I have had several Federal small primers go off loading 223. I don't mind it though as I'm using military brass and I like the snug fit that I get with minimal reaming of the crimp. IT DOES MAKE ME JUMP EVERY TIME!
I do 200 pieces of 223 with 2 TBS dish soap and 1/2 tsp Lemi shine for each batch. I run the brass before and after I resize for 2 hrs each time. The flash hole is clean, the primer pocket is spotless and the brass is so shiny inside and out, you wouldn't believe it. Better than new.
I have (TZZ/TZ/IMI..same stuff), LC, PPU, and WCC brass that I will be reloading. I have already reamed the pockets and they are sorted. Please rank these 4 types of brass by what you believe is the best quality as I'm really not sure whats the best. My best guess would be:
1 TZZ-IMI
2 LC...
I have some "Combined Technology Ballistic Silvertips" in 168gr. I am using IMR 4895 powder and I haven't found any data for this load. Any idea what other manufacturer's bullet would be closest? I was thinking maybe the Hornady AMAX or Nosler's BT...any ideas?