RCBS, carbide or not? How can I tell?

[dbarale]

I was given a set of RCBS dies for 45ACP and I assumed that they require case lubrication. But I was just cleaning 'em up before adjusting and I noticed that the sizing die showed no evidence of lube residue.
I tried to run a couple dry cases through it and they resized easily but showed some scratches.
So, carbide or not? How can I tell?

 

[dmftoy1]

I think my rcbs carbide dies say "carbide" on them but I'm not completely sure.

 

[NVMM]

Turn the die over and looking at the base you will see a carbide ring (its noticeable) insert.
Your right, they do say carbide on the top.

 

[dbarale]

Thank you guys, that was quick!
It confirms what I was thinking, I need to go get some case lube.

 

[ReloaderFred]

If the dies scratch the brass, they can be restored by polishing with Flitz or JB Bore Cleaner. Here is the link to tell you how to do it: http://www.varmintal.com/arelo.htm#Polish

I've used Al's process for restoring many dies and it works like a champ and makes the dies easier to use.

Hope this helps.

Fred

 

[lee n. field]

It confirms what I was thinking, I need to go get some case lube.

No. You need to go get a carbide sizing die.

(Seriously, one of the spray case lubes should be fine and minimal trouble, but carbide is much preferable.)

 

[NVMM]

If you shoot a lot of 45s you'll be way better off with a carbide sizer die.
If you don't want to buy a new set you can buy a carbide sizer die and use the older dies that you have.

 

[dbarale]

I'm just waiting for some that are being shipped right now, I was just going to use those in the meanwhile.

I have Lee carbide dies for 357 and I do know it is the way to go.
Considering the gun store is closed on Sunday is there any household lube that I could use like Spam or something? Just for tonight, I have some free time and was looking forward to reloading some 45's.

 

[NVMM]

You can use plain anhydrous lanolin. Put a little bit on your fingers and then rub the cases.

Mink Oil, a refined lanolin leather preservative also works well as a case lube.

A little bit of STP oil treatment.

 

[agd1953]

RCBS carbide dies have "CARB" marked on them