Scratches on cases from resizing die

Logan · February 26, 2015, 03:05:01 PM

I just started loading 45-70 for a 1886 Win. I have new Starline cases and a used set of RCBS dies. I'm using an adequate amount of Lee case lube on the cases. It takes effort to push the cases into the resizing die and they are very tight. When I pull the cases out of the die they have vertical scratches on the brass. The inside of the die is clean and polished.
Any ideas why the cases are being scratched. Should I replace the die?

Thank you

Coal Creek Griff · February 26, 2015, 09:50:32 PM

That sounds like a scratched die to me. Make sure it's thoroughly clean and try again. If that doesn't solve it, you might be able to polish the inside. I've had slight success with that if the damage isn't too deep.

CC Griff

Litl Red · February 27, 2015, 06:20:45 AM

Quote from: Logan on February 26, 2015, 03:05:01 PM
................... Should I replace the die?

Thank you

Try cleaning the die and also think hard about the way you clean your cases and maintain your dies.

If you've seen those scratches from the first day you used those used dies....

Midway has individual sizer dies for a little more than $26.

Navy Six · February 27, 2015, 07:06:18 AM

Since you mentioned the dies are used, the previous owner probably was not careful about cleaning fired cases before running them through the die to reload. This is the usual suspect when dies end up with scratches. Hope you can salvage the die by cleaning/polishing, but it may have to be replaced. The one time cost of a new sizing die is a lot cheaper than ruining all that expensive brass.

Logan · February 27, 2015, 08:31:38 AM

With a bright light, I can see some scratches in the die. I will see what polishing will do.
Thank you.

Sir Charles deMouton-Black · February 27, 2015, 11:40:52 AM

Quote from: Logan on February 27, 2015, 08:31:38 AM
With a bright light, I can see some scratches in the die. I will see what polishing will do.
Thank you.

Saw a slot in a short pencil sized dowel and insert a patch of very fine emory cloth. spin with a drill for a bit then switch to a pinch of fine steel wool in the slot. Binder Dundat.

Rabbit · March 27, 2015, 06:20:22 PM

I had this happen with some .308 brass and a full length sizing die. I used a dowel and 600 grit paper. Go very slow, no drill! One or two passes, then try a case.
Rabbit

jimbobborg · March 30, 2015, 11:08:45 AM

Call RCBS and tell them you have a scratched die, they'll probably send you a new one gratis.