308 Reload Problem - HELP

[JSTARSZ]

I am relatively new to reloading and I have been working with IMI Brass (Once fired), Fed 210M Primers, WIN 748 Powder (43.5 GR) in a Sierra 168SMK Bullet at 2.8 COAL in a Dillon 550b. I have used this load in new casings and it works fine so it has to be in the process of using once fired casings.

I am testing the rounds and when I shoot the round the casing gets stuck in the chamber. I have to hit it with a rubber mallet (not hard) to get the casing out of the chamber. I fully resized the brass and checked it in the chamber of the rifle that I was going to shoot and it worked fine coming in and out. I only lightly touch the casing for any crimp at all. Can any one tell me what I am doing wrong in this process?

I have read numerous books on reloading and I have a general idea but I have no mentor so I am asking some of you guys for what can possibly be the issue in my process.

 

[sinister]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

Are you trimming the cases for length before you load?

 

[JSTARSZ]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

oh I forgot to mention that part - I trim to 2.005 or as close as I can get...

 

[USSR]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

I would suggest you drop back at least .5gr in your load. You're using IMI brass, which is heavy and has a case capacity similar to Lake City. If that doesn't do it, then examine your chamber for imperfections that may causing it.

Don

 

[JSTARSZ]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

I can give that a try. I don't think it is the rifle because I just shot that exact same load a couple of weeks ago (Nosler new Brass) and it was OK...this is baffling me.

 

[Sig685]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

It's the brass. You say it's once fired. What was it fired in? I'm guessing not in your rifle. I would suggest you get a cartridge guage and check out the brass. You may want to look for a small base body die to run the brass through one. After that, it should probably work fine.

Best bet is to stay away from once fired .308 brass.

 

[JSTARSZ]

Re: 308 Reload Problem - HELP

I did buy the brass new and it was shot it a M1A years ago. I used to shoot High Power but then the military got in the way and I had to move so much I lost touch with it. I am back and trying to remember how I used to do it.

I did reduce the load by a grain and worked the inside of the casing more and fired a shot and it worked this time so I will go back and pay more attention to the process.