Gentlemen

I am looking for a high quality case trimmer for .375 H&H and other big cartridges 470 NE .500 Jeffery etc.
I am looking at a RCBS pro trimmer and the 3 way cutter tool for the .375, is that gear any good?

Cheers,

André

I've had a Lyman Universal trimmer for 25 years and have a "3" way cutting tool for it. A great set up for trimming varmint calibres such as the 223 and 22-250, I wouldn't recommend it for 375 H&H. I'd rather see you invest in a Forster.

The RCBS is fine Jeffery, with power it runs pretty quick. If you're not doing a really big volume of cases though, I would say you are a Wilson Trimmer kind of guy. You need a different 'case holder' for different caliber families, but the thing is basically a little hand operated (or power screwdriver operated) lathe. Really smooth and clean cuts, with the micrometer adjustment model it is slick as all get out.

I have several trimmers here but the Wilson is the one used for smaller volume work....less than 200 rounds or so.....and yes...I use it on the .375 H&H

Wilson

Forster. Why? I like collets. Lee collet neck sizer. Lee collet crimp die. And the Forster trimmer uses a collet to center and hold the case. I've been using the same one for over 35 years. About 8 years ago, just for grins, I sent them the cutter shaft to be resharpened...cost all of $8, shipping included.

RCBS

I've used both the RCBS (since 1982) and the Forster (since 1984). My Forster coming from Otto Weber of Oregon when he used to exhibit at Bisley camp in England.

For 303" British originally and the odd .45 ACP. I stopped using and sold the RCBS as soon as I tried the Forster because it did not give a consistent case to case to case trim IF the case rim diameters had any variance. Either from case to case or batch to batch.

I also found that the Forster was quicker and easier to insert and lock the cases into the collet. And, at the time, had a greater range of other "bits and pieces" such as the Hollow Pointer and neck reamer tools.

I also liked the fact that I could have two, in fact, three bases for pistol, rifle and extra-long cases.

I have never used either the RCBS as a powered version or in its modern (post 1990) offering.

My advice? RCBS do great dies and presses. But trimmers? Forster for me.

Wilson with the Sinclair Micrometer.

flaco

+1 for the Wilson trimmer.
As flaco said "with the Sinclair Micrometer"
Cuts case mouths square to the long axis of the case. No wobble.
You can also use it to square up your case heads if you have a mind to.

muck

+1 Forster. The one I have works well.

Ok
Question:
Does those Wilson and Forester trimmers work with RCBS 3 way cutter tools?

Cheers,

André

In a word, No.
I believe each has designed their own. So as to avoid patent problems.

muck

Ok

I think this Forster look ok and it comes with a trim kit that includes .375

http://cgi.ebay.com/Forster-Original-Case-Trimmer-Kit-B...p1638Q2em118Q2el1247

Or maybe the classic model is better, then I can also trim .470 NE.

Cheers,

André

Ok

I ordered the Forster Classic trimmer, Forster told me that I woould also work for my .470 NE and the spastic 10,75x68 Also orderd all the special case trimmer pilots that I need.

Thanks for all the great imput.

Cheers,

André

I have used this trimmer:
and I actually copied the design for Herters manufacture in the 1970s and it's a very good trimmer.

I don't know if it is the best, but I've used a Redding 1400 for many years for my 375 H&H and it works great.

You will be happy with your new trimmer.
A word or two about 3-way cutters...
IMHO they have no place in small batch reloading. In less time then it takes to properly set one up, one could have prepared 20-50 cases by hand. 3-way cutters are best used with varmint type calibres where one shoots large quantities of ammunition.

When you need to change the head on that forster what do you do, you pull the shaft out and send it to the factory to sharpen or replace for a fee.

RCBS head comes right out with a allen screw and RCBS replaces for free.

Good Pick:

Forster, Classic also comes with extra pilots and collets. And yes you need the Classic to trim 470 NE cases. I think Midway has them for $102.00

I still have my Forster standard over 30 years. still going strong.

REgards... Jim P.

What's wrong with a trim die? fast and fairly accurate!
Peter.

Sorry to revive an old thread, looking for the correct collet in a Forster case trimmer to use with 10.75x68 cases. I'm guessing it might be the #2, as used with the 30-30 Winchester among others. I'm hoping that JefferyDenmark or someone else can put me right on this. Thanks.
Steve

For the 375H&H and most other standard calibers, I would say the Lee case length gage/trimmer without a doubt. However, they do not make any gages for the 470 NE, 500 Jeffery. I do believe they will custom make a gage for your specific caliber. The Lee is by far the most accurate and foolproof. To me the forster are pain in the ash to set up (at least mine is) and get it right case after case. Sometimes a piece of bur/trash will get under the cartridge face and you will shave off .002/.004" too much. Won't happen with the Lee.