Home Forums Reloading Big Game Rifles Anyone experienced a case head separation with a wsm case???

I've had case head separations using factory 223 WSSM ammo on first firing, but ONLY on a 'new' (newly-acquired and newly-re-barreled) rifle whereon the headspace was not set properly. After correcting that, no more issues. I have had that same factory ammo split cases on first firing on the shoulder. Don't know why, but believe it's from the brass being too hard in that area.

I agree with TXRam that neck sizing is best accomplished with a neck sizer rather than a FL sizer on the WS(S)Ms. I also have found that some lots of brass need to be annealed after the first firing or even before firing. Not all component brass has given trouble in this regard, though.

Sam,

You neck sizing or FL sizing?

I am using standard RCBS dies and screw the die in just enough so that the brass has a little resistance when closing the bolt. I think some refer it as a crush fit.
When I load up hunting ammo I turn the die in a skosh more so the brass chambers without any resistance.

Regardless the die is turned in slighty past contact with the shell holder(cammed over).

When resizing for my Roberts and 270WCF I also use standard RCBS dies but they basically work the neck and don't need to push the shoulder back which is required for the WSM's.