OK I Give Up--RCBS Lockout Die

[Shmackey]

I used to claim that my "powder checker die" was a clip-on light that I attach to my press so I can look into each case before seating a bullet. Well, one way or another, I had a squib the other day. First one ever, and no idea how I did it, but I plan to make it the last.

So I finally set up my powder-through expander to free up room for an RCBS Lockout die. Any tips on setting it up? I will use it for .45ACP 90% of the time, 9mm 5% of the time, and "other" 5% of the time.

(I'm still not giving up my clip-on light. I like it. )

 

[dbarnhart]

Gavin's video is the best explanation:

http://ultimatereloader.com/2010/09/21/rcbs-lock-out-die-part-ii-setup-and-maintenance/

 

[BYJO4]

I agree that the above video is excellent in showing you how to set up die. I now have a Lockout Die for each caliber I load so no adjustments are needed unless I change a given load.

 

[Shmackey]

Perfect. Thanks!

 

[pdosh]

I too bought the RCBS die after having a couple of squibs while using a powder check die and a good light. I've loaded about 3000 rounds total on my progressive press and it's too easy to get distracted and not look at the powder check and in the case. Even with the lockout die I still visually inspect the powder level but I have more confidence now. I did run a series of tests to see if it was catching errors. Gavin's videos explain setup pretty well.

 

[firstater]

This is a great pre-check before visual inspection and I believe has saved me a squib or two. After setting up like in the video above, I run a double charge and light charge through it just to make sure it catches them.

 

[Shmackey]

Wow

I've done a 180 here, people. Used to scoff at these dies, and now--after the seven minutes it took to set it up and test it out--I can't see the point of loading on a progressive without one.

Brilliant idea, brilliant engineering.

 

[dbarnhart]

I agree. I wish they could figure out how to design one for bottleneck cases.

 

[loadedround]

Just got a RCBS Lockout Die for my new Dillon 650. Works great and is more than half the price of Dillon Lockout Die. Seems to be easier to set up than the Dillon also.

 

[Shmackey]

I can't imagine the RCBS one being any easier. You just screw out the rod until it's the right length. I think their non-locking Powder Checker die was harder to set up.

I am in awe of how brilliant this little thing is. Almost gives me faith in humanity.

 

[noylj]

I have one for each 1050 press.
I do NOT tighten the die down as they are all too sensitive.
I get about one lock-out every 50 rounds and so far (over 2 years) every one has been the correct charge (just a different case capacity). Wish they were just a shade less sensitive. Wouldn't want to load in bulk without one.