Smallbase dies

[charlesr]

Are smallbase dies necessary when handloading for a M99 Savage?

Charles

[iiranger]

You won't know until you try. Regular dies do not work the head, just ahead of the extractor groove, as much. If your chamber permits these cases to work thru the action with full length resizing, then, NO. At the same time, for feed reliability, the small based die is recommended for semi autos and for lever actions and ... if you need it for reliable ammo, small cost. But you have to see what your gun will accept reliabily. Bolt actions have something like a 15/1 leverage ration at bolt handle turn down. That covers alot of ammo problems with plain old force. Not available in other actions. luck.

[Siskiyou]

   From the RCBS Website.

Q. I see a Small Base Die Set listed for my caliber. Do I need these or should I buy a Full Length Die Set or Neck Die Set? How does each set differ?

A. The Small Base Die set is intended for use for ammunition to be used in auto, semi-auto, and lever action rifles so that the loaded round chambers and extracts easily. The Small Base Sizer Die sizes the case from the shoulder to the head of the case a couple of thousandths smaller than a Full Length Sizer Die. In certain calibers it also sets the shoulder of the case back a thousandth or two more than the Full Length Sizer Die. The Full Length Die Set or Neck Die Set is not normally recommended for ammo to be used in auto, semi-auto, or lever action rifles. The Full Length Die set is recommended for ammunition used in bolt action rifles, particularly for ammunition to be used for hunting. The Neck Die Set can also be used to produce ammunition for use in bolt action rifles. The Neck Sizer Die sizes only the neck of the case so it will hold the bullet firmly. It does not size the body of the case nor does it set the shoulder back. Neck sized cases will usually chamber for three or more firings, depending on the powder charge and chamber dimensions. However, over a period of time, a slight drag will be noticed when the bolt is locked. At this point, cases will need to be full length sized and the shoulder set back so they will chamber and extract easily

http://www.rcbs.com/default.asp?menu=1&s1=7&s2=18&s3=132