A Bit Off Topic, But Looking To Purchase Case Trimmer

[USGI]

I checked my reloading notes on .30 Carbine and the Lee trimmer gave me 1.285" the last time I used it to do a bunch - originally had noted it as 1.287". Minimum is supposed to be 1.280" and maximum 1.290". The Hogdon data I've been using lists trim length as 1.285" and that's been working OK in my guns. If you want to set it for 1.280" you can stone a few thousandths off the end of the pin. I've measured quite a bit of new carbine ammo and find that case length can vary quite a bit between brands, as well as from round to round in the same box. I noted before that some cases have to be expanded before the Lee trimmer will fit. My Lee trimmer for .30 Carbine measures .303" so it will go in before expanding. The 32-20 is one that won't go until you expand. If the Norma cases are thicker, you might have to expand first. I can't measure any change in case length caused by expanding, so I expand and flare after trimming. With the Lee dies I use, the expander also gives the case flare, so I like to do that all in one operation.

I have the same problem in holding onto the heavier cordless drills, so I sit on a stool with the drill balanced on one knee and work the shell holder with both hands. When I trim, I just squeeze the drill trigger with the thumb of the one hand and push the cutter into the case with the other hand - also use the simple Lee chamfer tool to very lightly take off the burrs before changing to the next case. Swapping cases goes really fast with the drill balanced on the knee while using both hands to swap. I place a carboard box or bucket on the floor to catch the shavings. I have tried using a drill press and it works OK on the larger cases, but when you are doing shorter ones, that revolving cutter gets too close for comfort to the hand holding onto the case - gloves help some, but it's too scary for me. Also, I had trouble with the pin on the end of the cutter putting a dent into whatever I was using to set the case on. The result of that is having cases come out shorter as you go.

Now looking to buy a new Die set for .45auto. Had used the Lee 3 die set for years but gave it to a friend a few months ago. Now trying to figure out the 3 vs. 4 die sets.
Charlie-painter777

I've got the Lee dies for .45ACP and the fourth one is a carbide crimp die, and it also insures the round will fit a standard chamber by smoothing out any buldges or irregularities caused by seating the bullet - insures the reliable chambering of your completed rounds. - Bob

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