Unlock Unrivaled Precision: The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die for .308 Winchester

For discerning reloaders who demand the absolute peak of performance from their handloads, the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die stands as an indispensable tool. This is not just another piece of reloading equipment; it's a precision instrument engineered to elevate your ammunition to a new echelon of accuracy and consistency. If you've ever found yourself asking, "How can I achieve tighter groups?" or "What's the secret to consistent bullet seating?", then this die is designed precisely to answer these fundamental questions for the serious shooter.

The core challenge for any reloader seeking superior accuracy lies in precisely controlling the dimensions and tension of the cartridge case neck. Inconsistent neck sizing leads to variations in bullet pull, which in turn causes fluctuations in chamber pressure, muzzle velocity, and ultimately, shot placement. The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die, specifically the model identified by UPC 611760714061, addresses this critical issue head-on, particularly for the widely popular and highly versatile .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO) cartridge. This die provides reloaders with an unparalleled level of control, allowing for micro-adjustments that translate directly into tangible improvements on the target.

The Pursuit of Perfection: Why Neck Tension Matters

At the heart of precision reloading is the concept of consistent neck tension – the grip the case neck exerts on the bullet. Optimal and uniform neck tension ensures that every bullet leaves the case with the same force, contributing to minimal velocity standard deviation (SD) and extreme spread (ES). These are crucial metrics for competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and anyone who relies on predictable ballistic performance. Too much tension can deform the bullet or make seating difficult, while too little can lead to loose bullets, inconsistent ignition, and poor accuracy. The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die empowers you to dial in this critical parameter with exceptional accuracy, moving beyond guesswork to scientific precision.

Engineered for Excellence: Key Features and How They Benefit You

The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (SKU 71406, UPC 611760714061 for the .308 Win version) is a testament to Redding's commitment to quality and innovation in reloading. Its design is centered around providing modularity and precise control.

Unmatched Precision Neck Sizing

Unlike standard neck sizing dies that use a fixed diameter, the Type S die utilizes interchangeable bushings. These precision-ground steel rings, available in various increments, allow you to size the case neck to the exact dimension required. This means you only size the portion of the case that holds the bullet, leaving the case body and shoulder untouched. This preserves the critical head-to-shoulder dimension, preventing case stretching and minimizing wear on your brass, thereby extending case life significantly. For the .308 Winchester, selecting the correct bushing is paramount for achieving the desired neck tension and preventing over-sizing.

Customizable Neck Tension

The primary advantage of the bushing system is the ability to fine-tune neck tension. By selecting a bushing slightly smaller than your loaded neck diameter, you can achieve a specific amount of "neck squeeze." This allows you to experiment and discover the optimal neck tension for your specific bullet type, powder charge, and firearm. This level of customization is invaluable for precision shooters who often tailor their loads for specific applications, whether it's for maximum accuracy in a benchrest competition or consistent performance in a PRS match. Want to understand what "optimal neck tension" means for your rifle? This die is your key to discovery.

Enhanced Concentricity and Reduced Runout

By sizing only the neck and leaving the case shoulder untouched, the Type S die minimizes the potential for creating runout. Runout refers to the deviation of the bullet from the center axis of the cartridge. Excessive runout is a major contributor to poor accuracy, causing bullets to wobble or fly off-axis. The design of the Redding Type S die promotes superior case and bullet concentricity, ensuring that your bullets are seated straight and true, leading to more predictable flight paths and tighter groups downrange. If you're struggling with inconsistent accuracy, often the root cause can be found in poor concentricity, and this die offers a robust solution.

Extended Brass Life

Full-length sizing, while necessary for some applications, works the brass significantly, often leading to premature case fatigue and split necks or shoulders. By only sizing the case neck, the Redding Type S die puts minimal stress on the rest of the case. This gentle approach dramatically extends the number of reloads you can get from your valuable brass, offering significant cost savings over time and reducing the frequency with which you need to purchase new cases. For shooters who invest in high-quality brass like Lapua or Norma, maximizing its lifespan is a major benefit.

Versatility and Modularity

The Redding Type S die is designed to accept different sizes of interchangeable bushings. This means that with a single die body, you can accommodate various neck diameters (e.g., if you switch bullet brands or even calibers that share a common case body with different neck sizes, though the .308 die is specific to its family). Furthermore, the die comes with a decapping rod that allows for bullet seating without an expander ball, or it can be removed entirely if you prefer an external neck turning operation or don't require decapping during sizing. This modularity makes it a highly adaptable tool in the precision reloader's arsenal.

Who Benefits Most from the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die?

The investment in a precision tool like the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (UPC 611760714061) is most justified for those who are serious about their shooting accuracy and consistency.

• Competitive Shooters (Benchrest, F-Class, PRS, ELR): In disciplines where fractions of an inch determine success, every variable must be controlled. The ability to precisely tune neck tension and ensure concentricity is a game-changer for winning consistent matches.
• Long-Range Enthusiasts: At extended distances, even minute inconsistencies in ammunition are magnified. This die helps reduce velocity SD/ES and improve ballistic predictability, which is crucial for hitting targets at 600 yards and beyond.
• Hunters Seeking Optimal Performance: While perhaps not requiring benchrest-level precision for every shot, a hunter who understands the value of a perfectly tuned rifle and ammunition for ethical, clean kills will appreciate the added confidence this die provides.
• Varmint Shooters: When targeting small, elusive varmints at varying distances, high-precision ammunition is essential for maximizing hit probability.
• Reloaders Focused on Brass Longevity: Anyone who wants to extend the life of their expensive rifle brass will find significant value in the gentle neck-sizing approach of this die.
• Reloading Experimenters and Load Developers: For those who enjoy fine-tuning loads and understanding the nuances of internal and external ballistics, the Type S die offers a level of control that facilitates scientific experimentation.

