I use a Frankford arsenal hand deprimer and there was very little resistance. Almost nothing there when removing spent primers.
I use a digital caliper after sizing checking case length. If necessary I trim the cases on a lyman case trimmer. Then measure again. Debur cases with lyman deburring hand tools. Once loaded I check overall length again and adjust seating depth accordingly.
Once I get things were needed I check 1 out of every 5. Unless something looks wrong.
I start my loads out using correct powders listed in several manuals (Lyman, Lee, and Hornady)start at minimums. I was working up in 1gr increments. It was suggested earlier that I go in 1/2gr increments and will going forward. I started getting pressure signs with mid-level loads. I'm looking for accuracy more than anything but haven't gotten there yet because of the flattened primers.
The action on this rifle is a 98k but the barrel is an aftermarket sporter. No idea who made it. So I don't think its an old military chamber issue. The barrel is stamped 7x57 mauser.
Bore cleaned up beautifully. Didn't notice a carbon ring while cleaning. I should have new brass and go guage by next week. Found a pound of imr4350 today at a local shop.
Once I check the head spacing and everything checks out. I'm going to start over with my loads. Starting with the imr4350. If head spacing is bad it'll be going to a gunsmith to have everything checked.
Here are several pics of the rifle.
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