Thread: Brass FL Sizing Trouble

Are you using the correct shell holder?

Ive struck this exact same issue when i first started reloading for a 6.5x55. I had the wrong shell holder, i got the right one and problem solved.

Like you, initially even with the die bottomed out hard on the shell holder i couldnt bump the shoulder enough, with the correct shell holder i could.

Originally Posted by GWH

Are you using the correct shell holder?

Ive struck this exact same issue when i first started reloading for a 6.5x55. I had the wrong shell holder, i got the right one and problem solved.

Like you, initially even with the die bottomed out hard on the shell holder i couldnt bump the shoulder enough, with the correct shell holder i could.

Thanks GWH, interesting... I have a Hornady #19 shellholder which I believe is the correct shellholder for the 6.5x55, though it's not a Redding. We've ended up with the Redding die as a stand alone, not a full set of dies that would include a shellholder.

Regards,
Joel

Originally Posted by joelhenton

Thanks GWH, interesting... I have a Hornady #19 shellholder which I believe is the correct shellholder for the 6.5x55, though it's not a Redding. We've ended up with the Redding die as a stand alone, not a full set of dies that would include a shellholder.

Regards,
Joel

Some brands of shell holders will accept 308 sized brass and 6.5x55. A few years ago I upgraded my shellholders and now use a RCBS #2 or a Redding E-Z #7 for the Swede.
The Redding E-Z #7 will fit my 6.5 SM but I need a Redding E-Z #2 for my 7.5x55 SR. The difference lies not in the rim diameter but the rim thickness.
The RCBS #2 will accept both the Swede and the Swiss cartridges. It's not as tight in its tolerances as the Redding.

One trick if your FLSing die has bottomed out in the press and you still have not pushed the shoulder back enough is to insert a feeler gauge between the case head and the shell holder. Some shell holders will take up to a 5 thou feeler gauge.