If you are a shooting or reloading enthusiast, then you probably know the importance of having the right tools for the job. So, reloading dies is no exception for the same. Moreover, we all know winter is a time when everybody tries to catch up with their reloading. So when they come out, they have all the preparation to hit the range and have fun. If you want to produce high-quality, accurate ammunition, you need to have the best reloading dies in your kit.
However, when you move to a store to buy reloading dies, you will come across a lot of different reloading dies. All the different reloading dies come with different intended purposes. From expanding die sets to full-length die sets, there are a plethora of reloading dies. To help you get the best ones, we have compiled a list of 6 different dies. These dies are a must for every reloader out there. So, let’s dive in and discover them.
Different Reloading Dies Every Shooter Must Have:
Full-Length Die Set
A full-length die set is one of the most prominent reloading dies in the industry. This die brings cartridge cases back to minimum dimensions for a safe shooting experience. It sizes the outside of the case, de-primers, and adds a roll crimp. Moreover, this die is also vented so the trapped air inside the die will not be compressed against the case wall. A full-length die set also allows excessive lubricant to escape. This is one of the most common dies, which is suitable for single-shot firearms and bolt action.
Trim Die Set
Another prominent die you must look at is the trim dies. Individuals use this die specifically to trim a cartridge case back to its original length when it stretches too much from shooting. If there’s an excessive amount of brass stick coming out from the top of the trim die, then using a hacksaw with a fine blade can help remove the excess brass. If that’s not possible. Then you can use a mil-type file to tie the cases back to their appropriate length. Trim dies are special dies that are often used in combination with case-forming procedures.
Neck Sizer Die Set
The Neck Sizer Die set is another set of reloading dies you must have in your kit. This dies only resize the neck of the cartridge case and de-primes it. It does not touch the shoulder or the body of the case. Neck Sizer Dies are particularly meant to be used on the brass that will only be dried out of one firearm. This creates a personal fit of your brass to a specific firearm. That’s because both the shoulder and body are fired to the exact dimensions of a specific rifle’s chamber. Once done, you can easily adjust the neck as per your needs.
Small Base Sizer Die Set
As the name suggests, the Small Base Sizer die set is a useful choice for Semi-Automatic, pump-action, and lever-action firearms. This die helps to resize the case below the SAAMI specifications by a couple of thousands of inches, reducing the shoulder and the body. Using a Small base sizer die set for the same can help your ammunition work more reliably. Specifically if we talk in these faster-moving action types. In addition to that, this die also helps de-prime your brass.
Expanding Die Set
The expanding die is used to flare the case mouth, allowing for easier insertion of the bullet. It is particularly useful for those who load cast bullets or bullets with a wax coating. When selecting an expanding die, it is important to choose one that features only high-quality materials and comes in proper size of your specific caliber. Some popular options include the RCBS Carbide Expander, the Lee Universal Expanding Die, and the Hornady Expander Die.
Small Base Taper Crimp Die Set
If you are looking for reloading dies suitable for semis automatic actions and, more specifically, to ARs or Modern sporting rifles, then Taper crimp dies are one great pick. This die contains a small base sizer, which helps bring the dimensions below the SAAMi specs. In addition to that, it also de-primes your brass and adds a taper crimp to your ammunition. The taper crimp is important for ARs because that style of crimp provides more reliable feeding and extraction from chambers in a fast-moving action.
Competition Full-Length Die Set
The die provided includes a Full-Length Sizing Die, which effectively reduces cases to their minimum SAAMI dimensions. To facilitate smoother neck expansion, the die comprises an elevated expander ball. Moreover, the Seating die, which comes without crimping, offers a bullet-loading window into the die. This feature guarantees more precise reloading, while the die’s micrometer measures bullet depth increments to 0.001″, ensuring perfect seating depths, bullet alignment, and ultimately, superior accuracy.
Final Words!
In conclusion, having the right reloading dies in your kit is essential for getting the most out of your reloading setup. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, these seven dies will help you produce accurate, reliable, and consistent ammunition for all your shooting needs.
