6mm ARC - Still just getting started

Published on October 26, 2020
Duration: 71:04

This video details the process of setting up Hornady reloading dies, specifically focusing on the installation and use of a micrometer seating die for precise bullet seating. The presenter demonstrates how to install the micrometer, select the correct seating stem for different bullet types, and achieve consistent cartridge base to ogive (CBTO) measurements. The guide also touches on the importance of proper die adjustment and the benefits of a micrometer for repeatable accuracy in handloads.

Quick Summary

The Hornady micrometer seating die allows for precise bullet seating adjustments in ten-thousandths of an inch, crucial for consistent handloads. Proper setup involves installing the correct seating stem, contacting the bullet's ogive, and using the micrometer for fine-tuning to achieve desired overall length or CBTO measurements.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & New Gear
  2. 00:52New Brass & Hornady Dies
  3. 01:41Hornady Micrometer Seating Die Setup
  4. 03:00Bullet Selection for Testing
  5. 05:03Measuring Overall Length Challenges
  6. 06:13Fixing Modified Case Fit Issues
  7. 08:34Resuming OAL Testing
  8. 10:03Successful OAL Measurements
  9. 11:30Consistent OAL Readings
  10. 12:09OAL Measurement Summary
  11. 12:22Load Data for Testing
  12. 14:22CFE-223 Load Development
  13. 16:13IMR 8208 XBR Load Development
  14. 17:15Bullet Seating Lengths
  15. 19:12Lube & Die Preparation
  16. 20:00Hornady Die Teardown
  17. 20:30Installing Micrometer Adjuster
  18. 21:10Lee Breech Lock Press Setup
  19. 22:04Shoulder Bump Testing
  20. 25:31Adjusting Sizing Die for Shoulder Bump
  21. 28:33Case Length Check & Trimming
  22. 30:01Deburring & Chamfering Case Mouths
  23. 30:57Powder Charging
  24. 31:37Bullet Seating Process
  25. 32:48Checking Seating Stem Fit
  26. 34:32Seating 108 Grain ELD Match
  27. 39:11Seating Sierra Bullets
  28. 42:11Final Bullet Seating
  29. 44:28Range Setup & Sighting In
  30. 45:57Shot Marker Sensor Fix
  31. 46:19Cider Load Results
  32. 48:11CFE-223 Load Testing (28.8 Grains)
  33. 50:26CFE-223 Load Testing (29.1 Grains)
  34. 51:40CFE-223 Load Testing (29.4 Grains)
  35. 53:31CFE-223 Load Testing (29.7 Grains)
  36. 55:47CFE-223 Load Testing (30.0 Grains)
  37. 57:4190 Grain Sierra Game Changer (25.5 Grains)
  38. 59:3990 Grain Sierra Game Changer (26.0 Grains)
  39. 61:53100 Grain Sierra Game Changer (25.0 Grains)
  40. 63:47100 Grain Sierra Game Changer (25.5 Grains)
  41. 65:14Brass Inspection
  42. 67:11Video Summary & Future Plans
  43. 68:00Hunting Load Development
  44. 69:41Powder Selection for Hunting Loads

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key challenges when measuring overall length for 6mm ARC reloads?

Measuring overall length for 6mm ARC can be challenging due to the tight neck of the chamber and the need for precise tools like modified cases or specialized gauges. The presenter encountered issues with modified cases not fitting the chamber and the split-case method yielding inconsistent results.

How do you properly set up a Hornady micrometer seating die?

To set up a Hornady micrometer seating die, install the micrometer adjuster and the correct seating stem. Then, screw the die down until the stem contacts the bullet's ogive in a sized case, back the die off one full turn, and use the micrometer for precise adjustments to achieve the desired overall length or CBTO.

What are the best performing loads for the 6mm ARC based on this video?

The best performing loads for the 6mm ARC in this video were the 108-grain Hornady ELD-M with 30.0 grains of CFE-223 (0.58-inch group) and the 90-grain Sierra Game Changer with 26.0 grains of IMR 8208 XBR (0.63-inch group).

What are the recommended seating depths for 6mm ARC bullets?

Recommended seating depths varied by bullet. For the 108-grain Hornady ELD-M, a CBTO of 1.730 inches was targeted. For the 90-grain Sierra Game Changer, a CBTO of 1.725 inches was achieved, resulting in an overall length of approximately 2.293-2.294 inches.

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