45 acp BB vs FB on progressive

[Slinger]

Does the flat base 200 gr SWC in 45 acp pose a problem when loading on a progressive like a Hornady press? All I've ever loaded is the commercial BEVEL BASE on my press. I'm in the process of ordering another mould, but wanted to check before I decide on the base.

[mtgrs737]

As long as you flare the case mouth enough the flat base will work just as well. I and others feel that the FB also is a tad more accurate. The bevel base IMHO is for the commercial casters conveniance as evidenced by a look at Magma's offerings.

[HeavyMetal]

The only advantage to the BB is it's use in progressive equipment. As to accuracy, in the real world, I have never been able to tell the difference.

So you will need to adjust a bit more case flare into your dies when you use a flat base. So, depending on how "heavy" a hand you have you may or may not work your brass a little more. With a little care and set up (and having all your cases the same exact length) I don't see this being a big real world issue either.

Buy the mold you want and adjust your machine dies as needed.

[Slinger]

Irregardless of base design, I always give the case mouth a decent flare and with good brass it doesn't shorten case life appreciably, contrary to what alot of guys will tell you. If there's one thing that sets me off, it shaving a cast bullet upon seating, because the case mouth hasn't been belled enough. And, if you read alot of the old reloading manuals/ scribes, they'll tell you not to flare the case mouth anymore than absolutely necessary in order to seat the bullet. That's a myth/fallacy. Also, I've shot very accurate groups with both bevel base & flat base, but the edge, if you need it or want it, goes to a flat base design. Thanks for the information fellas!