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Posted: 10/19/2008 2:56:22 PM EDT
Ok this is probably a real stupid question but all the shell holders I see are numbered one through what ever, how do you know what caliber they are for? Ok let me have it Stacey |
There aren't any stupid questions, but sometimes there are stupid answers. If the makers of shell holders stamped the case rim diameter instead of a number, life would be simpler. |
For new reloaders it would help, I just got my new Redding T-7 today so I am sure I will have a lot more questions as I try and get it set up. Thanks for the help, as I learn I will try and help out those that are less fortunate than I on the learning curve. Stacey |
There is a bit more than just rim diameter. For example, Lee uses the same shell holder for .30 Carbine and .22 Hornet. This shell holder is specifically for the Hornet. This only works because the headspacing on a Carbine is on the case length as there is no shoulder. Other brands have seperate shell holders for these calibers. |
It's a start. I've never counted the number of unique rim diameters for pistol cartridges, and I wonder how many require their own shell holder to clear the case body above the extractor groove. |
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You could probably get away with 8 shellholders for most pistol calibers .38/.357 .41 .44 .45 Colt .380 (also works for .223 rem) 9mm .40/10mm .45 acp (also works for 30-06, 308, some of the Mauser cartridges) .38 super can probably use either the 9mm or .380 shellholder, no clue about the comblock calibers. Add one each for .25 acp and .32 acp (but I don't know anyone who actually reloads those.) |
Write them in your reloading log. I keep a 3 ring tabbed notebook; each caliber section has a sleeve to hold printed load data and notebook paper for notes. Never start a reload session without the notebook open. No errors up front means less chance for a kaboom later. |
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