RCBS Bullet Seating Die Problem

[GarySTL]

OK, maybe it's not a problem, but it might be.

Just started reloading 6.5 Creedmoor with Hornady ELD 140g bullets. I find that the bullet seating die leaves a small ring around the bullet about 3/16" below the top of the jacket. Apparently there's an edge inside the seating stem that localizes the seating pressure. It's more visible on some bullets than others.

It might not have any effect with a shooter of my caliber (couldn't resist, sorry)but it shouldn't be there at all.

I'm thinking of trying a felt cone and jeweler's rouge or other abrasive to polish the edge and smooth it out.

Is it worth the effort? Any other ideas are welcome.

 

[ReloaderFred]

I do this all the time. Go for it. I usually use a fine Cratex wheel for this. I bought a bunch of them in the shape of a bullet for altering die seating stems and polishing feed ramps.

Hope this helps.

Fred

 

[witchhunter]

Like Fred says this is a good way to fix it. You can also use some epoxy in the seater and form it to fit the ogive.

 

[GarySTL]

Both good ideas. I might have some cratex points. I know I've bought some, but not sure where they are. There's a gun show this weekend so I can always get more.

On the epoxy idea, maybe JB weld? Just wax the projectile so it releases?

 

[ReloaderFred]

J-B Weld works just fine, but I usually do those for handgun bullets. I pick up extra seating stems when they go on sale, or at gunshows, so I don't mess up my "only one", which is hardly ever the case.

Wax the bullet, and if you have a drill press, that's a good way to properly align the bullet in the seater. You don't want to have a seater that consistently seats your bullets crooked. Just chuck the seating stem and put a small dab of epoxy inside it, then lower it on the bullet, making sure the bullet is straight and centered. Then while you lock down the drill press spindle, trim off the excess epoxy while it's still pliable. You can dress it up with fine sandpaper after it hardens.

Hope this helps.

Fred