My first go at reloading for .303 Brit
Hi all
I'm somewhat new to reloading, but my first couple of attempts with .38 Special were successful, so I'm about ready to have a go at reloading for my SMLEs. I've read a number of threads here and elsewhere (including a couple of epic O-ring threads) and I was hoping to get some advice on a couple of points, before I start.
Let me start by outlining where I'm at:
I have a mix of commercial brass (Win, Rem, S&B, maybe some Prvi) that was fired in my No.1 Mk. III* and a bunch of HXP '69 brass that was fired in my No.4 Mk.1
I didn't know about O-rings when I fired those rounds, but my brass is segregated by rifle.
I have a box of .311 Spitzer (Speer, 150 grain) and am being given a half box of Sierra, 180 grain .311 Spitzers.
I've ordered a Lee Deluxe die set, with FL and neck sizing dies and also ordered a factory crimp die. I'll probably pick my loads from the current Lyman or Lee books.
My first question is, given that I didn't use the O-ring fire forming technique, is my best move to full length size, fire form with an O-ring then neck size thereafter, or should I just skip straight to neck sizing. If the latter, is there any benefit to using an O-ring when I next shoot the rounds, or has that ship sailed?
My other question is, should I anticipate any problems fitting commercial primers in the HXP cases? If so, what's the preferred technique?
Thanks for any suggestions.