Home Forums Reloading Big Game Rifles Necking down

I just started reloading for my rifle (Bolt Action) in 25-06 Rem. I have a lot of good 30-06 brass which I understand that could be necked down to 25-06 dimensions. I have of course the 25-06 sizing dies (RCBS) and also dies for 270 Win and 30-06, both sets from RCBS. Can anyone teach me how to do this and also tell me if it makes any sense. (Brass is somewhat more expensive up here in Iceland than down there in USA). What is the best procedure?

Thanks, - allt the best from up here, - Kakali

kakali,
Get some good lube, Imperial sizing die is very good. I think I would remove the expander
ball from your 270 and have a go at it. If you dont get any wrinkles in the shoulder then go to the
25-06 die.Just keep things lubed up and you should be fine.
dave <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

I also use Imperial Sizing Die Wax, great stuff. If you use a little too much of any kind of lube, you'll get dents in the shoulders. Not a big deal, they iron out the first time you fire the case. Your necks will proubably be too thick though. You'll need to inside neck ream them. Reaming is better than outside turning for your purposes. If I were you, I'd bite the bullet and buy some 25/06 cases in spite of the cost.

I agree with the above procedure on lube and use of the 25-06 die .I have re-sized a lot of 30-06 brass in this
fasion .I found that the 06 shoulder will not make a clean extension of the shoulder as the neck is
reduced in diameter .However the first firing of the brass will solve the problem .The reformed brass will
fail as most brass does by developing verticle splits in the neck.
TXsavage

Anealing the necks will solve the neck split problem. I still think you're better off with new cases though.