Forster Full Length Sizing Die Review

My Experience with the **Forster Full Length Sizing Die**: Here’s the Truth

For years, the pursuit of reloading consistency and accuracy has been a constant endeavor, and the Forster Full Length Sizing Die has played a pivotal role in that journey. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of tools, and this particular die from Forster stands out. The need for reliable case resizing, especially when dealing with a variety of rifle cartridges, led me to seek a die that offered more than just basic functionality. I was looking for something that could handle brass with precision, ensuring optimal headspace and neck dimensions for repeatable performance downrange.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Forster Full Length Sizing Die was one of understated quality. The heft of the die, coupled with the smooth, almost polished finish, spoke of meticulous craftsmanship. It felt solid and dependable, a stark contrast to some of the more utilitarian, less refined options I’d encountered. While I had considered other brands, their reputation for slightly less consistent tolerances or the need for more involved setup often steered me back to the known quantity of Forster. This tool promised a blend of robust engineering and thoughtful design, aiming to simplify a critical step in the reloading process.

The immediate feeling was one of anticipation, a quiet confidence that this die would deliver on its promise of precision. It wasn’t a dramatic revelation, but rather a grounded sense of having found a piece of equipment that was built to last and designed to perform. This sizing die wasn’t just a component; it felt like an investment in future shooting accuracy.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Forster Full Length Sizing Die** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Forster Full Length Sizing Die took place on my reloading bench, a familiar territory for countless hours of precision work. The specific scenario involved resizing once-fired brass for a .30-06 Springfield, a cartridge known for its versatility and requiring careful attention to case dimensions for optimal performance. The die was mounted in a solid press, and the process of seating the first case was remarkably smooth.

The performance under repeated use was immediately apparent; each case that passed through the die exhibited consistent sizing, with no signs of galling or undue stress on the brass. There was no learning curve to speak of; the die integrated seamlessly into my existing reloading workflow, requiring only standard setup procedures. The elevated E-Z-out expander ball system, a hallmark of this die, proved its worth immediately, providing excellent neck tension without overworking the brass.

One minor quirk I noticed was the need for precise adjustment of the shoulder bump. While the die is designed to set headspace, achieving the perfect setting for a specific rifle requires careful measurement and fine-tuning of the die height in the press. This isn’t a flaw of the die itself, but rather a necessary part of the headspace adjustment process inherent in full-length sizing. It’s a small price to pay for the control it offers.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of extensive use, resizing hundreds of cases for various rifle calibers, the Forster Full Length Sizing Die has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It consistently delivers the same precise dimensions batch after batch, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy in handloads. The die shows virtually no signs of wear and tear; the machined surfaces remain smooth, and there’s no indication of stiffness developing over time.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use, followed by a light application of case lube or a dedicated die lubricant, is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. I’ve found that storing it in its original packaging or a padded die box prevents any accidental damage or accumulation of debris. Compared to budget-friendly dies that can develop rough spots or become difficult to operate after significant use, this Forster sizing die feels built to last a lifetime.

One area where it truly shines is in its ability to handle brass that might be slightly out of spec from previous firings. While proper case prep is always recommended, this die seems more forgiving than some others, consistently bringing cases back to a usable dimension without excessive force. This robustness is a testament to its quality construction and superior materials.

Breaking Down the Features of **Forster Full Length Sizing Die**

Specifications

The Forster Full Length Sizing Die is crafted from hardened steel, ensuring extreme durability and resistance to wear, a critical factor for any reloading tool. It is designed for Rifle calibers, offering broad application for most common rifle cartridges. The die weighs approximately 0.98 lb, giving it a substantial feel that indicates solid construction. Each die is a single unit, designed for maximum flexibility and ease of use in a progressive or single-stage reloading press.

The standout feature is its exclusive elevated E-Z-in out expander ball system. This unique design provides increased case support and contributes to superior concentricity of the sized case neck. This means the expander ball engages the case neck at a higher point, offering better support and a more consistent expansion process. This specification is crucial for achieving low runout in loaded ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Forster Full Length Sizing Die is to resize fired brass back to factory dimensions, set headspace, and deprime and expand the case neck. It excels at all these tasks with remarkable consistency. The die reliably resizes the case body and sets the shoulder back to the correct dimension, which is paramount for ensuring proper chambering and headspace control.

