Dillon trim die mods

[milanuk]

Is the Dillon trim die (non-carbide) oil-hardened, or anything like that?

 

If not, would it be feasible to modify one by running a die reamer (vs. chamber reamer) into one so it doesn't 'over' size the cases?  Or at least have the neck honed so it's not working the brass as much?

Edited September 12, 2019 by milanuk

[Tom Freeman]

You need some friction to hold on to the case while the cutter does its work.

 

That said, I did hone my 308 and 223 die a couple thou to ease things up a bit.

[milanuk]

@Tom Freeman

Did you do it yourself, or did you send it out somewhere?

[Yondering]

23 hours ago, milanuk said:

Is the Dillon trim die (non-carbide) oil-hardened, or anything like that?

 

If not, would it be feasible to modify one by running a die reamer (vs. chamber reamer) into one so it doesn't 'over' size the cases?  Or at least have the neck honed so it's not working the brass as much?

 

If they're like any other sizing die, they are case hardened and you won't cut them with a normal reamer. You'd need to use a carbide reamer, and even then would probably have trouble with it.

 

Abrasive is the way to go for what you're talking about with hardened steel. Honing, grinding, etc. 

 

With that said, Tom Freeman is spot on. 

[Tom Freeman]

13 hours ago, milanuk said:

 

Did you do it yourself, or did you send it out somewhere?

 

 

Had a local  gunsmith take care of it for me.  Not sure how he worked his magic.