As a bolt gunner, I like to neck size only because the brass lasts longer. However, most two-die sets only have a full-length sizing die. Do I then have to buy a separate neck-sizing die, or can I neck size with the full-length die just by backing it out a bit?

Edited by - drache on 01/14/2002 08:04:59

BTM,
Tou cannot neck size with a fl die, but you can PARTIAL size the neck by backing off the die about 1/4 turn or more.
When you remove the case from the die, you will be able to see the amount of the neck hat has been sized.
Partial sizing works best with cases with longish necks, since it is imperative that you have enough of the neck sized to hold the bullet firmly.
I have partial sized many thousands of rifle cases for use in bolt action rifles over the years, without a tad of trouble.

hmm...you guys talk in a complicated way.

Get your self a quality neck sizer Forster, Redding, RCBS, or Hornady. Good Luck

Once in a great while I can find a die for a larger case that I can use to neck size a case using the same bullet. Then you have to watch the shoulder. Its a pain. Buy the correct neck sizer.

...&quot;Get the right tools to do the job right&quot; My father told me that...<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Hunt Safe!

Jack

Partial full length resizing is what is done with a full length sizing die backed off of the shellholder a bit. The best way to do this is to use a set of stoney point gauges and measure the amount of shoulder setback on your brass. When you've adjusted the die to give .001-002&quot; setback then you've got it adjusted properly. Barring that, keyshunter's method works well. Partial full length sizing will extend the life of your brass, especially if you're using belted magnums. I much prefer the partial full length sizing method to neck sizing when making hunting ammo. I want the stuff to chamber easily and a partial full length sized round will chamber easier than a neck sized one.

Edited by - boltman on 01/16/2002 02:00:12