45-70 quick trim die problem

[tra27]

Hi,

I'm new to reloading and I'm trying to figure everything out. So I'm reloading once used Rem brass, I got a Lee Classic 4 hole turret. I also got a Lee Deluxe quick trim and 45-70 quick trim die and I attached the quick trim die to the turret. I just tryed trim one case, but the die is a really tight fit. I tryed twice to trim the case, but it's so tight before it even touches the trim blade, that I don't want to force it in anymore. Also it took considerable amount of force to get the case out of the die. I lubed the case before starting. Am I doing something wrong?

 

[witchhunter]

You should size it before trimming.....

 

[fireman 9731]

I have never trimmed my 45-70 brass.

 

[Jimster]

Neither have I.

 

[THRASH]

Also be sure they are not Hornady cases.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Did you size the case before you tried to trim? The process of sizing is what causes the case to lengthen with bottleneck cases. With straight cases sometimes the opposite is true but you will still want to size the case first to prevent the very problem you are now having.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Also be sure they are not Hornady cases.

There is nothing wrong with Hornady brass. Only the cases that were loaded with the FTX bullet will be slightly shorter, not all Hornady 45-70 brass. Even if they are shorter that wouldn't cause binding in the trim die. You would get no trimming, not binding.

 

[FROGO207]

I have on occasion had to slim up the post/pin just prior to where the cutter is on a couple trim pins. I put the base in a drill and had at it with emery paper wrapped around a file. Just went enough that it would fit in the case mouth. I would make doubly sure it is sized first just to be sure I did not turn off too much of the pin though as that is what keeps it centered and true. Try inside chamfer of the brass neck first to be sure it is not a banged up/damaged neck that is causing the problem though.

 

[tra27]

Well I didn't size it properly and thats why it didn't fit.

So I shouldn't trim the case unless if it is too long? Can I do any harm to the case if i trim it? Does chamfering(?) the case make the bullet seating easier?

 

[fireman 9731]

There is no need to trim cases unless they are too long.

The most important thing on case length(for straight walled cartridges) is uniformity for crimping. If you have varying case lengths, all of your crimps will differ.

New cases will probably need a light chamfer/debur to seat bullets easier, especially lead.

A slight case mouth bell also helps, but just do the minimum amount, as excess over works your brass.

 

[X-Ring]

So I shouldn't trim the case unless if it is too long?

Correct

Can I do any harm to the case if i trim it?

No

Does chamfering(?) the case make the bullet seating easier?

Yes, most of the time. The deluxe quick trim will chamfer automatically, so no need to do it again

 

[theleo]

Treat it like a straight wall revolver cartridge. Bell the case or use a neck expander, chamfering will not gain you much on loading the 45-70.