Any of you guys have experience with Small Base dies for Semi-Auto guns. I have a 7400 Rem. 270 Semi auto and want to reload for it. I have been only using full length dies for my 300UM so thats what I am fimiluar with. I plan on buying a bolt action 270 later in life so I would like to use only one set of dies. Have any you ever had trouble shooting reloads for full length dies thru a Semi Auto?

where is Turkey creek Ky?
I also use a 7400 in 270. started out using
full length die and had problems with the round chambering after a couple shoots. when the chamber would get a little burnt powder
in it it would jam so tight that it would have to be driven open.
I use small base dies for all my semis now and the only thing is they work the brass a little more. Ihave not had any problems with jaming even after 20 or 30 rounds.

I've used Small Base and Ultra Small Base RCBS dies for over 35 years and will continue to do so, since I load for various autoloaders.

These dies simply size down a bit further along the sides of the case. In my view, they conform the side of the case just above the extractor groove more closely to the original dimensions of the case.

The only warning I might give is that a bit more attantion must be given to assuring the case is properly lubricated with a high quality case lube (like Rooster) in the base-area. Not a lot of lube, but an even, thin coating.
Paladin

Thanks guys for the info. Thats enough info for me to consider the small base. I was hoping I could use the full length.

Turkey creek, Ky is small coal mining community with nearest town being Williamson, WV and Pikeville, Ky.

It is a smart move to use small base dies with autos levers and pumps....It is also smart to buy the new X dies from RCBS so you don't have to trim cases....

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Ray Atkinson

ray@atkinsonhunting.com
atkinsonhunting.com