Trimming Cases

[Dorian]

Howdy, fellow reloaders!

I recently started reloading, and I've mostly had success with .38 special. I just started loading for M1 Carbine, and I'm realizing how easily it stretches beyond the maximum case length.

What do you guys prefer when it comes to trimming cases, particularly .30 Carbine?

 

[Twitch2120]

hooray for huge mil spec chambers! i use the LEE system for now with a power drill. X-mas present to my self will be a redding or sinclair lathe style.

 

[Chuckdog]

If you're going to be doing long runs, I recommend powered trimming. I use an RCBS powered trimmer. My favorite manual case trimmer is the Forster unit. It's simple, easy to use and smooth as any I've used.

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/693746/rcbs-trim-pro-2-power-case-trimmer-kit-110-volt

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/614276/forster-original-case-trimmer-kit

 

[FamDoc2892]

Don't forget about the simple Lee spindle case trimmers. I can't compare to the others mentioned, but for consistency they're hard to beat, and cheap!

 

[bulletpaluza]

I use the hornady set up and love it.

But also trim a thousandth or so more then you think is good that's what i do with all my old milsurp rifle loads it gives me a reload or two without having to trim but also keep in mind I make up for short case length by seating the bullet less deep and I mainly use cast bullets.

Here's the best advice I got when i started to reload that has stuck with me."don't do anything that your not comfortable with shooting and don't confuse stupidity with being comfortable"

 

[jglenn]

used a Foster for years but now run the Lyman universal with power adapter for a general use trimmer.. for 223 and 308 I have used the possum hollow and Dillon when mass production is needed


honestly I rarely trim straight wall cases.

 

[Niner]

I use the LEE trimmer(s). However, I chuck the shellholder in an old variable speed drill set to a slowish setting.

 

[$nipertime]

I never trim straightwall brass.

 

[Flashover16]

HMM?? oversized chamber!!!
Generally if you check the case length on most all straight walled cases once , then the brass will typically wear out before it needs trimming again.
this is especially true in NON magnum calibers.
Now those nasty bottle necked case are a different story, even in pistol cases like 30 Luger and 357 Sig sauer!

 

[Bsquared62]

I'm new to reloading and I'm starting with pistol cartridges in 9mm and 45acp. The advice I got from the guy who helped me set it up is that pistol cartridges generally don't need to be trimmed. Has that been your experience as well?

Also, do you get anal about tracking info about the cases, number of reloads, etc that let you know when it's time to retire the case?