Help me pick a neck sizing die for .223 Rem

[ExtremeX]

I typically use a standard FL sizing die with an expander ball for everything I have, so I’ve never tried anything different.

Now loading for a bolt gun I want to neck size only… I have a RCBS FL bushing match die right now which I only use as a bump die with no bushings installed to bump back .001” for my chamber. I want to neck size in a separate step.

Option:
1) Neck Sizer with Bushings
2) Lee Collet Neck Sizer
3) Standard neck sizing die with expander ball (like the RCBS version)

I would be comfortable with option 3… I have measured neck tension when using the expander ball and I am happy with the results since I’m measuring about -.002 to -.0025 from a case with a bullet seated in it. I presume that’s right about where it needs to be.

The Lee option intrigues me, but I don’t know anything about the die or its performance.

I’ve haven’t got into bushing dies since I really don’t want to start turning my necks or start buying an array of bushings. But I am open to the idea since I can use the same bushings across two dies. Just not sure if it’s the right option for me.

[ChrisGarrett]

Redding bushing neck and/or FL sizer, .22cal carbide expander button for AR-15 dinged in necks, Redding body die for shoulder bumps with neck bushing dies, tandem neck sizers with a step down bushing (.249"/.250") and no decapping stem, second neck bushing sizer with final bushing depending on brand of brass.

Separate 550b toolhead for sizing duties. This is the same method I use for .308 Win, but I yank the expander ball for my bolt gun.

Chris

[JagerDog]

I'm a fan of the collet die. you can play with different mandrels if you wish, but I haven't found the need. No lube is a big plus to me.

[Bill Steele]

I'm a fan of the collet die. you can play with different mandrels if you wish, but I haven't found the need. No lube is a big plus to me.

I agree with this advice.

Inexpensive to buy, works great, produces quality ammo.

For my bolt guns, I use Wilson hand dies almost exclusively these days. They use Redding style bushings, produce the lowest runout ammo I have gotten, including my Redding Comp set.

[Ahhnother8]

Standard FL sizing die body with neck bushing and without expander ball. Many of us use the Redding type 's' dies for long-range ammo. It works just fine with Winchester and Lapua brass. Have not tried it on any other brands.