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bellavite1
02-25-2020, 09:04
I am having a hard time with my 338 LM shellholders:
My brass is a mix of Hornady, S&B and Federal.
I have been using RCBS #48, since other shellholders appeared to be too tight, but, even though my brass fits in it, it fits too loose and two of my shellholders cracked on one side.
It appears that 338 LM brass varies wildly in rim thickness depending on brand.
My Google searches confirm that it is a common issue.
I am going to try RCBS #14 (supposedly works better with Lapua brass), since RCBS customer service is sending me a free one, but then again I hear Lapua brass has pretty thick rims, so I doubt that it will solve the issue...
Anybody ran into this and can advise?
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C Ward
02-25-2020, 15:21
Depends on the brass like you found , I'll check the numbers on mine when I get home from work . The # 14 RCBS sounds like one of the normal ones though .

C Ward
02-25-2020, 22:38
Running Redding # 18 in the adjustable headspace set . I've never cracked a shell holder yet so no help there .

bellavite1
02-26-2020, 00:25
Thanks to the Reloading Zone, I was able to try the Redding#25 ( still too loose) and the winner, so far, Hornady#43.
Thanks for your replies, hopefully this was solved...
You can count on me to have the weirdest problems...

whitewalrus
02-27-2020, 20:27
i solved the problem by only using Lapua brass to load with. Tried a few various mfrs of shellholders and wasn't able to find one for the S&B and Nosler brass that would hold them tight enough to seat primers correctly so I am afraid I am no help.

If you do find one that works well for specific brands, may want to post that information up as it may help others.

bellavite1
02-27-2020, 20:52
Will do.
The Hornady of above kinda works for Hornady (DUH!), S&B and Federal brass, but only kinda...
Well'see if I'll have any more issues.
TBC...