Originally Posted by
GWS
One of the important basics here is making sure the I.S. diameter of the spring is not smaller in diameter than the I.S. diameter of the top spring adapter.
And likewise, making sure the I.S. diameter of the LOWER spring adapter is not smaller than the spring's I.S. diameter. Otherwise, in both cases, a shelf is protruding at those junctions to catch the base of your bullets.
The third thing that can catch bullet bases, is if the spring is stretched too far and bent too far around curves which would allow the bases to be trapped between coils. And you are right in the observation that the more room a bullet has to tilt, the easier it can get so trapped. I think I've covered most possibilities....if not TylerR will surely think of it, and share.;)
You say there's no blobs or strings, but be safe and run a drill bit just under the diameter, using a hand in and out, through the inside a few times....it only takes one spot to give you grief.