Headspace Control Shims - setting up dies.

[kenlee]

Those interested in using shims when setting up dies should look at:

http://www.armaster.com/htm/shim_faq.htm

Delivery costs are about $12.00 by USPS.

These seem to be an alternative to competition shell holders (Redding) or simply adjusting the thread.

It would be interesting to hear peoples methods for setting up full length resizing dies.

[The Gun Pimp]

Good idea - but often, the problem is the reverse - you can't screw down the die enough to 'bump' the brass.

[phaedra1106]

Good idea - but often, the problem is the reverse - you can't screw down the die enough to 'bump' the brass.

Indeed, my Howa 1500 has a much tighter chamber than my Steyr SSG-04, both pass Go/No Go gauges OK. I tried cases full length sized in Lee, RCBS, Redding and Hornady dies, none would fit easily in the Howa (stiff bolt closure).

In the end one of my RFDs took enough off the bottom of a Lee die to allow a full extra turn, it only took 1/4 to 1/3 to achieve sufficient bump back. I also ordered a set of RCBS Small Base dies which do the same thing but the Lee die is still working perfectly so they've been sat in their case since they arrived!.

[kenlee]

Not thought of that.
Another benefit of shims is you only need one set for all dies.

My Redding dies full length resize .308 to below the minimum according to the Wilson case gauge.
These chamber OK in my Howa 1500 so it looks (so far) like I need to resize less.

Foolishly, I did not keep a fired case from my last shoot to get a headspace measure - that's the next job.

I read somewhere of using feeler gauges between the die base and the shellholder to get a consistent set up?