I’ve been reloading for +20 years but I have never reloaded for a semi-auto before. My daughter is shooting a Browning BAR in 243. I heard about the problems with reloading for autos, but they do make the xsizer die in 243, so my question to you guys is it a real problem? I can’t find any “good” factory ammo for this at the local shops, and I was a little shocked at the price of factory ammo with Partitions (I haven’t bought a box of ammo in a long time).

Thanks -

I don't know about 243s, but I used to have a Winchester Model 100 in 308. It was good from 150-180 grains; just needed to avoid "hot loads" - so most factory loads were fine - ballistic and soft nose.

I'd just use regular 243 loads from the reloading manuals.

My friend has a 270 BAR and it shoots everything fine, don't expect you'll have any issues with the 243. I'd stay in the 95-100 grain range.

F/L resize your brass and you shouldn't have a problem. Don't try to load it too hot. If you do have a problem with the cartridges going into battery, you can get a small base die.

I reload 260 Rem for an AR-10 with regular RCBS Competition dies. I've had them through the rifle four times so far and they're still fine.

the BAR has had a reputation for tight chambers. you may or may not need small base sizing die. Only way to tell is to shoot it

I've never had a problem with a BAR being finicky about well-constructed reloads. The BAR is one of the most reliable and accurate autoloading centerfire sporters on the market. "Small base" dies almost by definition are only needed when the head of the brass is expanded beyond its elasticity limits due to excessive pressures. A normal FL die should do you just fine.

Ive got a 300 win mag browning auto. I use small base dies RCBS and a little crimp seems to help them chamber. Its a old long 300 win. so its draggin alot of brass in and out of the chamber.