Compairing notes Great"'
One die make claimed that the shape of the core didn't make any differance.
I won't argue the point because it would take extensive testing and in a tunnel.
The ideal shape in My opinion is one that has a taper like the inside of the jacket. the core must also be small enough in diameter to go all the way to the bottom of the jacket before any pressure is applied. This should help or eliminate trapped air under the core.
Dick Maretzo hase been xraying bullets. He has found trapped air pockets in several of the comercial bullet makes products.
Dies? Heres what I have 2 sets of B&A one 6mm one 224. I set of Pindell dies 6mm and one point closure die. One set of detsch 224 dies, two sets of Detsch 30 cal dies 7 1/2 og and 8 og. LONG I set of Bob Simonson dies 6mm 7 1/2 og two sets of Detsch 6mm dies {long}
8 og and 10 OG. I also have a set of other dies that are made by a famous shooter die maker. They are the upside down type like Blackmoun but higher quality.
That set makes heavy bullets from 150 gr to 220 gr on long sierra jackets Bt and flat base.
I also have a set Of Corbin Dies that I bought as a learning tool. They are 6 og.
I set my dies up on three different presses {with ejectors}. I also have a CH core cutter that works great The model 30.
If you ever see one around let me knnow . I have a friend that is going to start in swageing.
Lube is a mix of 7 parts anhydrous lanolin and 1 part vaseline as a carrier.
It comes out thick like vaseline and goes a long long way. I apply with my thumb and forefinger by rolling as i seat cores or point. Carbide dies don't need very much lube. just enough to make them slide a bit. If it point too easy thers too much lube Drag theres too little lube. Yes I do make benchrest bullets for some people usually my close friends
and fellow shooters at my range.