RCBS Trimmer pilot and cutter questions

[BHFG]

I want to order an RCBS trimmer for .223 (right now that's the only rifle brass I'm going to load). I am thinking or of ordering the Trim Pro, either the one with no shellholders or pilots, or else the Trim Pro Kit that comes with 4 shellholders and 9 pilots.

But here is where I run into questions:
- I am not sure I understand what exactly the pilots do. Can someone please explain this?

If I order just the trimmer (not the kit), I understand I need a shellholder, but if I buy a 3-way cutter, do I still need the pilot? Or is the pilot all I need?

If I buy a 3-way cutter, which one do I order? Do I buy the one for .22 to do .223 brass?

Tnx

 

[Walkalong]

Do I buy the one for .22 to do .223 brass?

Yes. It will do all the .224 calibers.

.22 Hornet, .222, .223, 22/250, etc

 

[rcmodel]

The pilots fit in the cutter, and enter the case mouth to guide and prevent cutter chatter and rough cuts.

So yes, you need the pilots.

If it was me, I'd just get the complete set to start with and be done with it.

rc

 

[Historian]

That's what I did. Thought that I woud be loading only .223 but I got all of the shell holders and pilots. Now I'm getting ready to start loading S&W .40 and I have all of the trimmer that I need to do that as well. You may think that you not need or use the "spare" parts but down the line somewhere thay may come in handy. I have added the accessory that chucks into a power drill and mates with the trimmer. Now I have an inexpensive power trimmer.

Historian