FL shoulder bumping...?

[Wardy]

Is it possible to do a shoulder bump using a standard FL die such as the Lee type? Was thinking of using a set of feeler gauges and set the die up and put a couple thousandths between the shell holder and die, but am wondering is this futile, will this work or, should i just buy a body die?

thanks...

 

[427Cobra]

Re: FL shoulder bumping...?

The instructions that come with most FL dies is better used to start fires with, get a headspace measuring tool, or do it the redneck way by turning the die down until the bolt has a slight resistence about half way down when chambering(FPA and Ejector removed).

 

[Victor N TN]

Re: FL shoulder bumping...?

For years before "headspace comparitors" were available, I use the "feel" method. Remove the firing pin assembly as mentioned above and adjust the die so that the bolt travels forward and just starts camming over at the front. I usually get it to where the bolt handle just starts or maybe let it fall halfway down before getting tight. This is the stopping point. Remember the die is threaded in 14 threads per inch. If you figure that out, 1/16th of a turn is a little over .004" Another way is using shims, a torque wrench and a crows foot wrench.

Edited to add: The die you have will probably do fine. Most full length dies will do this. Only if they are too long is there a problem.

Good luck.

 

[Fuzzball]

Re: FL shoulder bumping...?

"Is it possible to do a shoulder bump using a standard FL die such as the Lee type?"

Actually, all FL dies do a "shoulder bump" as well as reducing the case body and neck diameters a tad. Within limits, it's up to us to adjust it for the amount of bump we want/need. Most people simply follow the die basic 'instuctions' to go past shell holder contact a quarter/half turn and end up bumping too much. What is not often understood is that the amount of "extra" turn needed is dependant on what your rig rally needs AND how much spring is in the press body and lever links; that's often quite a bit more than many people realize.

A proper shoulder bump die is more properly called a body die. All that means is the die neck is reamed large enough to not size the cass neck, making it sort of a reverse to the effect a neck sizer die.

 

[Wardy]

Re: FL shoulder bumping...?

Thanks for the guidence fellas...