[racine]

So I'm wondering if I should reload 2 different loads for each of these rifles? Both are 308 but will using brass from the M1A diminish accuracy for the bolt? But the big question is;
What die maker would you recommend for loading 308 to maximize reliability in a semi auto and would you use a different set for a bolt?
Thanks for any suggestions.
Racine

 

[Doug Bowser]

I have had the same problem or lack of one. I used RCBS standard dies for the .308 Winchester. I used the same load in a Winchester Model 70 Target rifle and a Springfield Armory M1A. No problems doing so. I always use a Wilson cartridge headspace gauge on all my rifles, especially the semi-auto rifles, to check the headspace on my resized brass.

Doug

 

[determined451]

+1 for what Doug says. I load for six different 308's...Two are M1A's.. I use standard RCBS dies, and a Competition seating die for all. No problems... I do small base any unknown brass the first time . Also.. The best powder in mine for all is RL-15.. P/m me, and I will give you the data if wanted. It is really hard to screw up with a 308. D-451

 

[moredes]

Get yourself an RCBS X-die and 'stop' trimming cases. You'll be amazed how much the X-die helps M1A brass.

 

[PhillipM]

I use Redding for my M1 but have heard good things from serious competitors about the RCBS X dies. They supposedly resize in a manner that reduces, or eliminates, the need to perform the most PITA part of semi-auto reloading, trimming the cases.

If your hunting rifle is a bolt gun I'd just get a neck sizer and use separate cases. The way I do this is to use nickel plated cases for hunting and regular for the service rifle. It's easier to segregate and in the woods nickel casings are easier to find when you need to know where you were standing when you shot!

I recommend this site for M1A, http://m14tfl.com/upload/, the cream of the M14 crop resides there with Gus Fisher, master USMC armorer and builder of match M14's in the day, at the top of the heap.