1: LC 223
2: 221FB FL die
3: 17M4 #1 die
4: Rough trimmed and expanded
5: Trimmed to proper length 1.399"
6: Neck turned to .0115" thickness
I use three dies to form my brass, 221 Fireball Full length from Redding, 17M4 #1 Form die from Redding, and a 17 Fireball Type S Neck die also from Redding. These dies can also form pretty much any case on the .378" case head (223/204 case) at least to the fire forming stage. Now as you can see I don't trim the 223 case until the 4 step. This is due to the fact you will crush cases if the 223 is trimmed into the shoulder or body. The neck acts like a funnel and aids in the sizing of the brass and you're able to do it in one pass from the 221FB FL die. Next is the important part, the 20VT FL die or other die with the same dimensions as the 20VT (shortened 204R FL die, shortened 20TAC die, ect) needs to set to the proper headspace and if done right it will form the case to 99% ,foregoing the need to fire form. I use the 17 Mach 4 #1 Form die as the internal dimensions are perfect for the 20VT and other various 20cal cartridges. It sizes the shoulders .002” and adds .004” tension on the neck of the case. The next step is to trim the case. I use a Mini Chop saw from Harbor Freight (Item # 42307) with an attachment made by a good friend that uses the Lee Lock Stud and proper Lee shell holder.
Once I have the cases trimmed I expand using the KM Neck Expander. From there I complete final trim on the L.E. Wilson/ Sinclair trimmer (1.400”). Then I neck turn the cases on the KM Neck Turner (using all carbide parts, very important when turning large amounts of cases) to .0115” for a loaded round neck diameter of .227” ( I use a .232” No Turn Chamber). The last step is a very important one, annealing. These cases have been through a vast amount of forming and work hardening and needs to be annealed for safe firing and long life. If you have any other questions please ask. Adam