Its main strength lies in the exceptional neck tension it provides, thanks to the elevated expander. This results in consistent seating of bullets and, subsequently, more accurate reloads. The die’s performance exceeds expectations, particularly when compared to more basic sizing dies that might not offer such precise control over headspace or neck expansion.

A minor point to consider is that, like all full-length sizing dies, it can be slightly more difficult to operate with heavily work-hardened brass. However, this is a characteristic of the brass, not a failing of the die itself. Proper case lubrication mitigates this almost entirely.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this sizing die is both functional and elegant. Machined with precision using one-piece reamers, it ensures a smooth internal finish that minimizes friction and wear on both the die and the brass. The overall build quality is exceptional, with a durable blued finish that resists corrosion.

Ergonomically, the die is designed for standard reloading presses, featuring a common thread size for easy installation. The elevated expander is a key ergonomic feature that enhances usability by providing better support for the case neck during the resizing and expansion process. This thoughtful design detail makes the operation smoother and more controlled.

The die feels balanced and substantial when handled, conveying a sense of confidence in its precision. There’s no unnecessary complexity; the design focuses on performing its core function flawlessly.

Durability & Maintenance

This die is built for longevity; the hardened steel construction means it’s designed to last for thousands upon thousands of resizing cycles. With proper care, it will likely outlast many reloading presses. Its durability is a significant selling point, especially for those who reload frequently.

Maintenance is minimal. A basic cleaning after each session and occasional lubrication will ensure it continues to perform optimally. There are no complex parts to wear out or break. Potential failure points are extremely rare given the robust materials and simple design, making it a truly reliable tool for any reloader.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster Full Length Sizing Die typically comes as a single die, often paired with a decapping pin. The key “accessory” is, in fact, the exclusive elevated E-Z-in out expander ball system. While not an additional accessory, its integrated design is the differentiating feature.

While this particular die doesn’t offer extensive physical customization, its compatibility with standard reloading press setups is a form of customization in itself. For instance, users can choose to outfit their press with different expander ball sizes if their reloading needs vary significantly across different calibers, though the standard sizes are generally very effective. The ability to purchase this die as part of a full set or individually also offers flexibility.

Pros and Cons of **Forster Full Length Sizing Die**

Who Should Buy **Forster Full Length Sizing Die**?

The Forster Full Length Sizing Die is an ideal choice for serious rifle reloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency. It’s perfect for benchrest shooters, competitive marksmen, or anyone who demands the highest level of performance from their handloads. If you’re tired of inconsistent sizing or dealing with excessive case runout, this die will be a significant upgrade.

Conversely, casual reloaders or those on an extremely tight budget might find the cost prohibitive. If you’re only reloading for plinking ammunition where absolute precision isn’t paramount, a less expensive die might suffice. However, for those looking to maximize the potential of their rifle cartridges, this die is an invaluable tool.

I’d highly recommend pairing this sizing die with a Forster seating die for ultimate consistency. Investing in a good case trimmer and a quality headspace gauge will also ensure you’re getting the most out of this precision tool.

Conclusion on **Forster Full Length Sizing Die**

The Forster Full Length Sizing Die is a testament to precision engineering and thoughtful design in the reloading world. Its robust construction, coupled with the innovative elevated E-Z-in out expander ball system, delivers an unparalleled level of performance for rifle case resizing. The consistency it provides is not just an improvement; it’s a foundational element for achieving sub-MOA accuracy.

Considering its durability and the measurable improvements it brings to handloaded ammunition, the price is more than justified. It’s an investment that pays dividends in accuracy and reliability for years to come. For the dedicated rifle reloader seeking the best possible performance, I wholeheartedly recommend this sizing die. It’s a tool that, once experienced, will fundamentally change your expectations for what a resizing die can achieve.