Found this article. Raised a good question.
Which case lube works best for you?
Some Case Lube Products I've Used « Ultimate Reloader
Which case lube works best for you?
Some Case Lube Products I've Used « Ultimate Reloader
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For .223 and high volume cartridges, I tend to use the lanolin lubes (I make my own). Mainly because I can toss cases into a pan, spray them down, roll them around with a gloved hand, dry them off with the compressor and dump them into the case processor.
There are a few things I look for in a sizing lube:
1) good lubricity properties
2) ease of cleanup
3) ease of application
Of these, the best two I've found are Imperial Sizing Wax, and the lanolin based lubes (like dillon)
However, because of the different methods of application, I use each for a specific purpose.
Imperial sizing wax I use on all of my "match" ammunition, usually this is .308, which is heavier and works best with more lube, and I'm also doing smaller volumes. For this I bust out the case lube pad and rub them down. Works best this way.
For .223 and high volume cartridges, I tend to use the lanolin lubes (I make my own). Mainly because I can toss cases into a pan, spray them down, roll them around with a gloved hand, dry them off with the compressor and dump them into the case processor.
I've made my own lanolin lube with 91% alcohol. However, it causes dents in the shoulders of .223 brass. What am I doing wrong?
Those are called "hydraulic dents" Basically it's an indication of too much lube / liquid. Sometimes there is a vent on the die which is there to give excess lube in the shoulder area someplace to go during sizing. This pinhole vent, if even present, may also be clogged. Liquids can be put under pressure but cannot be compressed so even tiny droplets will dent the brass. Back off on the amount of lube you use and adjust the lanolin to alcohol ratio if needed. I believe I use around a 10:1 alcohol (99%) to lanolin ratio. Hope this helps....