[TheTinMan]

First off, thanks to you all who recommended the RCBS X-Die sizer. It almost eliminates the need to trim cases. Yay! GI1

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=789631

Secondly, I really like the Forster Bench Rest Seater die. IMHO it's simply a better mousetrap. The inside of the die replicates the chamber and the seating stem is spring loaded. The idea is to optimize case/bullet alignment and reduce runout. Redding makes a very similar die with a micrometer adjustment that costs a lot more than Forster's. Apparently, Redding started making it when Forster's patent ran out (but that may be internet myth). If I loaded .308 for multiple rifles or used several different bullets, the micro meter might make sense. Forster makes one that's still much cheaper than the Redding (although I like Redding dies in general).

Forster instructions

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=202919

I started out with a Hornady .308 Winchester die set which was fine except for needing to trim almost every case each time. The Hornady seater also has a floating seater stem, but it's not spring loaded and I don't think that the case alignment is as secure as the Forster.

Just thought I'd share my experiences. Your mileage may vary.

 

[dozier]

Tinman, glad you are happy with the X-die resizer. Yes, no more trimming after you do the initial trimming if you are using once fired cases. I'm happy with mine. dozier

 

[SGV]

I have got to get an X-Die, because I despise trimming brass. Those dies aren't cheap tho...

 

[timrb]

As noted, the seater dies with the micrometers help when switching bullets, but I have found that with the Forster benchrest die you can get very close by counting turns of the adjustment screw when switching from one bullet to the next. Just write everything down.

Tim

 

[dozier]

I have got to get an X-Die, because I despise trimming brass. Those dies aren't cheap tho...

If you look at the time saved from doing all that trimming, plus the fact that you won't be purchasing trimmer cutters as often, it evens itself out pretty fast. dozier