300 Blk Sizing Die Shootout - Part 3

Published on September 25, 2017
Duration: 11:57

This video details a DIY modification to a Lee 300 Blackout sizing die's expander ball to address inconsistent neck tension. The instructor demonstrates a process of sanding down the 0.307" expander ball to a smaller diameter (0.306" or 0.305") using various grits of sandpaper and finishing with polishing materials. The goal is to achieve tighter neck tension, comparable to Forester and RCBS dies, to prevent bullet setback during chambering.

Quick Summary

To fix inconsistent neck tension with a Lee 300 Blackout sizing die, modify its 0.307" expander ball by sanding it down to approximately 0.306" or 0.305". Use a drill, calipers, and various grits of sandpaper, followed by polishing, to achieve a tighter bullet grip and prevent setback.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 300 Blackout Sizing Die Issues
  2. 00:30Understanding Neck Tension and Expander Ball Diameters
  3. 01:05Goal: Reduce Expander Ball Diameter
  4. 01:25Sanding Materials Overview
  5. 02:26Setup: Chucking Expander Ball in Drill
  6. 03:01Initial Sanding Attempt (220 Grit)
  7. 03:59Switching to 120 Grit Sandpaper
  8. 04:42Smoothing After Aggressive Sanding
  9. 05:04First Measurement: 0.3065 Inches
  10. 05:18Continued Sanding Process
  11. 06:31Reaching 0.306 Inches
  12. 06:43Aiming for 0.3055 Inches
  13. 07:46Finalizing Diameter and Polishing
  14. 08:32Achieved 0.3055 Inch Expander Ball
  15. 08:38Polishing Other Expander Balls
  16. 09:34Testing the Modified Die
  17. 09:47Measuring Neck Tension with a Bullet
  18. 10:32Results: Tight Neck Tension Achieved
  19. 11:00Summary of Successful Modification
  20. 11:32Preview of Next Video

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I fix inconsistent neck tension with my Lee 300 Blackout sizing die?

You can modify the Lee 300 Blackout sizing die's expander ball by sanding it down. The stock 0.307" expander can be reduced to 0.306" or 0.305" using various grits of sandpaper, starting with coarser grits like 120 and finishing with finer grits and polishing for a smooth surface.

What is the target diameter for a 300 Blackout sizing die expander ball to achieve good neck tension?

For optimal neck tension in 300 Blackout reloading, an expander ball diameter of around 0.306" to 0.3055" is desirable. This is smaller than the standard 0.307" found on some Lee dies, allowing for a tighter grip on the bullet.

What tools are needed to modify a sizing die expander ball?

To modify a sizing die expander ball, you'll need a drill to hold and spin the ball, calipers for precise measurement, and various grits of sandpaper or sanding blocks (e.g., 120-grit and 220-grit). A Scotch-Brite pad or steel wool is useful for final polishing.

Why is neck tension important in 300 Blackout reloading?

Proper neck tension is crucial for handloaded 300 Blackout ammunition to prevent bullet setback when chambering rounds. Insufficient tension can lead to the bullet being pushed deeper into the case, altering the overall length and potentially affecting chamber pressure and accuracy.

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