.308 re-sizing

[sclg]

I'm an experienced reloader of pistol calibres but new to .308. Reading up on it here, many seem to recommend always full-length resizing.
However my new .308 Lee die set suggests only full length resizing for "semi-auto/range brass" and just using neck sizing for "bolt action/own brass".
I'd welcome any thoughts!

Thanks

[artiglio]

Unlees you have very mild loads, eventually your brass will need full length resizing, as such there is a school of thought that full length sizing every time ( just enough to ensure your brass fits your chamber) gives greater consistency between firings and reduces the chance of eventually having a problem chambering or ejecting.
I used to full length as required and neck size in between, i now full length every time, i don’t see any disadvantage and now never get a tight round chambering or ejecting.
My two cents.

[dodgyrog]

I only ever full length resize and I use an RCBS Small Base die to do them
Additionally, I push the cases through a 45ACP carbide die that has had the neck opened up to allow the passage of the case.
Generally this prevents having to 'lean' on the bolt handle to close it.
All this is especially needed when you have purchased fired brass that has been in a different rifles' chamber.
Anyway, that works for me.

[sclg]

Thanks both - full length it is!

[North Star]

There are too many factors involved to say that one method is preferable over the other. If you have more than one rifle chambered in .308, you will want to full length resize. If your rifle has excessive headspace, then expect 3 or 4 reloadings (or maybe less) before the cases split and need to be discarded.
I don't think there is any solid evidence that proves that neck sizing creates more consistent ammunition, but being naturally lazy, I prefer to neck size with a Lee collet die, thereby avoiding messy lubricants! My neck sized loads are more snug when chambering, but. 001" crush on the case is fine. I'll continue to neck size my cases until I encounter problems.

[Alpha1]

I have a 6.5x55 that is very fussy on ammunition because the match barrel has been fitted on a .308 short action. I did not realize on buying it. It was only when I started shooting it the problems started.
It wont chamber most factory ammo the bolt is difficult to close and then very difficult to open.
I got round the problem by using a body die and a set of competition shell holders to set the shoulder back to the desired amount. I then use a L.E.Wilson neck bushing die and one of their seating dies to seat the bullet to the correct depth using an arbor press.
I use this setup for most of my full bore rifles. It works for me.
I have never had any success with Lee neck dies their full length dies work OK.

[Chapuis]

As North Star said there are too many factors involved to give "the Right" answer in a simple reply on a forum. As you mentioned that you are new to reloading rifle cartridges I would recommend reading through your reloading manual which if it is any good will explain the benefits or negatives of both full length and/or neck sizing in much greater detail.