Suggestion for a new case trimmer

[Nessal]

I've been using the standard LEE case trimmer but I'm looking to move to a stationary table trimmer. Any suggestions? I'm looking at RCBS but was looking for opinions. Thanks!

[ar15barrels]

I used to use a hornady before I got my fancy powered trimmers.

Each trimmer uses a different method of loading and unloading the case before you can trim.
The RCBS uses a lever, but then it requires specific shellholders.
The Hornady and Redding use regular shellholders, but you have to tighten a knob to retain the case.
The Forester uses a universal collet with multiple steps that cover most cases.
The Lyman is also universal. It uses 2 spring loaded claws that snap over the case rim and the case centers on a spring loaded ball as you tighten it down.

In the end, you really need to try each one to see what you prefer.

I now use Dillon and Giraud trimmers for most of my trimming.
I also have trimmed in the milling machine by boring a soft jaw.

[Nessal]

I am currently using the LEE hand held trimmer which works great when thrown into a drill. I can actually trim large batches of cases really fast. However there are fluctuations when I measure the brass. They measure anywhere between 1.740 to 1.745. I think it's great for making bulk plinking rounds but not that great for accuracy loads because I can't adjust for the desired length, just at the mercy of the trimmer. Right now I'm just basing my decision on reviews of the trimmers on Midwayusa and it seems like RCBS and Hornady are the ones to go for. I'm leaning towards hornady because the RCBS requires new shellholders. Decisions decisions!

[xrMike]

I am currently using the LEE hand held trimmer which works great when thrown into a drill. I can actually trim large batches of cases really fast. However there are fluctuations when I measure the brass. They measure anywhere between 1.740 to 1.745. I think it's great for making bulk plinking rounds but not that great for accuracy loads because I can't adjust for the desired length, just at the mercy of the trimmer.

Just another opinion here, but 5 thousands variation in case length is NOT going to affect your accuracy. Also, what is the "desired length" you are seeking?

I've been using Lee press, dies, and trim tools since Day 1, and shoot 1 - 1.5 MOA 10-round groups pretty regularly from the bench, and on really good days, .66 to .75 MOA (with irons). So your Lee trim tools are certainly capable of producing quality rounds.

But the Lee stuff is labor-intensive -- a lot of transferring shells on/off the shell holder, etc. At some point I'll upgrade just to increase productivity.

[brando]

Giraud = awesome

[xrMike]

Giraud = awesome

Yeah, that's the one to end all others. So expensive though. I will have one some day.

[buffybuster]

What trimmer you need depends on how much you have to trim.

I have a Lyman and a Sinclair. The Lyman has a power adapter with a cordless drill on it. Doesn't take me too long to trim 200 cases. But it's far from a pleasurable experience since you have to deburr and chamfer them.

Every time I have to trim a batch, I consider getting a Giraud...

[ar15barrels]

Giraud = awesome

I got one last week from a Calgunner.
It was brand new in the box, never used.
Unfortunately it was setup for 223 so I had to make an adapter for 308.
The good thing about making my own 308 adapter is that I got to use my match reamer that's tighter than a standard reamer.

I'm seeing better concentricity of the chamfer with my adapter than I did with the Giraud 308 adapter.

[ar15barrels]

Every time I have to trim a batch, I consider getting a Giraud...

[brando]

Yup, bottom line: the Giraud is expensive but pays for itself in saved time.

I used to spend a couple hours a week trimming brass - now I knock the same amount out in 20 minutes. Everything from .223, .308 to .338LM and .408CT

[DirtRacer151]

How exactly does the Giraud work? Im using possum hollow cutters chucked in my drill press and i didn't think i could get much faster. It just sucks having to chamfur and debur after but i chuck those bits in the press too.

[ar15barrels]

How exactly does the Giraud work? Im using possum hollow cutters chucked in my drill press and i didn't think i could get much faster. It just sucks having to chamfur and debur after but i chuck those bits in the press too.

The giraud is like a powered pencil sharpener that trims to length and chamfers inside & out all at the same time.

[CSACANNONEER]

While I can only say good things about how my Giraud performs, it is expensive and it would get very expensive if I used it for all the different cases I load. At $30/caliber insert, it adds up fast and it doesn't make sense to me to invest that kind of cash for calibers that I only load a couple hundered rounds a year for. For my smaller quantity trimming sessions, I'll use my CH4D trimmer or my Lynman trimmer. If you are only planning on trimming one or two calibers, don't want to invest in a Giraud but like not having to debur, look at K&M trimmers. I have one for 50BMGs and it is a great little trimmer that isn't getting used now that I have a Giraud.

Other things to consider are the ability to trim straight walled cartridges. The Giraud can not trim them. Also, the Giruad (and the Gracey) index off the shoulder. The Lyman (and most other trimmers) index off the case head. The K&M (and, I think the Lee Zip Trim) index off the inside of the case head. You'll need to figure out which meathod is best for you.