Question regarding 44 mag loading

[dsm]

I have a set of RCBS carbide dies and want to load 240 JHP bullets. My question is, do I need to expand the case mouth? I want to load as accurate as possible without over working the brass, especially at the mouth.

 

[Rodentman]

I expand the case mouth the absolute minimum to get the bullet started. If the bullet will go inside the case and hold itself there, that's enough.

 

[rcmodel]

Expand yes.
Bell just slightly enough to hand start the jacketed bullet in them.

I like to be able to pick up a charged case by the bullet out of a loading block without the bullet falling out.

That insures me the bullet is started in the case straight before it goes in the die.

want to load as accurate as possible without over working the brass, especially at the mouth.

The neck expanding isn't nearly as hard on the brass as the roll crimp necessary for accurate .44 Mag ammo will be.

Fuggedaboutit!

rc

 

[gamestalker]

It probably seems strange to some, but I don't bell the moughts for any of my handgun cartridges. I just ream and chamfer which allows for smooth seating and no shaving. I use one powder for all my magnum cartridges, H110 & 296, they are the same thing. If you should give either of those powders a try, make sure you use a good firm roll crimp, and magnum primers to avoid unwanted issues.
The above seating method is somehting I've been doing for many years without any problems what so ever. By not belling the mouths, I'm betting I get at least 20+ reloads from my brass, even with those full house magnum loads.

 

[BYJO4]

I expand the mouth of the case just enough to start the bullet.

 

[dsm]

Thanks for the info....I appreciate the helpful replies!