I'm having a problem with my 7STW cases or???

[Supertrucker]

I'm having a problem with my 7STW cases or??? I'm using Winchester brass and the cases don't seem to be gripping the bullets tight enough. I can push them into the case with pressure from my fingers. They don't just drop in easily, but I am a little concerned they will shift under recoil in the mag. I'm using Redding dies. A virgin, neck sized round measures .308-.309", a fired/neck sized is .309, neck sized/loaded is .310" I do not feel the expander ball exit the case-no resistance whatsoever. With the expander ball removed, I get the same measurements as listed above. I have only recently started noticing this and I've had the rifle since 1996 and the dies since about 1999-2000.

 

[LewisH]

Try a new Redding "S" type FL sizing die with a .307 bushing (no exp. ball needed or desired).

 

[Innovative]

I agree . . . . the Redding S-Series resizing die give you complete control of neck tension, and not needing the expander ball is a great advantage. Your brass will last longer too.

- Innovative

 

[Supertrucker]

I just went out and shot a 1/4" 100 yard group with the 168 Bergers at 3200+fps with said rifle.

The wierd thing is, some of the dummy rounds I assembled with the components in question........I can't push the bullets in? Is it possible that the case mouths continue to constrict around the bullet for several seconds/minutes after the seating?

Will going to a .307" bushing raise pressure?

 

[Innovative]

If you have your seating die set too low, it may be starting to crimp your bullets in place. If this only happens on some rounds, it's because the length of your cases are different.

- Innovative

 

[LewisH]

Will going to a .307" bushing raise pressure?

Not much, but it should keep the bullet from moving under hand pressure.

OTOH, if you're getting 1/2 moa with the current set-up, why not just single load each round? It's almost as fast as using the magazine.

 

[Supertrucker]

Well I ordered an "S" neck die from Sinclair today and a couple of bushings. I gave Sinclair my measurements and they insisted on a .308" and a .309". I;ll try them and order a .307" if need be. I also contacted Redding and they told me they would swap out my current die for a tighter neck die. I don't think I'll take Redding up on their offer because I don't want to lose the die that is instrumental in my accuracy.

 

[rb85cj7]

What powder are you using with the 168 VLD's?

 

[Supertrucker]

What powder are you using with the 168 VLD's?

Retumbo