.308 Sizing Problem

#1 · July 20, 2008, 2:30 am

I just installed a Dillon .308 set of dies on my 550. I have not been able to get the sizing die to fully size my cases so they will sit below the top step of the case gage. The cases stick out a couple thousandths.

The sizing die is lowered all the way to the shellplate. The case gage is a Dillon. My brass is once fired Winchester, fired in the rifle I'm loading for. My rifle is a Springfield M1A Loaded model. I believe that my chamber headspace is 1.632, but I'm at work right now and can't double check.

I called and the tech suggested to adjust the decapping pin/expander ball up. It didn't seem to make any difference. I would appreciate any further suggestions.

Thanks

#2 · July 21, 2008, 3:43 pm

When you adjust the size die, run it down until it makes contact with the shellplate, then turn the die down an additional 1/4 turn. This takes the remaining play out of the toolhead and linkage. This should work fine; note you will feel the handle cam over center slightly as you bottom the handle out. This is normal.

#3 · July 22, 2008, 5:31 pm

That did the trick. A little sure goes a long way.

One more question. Do you recommend sizing any differently for 7.62x51 NATO vs. .308 Win? I have a second M14 with slightly larger headspace.

Thanks again for the help. I can't decide which is better, the machine or the service.