Case stuck in trim die

#1 · October 21, 2013, 7:38 pm

Hi,

First round of .223 reloading yesterday with new XL650. Of @ 50 rounds I had 6 that didn't seat the primer right. I think this is due to the .223 primer seating and the need to swage it (which wasn't done).

The real problem occurred after this though. I tried to re-do these problem cases and the second one got stuck in the sizing die. I would attribute that to lack of lube although they all seemed good after the first go.

My two questions are this:

1. Are you supposed to lube the cases before each time through the press?

and

2. What is the best way to get the case out of the sizing die so I don't damage the die?

Thanks.

#2 · October 22, 2013, 4:35 pm

Yes, you do need to lube cases prior to each pass through a size die.

If the case is stuck in a trim die, run a sturdy punch down through the die to the bottom of the case. Pound it out with a hammer.

If the case is stuck in a Dillon size die, follow the instructions that came with the die set. The decap assembly is a stuck case remover ass well. Don't back the stem up! Follow the instructions and screw the decap assembly down.

#3 · October 22, 2013, 5:49 pm

Thanks for the reply. I had been reading the press directions and looking in vain for that tidbit. Lesson learned.