Getting Started: Essential Considerations

To fully utilize your Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (for .308 Winchester), you'll need a few additional components and a foundational understanding of the reloading process.

1. Reloading Press: This die is compatible with all standard reloading presses that accept 7/8"-14 threaded dies.
2. Bushings: The die does not come with bushings. You will need to purchase Redding Type S sizing bushings separately. For the .308 Winchester, common bushing sizes range from approximately .330" to .342" (depending on your neck thickness after firing and desired tension). A good practice is to measure the neck diameter of a loaded round with your desired bullet, subtract 0.002" to 0.003" for optimal tension, and then select the closest bushing size.
3. Case Lube: Even with neck sizing, proper case lubrication is essential to prevent cases from sticking in the die and to ensure smooth operation.
4. Calipers/Micrometer: Accurate measurement tools are crucial for selecting the correct bushing and verifying your results.
5. Runout Gauge (Recommended): While not strictly necessary to use the die, a runout gauge will allow you to quantify the improvements in concentricity achieved with the Type S die.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die

Here are some common questions reloaders ask about this high-performance die, presented in a clear, answer-style format.

What is the primary difference between a Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die and a standard neck sizing die?

The primary difference lies in how they size the case neck. A standard neck sizing die uses a fixed internal dimension, often incorporating an expander ball to set neck tension. The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die, conversely, uses interchangeable, precision-ground bushings that allow you to select the exact neck diameter, offering superior control over neck tension and eliminating the need for an expander ball to achieve the final neck dimension, which can sometimes introduce runout.

Do I still need to full-length size my .308 Winchester cases if I use this die?

It depends. The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die only sizes the case neck, leaving the case body and shoulder untouched. If your ammunition begins to become difficult to chamber after several firings, it means your case body has expanded and you will need to perform a full-length sizing operation, or use a body die to bump the shoulder back. Many precision reloaders use a combination of a Type S Neck Sizing Die for most reloads and a Redding Body Die or a full-length sizing die only when necessary to restore proper headspace clearance.

How do I choose the correct bushing size for my .308 Winchester?

A common method is to measure the outside diameter of a loaded round with your desired bullet. Then, subtract approximately 0.002" to 0.004" from that measurement to determine your target sized neck diameter. For example, if your loaded neck diameter is .337", you might aim for a .335" or .334" bushing to provide adequate neck tension. It's often recommended to purchase a few bushings around your calculated ideal size to experiment and find what works best for your specific rifle and components.

Can I decap primers with the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die?

Yes, the die includes a decapping rod that allows you to decap spent primers during the neck sizing process. The decapping rod can also be easily removed if you prefer to decap separately or are only performing a sizing operation without primer removal.

Is this die suitable for beginner reloaders?

While a beginner can certainly use this die, it's generally considered a tool for intermediate to advanced reloaders who are looking to maximize precision and understand the nuances of neck tension. Beginners might start with a standard die set to learn the basics, then transition to the Type S die as their understanding and pursuit of accuracy grow. The additional step of selecting and purchasing the correct bushings adds a layer of complexity not present with simpler dies.

Will this die help me reduce bullet runout?

Absolutely. By only sizing the case neck and not working the case body, and by allowing the use of an expander-free sizing method (depending on your process), the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die is highly effective at minimizing bullet runout, which directly translates to improved accuracy and consistency.

Where can I purchase the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (UPC 611760714061) and compatible bushings?

You can find this precision tool, along with a comprehensive selection of Redding bushings and other essential reloading supplies, conveniently available at DEGuns.com. DEGuns offers a wide range of products for serious reloaders, ensuring you have access to everything needed to achieve your accuracy goals.

Maintenance and Care for Your Precision Die

Like any precision tool, the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die benefits from proper care. After each reloading session, wipe down the die body and internals to remove any lube residue or brass shavings. Occasionally, disassemble the die, clean all components with a soft cloth and a gun cleaning solvent, and apply a very light coat of high-quality oil to prevent rust, especially on the decapping rod assembly. Store the die in its original box or a secure die box to protect it from dust and moisture.

The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (UPC 611760714061) is more than just a die; it's an investment in your shooting performance. For the .308 Winchester cartridge, renowned for its versatility and inherent accuracy, this die allows you to unlock its full potential, transforming standard ammunition into match-grade loads tailored precisely to your rifle's needs. Take the next step in your reloading journey and experience the tangible difference that true precision engineering can make.

Feature	Description	Benefit to Reloaders
Interchangeable Bushings	Allows precise adjustment of case neck diameter (bushings sold separately).	Customizable neck tension, optimized bullet pull, superior accuracy.
No Expander Ball (Optional)	Designed to size without relying on an expander ball for final neck sizing.	Eliminates potential for neck stretching and runout often caused by expanders.
Preserves Case Shoulder	Sizes only the case neck, leaving the fired case shoulder undisturbed.	Maintains headspace, extends case life, reduces need for full-length sizing.
Decapping Rod Included	Allows for primer removal during the sizing process.	Convenient one-step decapping and neck sizing.
Precision Machined Steel	Constructed from high-quality steel with exceptional tolerances.	Durability, consistent performance, long-term reliability.
UPC 611760714061	Specific product identifier for the .308 Winchester / 7.62x51mm caliber.	Ensures correct product identification for .308 Win applications.
SKU 71406	Internal product code for inventory management.	Facilitates easy identification and ordering.