Was the RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets Worth It?
For anyone diving into the world of reloading, especially with an eye toward the unique demands of cowboy action shooting, the RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets present themselves as a cornerstone piece of equipment. With over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate the value of well-engineered reloading tools. This particular set is designed with a specific purpose in mind: to simplify and streamline the process of creating ammunition for a particular segment of shooting sports.
My journey to this set was driven by a desire to perfect my ammunition for cowboy action competitions. While factory loads can suffice, the ability to tailor cartridges for consistent performance, specific firearm tolerances, and cost savings is paramount in this hobby. I needed a reliable and straightforward set of dies that wouldn’t introduce unnecessary complexity but would deliver consistent results, round after round. Considering alternatives like generic die sets or higher-end, specialized tooling, the RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets offered a compelling balance of reputation, intended design, and expected quality for the price. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship; these dies feel built to last.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put these dies to the test on my dedicated reloading bench, a space that has seen countless hours and a multitude of projects. The specific scenario involved resizing and seating bullets for a batch of .45 Colt cartridges, a caliber common in cowboy action. The process was as straightforward as one would expect from a reputable manufacturer like RCBS.
The dies threaded smoothly into my press, and the initial setup for sizing and priming was intuitive. I found the expanding die to be particularly effective, providing a consistent neck tension without overworking the brass. Even with the initial learning curve of any new reloading tool, these dies were remarkably easy to manage. My only minor surprise was the weight of the steel construction, which, while signifying durability, meant a bit more physical effort when initially mounting them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, processing well over a hundred cases for various cowboy action events, the RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets have proven their mettle. They continue to perform with the same precision and consistency as they did on day one.
There are absolutely no signs of wear and tear on the critical surfaces of the dies, nor have I noticed any stiffness or loss in performance. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a dry cloth and a light application of oil on the threads keeps them in perfect working order. Compared to some budget die sets I’ve used in the past, which can develop slight runout or inconsistent sizing over time, these RCBS dies maintain their accuracy admirably.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets
Specifications
This set is comprised of high-quality steel, a material chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the forces involved in reloading. Each die is precision machined to ensure accurate and repeatable results. The set includes a Full Length Sizing Die, a Full Length Expanding Die, and a Full Length Seating Die, plus a dedicated Cowboy Action Full Length Crimp Die.
The steel construction ensures these dies will endure thousands of reloading cycles without significant degradation. The full-length sizing capability is crucial for bringing fired brass back to its original dimensions, ensuring reliable chambering. The expanding die prepares the case neck for bullet seating, and the seating die precisely sets bullet depth, a critical factor for both accuracy and feeding. Finally, the cowboy action crimp die provides a robust crimp necessary for cartridges that experience significant recoil, preventing bullet jump.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core function, the RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets excel at producing reliable ammunition specifically tailored for cowboy action shooting. The resizing process is thorough, and the expander consistently creates the correct case neck tension for a secure bullet fit. Bullet seating is precise, allowing for consistent overall cartridge length, which is vital for smooth feeding in lever-action rifles and revolvers.
The full-length crimp is particularly noteworthy. It provides a firm, reliable hold on the bullet, preventing setback under the recoil typical of many cowboy action cartridges. This ensures each round fires as intended without compromise. While the set is designed for specific calibers (which would be determined by the die set purchased), its performance within its intended application is nearly flawless.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these dies is classic RCBS – functional, robust, and built for the task at hand. The steel construction, while adding weight, provides a substantial feel, reassuring you of their durability. The knurled sections offer good grip during adjustments, and the markings are clear and easy to read, even in lower light conditions.
There’s a certain satisfaction in the solid thunk these dies make when they engage with the press ram; it signifies a tool that is ready for serious work. The precision threading ensures they move smoothly within the press without binding, contributing to a comfortable and efficient reloading process. There is no real learning curve for experienced reloaders; they integrate seamlessly into an established workflow.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from solid steel and designed with robust tolerances, these dies are engineered for longevity. Under typical cowboy action reloading use, which can involve processing a moderate volume of brass, they are expected to last for decades.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down after use, followed by a light coating of gun oil on the threads, prevents rust and ensures smooth operation. There are no complex parts to fail; the durability is inherent in the material and the design. For those who understand the importance of caring for their tools, these dies represent a long-term investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets are typically sold as a standalone package. The core set provides the essential dies for full-length resizing, expanding, seating, and crimping. This focused approach means that while no additional accessories are bundled, the set itself is complete for its intended purpose.
Compatibility with standard reloading presses is excellent, as these dies adhere to industry-standard 7/8″-14 thread sizes. This ensures they will fit virtually any common reloading press on the market. For specific calibers, RCBS offers variations of this set, allowing users to tailor their purchase to their needs.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Constructed from solid, high-quality steel, these dies are built to last for generations.
- Consistent Performance: Delivers accurate and repeatable results for resizing, expansion, and bullet seating.
- Dedicated Cowboy Action Crimp: The specialized crimp die ensures secure bullet retention, crucial for lever-action and revolver cartridges.
- Smooth Operation: Precision machining allows for easy threading into the press and smooth cycling during use.
- *Trusted Manufacturer: RCBS is a well-respected name in the reloading world, synonymous with quality and reliability.
Cons
- Price Point: While offering excellent value, the initial investment may be higher than some generic alternatives.
- Weight: The steel construction, while a strength, adds noticeable weight to the dies.
- Specific Application: Primarily designed for cowboy action shooting, they may be overkill or less suitable for different reloading needs.
Who Should Buy RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets?
This set is an ideal choice for any shooter involved in cowboy action or SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) competitions. Reloaders who primarily use calibers like .45 Colt, .44-40, or other traditional handgun and rifle rounds found in this discipline will find these dies perfectly suited. If you value reliability, consistency, and the peace of mind that comes with using top-tier reloading equipment, this set is for you.
Shooters looking for a general-purpose die set for a wide variety of modern cartridges, or those on an extremely tight budget, might consider other RCBS offerings or competing brands. For those who do purchase these, ensuring you have a sturdy reloading press and a good set of calipers for precise bullet seating measurements are recommended accessories. A quality reloading manual for your specific caliber is also an essential companion.
Conclusion on RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets
The RCBS Cowboy Full Length 3-Die Sets are, without question, a superior choice for the dedicated cowboy action reloader. They represent a significant investment in quality tooling that directly translates into consistent, reliable ammunition for the field and competition. The specialized crimp die alone is worth considering for anyone loading for firearms that experience recoil that could dislodge bullets.
For the price of $81.99, you are acquiring a set of dies that not only perform exceptionally well but are built to endure for a lifetime. I would wholeheartedly recommend these dies to any serious cowboy action shooter looking to refine their ammunition and enhance their shooting experience. They are a testament to RCBS‘s commitment to quality and a solid foundation for any reloader’s workbench.