What dies do I REALLY need?

[ctnsupra1]

I've started on my Whisper build for my AR and was wondering what reloading dies I really need? I have not loaded any wildcat calibers before so not sure if all dies (full length sizer, seater, neck sizer) are necessary or if I'll be fine with just the full length and seater dies. Thanks.

[cav_scout_tj]

I got this set, works great, comes with 2 expanders for making .223 brass in to whisper brass. I dont think there is need for a third die. These two do great, one to size and one to seat, and thats it. Trimming the brass from .223 is the fun part. But thats another tool. I ordered a custom trim set from Lee, and I love that too.

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=655379

The lee trim thing is like this:
http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=271467&t=11082005
But sized for 300 whisper, I called them up and gave the numbers and it came a couple weeks later.

[Ron458]

Gota go with cav_scout_tj on the Redding dies. I have had no issues with them. Cutting the 223 brass down is a little more difficult but worth it. It seems better to neck down than to neck up! I used the Lee 7.62x39 case length trim gauge & cut pin to OAL of 1.355 :smile:

[Colohunter]

I use the Redding die set and so far it has worked great. I size the brass from 223 and am planning on ordering a Lee trim set eventually.

[ctnsupra1]

Cav Scout-

When you say you called "them" up, do you mean Lee? And what dimensions do they need to make a length gage?

[cav_scout_tj]

Cav Scout-

When you say you called "them" up, do you mean Lee? And what dimensions do they need to make a length gage?

Yes, I called Lee. This page has their stuff on it, and at the bottom they have info on custom work.
Lee Website (http://www.leeprecision.com/cgi/catalog/browse.cgi?1221827501.546=/html/catalog/casecon.html)

I think I used case length of 1.355" and .300" for the diameter, and a .223 shell holder.

[JFettig]

How much did lee charge for that stud? I've been thinking about running some on my lathe. I made one for myself and it works pretty good.


Jon