Thread: Issues with Lapua 6.5x55 brass fitting shell holder

I have some lapua cases here that are super tight trying to get them into the shell holder, have tried both the redding #1 and the RCBS #2 as specified for 6.5x55.

Some cases are very tight to get into the holder, others just will not go in, a right PITA!!

Read on an overseas forum that someone else had the same issue a while back, these cases i have will be pretty old, judging by the factory ammo box they came out of (once fired factory Lapua).

Does this issue still exist with new lots of lapua or shall i go with another brand like Norma etc?

You can borrow one of my shell holders if you like

Originally Posted by 7mmsaum

You can borrow one of my shell holders if you like

Thanks Andrew, but I'm sure it's more an issue with my brass.

Originally Posted by GWH

Thanks Andrew, but I'm sure it's more an issue with my brass.

same thing happened to my mate his brass wouldn't fit in my holder

I had exactly this issue with Norma brass. I'm using a lee number 3 now which works fine. It's something to do with US versus euro specs.

I've got Hornady shell holders #3 - no probs with Lapua brass.
Unless I'm mean with case lube

Originally Posted by WillB

I had exactly this issue with Norma brass. I'm using a lee number 3 now which works fine. It's something to do with US versus euro specs.

Originally Posted by WallyR

I've got Hornady shell holders #3 - no probs with Lapua brass.
Unless I'm mean with case lube

Thanks Lads, ill try to get a Lee or Hornady #3 then, cheers.

I get this with some of my lapua brass, lee, hornady and redding holders don't seem to like it. I looked closer at the brass and it was like the base of the case was slightly bowed. Not sure why or how.

@GWH

That bloody Lapua brass is shit mate.

I'd get rid of it and replace it with quality brass like Winchester.

Cheers
Pete

IIRC, Lapua (and probably Norma) brass has a slightly larger base diameter (.480) than the american ones (0.473)

I think chalkeye you're right on the money there

Yes Chalky is on the money, the yanks make 6.5 brass on 30/06 hulls so head diameter is less.

FYI if your case is close like lapua 6.5-284 brass and lyman 308 holder you can sort the overloaded ones you fired when you changed batch of powder by whether they go in the case holder or not .