Author Topic: .357 mag 3 die carbide set (Read 401 times)

bigjeepman · « **on:** August 25, 2004, 03:52:15 PM »

I reload for several rifle calibers and .45lc but am now starting to reload for the .357 mag. In my newly purchased RCBS die set, a spacer ring was included for setting the dies for these longer magnum cases. I am just a little unclear when/how to use this spacer. I realize it is not needed for the sizer/decapping die but how exactly is it to be used with the other two dies? Do I adjust the other dies as I normally would and then completely unscrew the die, place the spacer ring, and then place die back into the press? I have no plans on reloading .38 specials ... just .357 mag.

Sorry if this sounds kinda dumb, but it has been a long week already.

KN · « **Reply #1 on:** August 25, 2004, 04:46:36 PM »

The spacer is so you can load 38spl and 357 cases without changing your dies every time. If you measure the thickness of the spacer it will be the difference of 38sp and 357 case lengths. You don't use it with the sizing die but you do with the other two. KN

Graybeard · « **Reply #2 on:** August 25, 2004, 05:22:32 PM »

Quote

I have no plans on reloading .38 specials ... just .357 mag.

Then just put it back in the box in case you ever decide to load both with that set of dies. I never do. I have a set for .38 Special and a set for .357 Magnum and a spare set just in case I ever need them. What the heck, I have three sets of .30-30 dies and hardly ever even shoot it much less load for mine. At the rate I use it I have a life time supply loaded now.

SLAVAGE · « **Reply #3 on:** August 26, 2004, 08:04:19 AM »

i too asked that a while back an decided not to use the dies to load 38's, so i went an found a dirt cheap set of 38's steel dies off of e bay i think i got them for like 5 dollers plus shiping tossed the sizer in the junk box an used the carbide sizer for every thing an just use the seating die for each one, have all so been thinking of buying a few more sets to do the same with different seating stems that way i have one for wadcutters one for hp an such but that all depends if i wana get layzer than i am now lol
but yeah just leave them in the bag in the box

bigjeepman · « **Reply #4 on:** August 26, 2004, 04:19:56 PM »

Thanks for the replies guys .... I really appreciate it. It all makes sense to me now.

skb2706 · « **Reply #5 on:** August 27, 2004, 10:25:57 AM »

Just think you get the next spacer and you will be set for a .357 max and still not have to fool with die adjustments........