Help... Bulged .357 cases

[Bullfrog80]

I've just started loading .357 and after sizing, the cases have a slight buldge near the rim. It is like the cases aren't getting sized all the way. They chamber fine in my pistol but I don't like the looks of it. I have the die set so it is just kissing the shell holder.... I haven't had this problem with 9mm, .45acp, or .223. Is this something I shouldn't worry about? If anybody can give me some insite on this it would be much appreciated.

 

[nova512]

normal

 

[AllenM]

suggestion removed, reread op

 

[Aszerigan]

You're fine. Most full length sizing dies size the straight walls of a cartridge to within 1/8" or so from the bottom of the rim. The shell holder has to hold onto something.

This is a common thing, light bulge around the base - don't worry about it unless it makes chambering the round difficult. If it does, then you've got other problems.

 

[bulletbaron]

Roller Sizing!

This is the only method to get the "bulge" above the rim or extractor groove removed. If this situation annoys you, ship me the sand I will Roller Size them for you!! You'll just have shipping charges both ways!!

 

[bigedp51]

The diameter of your revolvers chambers are larger than the base diameter of your .357 cases. American made cartridge cases are notorious for being "undersized" in base diameter. This results in the expansion you see at the base of your cases near the rim when the cartridge is fired.

The reloading manuals have the base diameter at .379 for the .357, the Remington .357 cartridge case below is .373 and undersized "BUT" still within manufacturing plus or minus tolerances. (meaning our cases run on the small side and what you see is normal)

If you have carbide dies and see the reverse of this or the case pushed inward at the base you have your carbide dies set too low and you will end up with case head separations.

 

[FERLACH]

Been reloading 40 years, loaded thousands of .38 and .357, completely normal.

 

[Bullfrog80]

Thanks everyone for the info... I will load away and not worry about it...

 

[SW911]

As long as it fits in the cylinder...

 

[The Gavman]

As long as it fits in the cylinder...

That's what she said. Sorry I had to.