Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B Review

My Journey with the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B

As someone who has spent over a decade immersed in the practical application of gear across diverse environments – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to rugged outdoor expeditions and demanding field operations – I approach equipment with a critical, hands-on perspective. My current project involves fine-tuning rifle ammunition, and a crucial step in that process is ensuring cases are correctly resized for reliable chambering. This led me to the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B. Redding has a long-standing reputation for precision in reloading components, and their full-length sizing dies are often considered the benchmark for producing ammunition that fits standard chambers flawlessly.

The immediate catalyst for seeking a new sizing die was my experience cutting down larger caliber brass, specifically .223/5.56 cases, to form 300 Blackout. While my existing dies performed adequately for standard cartridges, I noticed slight inconsistencies when resizing these reformed cases, leading to a touch more resistance than I preferred during resizing. I considered a few other well-regarded brands, but ultimately, Redding’s established pedigree in precision machining and their explicit guarantee of SAAMI-spec chamber fit tipped the scales.

Upon receiving the die, the first impression was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship. It possesses a reassuring heft, indicative of the heat-treated steel construction. The finish is smooth, belying the intense manufacturing processes it must have undergone. My initial reaction was a quiet sense of confidence; this felt like a tool designed to perform its specific task with unwavering accuracy and longevity.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B to the Test

My testing environment for this specific die has been my reloading bench, a space meticulously organized for efficiency and precision. The primary test was resizing brass intended for my AR-15 platform chambered in 300 Blackout, a cartridge that benefits immensely from consistently sized brass for reliable function in an autoloader. This involved processing a batch of newly formed cases, where accuracy and ease of sizing are paramount.

During initial use, the die performed admirably. It required no special break-in period beyond the recommended cleaning; the hand-polished interior surface allowed the brass to glide through with minimal effort. I used a standard Dillon RL550B press, and the die threaded smoothly into the shell plate. The user feedback mentioned using “1 Shot” case lubricant, which I also employed, and I can attest that it significantly reduces sizing effort and mitigates the risk of stuck cases, a common concern with reformed brass. Even after resizing dozens of cases, the die showed no signs of galling or unusual friction.

Over several weeks of consistent reloading sessions, the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B has proven its mettle. I’ve processed a few hundred cases through it now, and the consistency has been remarkable. There have been absolutely no stuck cases, which is a testament to both the die’s precision and the proper application of case lubricant. The die shows no visible signs of wear, not even superficial scratches, which speaks volumes about the quality of the heat-treated steel and the surface hardness of Rc 60-62. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a solvent and a soft cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in prime condition. Compared to some generic dies I’ve used in the past, which often require lapping or exhibit noticeable wear patterns after a few hundred rounds, this Redding unit feels like it could last a lifetime with proper care.

First Use Experience

The die was tested on my reloading bench, primarily for resizing cut-down 5.56 brass to form 300 Blackout cases for my AR-15. This environment is controlled and focused on precision reloading. Performance was excellent in this consistent setting; the hand-polished interior ensured a smooth sizing operation without any hang-ups. The ease of use was immediate; it threaded into my press without issue, and the case entered and exited the die with satisfying fluidity. My only initial surprise was how much cleaner and smoother the resizing process felt compared to my previous experiences, a definite upgrade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After processing approximately 300 cases, the die remains in pristine condition. There are no visible signs of wear, galling, or degradation in its performance. The sizing diameter remains consistent, ensuring each resized case fits perfectly in my rifle’s chamber. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe after each session is sufficient, and the heat-treated steel appears impervious to any adverse effects from standard case lubricants. This die truly upholds the Redding Reloading standard for reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B is manufactured from heat-treated steel, a material chosen for its exceptional strength and durability. This ensures the die can withstand the significant forces involved in resizing brass cases repeatedly without deforming or wearing down prematurely. The die features a full-length sizing design, meaning it resizes the entire length of the case body, from the base to the neck, bringing it back to original dimensions for reliable chambering.

