Armory Sponsor
Posted: 3/13/2013 6:29:44 AM EDT
|
I'm new here so if this goes somewhere else I'm sorry and please move it.
What is the difference between the regular rcbs small base dies and the ar specific dies that come in the black case? Thanks! |
|
Quoted: I'm new here so if this goes somewhere else I'm sorry and please move it. What is the difference between the regular rcbs small base dies and the ar specific dies that come in the black case? Thanks! Don't buy either. For reloading for an AR-15, get FL (full length) dies, and a case gauge to set your sizing die. For more info, read the FAQ's and look for the 4 part "loading 223" up in Tutorials. Sizing, case gauge and everything else you need to know is covered. |
|
The RCBS small-based dies have small-based sizers and seaters that seat & roll crimp.
The RCBS AR Dies have have small-based sizers and seaters that seat & taper crimp. In RCBS's own words: The new RCBS AR Series is a must for the progressive reloader. It features a Small Base sizing die and a new Taper Crimp seating die. This combination makes the reloading easier for AR-style or semi-auto shooters. The Taper Crimp Seater is more forgiving when various case lengths are loaded at the same time. Case neck crimp bulges and buckled shoulders are virtually eliminated when Taper crimping is used with cannelured bullets.
I personally trim all my batches and set dies to match. Taper crimping AR ammo may be a good idea anyway....better than no crimp which is what many do, in a rifle that can be rough on ammo. RCBS's quote above refers to the practice of some progressive loaders who don't trim each time....the taper crimp makes it "more forgiving," but that's not my cup of tea. More AR's have been blown up with reloads than any other gun...I won't take chances with them. I say trim...all of them, and make sure they chamber and lock and you don't have a case neck that goes in too far. Small-based dies are insurance. Regular dies load AR ammo that works fine in most guns....just not all. If you want to load up 5000 rounds for a rainy day, I like the insurance offered that they will likely chamber in every AR you own or may own in the future. Speaking of a rifle rough on ammo....you will make cases unloadable sooner by shooting in an AR than the minute effect of what a small-based sizer does. What's a .001" to .002" skinnier base, compared to stretching the shoulder back and forth along the chamber .007" and sized (bumped) back .003 or 004 and back again. Over and over. That's what causes case head separation eventually. |
|
Quoted:
The RCBS small-based dies have small-based sizers and seaters that seat & roll crimp. The RCBS AR Dies have have small-based sizers and seaters that seat & taper crimp. In RCBS's own words: The new RCBS AR Series is a must for the progressive reloader. It features a Small Base sizing die and a new Taper Crimp seating die. This combination makes the reloading easier for AR-style or semi-auto shooters. The Taper Crimp Seater is more forgiving when various case lengths are loaded at the same time. Case neck crimp bulges and buckled shoulders are virtually eliminated when Taper crimping is used with cannelured bullets.
I personally trim all my batches and set dies to match. Taper crimping AR ammo may be a good idea anyway....better than no crimp which is what many do, in a rifle that can be rough on ammo. RCBS's quote above refers to the practice of some progressive loaders who don't trim each time....the taper crimp makes it "more forgiving," but that's not my cup of tea. More AR's have been blown up with reloads than any other gun...I won't take chances with them. I say trim...all of them, and make sure they chamber and lock and you don't have a case neck that goes in too far. Small-based dies are insurance. Regular dies load AR ammo that works fine in most guns....just not all. If you want to load up 5000 rounds for a rainy day, I like the insurance offered that they will likely chamber in every AR you own or may own in the future. Speaking of a rifle rough on ammo....you will make cases unloadable sooner by shooting in an AR than the minute effect of what a small-based sizer does. What's a .001" to .002" skinnier base, compared to stretching the shoulder back and forth along the chamber .007" and sized (bumped) back .003 or 004 and back again. Over and over. That's what causes case head separation eventually. +1 Off the Midway page -> http://www.midwayusa.com/product/621875/rcbs-ar-series-small-base-2-die-set-with-taper-crimp-223-remington The new RCBS AR Series die set is a must for any progressive reloader. Each set comes packaged with a full length small base sizing die and a taper crimp seating die. With this combination reloading for an AR-style, semi-automatic, pump action or lever action rifle just became a lot easier. Small base sizing dies size brass to minimum specifications and help to ensure that cartridges will chamber every time. The taper crimp seating die is helpful as it is a bit more forgiving die for crimping cases that have variable case lengths; helping to reduce the number of bulges and buckled shoulders when crimping in bullets with a cannelure. Due to the fact that this product sizes more than regular dies, it is crucial to have a sufficient amount of high quality lubricant to prevent stuck cases. These dies will also work with any single stage or turret press that will accept 7/8"-14 threaded dies, Shellholder sold separately. Off the RCBS FAQ page --> http://www.rcbs.com/guide/#faq Q. I see a Small Base Die Set listed for my caliber. Do I need these or should I buy a Full Length Die Set or Neck Die Set? How does each set differ? A. The Small Base Die set is intended for use for ammunition to be used in auto, semi-auto, and lever action rifles so that the loaded round chambers and extracts easily. The Small Base Sizer Die sizes the case from the shoulder to the head of the case a couple of thousandths smaller than a Full Length Sizer Die. In certain calibers it also sets the shoulder of the case back a thousandth or two more than the Full Length Sizer Die. The Full Length Die Set or Neck Die Set is not normally recommended for ammo to be used in auto, semi-auto, or lever action rifles. The Full Length Die set is recommended for ammunition used in bolt action rifles, particularly for ammunition to be used for hunting. The Neck Die Set can also be used to produce ammunition for use in bolt action rifles. The Neck Sizer Die sizes only the neck of the case so it will hold the bullet firmly. It does not size the body of the case nor does it set the shoulder back. Neck sized cases will usually chamber for three or more firings, depending on the powder charge and chamber dimensions. However, over a period of time, a slight drag will be noticed when the bolt is locked. At this point, cases will need to be full length sized and the shoulder set back so they will chamber and extract easily. |
Armory Sponsor