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64 Posts
Ok, This touches on a lot of issues so not sure where to start and just diving-in here. I’ve read where some say my M1A will have .308 stamped on the barrel. Not mine. I called Springfield to check on my weapon using the serial number and found it was produced in Aug of 1985; maps over to their current day “Standard with Walnut stock and they called it a Ma9102”. But when I pressed for more and mentioned reading about USGI parts vs newer models I found that the bolt was USGI (by virtue of the TRW stamp) and that the barrel was a chome-lined barrel chambered for 7.62 vs .308. I had to skirt the reloading gist of my questioning but it relates to dies and which ones I should be aiming at for reloading. I know that Zediker says Small Base is the only way to go, or at least that’s what I get from his article. But I see several on the M14 specific forums who differ. So I’m trying to reason this out. And my reasoning is as follows: if I have a barrel and chamber produced for the looser 7.62 specs, then expansion is greater upon firing. If that is the case, two things should follow. First, the full length standard dies should work the brass less and hopefully be adequate for subsequent chambering and extracting of ammo. Second, if the 7.62 chamber has more tolerance, then a Small Base die would hopefully be overkill and possibly more than necessary or even recommended, when in fact it might be very necessary for a tighter tolerance .308. Am I correct in this line of reasoning? Initially I was considering an RCBS X-Die Small Base. As I read the thread now I am leaning towards the Redding Type S full length sizing die and a Forster Ultra seating die. The delta is significant in dollars (about $130 vs $45) payable now but if I’m getting more brass life, then over time it may well be worth the up-front cost. Thought I’d run that by those on a forum more specific to M-14s. Appreciate the feedback from those way ahead of me on reloading. For the record, I’m not a match shooter and don’t intend to become one. Just want to get back with an old friend I haven’t visited much since boot camp. Also - intend on reloading with Winchester brass, Sierra GameKing (165 grain) and 4895 variety powder. That’s about it for now. Sure there will be more bases upon input from you all. Thanks!!!