Indexing off the case shoulder for trimming

[adamsgt]

When using the trim tools that index off the case shoulder, would it be best to do this operation before resizing the case? I ordered the PMA Micro-Adjust Case Trimmer and it'll be delivered today. For some reason I don't always get the same exact measurement bumping the shoulder when full length re-sizing. So, it seems to me that I would be better off trimming the neck after the case has been fired but before re-sizing.

Thoughts and Opinions solicited.

 

[Boyd Allen]

I think that that would be fine. Also, I would only apply enough axial pressure on the case to complete the cut, and not get carried away. Related question, if the case is knocked/blown forward during firing to the point that the shoulder stops it, should we be more concerned about shoulder to case mouth length uniformity, or head to case mouth?

 

[adamsgt]

I think that that would be fine. Also, I would only apply enough axial pressure on the case to complete the cut, and not get carried away. Related question, if the case is knocked/blown forward during firing to the point that the shoulder stops it, should we be more concerned about shoulder to case mouth length uniformity, or head to case mouth?

Thank you Boyd. Now my head hurts.

 

[Boyd Allen]

Mission accomplished>

 

[JerrySharrett]

Something to consider when indexing off the shoulder on resized cases, if you set the shoulder back too far, and it happens, you have cut that case shorter than the rest.

If you index off the base the cases will come nearer being the same length. After all the chamber length is measured from the bolt face with the bolt closed. It is not measured off the chamber shoulder.

Remember the old world definition of headspace.

 

[abintx]

When using the trim tools that index off the case shoulder, would it be best to do this operation before resizing the case? I ordered the PMA Micro-Adjust Case Trimmer and it'll be delivered today. For some reason I don't always get the same exact measurement bumping the shoulder when full length re-sizing. So, it seems to me that I would be better off trimming the neck after the case has been fired but before re-sizing.

Thoughts and Opinions solicited.

What leads you to believe that the dimensions / length from the base of the case to the shoulder is always identical for the 50, 100, or even 200 cases that you may have in front of you?

Are the metallurgical properties so consistent from case to case that they all stretch and then return to the same identical length over and over again?

I believe case trimmers that index off the shoulder are designed for portability, ease of use / convenience and economy of price. Nothing more.

 

[adamsgt]

What leads you to believe that the dimensions / length from the base of the case to the shoulder is always identical for the 50, 100, or even 200 cases that you may have in front of you?

Are the metallurgical properties so consistent from case to case that they all stretch and then return to the same identical length over and over again?

I believe case trimmers that index off the shoulder are designed for portability, ease of use / convenience and economy of price. Nothing more.

I sense a certain amount of condescension in your response. Note that I said "When using". I make no claim to expert knowledge or opinion. Rather, I consider myself on a journey to get as much information as I can so eventually I can be a better marksman than I am now. Along the way I may fall for the latest fad or spend money on devices that turn out to provide marginal results at best. Well, that just becomes part of my education. I'm near 75 years old and don't have that many years left. I intend to enjoy those that remain. If I don't have fun at it, that's my own damn fault.

 

[Bart]

When using the trim tools that index off the case shoulder, would it be best to do this operation before resizing the case? I ordered the PMA Micro-Adjust Case Trimmer and it'll be delivered today. For some reason I don't always get the same exact measurement bumping the shoulder when full length re-sizing. So, it seems to me that I would be better off trimming the neck after the case has been fired but before re-sizing.

Thoughts and Opinions solicited.

Adamsgt

The PMA neck turner is great! I have a couple of them. I've owned just about every trimmer out there. In my opinion it cuts better than anything I have used.

I'm not for sure how something so simple gets complicated around here. It must be cabin fever.

To answer you question....you must resize the cases before using the PMA trimmer. It's the only way that trimmer works properly. It cuts them square and to the same thousands. Best case trimmer on the market!

Bart
Bart's Custom Bullets and Jackets

 

[abintx]

I sense a certain amount of condescension in your response. Note that I said "When using". I make no claim to expert knowledge or opinion. Rather, I consider myself on a journey to get as much information as I can so eventually I can be a better marksman than I am now. Along the way I may fall for the latest fad or spend money on devices that turn out to provide marginal results at best. Well, that just becomes part of my education. I'm near 75 years old and don't have that many years left. I intend to enjoy those that remain. If I don't have fun at it, that's my own damn fault.

adamsgt

Don't overwork your senses. Life's too short. )chill(

 

[Wilbur]

Whatever you choose to use...it really doesn't matter as long as your necks are short enough not to cause trouble. Too short is OK (there is no "too short") and too long is not OK. Too short and different is OK but you're not going to buy that (I'm guessing) so look for a case neck trimmer that cuts well and makes you happy - however you like it to cut.

Here's what I'm saying - Don't let your necks get too long! That's it...all there is!! Sure, try to get them the same length but it doesn't really matter if they are...it just feels better.

 

[Wildcatter]

adamsgt

Don't overwork your senses. Life's too short. )chill(

Careful ab, he likes to dish out smart remarks but he can't take them. He sent me to the broom closet for trying to explain the 10th amendment a few days ago.