Vint:
I have had the same problem with my Hornady old-style trimmer which uses shellholders. .002"+-. Drove me NUTZ!

Probably a combination of the force being applied, heat build-up from the trimming and manufacturing tolerances... or maybe the phase of the moon!

I finally bought some Lee case trimmer gadgets, which trimmmed cases a bit longer than the recommended length. I filed down the little post that goes in the primer hole, to produce cases of near exact specs.

THEN I said "Wait just a minute!" A human hair is like .003-.005 in. , and that is just a smidge, and would make NO practical difference in handloading, just as long as the brass length is below maximum enough so that it doesn't jam into the rifling, causing excess pressure.

"That is a GOOD thing", sez I, and instantly quit worrying. I still don't like trimming brass, but life is better now!

My revolver cases don't need trimming often, because I don't load max, but consistent case length provides consistent crimps. I use Winchester 357 magnum brass mostly, but don't throw away the Remmie from factory loads. I have some .38 special brass that I don't use much any more...just for 38 spl. +P loads and plinkers, and teaching the grand moppets how to shoot.

My experience is similar to Buhshy's: I use Winchester brass for my hunting loads, and Federal brass that I got for a good price for varmint and cast bullet loads.

With Rifle cases I have found no real difference. I do prefer Winchester.

With handgun brass I have noticed that Remington tends to be a bit thin and can be a bit loose when it comes to bullet to case tention. Particularly with .38 Special. Again my preference is Winchester.

But that's me. Though I do use a lot of Federal for semi-autos and Remington for rifles.

As far as the "fancy" brands are concerned. Go ahead...Pay through the nose for them (and probably see no improvement). ALL of my 50,000 (+/- a few) are once fired range pickups...I am a confessed Brass Rat...

About the only things I've noticed on different brands of brass was the sizing effort. I feel that Winchester is easiest to size and it seems like Starline is hardest. NOTE that I am only refering to the apparent effort on my single stage press. I haven't noticed any real quality problems with any of the big name cases.

I will have to try them and see how they work for me!! Thanks!!!

Hi Vint!

Hi,stove!! how goes it??

Same ol same ol , no news is good news!

What is this? Old home coming week or sumtin'?

To add FWIW: I've had pretty good luck w/ my Lyman UCT. If I don't bang it around and knock the mic setting off it's very consistent if/when cases need a de-shaggin'.

I set the case in the holder and before I lock it in I scooch the pilot into the mouth a bit to help sorta center it then slowly lock it down then trim.

I really only measure/trim, if needed, my full power stuff and those are same lot/kind cases. And only a couple/few get touched up out of 200.

After initial measure/trim the mixed combat/plink stuff rarely gets a second glance as at 8-900fps the case will last a looooong time. Some are on their 8 or 10th go-round! I just check for splits and stuff and toss in the trrash as needed.The full power stuff gets tossed in the mixed bag after 2-3 loads.

Bushmaster wrote:

What is this? Old home coming week or sumtin'?

You should know, gramps.





(i kid i kid, please dont hit me with the Jackhandle....)

No,Bushie,we never met but I got a friendly greeting so I responded in kind!! You know, us old guys are like that!!!!!

Great way to start the day.... with a good chorkle!

YES, LAUGHTER IS GOOD MEDICINE!!!!!!!!!!