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7.62 and .308 cases

2952 Views 10 Replies 9 Participants Last post by  NRAHighPowerShooter
Gentlemen:

There are some incomplete data points as to reloading these cases so here are the correct dimensions plus my long term experiences and suggestions:

7.62 //// .308 Win
Location on Case:

Neck Inner Diameter: 0.308" / 0.308"
OD of Neck .343" / .344"
OD below shoulder .454" / .454"
OD near base .470" / .471"
Case Length 2.015" / 2.005"
Case: Base to
shoulder top 1.711" / 1.712"
Case: Base to
shoulder bottom 1.560" / 1.560"
Case Web thickness .200" / .200"
Shoulder wall thickness .0196" / .0202"
Base Wall thickness .0394" / .0405"
Typical total length* 2.810" / 2.810"
Total case volume 53.458gr / 53.008gr**

* bullets are not uniform length unless meplat is uniformed with tool

** Case volume varies by manufacturer and type as National Match cases are less internal volume and Remmy is more volume ( thinner brass) and volumes determine pressures.

READ THE 21 PAGE ARTICLE: http://www.jarheadtop.con/article_handloading.html


To reload properly, a SMALL BASE DIE ( RCBS TYPE) MUST , repeat must be used!!!!! to resize the cases. Those dies are specifically for semi-auto rifles so that the cartridge fits and feeds. Unoficialy, H-4895 and Varget ar very close to being the same burning rate with Varget being less temperature sensitive. I use only CCI primers seated 0.003" below the case head. Read my primer post. Since I have been at this reloading game to the point that my grandson is a reloader, if you have a specific load question, send me a PM and I will gladly spend computer program time to help you with an expected "Quick Load" answer for pressures and velocity. Read my primer data!!

Trim and inside chamfer all resized brass after running them through a case gauge. To trim I have a cutter in my drill press and case holder on a rotary table; it is fast ,accurate and very cost effective as is the reloading process.

HEADSPACE: I am not speaking of adjusting the Browning, rather, adjusting the length of our cases to fit the mechanical adjustment for "feeding" headspace. Find and read the post I made about competition shell holders. PLan B is to adjust the resizing die so that we have about 1.630 inches--normal maximum to a .400" datum line on the shoulder with a max-max of 1.634".

Cleaning range brass: when Momma is away, find and old sack or pillow case and load it up with dirty brass and place in the washing machine with detergent only; never ever use amonia!!! It attacks the copper.

We are entering into times of shortages through high prices and O?S scenarios so reloading makes fiscal and practical sense. ps I have zero to sell just info to share--Cordially, Overbore
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RCBS says this; but then again you may have a different viewpoint but I ask if you who do not use Small Base sizing dies, are aware of the brass spring-back factor that will allow, over time your brass to expand????? Read this carefully about the 0.002" less diameter----

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.

If the Army Marksmanship Training Unit uses small base dies, you doubters and scoffers then have to ask "What do they know???""" the balls then fall into the pocket--- Overbore
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