Okay, folks. Got a question that starts with a statement that I'm sure is common knowledge for most handloaders here. I've recently bought a Remington 700 in 338 Win Mag as a designated elk rifle, (common knowledge statement begins here) for which brass is in short supply, if available at all. However, I did find some belted Peterson brass tubes for magnum cartridges for sale. I've not yet bought them as I'm unsure as to how much trouble it would be to neck them to 338 cal.
My question is two parts; one is what's required outside of normal 338 Win Mag dies and what's involved in the process. In 30-plus years of loading my own ammo, I've never had to neck up or neck down my ammo. My reloading has always been for stock chambered, semi-custom hunting rifles so I've never done anything that's required this type of ammo reloading. I've read that it's better/easier as a multi-step process in necking the brass down, both for the brass and me. Secondly, I've also read that the necks need to be turned down after case trimming vs. using bushing dies. Any info you guys may have to get me started in the right direction with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time and consideration.
My question is two parts; one is what's required outside of normal 338 Win Mag dies and what's involved in the process. In 30-plus years of loading my own ammo, I've never had to neck up or neck down my ammo. My reloading has always been for stock chambered, semi-custom hunting rifles so I've never done anything that's required this type of ammo reloading. I've read that it's better/easier as a multi-step process in necking the brass down, both for the brass and me. Secondly, I've also read that the necks need to be turned down after case trimming vs. using bushing dies. Any info you guys may have to get me started in the right direction with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time and consideration.