.308 Precision Brass Prep Fullsize vs Neck Size

[PistolPete75]

I'm probably gonna start a long debate, but who here fullsizes and who here does the neck only? I'm thinking of getting a Hornady Match Grade New Dimension Bushing Neck Sizer Die. Anyone have any experience with one of these? For the fullsizers, anyone try one of those Hornady's custom fullsize die for $75?

I'm using Lupua and Nosler brass only.

[ocabj]

I have that exact die. The Hornady match bushing die does bump the shoulder as well. So it basically sizes the neck and bumps the shoulder without sizing the body. It will negate the need to use a full length sizing die for the life of the brass (assuming it's being used in the same bolt gun).

[PistolPete75]

I have that exact die. The Hornady match bushing die does bump the shoulder as well. So it basically sizes the neck and bumps the shoulder without sizing the body. It will negate the need to use a full length sizing die for the life of the brass (assuming it's being used in the same bolt gun).

then this question is for you. there are three bushings 334, 336, and 338. i only shoot 168gr BTHP for now. Nosler CC and Sierra. what size bushing should i get?

[proraptor]

I only necksize my .308....

[ocabj]

Get a sized case and seat the bullet. Then measure the neck on the seated cartridge. Whatever value you get, subtract .001" or .002". That's the size bushing you should get for the minimum amount of neck sizing required.

Refer to: http://www.redding-reloading.com/tec...gselection.htm

You need to get measurements for each brass and bullet combination you will be using. It *shouldn't* matter if you switch between Sierra and Nosler with the same brass, but it will probably matter if you switch between Lapua and Nosler brass and with the same bullet.

[rksimple]

I use that exact die in 223 and 308. Works wonderfully. Ocabj nailed about everything. I usually go .002-.003 smaller than the neck on the bushing size to allow for a little springback. Plus, you can get a tighter bushing as the brass work hardens to get some more neck tension (if you don't want to anneal). I've tested this die against the Lee collet neck sizer and can't tell a difference accuracy-wise. The advantage the Hornady die has is the shoulder bump feature. Its a good investment.

[Timberwolf]

Pete it depends on the brass you use - general rule of thumb FGMM, LC Match and Lapua use a .336 on the final stage (always neck down in two steps) and BHA and Win use a .331 in the final stage. YRMV

[NRAhighpowershooter]

on my bolt guns.. I neck size and only full length size every 5th reload.

[Rule .308]

I am ashamed to admit that I do not shoot my bolt guns enough to have to worry about full length sizing when I get to the 5th loading. I neck size only on bolt guns and full length size on auto loaders.

[PistolPete75]

thanks again guys. i shall be putting in my order tomorrow.

[C.G.]

As mentioned above, I've only necksized up to now, but only have two firings at most on my .308 brass.

[wildcard]

I full length size. Not that I have multiple guns in .308 but it's just for the sake of interchangability in case somebody needs ammo in a "pinch." The accuracy is more than acceptable to me. I use Forster dies.

[ocabj]

Accuracy shouldn't suffer betwee full and neck sizing. Brass life is the primary reason for neck only.

[hybridatsun350]

I neck size my .308. I want my brass to last as long as possible!

[wildcard]

Accuracy shouldn't suffer betwee full and neck sizing. Brass life is the primary reason for neck only.

I load my Federal (from GMM stock) brass 10 times before disposing of it. It actually still looks perfectly good after 10.. but it seems like a good "rule of thumb" number.