when they're on sale.

Hope this helps.

Fred

 

[the_right_reverend]

but now I'm lazy, so I just buy the ones from Midway when they're on sale.

aint the truth.....have a machine shop loaded with woodworking tools and would rather spend a few bucks for Frankfort Arsenal perfect fit loading blocks

 

[fguffey]

under-dog, do the lay out work on one piece of wood, stack 4 pieces under it and drill all 5 at one time. then rip some thin ply wood for bottoms this will give you 'matching depth' wood blocks. If you have one store bought loading block, use it as a guide, you will have to put a bottom on it also.



F. Guffey

 

[qajaq59]

but now I'm lazy, so I just buy the ones from Midway when they're on sale.

I do the same now. At 21, I drilled the blocks. At 70, I just order 'em.

 

[under_dawg]

I wish my drill press would let me stack 3 or 4, but it's a cheapo from Harbor freight, and I can barely get a single 3/4" piece of plywood under the bit. I guess the bits I have are kinda long. Great idea though. I usually drill the holes all the way through and use some luan for the bottom. I round the corners and give a good sanding with a sanding block. It makes my wife think I'm really saving a bundle so she doesn't get too mad when those boxes from midway etc keep showing up!

 

[driftrider]

The base of a .243 is 0.473", so a 1/2" bit will work great, about 1/2 to 3/4" deep. One suggestion I'd make is to take a 1/4" bit and drill a hole the rest of the way through the center of each 1/2" hole in the block. This way, if you get a grain of powder or a stray piece of tumbler media in one of the holes (like I ALWAYS manage to do, no matter how hard I try), you won't have to remove all the other cases to get it out or spend time fishing for it with a pair of tweezers. Just take the case out and shake gently and it'll fall right out the relief hole you'll be glad you drilled.

Mike

 

[under_dawg]

Excellent idea Driftrider. I think I will give my friend's loading block the deluxe 1/4 hole in the bottom and then go retro-drill the few I have.