I Added A Mandrel Die! - First Sizing My Alpha Brass - Good Results?

This week I got to size and test my new Alpha brass. I was curious to find out if the two lot numbers I have would give different results. Each 10 shot group was within 5 fps on my average speed, so I think they are close enough to not worry about mixing the lots! That is great for me. I will do some more testing as I go, but I think for Alpha it is not going to be a concern! Very good news.
I got the Cortina mandrel die. This is my first time to use a mandrel. It does seem to give more consistent numbers. I think my tension may be a little tighter than the new brass, because using the same powder charge I got about 15-20 fps faster speeds. I am assuming that is a tighter grip on the projectile so it built a little more pressure. I may test another few at a tenth less powder. I want to have my speeds right under 3000 and I am currently right at 3000. Trying to not burn my barrel if I can help it!
The new Alpha case lube is great. It is a little thicker than I was expecting and I got too much on my first few. I think that bumped my shoulders a little more than I wanted, but it all worked just fine. This is a very good product. The easiest sizing I have done so far in my reloading journey. The press moved so smoothly with very little effort! I just need to find the sweet spot of just enough lube to do the job and not over that amount to build up in the die and press my shoulder a little. More testing to come, but I think instead of spraying it, I will just put a little on my fingers and apply by hand.
It is harder to get off with my rice cleaning process. I had rice stuck inside the cases. I ended up washing them with water and that did the job.
This is probably better used with a wet tumbler to clean after sizing! Something to be aware of!

I think this first test went well. My numbers are pretty good. I just need to drop a little on my speed and I should be where I want to be for this season! Let me know what you think!!

Thank you for watching me go through this process and share what I am doing with you. I hope you have a great rest of your day and an awesome weekend!!

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