Content Menu
● Introduction to RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
● Understanding Carbide Dies
● The RCBS 38 357 Reloading Dies Set
>> Carbide Sizing Die
>> Expanding Die
>> Bullet Seating Die
● Benefits of Using RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
● Setting Up Your RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
● Maintenance of RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
● Advanced Techniques with RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
● Comparing RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies to Other Brands
● Conclusion
● Frequently Asked Questions
>> Q1: Can I use RCBS 38 357 carbide dies for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges?
>> Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using RCBS carbide dies?
>> Q3: How long can I expect RCBS 38 357 carbide dies to last?
>> Q4: Can I use RCBS 38 357 carbide dies in any reloading press?
>> Q5: What's the difference between roll crimp and taper crimp dies for .38/.357 reloading?
Introduction to RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
For handgun enthusiasts and reloaders, the quest for precision and consistency in ammunition is never-ending. Among the tools that stand out in this pursuit are the RCBS 38 357 carbide dies. These high-quality reloading dies have become a staple for those who reload .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, offering unparalleled performance and longevity.
Understanding Carbide Dies
Carbide dies are a game-changer in the world of reloading. Unlike traditional steel dies, carbide dies are made from extremely hard and durable tungsten carbide. This material offers several advantages:
1. No lubrication required: Carbide dies eliminate the need for case lubrication, saving time and reducing mess.
2. Longer lifespan: The hardness of carbide ensures these dies last much longer than their steel counterparts.
3. Consistent sizing: Carbide dies maintain their dimensions over time, ensuring consistent case sizing.
4. Smoother operation: The slick surface of carbide makes for smoother case insertion and extraction.
The RCBS 38 357 Reloading Dies Set
RCBS, a renowned name in reloading equipment, offers a comprehensive 3-die carbide set for .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. This set typically includes:
1. Carbide Sizing Die
2. Expanding Die
3. Bullet Seating Die
Let's delve into each component of the RCBS 38 357 die set and understand its role in the reloading process.
Carbide Sizing Die
The carbide sizing die is the cornerstone of the RCBS 38 357 reloading process. This die performs two critical functions:
1. Resizing the case: It returns fired brass to its original dimensions, ensuring proper chamber fit.
2. Decapping: It removes the spent primer from the case.
The carbide construction of this die allows for smooth operation without the need for case lubrication, significantly speeding up the reloading process.
Expanding Die
After sizing, the expanding die comes into play. Its primary functions are:
1. Bell the case mouth: This slight flaring of the case mouth facilitates easier bullet seating.
2. Expand the case neck: This ensures proper bullet fit and alignment.
The expanding die is crucial for achieving consistent bullet seating and maintaining proper neck tension.
Bullet Seating Die
The final step in the reloading process involves the bullet seating die. This die:
1. Seats the bullet to the correct depth
2. Crimps the case mouth (if using a roll crimp)
Proper bullet seating is critical for accuracy and safety, making this die an essential part of the RCBS 38 357 carbide dies set.
Benefits of Using RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
Investing in RCBS carbide dies for your .38 Special and .357 Magnum reloading needs offers numerous advantages:
1. Precision: RCBS is known for its tight tolerances and high-quality manufacturing, ensuring precise and consistent reloads.
2. Durability: Carbide construction means these dies will last for thousands of reloads without showing signs of wear.
3. Efficiency: The no-lube operation of carbide dies speeds up the reloading process significantly.
4. Versatility: These dies work equally well for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges.
5. User-friendly: RCBS designs their dies with ease of use in mind, making them suitable for both novice and experienced reloaders.
Setting Up Your RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
Proper setup of your RCBS 38 357 carbide dies is crucial for achieving optimal results. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Clean your reloading press and ensure it's properly mounted.
2. Install the shell holder appropriate for .38 Special/.357 Magnum cases.
3. Start with the sizing die:
- Screw the die into the press until it touches the shell holder at the press's highest point.
- Lower the ram and give the die an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
- Lock the die in place with the lock ring.
4. Adjust the decapping pin to ensure it fully removes the spent primer.
5. Set up the expanding die:
- Screw it in until it touches the shell holder at the press's highest point.
- Back it out about 1/4 turn and lock it in place.
