Neck Sizing
Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2021 7:18 pm
I finally have my 1899 Carbine shooting pretty well using Hornady Interlock bullets 1.e., 165 gr BTSP's (39 grs AA 2520), 180 gr RN's (36 grs AA 2520), and 220 gr RN's (33 grs R/15). At 75 yards I'm generally getting 3" - 4" groups from a bench rest. Recall, when I first acquired my Krag in 2019, I was shooting 2' high at 50 yds. 3 factors have contributed to this better accuracy: (1) My gunsmith installed a shorter front post sight which many of you recommended to me 2 years ago, (2) my conversion to AA 2520 powder for the 165 and 180 gr bullets, and (3) I have learned how to adjust the model 1901 rear sight.
My long-term goal is to shoot 2" groups at 75 yds. with all 3 bullet weights. I am thinking neck sizing my brass will somewhat improve accuracy. About 10 years ago I began neck sizing for each of my 4 bolt action .30-06 rifles using a Redding neck sizing die. Versus f/l sizing, neck sized rounds in these rifle generally deliver 25% tighter groups than f/l sized rounds at 100, 150, and 200 yds. I use AA 2520 power and 165 gr Hornady bullets in reloading for each of these rifle.
I would appreciate any input from forum members regarding your experiences using neck sized .30-40 Krag brass, and the sizing dies you use. Thanks in advance for anything you can share with me.
My long-term goal is to shoot 2" groups at 75 yds. with all 3 bullet weights. I am thinking neck sizing my brass will somewhat improve accuracy. About 10 years ago I began neck sizing for each of my 4 bolt action .30-06 rifles using a Redding neck sizing die. Versus f/l sizing, neck sized rounds in these rifle generally deliver 25% tighter groups than f/l sized rounds at 100, 150, and 200 yds. I use AA 2520 power and 165 gr Hornady bullets in reloading for each of these rifle.
I would appreciate any input from forum members regarding your experiences using neck sized .30-40 Krag brass, and the sizing dies you use. Thanks in advance for anything you can share with me.