Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die Review

Grit & Gear: Testing the Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die

Reloading ammunition, especially for higher-volume pistol cartridges like .40 S&W, often presents unique challenges. One recurring issue I’ve encountered across countless hours at the bench and in the field is the “bulge” that can develop in spent brass, particularly from semi-automatic firearms. This bulge makes re-chambering problematic and can lead to feeding failures. It was precisely this persistent annoyance that led me to seek out a solution that went beyond standard sizing dies. I needed something that could reliably and consistently bring problematic brass back into spec without introducing new problems.

Upon first encountering the Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die, my initial impression was one of robust practicality. The Redding Reloading brand carries a reputation for quality in the reloading world, and this particular die looked no different. It felt solid, well-machined, and the carbide construction promised longevity and ease of use. I had considered other push-through resizing systems, but the specific push-thru base design of the G-RX caught my eye, suggesting a more refined approach to case neck management. My first reaction was a quiet sense of anticipation – a hope that this might finally be the definitive answer to my .40 S&W brass woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die to the Test

My testing grounds for the Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die were primarily my reloading bench in a climate-controlled workshop, alongside live-fire testing at my local outdoor range. This dual environment allowed me to assess the die’s performance both in the controlled setting of reloading and its ultimate downstream application in reliable firearm function. I specifically sought out a variety of used .40 S&W brass, including some that had been fired in notoriously “generous” pistol chambers known for creating stubborn bulges. The die performed admirably across different batches of brass, with no discernible difference in its effectiveness whether the brass was freshly fired or had been sitting in a range bag for a while.

Over several weeks, I processed hundreds of rounds of .40 S&W brass with this sizing die. Its performance remained remarkably consistent, with each case passing through the die smoothly and emerging perfectly sized. The push-thru base feature proved to be invaluable, eliminating any potential for case neck deformation that can occur with traditional sizing. Even after repeated cycles of sizing, priming, powder charging, and bullet seating, the brass resized flawlessly, ejecting cleanly from my press. There were no surprises or quirks; it simply worked as advertised, providing a level of reliability that I’ve come to expect from quality reloading equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die is engineered with precision and durability in mind. Its defining feature is the use of a carbide sizer mandrel coupled with a push-thru base. This combination is critical for optimal performance. Carbides are known for their exceptional hardness and wear resistance, meaning this die will last for hundreds of hours of use between potential replacements, far longer than steel dies. The push-thru base feature is specifically designed to prevent deformation of the case neck during the sizing process, a common point of failure with less advanced designs.

This particular model is calibrated for the .40 S&W caliber and is intended for Pistol use. The Redding Reloading manufacturer ensures a high standard of quality control in its production. Unlike some alternatives that might use plastic or steel for their base components, the G-RX relies on the inherent strength and longevity of carbide. This robustness ensures that even under the forces required to resize bulged brass, the die maintains its integrity and continues to perform consistently.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a sizing die is to return spent brass to its original dimensions, making it ready for resizing. The Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die excels at this task, particularly with the problematic bulge found in .40 S&W cases. It reliably removes this bulge, returning the brass to a precise specification that ensures proper chambering and ejection in semi-automatic firearms. My testing confirmed that this die is incredibly effective at its core function, providing smooth and consistent sizing without any discernible struggle.

The strengths of this sizing die lie in its material choice and innovative design. The carbide construction is a significant advantage, offering superior longevity and maintaining its sizing capabilities over a vast number of rounds. The push-thru base design is a standout functional improvement, directly addressing and eliminating case neck deformation. Its weakness, if one can call it that, is its specialized nature; it’s designed for a specific purpose, and while it performs that purpose exceptionally well, it doesn’t necessarily offer additional functionalities beyond its intended role. It meets and exceeds expectations for anyone dealing with bulged .40 S&W brass.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die is straightforward and functional. The use of carbide materials gives it a dense, solid feel, conveying a sense of durability right out of the box. The finish is typical of high-quality reloading dies – smooth and precise, with clear markings indicating its caliber and manufacturer. While there’s no complex ergonomics involved, as it’s a tool that works within a reloading press, the precision machining ensures it fits and operates smoothly within the press mechanism.

The push-thru base is the key ergonomic innovation here, making the process more intuitive and less prone to user error. Instead of struggling with case lubrication and ensuring the neck is properly aligned during entry, the brass is simply pushed through from the base. This simplifies the entire sizing operation and reduces the risk of damaging the brass. There’s no significant learning curve; if you can operate a reloading press, you can use this die effectively from the very first case.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its carbide construction, the Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die is built for extreme durability. Carbides are significantly harder and more wear-resistant than steel, meaning this die is likely to last for tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of sizing cycles. Under normal reloading conditions, you would be hard-pressed to find significant wear and tear on this unit. The only potential failure point might arise from extreme misuse, such as attempting to size brass that is severely out of caliber specification or foreign objects getting lodged within the die.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A light wipe-down with a clean cloth after use, and perhaps a very light application of a universal case lubricant if you choose, is all that’s generally required. Keeping the die clean and free from debris is paramount to ensuring its longevity and consistent performance. Unlike steel dies that can rust if left untreated in humid environments, the carbide composition offers greater resistance to corrosion. Overall, the durability and low maintenance requirements make this die an excellent long-term investment for serious reloaders.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die itself is a self-contained unit designed for optimal performance out of the box; it does not typically come with additional accessories. Its function is highly specific to the sizing process. There are no direct “customization” options for the die itself in terms of interchangeable parts. However, its compatibility with standard reloading presses and die holders is absolute.

For those looking to enhance their reloading setup around this die, ensuring you have high-quality case lubricant and a robust resizing press are key. While the carbide sizing is very slick, some reloaders still prefer to use a lubricant to further reduce friction and press stroke effort, especially when dealing with significantly bulged brass. Beyond that, the true “customization” comes from the selection of bullets, primers, and powders you choose to pair with the perfectly resized brass.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die?

This die is an absolute must-have for any reloader who frequently encounters and needs to reliably resize bulged .40 S&W brass. If you shoot a lot of .40 S&W from semi-automatic pistols that tend to “fatten” the brass, this die will be a game-changer. It’s ideal for those who value consistency, durability, and the elimination of potential feeding issues caused by improperly sized brass. Home workshop enthusiasts and dedicated range shooters who reload for high-volume pistol calibers will find immense value here.

Conversely, if you primarily reload cartridges that do not exhibit significant neck or body bulges, or if you only shoot a few rounds of .40 S&W infrequently, this specialized die might be an unnecessary expense. Reloaders who stick strictly to bottleneck rifle cartridges or mild-steel pistol cases that don’t bulge might not see the same benefit. For those seeking a general-purpose die, a standard steel sizing die would likely suffice and be more cost-effective.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die

The Redding Reloading Carbide G-RX Push Thru Base Sizing Die is a superb piece of reloading equipment that tackles a specific, yet common, problem with remarkable efficiency and durability. Its carbide construction and unique push-thru base design work in tandem to deliver perfectly sized brass, especially for those stubborn, bulged .40 S&W cases. While its specialized nature means it’s not for every reloader, for those who need its capabilities, the performance and longevity it offers justify its price point.

For anyone who finds themselves frustrated with bulged .40 S&W brass causing chambering issues, I wholeheartedly recommend this die. It’s an investment that pays dividends in reliable reloads and the peace of mind that comes with consistently well-sized brass. If your reloading bench sees a lot of .40 S&W, consider this sizing die – it’s a tool built to perform and built to last.