Thread: Neck tension differences while using a Lee die delux set.

I did some tests out of curiorosity.

So 4 once fired same make cases, same batch.

So std un-sized once fired case, lose on lee neck sizer mandrel, to be expected (case A).

Neck sized another, still a little slack but not as loose...hrmmm (case B).

So I then full case sized another, case neck wont go over lee neck sizer mandrel....so neck now well undersize (case C).

I then full sized a fourth case and neck sized it and its a good slide fit over the neck mandrel (case D)



As an engineer I like case D it feels like I'd except it to feel in terms of fit. However case C is loser than case D, noticably...is this in-consistancy to be expected or is something wrong?



If this is normal and you dont want the projectile sizing the neck (bad karma) then to be consistant you need to full size then neck size, Ive never seen this suggested.

So this is either normal, one of the lee dies is screwed, or Im doing something wrong.



I did this several times and I get the same results each time.

any ideas please?

very tempted to go buy another brand of neck sizing die, very tempted.

I assume you have dismantled the die and made sure the collets aren't blocked?
Make sure the die is screwed down far enough
When I size I do it once rotate case 90 degrees and do it again.

Yes did all that at least twice, I might try and borrow a mate's press or drive to the club's and check on their one see if I get the same result. Until now Ive been using the club's lyman full size dies and press.

Have you turned the necks on the brass to ensure they are all the same thickness, as they wont be from new or once fired.

Originally Posted by 7mmsaum

Have you turned the necks on the brass to ensure they are all the same thickness, as they wont be from new or once fired.

I did several cases and got a similar result each time. For instance full sizing and then neck sizing on the same case should not have differed? as if there is any neck issues its common to that one case. But no I have not neck trimmed. I'll put the calipers on them all this morning and see if there is a difference.

I Have to visit the dentist, tooth broke last night if that bill isnt too bad I think I'll order a rcbs 308w neck die....I think I can get them on their own for about $66.

In the mean time I might put a support call to Lee and see what they say.

have you checked measurements. my collet neck sizer can differ between half and 1.5 thou, although I think neck turning may improve this ( resized once fired). I also note that I can see light collet marks on my necks not that I am worried about this but slight chance that where there is a gap in the collet it may not size it 100% even If I rotate 90 degrees and resize. My redding type neck die seems to be a bit more consistent, but cant compare due to different caliber

I have noted slightly less sizing from my neck die than my full length die.

Not really an issue for me because i work in batches and they are all full or neck sized but then Im not after the last pooftenth of accuracy cos i only own hunting rifles 1/2 -1 moa is good enough for me.

If you really want consistent tension turn and aneal.

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Have a look on ebay for a 308 neck die you can get em fairly cheap on there I got a brand new lyman set for a 308 I had off there for $45NZ incl shipping

I might just have a go at that....but I usually find shipping costs makes it pointless.

Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die Part 1 - YouTube

Some grease on the collet worked wonders...that and more pressure on the lever was far tighter, full is tigher still though.

Just get a redding type s neck bushing die and have no more issue

Originally Posted by DAF

Just get a redding type s neck bushing die and have no more issue

Yes, I think thats probable, Im actually looking at the set with the competition seater die as well as a set for the 308W.

Gunsmithing &Reloading Tools - Redding Type S Neck Match Die Set, Dies

Looks like I need extra bushes, kind of makes it even more expensive...

Yep so another $23 per bush, ouch...