6. Finally, adjust the bullet seating die:
- Start with the die screwed in loosely.
- Place a sized and expanded case in the shell holder.
- Place a bullet on top of the case.
- Raise the ram to its highest point.
- Screw down the seating die until you feel it contact the bullet.
- Adjust for your desired seating depth and lock the die in place.
Remember to fine-tune these settings as you begin reloading, checking your first few rounds carefully for proper dimensions and function.
Maintenance of RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
While carbide dies are incredibly durable, proper maintenance will ensure they continue to perform at their best for years to come:
1. Clean the dies after each use with a soft cloth to remove any brass shavings or debris.
2. Periodically check the decapping pin and replace it if it becomes bent or damaged.
3. Apply a light coat of gun oil to the exterior of the dies to prevent rust.
4. Store your dies in their original box or a die box to protect them from damage and dust.
5. Periodically check all adjustments to ensure they haven't shifted during use.
Advanced Techniques with RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies
As you become more proficient with your RCBS 38 357 carbide dies, you might want to explore some advanced reloading techniques:
1. Bullet crimping: Experiment with different levels of crimp to find the optimal grip on the bullet for your specific loads.
2. Case trimming: While not always necessary for straight-walled pistol cartridges, occasional trimming can improve consistency.
3. Custom loads: Use the precision of your RCBS dies to develop tailored loads for specific firearms or shooting disciplines.
4. Annealing: This process can extend brass life and improve consistency, especially for .357 Magnum loads.
Comparing RCBS 38 357 Carbide Dies to Other Brands
While RCBS is a top choice for many reloaders, it's worth comparing them to other brands:
1. Dillon: Known for their progressive presses, Dillon dies are also high-quality but may be more expensive.
2. Lee: Offers budget-friendly options that perform well but may not have the same longevity as RCBS.
3. Hornady: Another reputable brand with excellent dies, often preferred by those who use Hornady presses.
4. ZHONGBO CEMENTED CARBIDE: Known for their premium dies, often favored by precision shooters but at a higher price point.
RCBS 38 357 carbide dies often strike an excellent balance between quality, performance, and value, making them a top choice for many reloaders.
Conclusion
RCBS 38 357 carbide dies represent a significant investment in your reloading setup, but one that pays dividends in terms of efficiency, precision, and longevity. Whether you're a competitive shooter looking for match-grade ammunition or a hobbyist who enjoys the process of crafting your own rounds, these dies offer the performance and reliability you need.
Remember, reloading is both a science and an art. While these dies provide the precision tools you need, it's your attention to detail and commitment to safety that will ultimately determine the quality of your reloads. Always follow proper reloading procedures, start with published load data, and work up gradually to find the optimal loads for your firearms.
With RCBS 38 357 carbide dies in your reloading arsenal, you're well-equipped to produce consistent, high-quality ammunition for your .38 Special and .357 Magnum firearms. Happy reloading!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use RCBS 38 357 carbide dies for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges?
A1: Yes, RCBS 38 357 carbide dies are designed to work with both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. The dies are sized to accommodate the longer .357 Magnum cases but will work equally well with .38 Special brass.
Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using RCBS carbide dies?
A2: One of the main advantages of carbide dies is that they don't require case lubrication for straight-walled pistol cartridges like .38 Special and .357 Magnum. This saves time and reduces mess in the reloading process.
Q3: How long can I expect RCBS 38 357 carbide dies to last?
A3: With proper care and maintenance, RCBS carbide dies can last for tens of thousands of reloads. Many reloaders report using the same set of carbide dies for decades without noticeable wear.
Q4: Can I use RCBS 38 357 carbide dies in any reloading press?
A4: RCBS dies are designed to fit standard 7/8"-14 thread presses, which is the most common size for single-stage and turret presses. They should work with most major brands of reloading presses.
Q5: What's the difference between roll crimp and taper crimp dies for .38/.357 reloading?
A5: Roll crimp dies create a more pronounced crimp by rolling the case mouth into a cannelure on the bullet. This is often preferred for magnum loads or revolvers. Taper crimp dies simply squeeze the case mouth against the bullet without rolling it, which is often used for semi-auto pistols or lighter loads. RCBS offers both types for their 38 357 die sets, allowing you to choose based on your specific needs.
