Purchased the Redding Premium Expander Die for loading the Lyman 358429. Using the Redding Premium Expander die allows the bullet to be properly aligned for bullet seating, and makes subsequent seating of the 358429 “short” (1.553” OAL) much easier (and without the slightest shaving of any lead). My Lee expander, although great for other bullets, did not work satisfactorily with the 358429 even with enough belling of the case, invariably, I experienced some shaving when seating this bullet to 1.553” OAL.

After seating the 358429, I finish off with the Redding Taper Crimp die, crimping on the forward edge of the first driver band (not over) to obtain a consistent 1.553” OAL. No bullet creep was experienced with either my “Sketter Load” of 6.0 grs Unque or 11.0 grs 2400.

Lee dies have their place (I have 15 or 20 die sets), but for important or high volume work I prefer Redding, Bonanza, and RCBS. Quality up front cost plenty, but only that one time!

Ivan

Lee could be better with cast bullets but is great with swaged or jacketed bullets.

RCBS Cowboy & Lyman M dies do the same for less $ .

I have heard of Redding dies and stuff, I guess they are made well.

The only "Redding" that I have in my house is a 10'6" seven weight, Fly rod.

I have the Lyman m dies for my 45 ACP. Just bought the redding expander with titanium coating. It’s a lot smoother belling.
Also the grey box RCBS expander sure looks like the M die.

The Lyman M die patent expired!

Ivan

The Redding top micrometer adjustment dials are awesome when doing small lots with many bullet changes. Redding is expensive, but you get what you pay for.

RCBS will help you with different size stems/plugs. Their customer service is terrific.


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