Ep. 216 - Make Reloading Great Again | Sizing 101 |

Published on January 1, 2026
Duration: 65:10

This guide details the process of setting up a full-length sizing die for cartridge cases, a fundamental step in reloading. It explains the 'cam over' mechanism on Hornady presses and how to adjust the die for proper sizing. The discussion emphasizes that full-length resizing ensures cases fit a variety of firearms of the same caliber, though it can lead to faster brass wear compared to neck sizing.

Quick Summary

Full-length resizing in reloading restores fired cartridge cases to SAAMI specifications, ensuring they fit and function in any firearm of that caliber. This is achieved by reducing case dimensions, setting headspace, and resizing the neck. While crucial for semi-automatic and lever-action rifles, it can lead to faster brass wear compared to neck sizing.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Reloading Podcast
  2. 00:40Handloading vs. Reloading Terminology
  3. 01:50What is Reloading?
  4. 02:56Why Size a Cartridge Case?
  5. 03:49Brass Work Hardening and Expansion
  6. 04:49Setting Up a Reloading Press and Dies
  7. 05:23What is Full-Length Resizing?
  8. 06:41Sizing Die Components
  9. 07:53Checking Case Dimensions
  10. 08:27Understanding 'Cam Over'
  11. 09:57Easy Setup for Sizing Dies
  12. 10:19Pros of Full-Length Resizing
  13. 12:20Cons of Full-Length Resizing
  14. 13:07Why Reload? Economics and Accuracy
  15. 14:00Full-Length Sizing for ARs and Lever Guns
  16. 14:50Brass Failure Points
  17. 15:14Case Head Separation
  18. 16:00Checking Brass for Fatigue
  19. 17:02Full-Length Sizing for Long-Term Reloaders
  20. 19:07Neck Sizing Explained
  21. 20:10Neck Sizing vs. Full-Length Sizing
  22. 20:39Benefits of Neck Sizing for Accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of full-length resizing in reloading?

Full-length resizing restores a fired cartridge case to its original SAAMI specifications. This process reduces the case's diameter at the base and shoulder, sets the headspace, and resizes the neck to securely hold a bullet. It ensures the case will reliably fit and function in any firearm chambered for that specific caliber, making it crucial for semi-automatic and lever-action rifles.

How do you properly set up a full-length sizing die on a reloading press?

To set up a full-length sizing die, place the shell holder in the press ram, lower the handle to raise the ram, and thread the die down until it contacts the shell holder. Tighten the lock ring. A proper setup is confirmed when you feel a slight 'cam over' or bump as the ram reaches its highest point, indicating the die is making firm contact and ensuring correct sizing.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of full-length resizing?

The primary advantage of full-length resizing is ensuring case compatibility across various firearms of the same caliber, essential for semi-automatic and lever-action rifles. The main disadvantage is that it accelerates brass wear, reducing the number of times a case can be reloaded due to increased work hardening and potential for case head separation.

Why is brass work hardening a concern in reloading?

Brass is a work-hardening material. Each time a case is fired and then resized, it undergoes stress. This process makes the brass harder but also more brittle over time. Excessive work hardening can lead to premature case failure, such as neck splits or case head separation, limiting the lifespan of the brass.

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