Which dies for Savage Model 99 in .300 Savage?

[97th Signalman]

I am getting ready to purchase reloading dies for my Savage Model 99 in .300 Savage. I prefer RCBS dies. They offer both standard Full Length resizing dies and also Small Base dies. RCBS text on Midway site says the SB dies are better for Lever guns. I have often heard of SB dies for semi-autos and I use them in .223 for my AR's. This is the first time that I have heard someone mention a preference for SB dies for something other than semi-autos.

Which would be best for my Model 99...the FL or SB dies?

 

[Sunray]

Lever actions and pump actions need FL resizing too. Has to do with the lower 'camming' strength of the bolt. FL dies have worked just fine for a whole lot longer than SB dies have existed. Six of this, half dozen of the other thing really. My M1 rifle and real semi'd M14 work just fine with FL sizing for 30 years or so.

 

[tkendrick]

I have two rifles in .300 Savage, a Model 99 Savage and a Model 81 Remington.
I full length size my ammo and shoot it in both guns.
I don't have problems that would require a small base die for either rifle.

However, the Remington is extremely picky about over -all cartridge length. Trimming to size is extremely important for that rifle, as is getting the bullets seated deep enough, where as the Savage has never complained at all.

 

[dagger dog]

Another threads' drift suggest that the small base dies if used to resize brass in non auto situations, over works the brass from the returning of the tighter demensions needed for auto fire.

The full length dies if properly adjusted should have no problems in returning you brass to the correct size for reliable function in your lever Savage 99.

 

[97th Signalman]

Thanks guys. You have been very helpful...Full Length die it is.

 

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I full length size with Lee dies. Works great in my 99, same goes for Lee dies in 250 Savage.