Home Forums Reloading Big Game Rifles Small base dies required for loading for Browning BLR

I have a recent manufactured Browning BLR in 308. I’ve read that some of these rifles are finicky and require small base dies. I’ve also read that was more true for older models of the BLR. Anyone have any suggestions?

I use SB dies when reloading for BLR 308

If you need a set of SB RCBS dies, send me a message. I had them for a Remington pump gun that I no longer have.

My suggestion is to try with regular does and see what happens before you buy small-base.

Mike, I needed the small base dies for a mid 90's BLR as well as a new Henry Long Ranger both in .308. I tried my regular dies in brass only fired in those rifles and had chambering issues occasionally regardless of how far down I tightened the dies. I also purchased a RCBS Precision Mic and realized how tight those 2 chambers are, especially compared to my pre 64 Model 88.

I loaded for three 308s and three 243s and none of them needed the small base dies. I was using RCBS dies. All of the rifles and components were circa 1960s and the RCBS standard dies seem to size more than some others. But things could have changed since then.

Well, if it's a Japanese BLR, I can tell you what happens.

It’s a Japanese BLR. Will get the small base dies. Thanks, Mike

I have a Japanese BLR .358 Win and use regular Lee dies. I don't see why a .358 Win would be any different than a .308 Win and wonder if this may pertain more to the period when produced instead. Perhaps measuring a fired case for comparison might help determine if SB dies are necessary.

I haven't worked with the 358, but regular Lee dies I've used for other cartridges tend to run on the tight side.

My BLR in .358 Win. is one of the very early Japanese guns. I just use the standard RCBS sizing die and have had no problems.
Paul B.

I load for two Model 81 BLRs, both 308s, manufactured in Japan between 1982 and 1986. I use Lee dies and have never needed a small base. I would try regular dies before making another purchase.

-Z

I use standard RCBS .243 dies for my wife's BLR with no problems.

I've been loading a pre81 308 since 98 with standard FL RCBS dies.
Whatever you do, don't tell the BLR I haven't been using SM dies.

First I have ever heard of this issue. I have 3 Miroku BLR's and have no issues with standard RCBS full size dies. A .243 and .270 win and maximum loads.No extraction issues at all. The other is a .450 Marlin.
I will be following this thread.