neck tension in an AR

[ryutzy]

I've got a question for you experts on neck tension. I'm reloading for my 204, and I've got a Redding competition die set. (which I absolutely love) My loaded rounds measure .2265 around the neck. I have a .225 and .224 bushing. So far I've only test fired loads from my 225 bushing and am pleased with results, however I feel like it is barely enough neck tension so I would like to try my 224 bushing. When I neck size with the 224 bushing I get slight brass shavings on the case mouth. It is very minimal but was wondering if this is normal? When I load a 224 sized case I get little if any bullet shavings from seating the bullet. Since I am shooting an AR I prefer strong neck tension. I am hoping to fire my 224 test loads in a few days to see if there is a velocity difference. Any input would be appreciated.

[lanenebraska]

This may be the answer to your problem


Redding Taper Crimp Die 223 Remington

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?p ... ber=726501

[ryutzy]

My last experience with crimping on a non cannalure bullet in the .204 was not real great. I prefer no crimp. I do realize though that the taper crimp would be better than the roll crimp. I wish that Lee made a factory crimp die for the 204. I like their crimp tools. My main question is: Are small shavings bad when neck sizing? I'm only sizing .0025 with the .224 bushing. Should I use the .225 then neck size again with the .224? I'm hoping that I will get to try my .224 tension test loads out tomorrow.

[acloco]

Are you using a dry lube when neck sizing? If not, you might consider it. Redding makes a good dry lubricant (powder). In a pinch, and VERY LIGHTLY APPLIED, a touch of normal case lube will work. Don't get any inside the case though. Clean your dies at regular intervals until you get a feel for it.

If, after using dry lube, you are still getting brass shavings, call Redding.

[Joe O]

Flat based bullets can cause more shaving when seating than the boat tail.
This inside neck chamfering tool may help.28deg carbide inside cutter.from Sinclair.



http://www.sinclairintl.com/.aspx/sid=6 ... ree_Cutter

[ryutzy]

I am using boat tail bullets, SBKs. I do chamfer my cases, but I do it very lightly. I may need to chamfer them slightly more. I have been using Hornadys Case lube. I believe that I do not need to use lube when using Reddings Nitride bushings. Am I right? Or should I still use some? When I neck size I do not feel like I am overworking the case as the operation is smooth with little resistance. I will check into dry lube from redding.

[Rick in Oregon]

I believe that I do not need to use lube when using Reddings Nitride bushings. Am I right?

In a word: "Yes".

But for when you do need lube, for longer than I like to admit, I've had the very best luck using Imperial Dry Neck Lube for neck sizing and their excellent Imperial Sizing Wax for F/L sizing. Both available from Sinclairs and MidwayUSA/others. The BR guys I used to hang with all swear by the stuff. Both just wipe off with a rag or paper towel; no messy spray junk and none of that 150 Weight crap RCBS and the other mainstream outfits sell as case "lube". You could lubricate train axles with the stuff.