Case prep & measurement tools

[freebullet]

I'm wondering what other casters' use for case prep & measuring. I have most of the standard tools, but have nothing for neck turning & am lacking in accurate case measurement tools. I like tools that are accurate & fast, not sure which to even look at.

The reason for asking is we have a batch of mixed 1xf mil 308 brass that seems to thick in the base of the neck. I've not good enough tools to measure that well. All else is within standard tolerance. Some of them barely chamber even after a trip through the small base die.

Would like quick accurate way to fix that & what tools others use to help figure out case fit issues in general.

Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[Brad]

I wouldn't be without this tool.
https://www.hornady.com/reloading/p...gauges/headspace-comparator-anvil-base-kit#!/

Lets you measure base to datum line for headspace on case. You can then size case and adjust sizer to just push shoulder back the amount you want. No more guessing.

Neck thickness requires a mic with a ball anvil. This is what I use.
https://www.brownells.com/reloading...y&utm_campaign=itwine&utm_content=749-008-077

Neck turning is a whole nother ball of wax. I have the Sinclair too and it works very well. I would suggest getting their case holder for cordless drill to spin the cases. It isn't a fast operation even then but the drill saves lots of wear and tear on the wrists.

Let me know and you can stop by sometime and I can show you some of these tools.

 

[RicinYakima]

If you realize you are looking at 0.01" group size reduction for 10 shot groups, I use the Wilson case neck turning system. I start by using the "now out of date" Wilson full length resizing system that requires an arbor press. The old school stuff from the 1950's makes the best ammo, but plan on 5 minutes for every case. Very accurate very very slow! Since I shoot mostly 1903 Springfields, I found that making ammo better than the chamber/throat/bore alignment is a waste of time. You are better off making better bullets, practicing more and honing benchrest skills. Sorry, there is no fast and quick no matter how much money you spend. Ric

 

[Ian]

I happen to use Forster neck turning equipment. Years ago I had to pick a brand and dive in, so that's what I got. Been pretty happy with it.

Machine gun brass is a pain, sometimes it takes two or three resizings to get it back to spec, and even then the rim can be off-center from the case head due to the initial firing in an oversized chamber.

A ball or tubing micrometer is indispensable. Any name brand of the appropriate size will do.

A Wilson case gauge and C-clamp micrometer (2-3") will give you very precise shoulder references, and is cheaper than the tool Brad linked although not nearly as versatile.

The #1 most used tool in my reloading room is my Fowler 0-1" micrometer, followed closely by the Swiss Fowler digital 0-6" calipers.

 

[freebullet]

Thank you!

We will be investing in some upgrades. Not trying to rush the process, but have good accurate tools that allow efficiency & productivity. Will likely take Brad up on his offer & investigate the others to.

If anyone has tools they really like please let me know what others I should research.

 

[fiver]

about 55 bucks.

another 55 bucks.

 

[Intheshop]

A panavise makes life so much easier when using a ball mic on case necks.Mic goes in the jaws(nylon)....then adj vise to the most convenient angle.Tilting DP vise works as well.It takes a consistent "touch" on them,because of the balls single point of contact vs a std mic's anvils.

 

[Intheshop]

Look on epay (as a search) for a Federal "bench",snap gage.With some minor DIY tooling accessories,it's the doodoo for checking many things.Case bump length,bullet base to ogive to name a cpl.

Also search out a Brown $ Sharpe #730.It's a multi function system that pretty much is the SMACK DOWN to case/bullet run out gages.But their design is like the snap gage above,it's used for several things.

Just keep an eye out for them.They used to be around 20-30$