Need help reloading for DPMS 308 LR

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Will Learn

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I just got a DPMS 308 and am looking for some advice for working up a load. I think I'll need to use a full case resizing die. What is some good(easy to apply) lube for using this method? I loaded up some .308 that had the necks sized and I got a round stuck in the chamber :uhoh:. I got it out but this is what leads me to believe I need to resize the entire case. The round's oal was 2.8 and would barely fit in the mag. Should I back it down to 2.75(nato COAL)?
 
I just got a DPMS 308 and am looking for some advice for working up a load. I think I'll need to use a full case resizing die. What is some good(easy to apply) lube for using this method? I loaded up some .308 that had the necks sized and I got a round stuck in the chamber . I got it out but this is what leads me to believe I need to resize the entire case. The round's oal was 2.8 and would barely fit in the mag. Should I back it down to 2.75(nato COAL)?
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Will,

You definately need to full length resize for an autoloader. Make your COAL as long as possible, but will still fit the magazine. I recommend Imperial sizing die wax for resizing.

Don
 
I run all mine at 2.77-2.80 and have no problems with my AP4. I do full length size them all though, as well as trim them every time too.
My favorite load is 155gr AMAX with Win. cases and RL15.
 
I load 150 gr Sierra Boat Tails with 43.7 grains of IMR 4895 with OAL of 2.750. This really shoots well through my DPMS. Taking it deer hunting with these loads this weekend.
 
What is your method for triming the cases? Do you just trim the case down to a certain length or just debur and chamfer? I have the triming tool from the Lee kit do i just use that by hand? It doesn't look like theres anything on the tool that goes around the case mouth to insure a uniform trim, am i missing something?

i picked up some Hornady oneshot lube will that work for full sizing of brass?

A guy at the gunshop told me i should look into getting a small base die, is this something i need(I'm using lee delux rifle dies)? I pretty new to reloading but am learning a lot from you guys, thanks.
 
What is your method for triming the cases? Do you just trim the case down to a certain length or just debur and chamfer? I have the triming tool from the Lee kit do i just use that by hand? It doesn't look like theres anything on the tool that goes around the case mouth to insure a uniform trim, am i missing something?
Click to expand...

Will,

I use a Wilson trimmer, which provides the most uniform and true cutting of any trimmer that I know of. Your trim to length for a .308 is 2.005". If your brass is running at or over 2.015" now, then trim them back to 2.005" and chamfer them. If not, then shoot them one more time and then measure them again.

i picked up some Hornady oneshot lube will that work for full sizing of brass?

A guy at the gunshop told me i should look into getting a small base die, is this something i need(I'm using lee delux rifle dies)?
Click to expand...

The oneshot product is crap; you will end up seizing a case in your die if you use it. Get yourself some Imperial Sizing Die Wax. You do not need a small base die, unless you are buying machinegun fired brass.

Don
 
The Lee trimmers work great. Good job on that one. I like the RCBS chamfer/debur tool. I believe it might be made by Wilson, but not sure on that. Always chamfer and debur your case mouths, it will cause them to last longer and make bullet seating easier with less of a chance of shaving bullet jacket material and affecting accuracy.

The Lee rifle dies will size your brass sufficiently to get the job done. I prefer them for many reasons over other FL rifle dies. Only problem is they are just not quite long enough for use in my press. If you really like this activity, consider investing in a RCBS X die. I use them exclusively now, as they save a great deal of trimming and work great in my press due to the longer threaded area on the die.

I prefer the Lee sizing lube over Imperial as it comes off more readily, and depending on method, is easier to apply. Even better, you don't *have* to remove it and can still shoot the cartridge... the casings look ugly but they function just fine. If applying the Imperial or the Lee lubes with your fingers a little bit goes a long way, and on the case body only, rather than on the shoulder/neck area, which might cause dimpling.

I hope you have purchased a reloading manual, and read all that is necessary before engaging on this venture?
 
Get the stuff EBR suggested. IF using a drill then don't bother with the ball grip cutter, but you have to have the .308 length gauge to trim the brass uniformily and to the correct length. Can be a little tedious but they work fine.
 
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