Procedure with neck mandrels

[Northernpiker]

I just ordered some neck mandrels and I use RCBS dies. What is the procedure step-by-step for using the mandrels starting from beginning. Remove ball expander from FL dies? When to lube? I did buy the carbide Mandel’s.

 

[wind gypsy]

Remove ball expander and size with sizing die, expand using mandrel. I just use one shot lube once before sizing and the necks are good to go still for mandrel.

ideally a bushing die or FL sizing die that doesn’t oversize the necks is nice. Standard FL dies typically size down the necks more than is needed prior to expanding which work hardens the brass more and may increase runout.

 

[mtswampfox]

some new uses for mandrels besides ironing out new brass for first time!

 

[Northernpiker]

some new uses for mandrels besides ironing out new brass for first time!

???

 

[FLS]

Remove the expander from your FL die.
I use a decapping die.
Tumble brass.
Lube brass.
I full length size using a Redding competition shellholder and set shoulder back .002.
Tumble brass.
Trim if needed.
Chamfer.
Expand neck with mandrel. I use a carbide mandrel.
Prime.
Charge.
Seat bullet.

 

[rodell]

I'm mostly with FLS ...

Decap
Tumble (Brass Juice, usually)
Anneal
Lube (Redding Imperial if not using the progressive)
Full length size with bushing die if I have one, no expander if not
Expand with a mandrel if a bushing die was not used
Trim, if required.
Chamfer.
Prime.
Charge.
Seat bullet.

I find there's not enough lube in the neck to warrant tumbling again. And yes, I anneal after every firing because it is easy for me and then I know for certain the state of the brass.