Achieving Unmatched Precision: The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die for Superior Reloading

For discerning handloaders and precision shooters, the quest for ultimate accuracy is a continuous journey. Every component, every process, and every tool plays a pivotal role in squeezing the most performance out of a cartridge. Among the most critical steps in the reloading process is case preparation, specifically controlling the case neck. This is where the Redding Type S - Bushing Style Neck Sizing Die stands out as an indispensable tool, offering reloaders an unparalleled level of precise control over case neck size and tension.

This specific product, identified by UPC 611760711381 (SKU 71138), is engineered to meet the stringent demands of competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and anyone committed to producing cartridges with consistent, sub-minute-of-angle (MOA) accuracy. While the principles apply broadly, this particular die is specifically crafted for popular calibers like the .223 Remington, a favorite among precision rifle builders and varmint hunters for its versatility and inherent accuracy potential.

What is Neck Sizing and Why is it Essential for Precision Reloading?

At its core, neck sizing is the process of reducing the diameter of a fired cartridge case neck to securely hold a new bullet. Unlike full-length sizing, which resizes the entire case body back to SAAMI specifications, neck sizing only works on the case neck. This approach leaves the case body largely unaltered, maintaining a custom fit to your rifle's chamber.

Why is this critical for precision? When a cartridge is fired, the brass case expands to fit the chamber. If you full-length size every time, you are constantly working the brass, stretching it back and forth, which can lead to premature case failure, reduced case life, and increased brass fatigue. Neck sizing, on the other hand, minimizes brass working, extending the life of your valuable cartridge cases and potentially improving consistency over multiple firings.

The primary goal of neck sizing is to achieve consistent neck tension – the precise grip the case neck exerts on the bullet. Optimal neck tension is paramount for several reasons:

• Consistent Bullet Seating: Proper tension ensures the bullet seats uniformly into the case, reducing variations in overall length and concentricity.
• Uniform Start Pressure: Consistent neck tension influences the initial pressure required to unseat the bullet from the case, leading to more consistent powder ignition and, consequently, more uniform muzzle velocities.
• Reduced Bullet Runout: A well-sized neck helps align the bullet perfectly with the case axis, minimizing bullet runout. This concentricity is vital for accurate bullet flight and tight groups downrange.
• Extended Case Life: By only resizing the neck, you reduce stress on the case body, which extends the number of times a case can be reloaded before it fails, saving you money and time spent on brass preparation.

The Redding Type S Bushing Die Advantage: Engineered for Optimal Performance

The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die takes the concept of neck sizing to an elevated level of precision through its unique bushing system. Traditional neck sizing dies often size the neck to a fixed internal diameter, which might not be ideal for all brass types or bullet diameters. The Redding Type S die, however, utilizes interchangeable sizing bushings.

Here's how this innovative design translates into tangible benefits for the reloader:

• Micro-Adjustable Neck Tension: The core advantage of the bushing system is the ability to precisely control the amount of neck tension. Bushings are available in minute increments (typically .001 inch), allowing reloaders to select the exact bushing that provides their desired neck tension for a specific cartridge, bullet, and brass combination. This level of customization ensures optimal bullet release and consistent muzzle velocity, critical for long-range accuracy.
• Enhanced Concentricity: The design of the Type S die promotes superior bullet concentricity. By resizing the neck uniformly around the bushing, the die helps eliminate inconsistencies that can cause bullets to seat crookedly. Reduced bullet runout means the bullet exits the barrel more truly, leading to smaller group sizes.
• Reduced Brass Overworking: The ability to choose the exact bushing size means you only size the case neck as much as necessary. This minimizes the stress on the brass, preventing unnecessary work hardening and extending the effective lifespan of your cartridge cases, often allowing for dozens of reloads per case.
• Versatility with Different Brass: With a collection of bushings, a single Redding Type S die body can be used with various brands of brass, even within the same caliber, which may have different neck wall thicknesses. This adaptability ensures consistent performance regardless of your brass source.
• Precision for .223 Remington and Beyond: While the UPC 611760711381 specifically identifies a die for the .223 Remington, the Type S system is revered across a multitude of calibers. For the .223 Remington, known for its accuracy potential in AR platforms and bolt-action rifles, achieving optimal neck tension is crucial for consistent performance in competitive shooting, varmint hunting, and general precision shooting.

Who Benefits from the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die? Real-World Applications

The Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die is not just another reloading tool; it's an investment for those who demand the utmost from their ammunition. Who specifically can benefit from integrating this die into their reloading regimen?

