.223 / 9mm dies

[kbf64]

Any recommended die sets for these popular calibers? Someone suggested a small base die for .223/5.56.

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[DizzyJ]

Most sizing dies will work. However, for the bullet seating die, I go with a Forster benchrest micrometer seating die. Easy for precision adjustments and really helps reduce runout.

 

[Retired Guy]

I'm assuming you're reloading for a semi-auto rifle. I've loaded 223/5.56 for a long time and never felt the need for small base dies...until I bought a Rock River match rifle.
I've reloaded for ARs and bolt actions and it all worked fine with my RCBS and Dillon dies. But when I got the RR, it was really tight no matter how I adjusted it. I finally bought a set of Lyman Small Base dies and problem solved.
I do highly recommend that you buy a case gauge. They cost less than $20 but give you a quick check that the case is properly sized and whether it needs to be trimmed.

 

[LSWC]

I've used the RCBS AR small base dies for 223, 762x39, and 300aac. All work great.
I've also had good luck with RCBS & Hornady 9mm dies. I prefer the Hornady seating die since I find small adjustments are made easier.

 

[Mikej]

Any recommended die sets for these popular calibers? Someone suggested a small base die for .223/5.56.

Uuhh, Which ever ones you can find available? Under $100.00? Do I win something?

I like Hornady, for some reason. Maybe because they come with the lock rings that are way better than RCBS. Lee lock rings suck. But Lee comes WITH the shell holder. I have Lee in 9mm and .40 but I got Hornady lock rings for the sizing/seating dies.

 

[Member 5605]

Carbine 9mm (get a Lee 4 die set, then you can seat and do a factory crimp in a separate step)
Small base .223 dies (RCBS)

 

[Member 34319]

In today's market, any you can find.

I run Hornady and RCBS mostly.