Sizing 380 with .223 small base

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My Lee 9mm, 380, and 40s&w sizing dies leaves more to be desired in the area of neck tension when loading jacketed/plated bullets. It didn't matter if I expanded the brass or not. I used the universal flare die to only bell the case mouth without expanding with no difference. I ended up getting Lee's undersized dies for jacketed and use the regular ones for cast.

 

[Walkalong]

rcbs is more expensive

But they work. I started with RCBS, then tried all sorts of dies, and after all this time, RCBS is still my number one choice.

 

[cfullgraf]

Yes, if the die does not work, it does not matter how inexpensive it is.

 

[FROGO207]

FWIW I use a Lyman die set for the 380 and have never had neck tension problems with my reloads. I do reload RP brass using Gold Dots as well with good results. I will measure mine and get back to you.

 

[higgite]

But like you said earlier, rcbs is more expensive

There is a reason for that.

 

[Toprudder]

Just checked my 380 dies.

Dillon sizing die = 0.366"
Dillon expander (powder funnel) = 0.353"

 

[Tony k]

Just checked my 380 dies.

Dillon sizing die = 0.366"
Dillon expander (powder funnel) = 0.353"

What did you use to measure the inside diameter? Reason I ask is that I've seen people say that standard Calipers give undersize results on inside diameter measurements.

Regardless. That's what I get with Calipers too.

 

[Walkalong]

You can buy individual pin gauges. Inside micrometers will often not reach in far enough to get to the tightest part of the carbide insert. My RCBS .380 carbide insert is tapered just a little, like many are.

 

[Toprudder]

What did you use to measure the inside diameter? Reason I ask is that I've seen people say that standard Calipers give undersize results on inside diameter measurements.

Regardless. That's what I get with Calipers too.

Calipers.

 

[GooseGestapo]

I have, and use a set of Lee dies to load .380.
My only "issue" is with W-W headstamped brass with Hornady XTP bullets. Bullets Mike ..3545". Cases have thinner necks.

With all other brass, or with cast bullets (.356, .357), no problems.
I once had a bad Lee product. (Bullet mold), sent it back, Dick Lee personally penned an apology letter included with the new mold.

Send it back (with note explaining problem). Most likely, they'll send you an undersized die back.
Good people in my experience.

 

[Walkalong]

We are lucky that all the reloading companies really back their products up pretty well. From very good to great IMO.