Will 9mm die work on 380ACP?

[haze10]

9mm is a 9x19mm case and 380ACP is a 9x17mm case. Can I use my 9 mm dies to load 380? Not sure if the difference in height will work, but I do use 357 dies on 38 special with no problems.

[Anon]

As a follow-up, can I use my .380ACP dies to load 9mm (Dillon 550)?

[1911user]

No, to both questions.

[maineshootah]

9mm is a 9x19mm case and 380ACP is a 9x17mm case. Can I use my 9 mm dies to load 380? Not sure if the difference in height will work, but I do use 357 dies on 38 special with no problems.

Can it be done... sure.

I have loaded a few major 9 .380s by mistake..

Should it be done..... that is another question.

[gm iprod]

No, to both questions.

The reason/s is/are.

9x19 tapered. .380ACP straight.

Therefore not only is length a problem but the shape is all wrong. Get the right dies.

[Anon]

haze10, want to trade dies?!

[ChrisStock]

Can it be done... sure.

I have loaded a few major 9 .380s by mistake..

+1

BTDT

Good question, Haze10... After having done it so much accidentally on my 550 when I first started, it is possible, just not recommended. I had often pondered the same thing, but then again, I shoot my .380 so infrequently that it's a non-issue. Still sitting on a few K in .380 brass for when/if I do decide to reload for it.

[Graham Smith]

I have loaded a few major 9 .380s by mistake..

Ouch! Didn't the powder flowing out of the top of the case give you a hint>

[ChrisStock]

With a super low volume powder like Ramshot Enforcer or Zip it is VERY easy to do until your hands and eyes get accustomed to what the brass should feel and look like coming out of the brass bin. This happened to me multiple times the first month month or so, but after awhile you get to the point where you can ID and differentiate them from 9MM on sight from 10' away in the grass.