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What dies do you use?

alexs2006

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I am getting into reloading for 308WIN mostly for paper punching with some occasional deer loads.

What dies do you guys use? I have always had good luck with RCBS, Pacific, Redding and Hornady dies. I'd like to stay under $150 that will work well with the long sleek 168/175gr target projectiles. It will used only for bolt action rifles.


Thanks!
 
Since you're planning to load for bolt guns only, you should consider Lee's collet neck sizing dies. I use RCBS small base for my AR10. But the "precision" stuff for my .308 RPR only sees fire-formed, neck-sized brass. I have dies from Redding, Lee, Hornady and RCBS. After extensive testing, these Lees have produced the best results for me.
 
I'm a relatively new reloader, but I can agree with owen58 owen58 . If you do want to reload for one or more semi-autos, the RCBS Small Base dies will pretty much guarantee that your mags will feed consistently. The 'cost' of course is that ammo made that way is never going to be precision ammo, but based on some conversations I've had, should still be plenty good enough for relatively short distance hunting.

I use those Lee neck sizing dies for my milsurp loads, mainly to extend the life of the brass.
 
I assume you’re using a single stage press and can’t go wrong with RCBS. I do like the Hornady dies as it has a bullet guide as you are seating the projectile.

I would go with either and have fun. Case prep is where you want to be consistent in my opinion.
I will be using a Rock Chucker supreme.
 
I'm a relatively new reloader, but I can agree with owen58 owen58 . If you do want to reload for one or more semi-autos, the RCBS Small Base dies will pretty much guarantee that your mags will feed consistently. The 'cost' of course is that ammo made that way is never going to be precision ammo, but based on some conversations I've had, should still be plenty good enough for relatively short distance hunting.

I use those Lee neck sizing dies for my milsurp loads, mainly to extend the life of the brass.
I'm not to worried about case life. I have enough Lake City brass to last a lifetime, and I'll probably buy a couple hundred WW or Lapua cases for when I need absolute precision.

I have always had the best luck with WW and Lapua brass.
 
Since you're planning to load for bolt guns only, you should consider Lee's collet neck sizing dies. I use RCBS small base for my AR10. But the "precision" stuff for my .308 RPR only sees fire-formed, neck-sized brass. I have dies from Redding, Lee, Hornady and RCBS. After extensive testing, these Lees have produced the best results for me.
I know absolutely jack **** about neck sizing.
 
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