01-06-2022, 09:48 AM
The following post is going to be picture heavy, but I think it can help some of the folks new to reloading, especially if shelf ammo is going to continue being scarce.
The info is "basic" in nature, but I believe it will help a new reloader avoid some issues, especially for gassers. The main thing is to help them load SAFE ammo.
here goes....
I recommend investing in a Sheridan Engineering Slotted case gauge, the utility it provides is immense throughout the whole reloading process of setting up sizing dies, checking shoulder bump, checking trim length, checking bullet seating depth for ALL bullet types and checking cartridge overall length in regards to magazine fit (which can vary among brands & styles). Brad cuts the gauges with a SAAMI spec reamer so if the ammo you produce fits in it, you should have no issues feeding and firing that ammo. Due the slot, you can visually ascertain where an issue lies and make the appropriate adjustment before you start loading up any cartridges. DISCLAIMER: I don't have any relationship with Sheridan other than I am a customer and use their gauges for all of my rifle calibers....I receive no gratuities, discounts, freebies, nada from Sheridan. They are just a good product and saved me alot of time debugging ammo related issues....I wish they had them 35+ years ago.
If you are converting brass, it also allows you to check that converted brass before you even begin priming, charging and seating a bullet. No one likes to deconstruct a bunch of loaded rounds.
When fire-forming converted brass, it is preferred that the shoulder bump is as close to the SAAMI spec as possible to prevent gas leakage and to get a more defined shoulder definition. It also allows for less powder to be used, something to consider for those experiencing shortages or lack of variety.
The attached picture shows my converted Starline 6.5 Grendel brass in the gauge, note the conformity of the shoulder bump, case rim at minimum and the trim length. I was fortunate that my Hornady Custom dies were pretty much spot on, only a minor tweak was needed.
The info is "basic" in nature, but I believe it will help a new reloader avoid some issues, especially for gassers. The main thing is to help them load SAFE ammo.
here goes....
I recommend investing in a Sheridan Engineering Slotted case gauge, the utility it provides is immense throughout the whole reloading process of setting up sizing dies, checking shoulder bump, checking trim length, checking bullet seating depth for ALL bullet types and checking cartridge overall length in regards to magazine fit (which can vary among brands & styles). Brad cuts the gauges with a SAAMI spec reamer so if the ammo you produce fits in it, you should have no issues feeding and firing that ammo. Due the slot, you can visually ascertain where an issue lies and make the appropriate adjustment before you start loading up any cartridges. DISCLAIMER: I don't have any relationship with Sheridan other than I am a customer and use their gauges for all of my rifle calibers....I receive no gratuities, discounts, freebies, nada from Sheridan. They are just a good product and saved me alot of time debugging ammo related issues....I wish they had them 35+ years ago.
If you are converting brass, it also allows you to check that converted brass before you even begin priming, charging and seating a bullet. No one likes to deconstruct a bunch of loaded rounds.
When fire-forming converted brass, it is preferred that the shoulder bump is as close to the SAAMI spec as possible to prevent gas leakage and to get a more defined shoulder definition. It also allows for less powder to be used, something to consider for those experiencing shortages or lack of variety.
The attached picture shows my converted Starline 6.5 Grendel brass in the gauge, note the conformity of the shoulder bump, case rim at minimum and the trim length. I was fortunate that my Hornady Custom dies were pretty much spot on, only a minor tweak was needed.