Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor Review

What You Should Know About the Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor

As a reloader deeply immersed in precision, the quest for consistently performing ammunition is paramount. This led me to the Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor, a tool designed for those who demand meticulous control over their cartridge dimensions. My existing .22 Creedmoor brass was showing signs of inconsistent neck tension and shoulder setbacks, impacting accuracy across multiple rifle platforms. The need for a reliable, full-length sizing die became apparent, and Forster‘s reputation in the Bench Rest community made their offering an obvious contender.

First impressions of this die are solid; it has a substantial heft and a finely machined finish that speaks to its quality. The polished exterior and precisely honed interior suggest a tool built for longevity and accuracy. I had considered simpler, more budget-friendly options, but the specific requirements of the .22 Creedmoor cartridge demanded a die with a reputation for exacting standards. The initial feel of the die in my hand brought a sense of confidence, a quiet satisfaction that this might be the solution I’d been searching for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing was conducted at my reloading bench, a familiar environment where precision is key. I ran about 50 pieces of once-fired .22 Creedmoor brass through the die, paired with a high-quality resizing lubricant. The process was remarkably smooth, with noticeable ease in bringing the case back to SAAMI specifications.

Even with repeated cycles, the die consistently produced well-sized cases without any signs of sticking or excessive force required. There were no surprises or quirks; the action was predictable and straightforward from the very first use. It simply performed exactly as intended, delivering uniformly sized brass ready for the next stages of reloading.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several hundred rounds processed, the Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor continues to impress with its unwavering performance. It has become an indispensable part of my reloading process for this caliber, consistently producing brass that chambers flawlessly and ejects cleanly. The die shows no discernible wear, with its internal surfaces remaining perfectly smooth and free of any scoring or deformation.

Maintenance is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and a light application of a rust inhibitor is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Compared to some generic dies I’ve used in the past, this Forster die offers superior consistency and a much more refined feel, proving its worth through consistent, high-quality results.

Breaking Down the Features of Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor

Specifications

The Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor is engineered for maximum flexibility, performing several critical operations in a single pass. It is designed to resize the entire case, including the neck and body, ensuring consistent dimensions. Crucially, this die also sets the shoulder dimension, which directly controls headspace, a vital parameter for case life and accuracy.

This Forster die also includes a decapping pin and an expander ball system to return the case neck to the correct diameter. Machined with Forster‘s signature one-piece reamers, it guarantees a high degree of concentricity and precision. The exclusive E-Z out expander ball system is a noteworthy feature, making the removal of the expander and subsequent neck expansion a smooth, hassle-free process.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this die is to return fired brass to optimal dimensions for resizing, and it excels at this task. The full-length sizing ensures that cases will reliably chamber in various rifles chambered for the .22 Creedmoor, preventing sticky bolt issues. The shoulder adjustment feature is particularly valuable, allowing for precise control over headspace, which is critical for maximizing brass life and achieving consistent ignition.

Its greatest strength lies in its ability to deliver uniform sizing with every case, leading to more consistent neck runout and improved accuracy downrange. A minor point for consideration, though not a detriment, is the need for a properly lubricated case; while this is standard practice for full-length dies, neglecting it can make the process more difficult. Overall, this die not only meets but often exceeds expectations for reloaders serious about precision.

Design & Ergonomics

The Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor boasts a classic, robust design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The polished steel construction feels substantial, conveying a sense of durability and precision engineering. Its knurled top provides a good grip, even with hands slightly slicked with lubricant, aiding in its insertion and removal from the press.

The integrated decapping rod and expander ball are smoothly integrated, and the “E-Z out” system is a clever touch that simplifies neck expansion. There’s no real learning curve; if you’ve used a full-length sizing die before, this one will feel instantly familiar and intuitive. The precision machining is evident in every aspect, from the smooth thread engagement to the clean sizing operation.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid steel construction and the precision machining from Forster, this die is built to last for many thousands of rounds. Under normal reloading conditions, with proper lubrication and care, it’s highly unlikely to see significant wear or degradation in performance over its lifespan. It’s the kind of tool that can be passed down through generations of reloaders.

As mentioned, maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a quality gun oil or a rust inhibitor after use is sufficient to protect the steel from corrosion, especially in humid environments. It’s wise to store it in its original packaging or a dedicated die box to protect the threads and interior from dust and accidental damage. I haven’t encountered any potential failure points; the design is straightforward and robust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor is a standalone component, typically sold individually. It comes as a single die, featuring the full-length sizer, decapping pin, and the exclusive E-Z out expander ball. It is designed to work with standard reloading presses that accept 7/8″-14 TPI dies.

While no additional accessories are included, the die itself is highly effective. For users seeking to fine-tune their resizing process, the expander ball size can be changed if different neck diameters are desired, though for standard .22 Creedmoor applications, the included size is usually optimal.

Pros and Cons of Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor

Who Should Buy Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor?

This die is an excellent choice for serious handloaders specializing in precision rifle cartridges like the .22 Creedmoor. If you reload for competition, long-range shooting, or simply demand the utmost consistency from your ammunition, this die will serve you well. It’s ideal for those who understand the importance of case dimensions and want to optimize their reloads for peak performance.

Individuals looking for a quick, basic sizing solution or those on a very tight budget might consider less expensive alternatives. However, for anyone prioritizing accuracy, repeatability, and long-term brass life, the Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor is a worthy investment. A good quality resizing lubricant and a sturdy reloading press are essential companions to get the most out of this die.

Conclusion on Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor

The Forster 005135 Full Length Sizing Die 22 Creedmoor stands as a testament to precision engineering in the reloading world. Its ability to uniformly size cases and precisely set shoulder dimensions makes it an invaluable tool for anyone aiming for sub-MOA accuracy with their .22 Creedmoor reloads. The robust construction and thoughtful design, particularly the E-Z out expander ball system, ensure a smooth and efficient reloading experience.

Considering its performance, durability, and the consistent results it delivers, the price of $74.79 is well justified for the serious handloader. I would wholeheartedly recommend this die to anyone looking to elevate their .22 Creedmoor reloading game. If you’re investing time and effort into crafting precise ammunition, this Forster die will not disappoint.