PiratePast40

Another one that likes to do one last check of the primers before I load them in the mag.

ETR-7 is clean and slow enough burning to shoot relatively soft. Price is back up to $70/4lb jug: https://expansion-industries.com/etr7-smokeless-pistol-powder-4lb.html I've used quite a bit of it and like it.

I've gone through around 5K of the ACME 147's in my M&P 9mm. They're been good for me. They seem to do better at 135 PF than trying to keep them in the "bunny fart" range. Because of the shape, needed to come down a bit on the OAL. 1.12 does the job. I'm using ETR-7 but no reason not to use other powders. There was an enos5 discount code. Might give it a try and see if it's still working.

I've been using ETR-7 from Expansion Industries for over a year now. 3.7 grains under ACME 147g flat points. OAL at 1.12 works well in my M&P Pro 9mm. Mine seems to be more accurate at 136 PF than lower with this combination. ETR-7 is available and the price has come down to $65 for a 4 lbs.

As far as spares, I've got an extra primer pin and spring, and decapping pin.But in approximately 10,000 rounds, haven't had to replace them. Others have commented about breaking the powder chain, but I haven't had that happen either.The loadmastervideo forum mentioned several times is a wealth of information. Can't say enough about the mods from Mikes Reloading. I have the billet turret, stabilizer and shake brake. Since i haven't had any problems with the priming system, am using the stock parts. You do need to do a good cleaning every few thousand rounds to clear out any debris on and under the priming pin. Will second the recommendation to keep parts properly lubed, especially the bottom of the case slider. After proper cleaning and lube, the ram will fall down by itself, so don't let go of the handle.

The discount code for Acme is enos10. I'm finishing up my 3rd box of 2500 147g flat points. They work quite well for me.

Talon says the tape isn't meant for the M&P backstrap. It won't stick. If you don't read the ordering information, and then email them to complain, they'll let you know what you missed! If you look around on ebay, there are a few stippled backstraps out there. edit, This guy seems to do really good work. You'll have to check to see if he's available, http://www.a2stippling.com/

I'm having success with ETR-7 and Acme 147s.

I clear it all, brush, wipe down, inspect, and lube if necessary.

Have you been lubing your cases? What about your expanding die, is it releasing cleanly?

I would think that you need to pins to give some abrasion to polish the brass. As far as any rinse additives, they should be acting as water softeners. If there isn't a hard water problem, they won't be much help.

I'm starting to get a few light strikes on S&B primers. Will get one every 3-4 hundred or so. I also have the Apex CAEK with the reduced power striker spring. Have around 6-7k rounds with the kit installed. Maybe time to replace all the springs, or just go back to the stock striker spring? is there a ballpark round count for when to change out all springs?

^^^ Dave33, our responses illustrate that fact that some people are better instructors than others. I actually went to the press and messed with the chain to make sure I was telling him the right things. Even after doing it myself, i didn't properly describe what I had done. I suppose that was because it has become second nature. Thanks for the full explanation.

The spring goes on the chain and under the platten. Like most other brands, there are a few tips and tricks to get up and running. Check out the The Load Master Zone: http://loadmastervideos.com/. Tons of helpful videos and instructions specific to Lee products. Some people have had problems, especially with the older style primer feed, but my Loadmaster runs fine. If you have the older system, you can replace it with modified one from Mikes Reloading, or just buy the new one.

As far as not returning properly, make sure the tab from the lever is in the correct slot on the bottom of the disc. Also make sure the spring and return chain are configured correctly. For the leakage, first check the wiper to make sure there isn't anything caught on it. And as ranger pointed out, make sure everything is square and tightened correctly. The discs are hard plastic but not perfect. I've lapped mine with 400 and then 800 grit wet dry paper. It's basically breaking them in faster. Once worn in, they seal quite well.