.338 Lapua sizing die question

[masp7]

My fired cases are .585" at the base. After running them through the RCBS sizer, they are still .585".
At first I thought this would be OK, like a neck die... unfortunately, after two firings I'm having very stiff bolt opening.
So what's the problem? Tight chamber, slightly oversize die, both, neither?
(My guess is that I have a tight chamber and a upper tolerance die.)
Anyone have a set of dies with a tighter base?

 

[chris matthews]

I would try Redding or Forster- I have had this same problem with several cartridges using match reamers and RCBS dies- dies are just to big.....

 

[masp7]

Anyone have the base dimensions for their Redding or Forster (or RCBS) dies?

 

[Guest]

I just took the calipers to my 338 LM Forster BR die and it measured .585". Measured with the calipers it's probably more like .586" or so.
Wayne aka WAMBO

 

[Ballistic64]

Isnt the base of the Lapua brass .587? Is it possible the RCBS die isnt bumping the shoulder back?

 

[ktg]

I had a similar problem using my Redding die. I had adjusted the die down until it contacted the shell holder at full lift. I contacted Redding about the problem and they said to screw the die down another 1/2 turn. That fixed the problem.

 

[masp7]

I'll have to try that.
For all that replied, what do your fired cases mike at the base? I found that measuring the die is iffy at best with the case taper and mouth taper in the die.