Home Forums Reloading Big Game Rifles Which dies for Savage Model 99 in .300 Savage?

I am getting ready to purchase reloading dies for my Savage Model 99 in .300 Savage. I prefer RCBS dies. They offer both standard Full Length resizing dies and also Small Base dies. RCBS text on Midway site says the SB dies are better for Lever guns. I have often heard of SB dies for semi-autos and I use them in .223 for my AR's. This is the first time that I have heard someone mention a preference for SB dies for something than semi-autos.

Which would be best for my Model 99...the FL or SB dies?

Not sure of the availability...my first choice for that rifle would be a deluxe set from Lee...or just the FL set...or a FL set from Redding..you can always shave a couple thousandths off the shell holder...a factory crimp die from Lee maybe too ??

The old classic Model 99 being a rear lock up, will allow quite a bit of case stretching. I would try a conventional FL sizer first, but that is just me.

Good luck.

I've used the RCBS standard base, full-length resizing die-set for reloading my Model 99 Savage in .300 Savage caliber for a good many years... and they've done an excellent job for me.

I reload for a good many different calibers and, over the years, I've been well-satisfied with the quality and friendly after-purchase service of the people at RCBS.

Their Customer Service folks are TERRIFIC... and unbeatable. That's important when you've need some expert advice !!!


Strength & Honor...

Ron T.

I reload both 300 Savage and 358 Win for use in Savage 99's. RCBS for the 300 and Lyman for the 358, regular FL dies in both calibers. Never a problem in almost 30 years.

Dale

Can't speak for the .300 Savage, but I've reloaded the brass that's been fired in my .243 Savage 99 and have found no need to use the small base dies.

I have a 300 T model that will not rotate loaded rounds full length resized with the RCBS dies. I am thinking SB dies for this rifle as well. It will fully function factory loaded rounds but the reloaded rounds are just a skosh too big in diameter.

It's odd since I have 10 or so of these 99's and this is the only one that has this problem. The others will accept neck sized only cases with out problems. Easy problem to solve though.

I just recieved a set of Hornady 250-3000 dies. The "Free" box of Hornady 100gr. bullets will be used to break in the barrel.

Doc

I would(and do)use the small base dies unless the rifle demonstrates a need for small base. I load for three 300s, two 99s and a 760. All have needed nothing more than the standard Lee full sizing die.

I use the RCBS standard size and don't have a problem with any of my Savage 99's. Let's see.. that'd be 6 different 99's.

If in doubt though, grab the small base. I don't think the difference is enough to make any huge difference, and as long as you are consistent on working your loads up then life should be fine. From their web site: