bakerboy
New member
So as to not hijack the re barrel thread, I'd like to continue the question about using brass or gauges. I agree that new brass is way too short in headspace for use as a gauge. However, I've been experimenting with making gauges out of brass with some success, but would like some feedback and ideas. For .223, my plan was to drill out the case base and push the shoulder out creating a "long' case or insufficient headspace. I must have pushed the shoulder with the drill bit as when I measured the case headspace in a RCBS precision mic it was +10. I then gradually re sized the case, measured the headspace and tried to close the bolt(no extractor or ejector). It finally closed easily at 1.4646 or +1 in the mic. Using this technique and measuring various shot cases I now have a collection from +5 down to -4 in .001 increments for a whole lot less that a set of gauges. However, I had mixed results (at best) when trying to enlarge another case, and struggled to find a good tool for the job. I believe if you drill out the case base completely which provides full access to the shoulder then there isn't enough rim for the bolt. Also I wonder about the shoulder angle of the bit or pusher tool for a 23 degree shoulder (.223). Your comments on this technique and suggestions for tooling would be appreciated.