Charles Graff
Moderator Emeritus
The topic of the best expander for cast bullet revolver loads can get real complex real fast. When I started reloading (1959) cast bullets were just about all that was available for revolver reloading, the jacketed bullet was just on the cusp of coming on the market and even then it took them some years to get it right. It was anything but a seamless transition and one I never made.
Older (pre jacketed bullet) dies are just the ticket for revolver cast bullets as they are larger. I used both older Lyman expanders and older RCBS expanders. Some of the RCBS expanders I have modified to suit my reloading habits. When they were available for just a few buck, I assembled a good collection of old Lyman 310 expanders which I use with the thread adapter in my presses. They come in .357 and .358. The 45s are .452 and .454 and the 44 is .429. I have RCBS expanders in .356, .357 and .358.
I have zero knowledge about Dillon presses and dies and intend to maintain that level of ignorance.
Below is my 45 Colt set up. .452 Lyman 310 expander and adapter. RCBS "I" (1956) sizing die. Seating plug, turned flat from RN. Not shown in the same year RCBS seating die body. Seldom if ever, have I found a handgun OTC die set that suits my needs. An experienced reloader does not have to accept what the die maker wants to make and the die seller wants to sell. Click on it.
Older (pre jacketed bullet) dies are just the ticket for revolver cast bullets as they are larger. I used both older Lyman expanders and older RCBS expanders. Some of the RCBS expanders I have modified to suit my reloading habits. When they were available for just a few buck, I assembled a good collection of old Lyman 310 expanders which I use with the thread adapter in my presses. They come in .357 and .358. The 45s are .452 and .454 and the 44 is .429. I have RCBS expanders in .356, .357 and .358.
I have zero knowledge about Dillon presses and dies and intend to maintain that level of ignorance.
Below is my 45 Colt set up. .452 Lyman 310 expander and adapter. RCBS "I" (1956) sizing die. Seating plug, turned flat from RN. Not shown in the same year RCBS seating die body. Seldom if ever, have I found a handgun OTC die set that suits my needs. An experienced reloader does not have to accept what the die maker wants to make and the die seller wants to sell. Click on it.
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