I am having a hard time finding good quality micrometer dies for my 338 Norma. Not liking the Forster Benchrest set so much. My question is can I order say Whidden 300 Norma bushing dies and run a larger bushing for the 338 sized necks or is the inside of the die too small to fit the larger bushing? Anyone done this? Would also consider Redding type S dies..I don’t really want to go custom route as the wait is 4 months or so
338 Norma with 300 Norma bushing dies?
- Thread starter Jakeweb09
- Start date
I quit using the bushing dies and went back to the FLS dies. I use all Redding FLS with micrometer seating dies. I set the FLS so it bumps .002. If you are using only 1 bullet then you don't need the micrometer seating dies. I didn't see and change in accuracy and it speeds up the reloading. I just try and keep it simple.
The bushing route should work if that’s what you want to do. They all have the same external diameter.
You should be able to use the same bushing die for both, but I always like to keep a normal full length die around just in case. The O.D. of the bushings is large enough to accommodate either. You might be better looking for a 338 Norma mag die and using a smaller bushing. You could run into a problem with the should sizing portion of the 300 hitting the neck of the 338 brass. Also, I would avoid a full custom die as it is made for the chamber of that rifle. No way to guarantee both are the same.
Whidden has quit making the 338 version without custom order so I would have to get the 300 version and try on 338. I prefer the bushing style because I can change neck tension with just a change of a bushing and I feel they work the brass less. I hate the expander balls so using a mandrel is another option but just another step. And to one of the above comments about bullets. I do like to use multiple. I plan on shooting Berger’s at the range and hammers in the field. So I definitely want the micrometer set
Ever considered Forster custom honed dies? You would have to use a mandrel to set neck tension, but you can get the benefit of the less neck work. Non-adjustable, but just aim for 0.004" and that should have you covered. I am going to test a custom honed die vs a bushing die myself this next year, but in theory a mandrel pushes inconsistencies to the outside to produce better ammo. Just another option, bushing dies work great for me with neck turned brass.
I haven’t thought of it but I’ll look into it. What type of lead time are they looking at in those?
Well normally about a month, but right now I would expect closer to 2 with how crazy everything is.
