Has anybody used the collet dies for a pump or semi auto rifle? If so, did you find any problems due to not full length resizing?

Don't even attempt anything other than full length resizing for these rifles. You'll save yourself some MAJOR headaches.

Agreed, the action on these guns is weak as far as chambering goes. If they aren't full length resized you will have issues with the rounds locking up.

Thanks guys. I suspected as much.

When you say the action is weak. Does this mean they cannot be loaded with a maxed out reload? Not that I have any desire to do so.

quote:

Originally posted by cmbb:
When you say the action is weak. Does this mean they cannot be loaded with a maxed out reload? Not that I have any desire to do so.

No, weak in that pumps don't have the mechanical advantage of a turnbolt's camming action. I always partial full length resize my 35 Whelen Rem 7600 brass enough that it chambers easily. Collet resizing just won't cut it in my rifle.

So, the action in the pump is plenty strong for any reasonable practical reload or factory round. The pump does not have the mechanical advantage that a bolt action has due to the different designs? With a tight fitting round the pump may not be able to chamber it properly.
Thanks guys!

quote:

So, the action in the pump is plenty strong for any reasonable practical reload or factory round. The pump does not have the mechanical advantage that a bolt action has due to the different designs? With a tight fitting round the pump may not be able to chamber it properly.

Precisely

I always use 'small base' dies for pumps and autos, just to be positive I have no problems.

Well....I'll say yes to your answer. If you are an experienced reloader and have tools to measure how your headspace grows it WILL NOT be a problem. I wouldn't load hunting ammo that way but for work at the range with once fired virgin ammo or light loads it will work fine. I've neck sized for a blr with no problems or even a hint of stickyness when chambering or extracting. The trick is to be sure you haven't let the headspace get to max chamber dimensions. If you really really want a super way to resize for that gun get a redding body die with the collet die....you will get absolute match grade ammo and can fit the body of the case to your chamber....even on ammo that's already been loaded.

I second the small-base dies. I use them for my .223 AR-15. Never have any chambering and lock-up problems. I suppose they would be available for .308 and .30-06...