Do I really need a case gage?

[MulePacker]

Loading .44, and .45 on my Dillon 650. Started assembling everything for ..308. Do I really need a case gage in order to start adjusting my dies?

[MulePacker]

If so, I need case gages for .308, 30-06, and 32 win spc.

I already have an order at midway thats being processed.

My question is, if I do need them wheres the best place to get them, and what exactly do I need for "case gaging" lol..

[bruce381]

unless you want to chamber check as you load yeah you need one.

I have one for most calibers ones I do not I chamber check at setup and after a few boxes laoded to see if thengs have slipped, on a dillion with seperate dies set on seperate heads that do not chnage it is only for QC.

[Fjold]

I adjust my dies to fit my rifle chamber, not a die. If you shoot for paper then adjust your sizing die so that the loaded cartridges require just a little extra force to close the bolt (tight fit). If you load for hunting turn the die in another 1/8th of a turn so that the bolt closes easily. This will insure that you don't overwork the brass and create headspace issues and your brass will last a lot longer.

After you get your dies (pistol or rifle) adjusted correctly, you can drop check a sized, unfired case in the chamber and the rest of your brass will fit the same way.

If you use a case gauge it can be much smaller than your chamber and give you a loose fitting cartridge that hurts your accuracy and your case life.

I've been reloading since 1981 and I've never owned a case gage.

[noylj]

No. That's why it isn't included in die sets or kits.
Correct die set-up and not using bulged cases eliminates the "need."
Remember, the damn things didn't even really exist until 15-20 years ago.
Buy 'em if you like, but they are NOT a need.

[ocabj]

Case gauges are nice for a quick spot check. I think it's handy to have if you want to check suspect ammo, but other than that, I don't think it's critical to have for reloading.

ASYM Precision has some nifty case gauges that they use for their own manufactured ammo. Holds 50 at a time. I took this photo at SHOT Show:

[MulePacker]

thank you guys!

[Germz]

F/L size for unknown brass, shoot, brass will now be "fire formed" to your chamber. separate that brass or mark it from range pickups as this brass now only requires neck sizing, and trimming as needed.

for straight wall cartridges, most will reach EOL before they require trimming, so just size and put a crimp on them.

to answer your question. No. you don't need one REALLY.