Reloading 5.56 with .223 Lee classic loader ?
I've read that the chamber sizes are different between the two ARs.
So...is it recommended to reload for my Colt M4 using a Lee classic loader?
So...is it recommended to reload for my Colt M4 using a Lee classic loader?
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I believe the Lee Classic only neck sizes the case. Neck sizing works fine for bolt action rifles but not so well for auto loading rifles. You need to full length resize the case in order to insure reliable operation with your AR-15. 0 -
+1, Depending on the chamber tolerances of your rifle. You might even have to use, what are called "small base" dies. Conventional full length resizing dies, work OK for bolt action rifles. Sometimes extra tight dies are required for semi-autos.
Years ago I had a first model Gwinn Bushmaster, that wouldn't work with ammo loaded with standard dies.0 -
I'm not sure if Lyman made a tap in full length sizer in 223. I like my Lyman 310 sets much better than the Lee tools. The Lee deluxe shotgun tool is good.
You might consider the Lee hand press (I gave 3 away to new reloader's) with small base dies. The collet sizer for bolt/single shot guns is nice. The factory crimp die can be good too.0 -
blitz65,
quote:I've read that the chamber sizes are different between the two ARs.
The size of the chambers for either the .223 Remington or the 5.56 Nato is not different although various manufacturers may use slightly different reamers to cut the chambers.
Essentially, the AR chambers are cut slightly larger in diameter to allow for feeding and extraction. However, headspace is also allowed to be longer as well, by as much as 0.0025" (two and one half thousandths). This is the price paid for running ammunition through a system with a fast firing rate in order to achieve reliable feeding and extraction.
quote:So...is it recommended to reload for my Colt M4 using a Lee classic loader?
The end result is that what you need to do is resize the brass with a small base die which brings the now oversized brass back into compliance. The amount of work involved by this operation with a small base die cannot be accomplished with the 'press in place' hand dies of the Classic loader kits. You need a real C- or O-press like the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Press or the RCBS Partner Press, both of which can be found on the used market very inexpensively. These use a cam mechanical advantage to accomplish more work that you have to apply to the press to get the job done.
All of these solutions are available online with instructions from the manufacturers or there are even some videos to view to help with the process.
Best.0 -
I disagree. any full length sizing dies will work fine in the 5.56 guns. I have used a RCBS one for years and have loaded many rds with it. Small base dies over work the case and are not necessary in standard chambered guns. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by ammo guy
I disagree. any full length sizing dies will work fine in the 5.56 guns. I have used a RCBS one for years and have loaded many rds with it. Small base dies over work the case and are not necessary in standard chambered guns.
I hear what you are saying, but to ENSURE that your ammunition works in all rifle chambered for 5.56, the full length SB is the way to go. I have run into the situation, where one of my AR's had a tight chamber...it was intentionally built that way, and would not properly digest anything but SB sized ammo.
Also, I know for a FACT, that many semi-auto rifles such as the Remington 740/742/7400/750 series, along with the Browning BAR, and Winchester 100, all favor the SB die sized brass. They will not function without it.0 -
ammo guy,
Everywhere we turn on the internet, someone wants to be the exception to a rule. This forum is no different. You are the exception.
The vast majority of reloaders with experience in the common chambers delivered in factory firearms as well as many customs find that the Small Base dies are a necessity in order to prevent failure to feed and fire.
My guess would be that your dies are already tight and aren't marked as being Small Base. The excuse of overworking brass is superfluous simply because we're only discussing 0.001" to 0.0015" in total diameter. This hardly constitutes 'overworking' the cases.
Best.0 -
quote:Originally posted by nononsense
ammo guy,
Everywhere we turn on the internet, someone wants to be the exception to a rule. This forum is no different. You are the exception.
The vast majority of reloaders with experience in the common chambers delivered in factory firearms as well as many customs find that the Small Base dies are a necessity in order to prevent failure to feed and fire.
My guess would be that your dies are already tight and aren't marked as being Small Base. The excuse of overworking brass is superfluous simply because we're only discussing 0.001" to 0.0015" in total diameter. This hardly constitutes 'overworking' the cases.
Best.
+1
With 40 years or reloading both 5.56 and 7.62 x 51, Spot on.0
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