Crucially, the sizing diameters are hand-polished to a surface hardness of Rc 60-62. This meticulous polishing reduces friction significantly, making the resizing process smoother and requiring less force from the reloader. This lower friction also minimizes stress on the brass case itself, extending its useful life. The industry-standard 7/8-14 threaded dies ensure compatibility with the vast majority of reloading presses and turret systems available on the market.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B is to resize spent brass cases so they can be safely and reliably reloaded. This die excels at this primary task. It accurately brings the case back to a dimension that ensures proper fit in a standard SAAMI chamber, regardless of the rifle’s action type. The hand-polished interior is a standout feature, dramatically reducing the effort required to size cases, especially those that have been fired multiple times or reformed from different calibers.

The primary strength of this sizing die is its unwavering consistency and smooth operation. Cases enter and exit the die with a predictable, low-friction glide. A minor weakness, if one could even call it that, is the need for proper case lubrication; while this is standard practice for all sizing dies, neglecting it with any die, including this one, can lead to difficulty and potential case damage. Considering its price point, its performance significantly exceeds basic expectations for a sizing die.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this die is classic and functional, prioritizing robustness and performance over aesthetic flourishes. The heat-treated steel construction gives it a substantial feel, suggesting long-term durability. The hand-polished interior is the key ergonomic feature, making the resizing process feel effortless rather than a strenuous task.

The 7/8-14 thread is standard and interfaces perfectly with my press, with no wobble or signs of cross-threading. The knurled section at the top provides adequate grip for threading and unthreading the die, though this is a task typically performed infrequently. There are no complex controls or adjustments, reinforcing its straightforward, purpose-built design.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction from high-quality, heat-treated steel and the Rc 60-62 surface hardness, this die is built for extreme longevity. I anticipate it will last for thousands, if not tens of thousands, of resizing cycles with proper care. Maintenance is exceptionally simple. After each reloading session, a quick wipe with a bore solvent and a clean rag is usually sufficient to remove any lubricant residue and brass shavings.

The hand-polished interior is surprisingly resistant to fouling. The only potential failure point I can foresee would be improper use, such as attempting to resize severely damaged or out-of-spec brass without adequate lubrication, which could theoretically lead to galling. However, with standard reloading practices, this die should offer a lifetime of service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B is typically sold as a standalone component, meaning it does not come with accessories in the box. Its primary purpose is to fit into an existing reloading setup, such as a single-stage press or a turret press with multiple die stations. As a full-length sizing die, it performs its function without needing additional external components.

Its 7/8-14 threaded design ensures broad compatibility with most reloading presses and turret heads. While it doesn’t offer direct customization in terms of interchangeable parts, its precise sizing dimensions are the critical factor for reloading success. This die is designed to work seamlessly with standard reloading practices and equipment.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B?

This sizing die is an excellent choice for any handloader who prioritizes accuracy, reliability, and ease of use in their ammunition reloading process. It is particularly well-suited for those who reload for semi-automatic firearms like AR-15s, where precise case dimensions are critical for feeding and extraction. Reloaders working with reformed brass, such as those creating 300 Blackout from 5.56 casings, will find its smooth sizing action and consistent results invaluable.

Beginners may find the smooth operation and guaranteed fit a confidence builder, while experienced reloaders will appreciate the premium quality and long-term durability. Those seeking the absolute pinnacle of precision and a reduced resizing effort for their spent brass would be well-served by this model. Someone looking for a disposable, low-cost die for infrequent use might find it an unnecessary investment, but for anyone serious about consistent, high-quality reloads, it’s a solid choice. I recommend pairing it with a quality case lubricant like “1 Shot” for the smoothest, most efficient operation.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B

The Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B is a prime example of why Redding Reloading enjoys such a strong reputation in the reloading community. Its precision machining, especially the hand-polished interior, delivers a resizing experience that is both smooth and exceptionally accurate. The use of heat-treated steel ensures this die will be a dependable part of a reloader’s toolkit for years to come, handling thousands of cases without complaint.

At $43.49, the value proposition is clear: you are investing in a component that directly impacts the safety and reliability of your handloaded ammunition. For the performance and durability offered, this price is more than justified, especially when compared to the potential headaches of unreliable or worn-out dies. I wholeheartedly recommend this Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series B to any serious handloader looking to elevate the quality and consistency of their reloaded cartridges, particularly if they are working with reformed brass or require assured chamber fit.