• Competitive Shooters: Whether you're competing in Benchrest, F-Class, PRS (Precision Rifle Series), or any discipline where fractions of an inch matter, consistent ammunition is your competitive edge. The Type S die allows competitors to fine-tune their loads for unmatched accuracy and reliability under pressure.
• Long-Range Enthusiasts: For those pushing the limits of their rifle's effective range, every variable needs to be controlled. The improved consistency in velocity and bullet flight path provided by precise neck tension translates directly to tighter groups at extended distances, making hits on challenging targets more probable.
• Varmint Hunters: When precise shot placement is crucial for clean kills on small, distant targets, ammunition consistency is non-negotiable. The ability to produce highly uniform .223 Remington ammunition ensures ethical and effective hunting.
• Precision Handloaders: For anyone who views handloading as an art and a science, and who constantly strives to optimize every aspect of their ammunition, the Type S die offers a level of control that standard dies simply cannot match. It’s a tool for the reloader who understands the nuances of cartridge performance.
• Reloaders Aiming for Sub-MOA Accuracy: If your goal is to consistently shoot groups under an inch at 100 yards, or even smaller, then controlling neck tension with a bushing die is an absolute must. It addresses a critical variable that can otherwise introduce unpredictable flyers.

How Does the Redding Type S Die Enhance Your Reloading Process?

Integrating the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die into your workflow is straightforward and significantly elevates the quality of your finished ammunition.

• Simplified Neck Sizing: While the concept of bushings might seem complex initially, using the die is quite simple. After cleaning and lubricating your cases, you select the appropriate bushing and insert it into the die. The die then precisely sizes the neck as the case is raised into it, leaving the case body untouched.
• Consistent Bullet Seating Force: With consistent neck tension across all cases, you'll notice a more uniform feel when seating bullets. This consistency is a direct indicator of quality control and contributes to reliable chambering and firing.
• Reduced Bullet Runout: Reloaders often struggle with bullet runout – the wobble of the bullet relative to the case axis. The Type S die, by providing uniform neck sizing, significantly reduces runout, ensuring the bullet enters the rifling squarely and flies true. Many users report runout numbers consistently under .0015" or even below .001", which is exceptional.
• Improved Powder Ignition: The consistent neck tension ensures a uniform initial resistance for the bullet upon ignition. This leads to more predictable and complete powder burn, contributing to consistent muzzle velocities and, ultimately, tighter extreme spreads (ES) and standard deviations (SD) in your velocity data – crucial metrics for precision.
• Extending Brass Life and Saving Costs: By minimizing the amount of work the brass undergoes, the Redding Type S die dramatically extends the life of your valuable cartridge cases. This means fewer discarded cases, less time spent preparing new brass, and significant long-term savings, especially with high-volume shooting or expensive match-grade brass.

Mastering Neck Tension: A Key to Reloading Excellence

Understanding and mastering neck tension is perhaps the single biggest reason reloaders invest in a bushing die like the Redding Type S.

• What is Neck Tension? It's the amount of "squeeze" the case neck applies to the seated bullet. It's typically measured as the difference between the seated bullet diameter and the inner diameter of the case neck after sizing. A common starting point for precision rifle ammunition is to aim for .002" to .003" of neck tension (e.g., if a .223 bullet is .224" in diameter, you'd want your case neck to size down to .221" or .222" internally).
• Impact on Accuracy: Too little neck tension can lead to bullets easily moving in the case (and potentially falling out), inconsistent ignition, and velocity variations. Too much tension can deform the bullet, overwork the brass, and also lead to inconsistent ignition. The "sweet spot" ensures the bullet is held firmly but released uniformly upon firing.
• How Bushings Allow Precise Control: The Type S die allows you to fine-tune this with interchangeable bushings. You measure your fired case neck with the bullet seated, then subtract your desired neck tension to determine the bushing size needed. For instance, if your loaded .223 Remington case neck measures .250" with a .224" bullet, and you want .002" tension, you'd aim for an inside neck diameter of .222". Accounting for brass spring-back, you might start with a .221" or .220" bushing and test. This empirical approach is what sets the Redding Type S system apart.
• Bushing Selection Guidance: Start by measuring your bullet diameter and the thickness of your fired case necks. Add these together to get an approximate loaded neck diameter. Then, subtract your desired neck tension (e.g., .002" to .003"). This gives you a starting bushing size. For example, for a .223 Rem (0.224" bullet) with brass that has a neck wall thickness of 0.012" (meaning a loaded neck diameter of 0.224 + 2*0.012 = 0.248"), if you desire 0.002" of tension, you would ideally want an internal neck diameter of 0.222". Considering brass spring-back, you might choose a bushing around 0.220" or 0.221". Testing various bushings is key to finding the optimal performance for your specific rifle and components.

Why Choose Redding for Your Precision Reloading Needs?

Redding Reloading Equipment has a long-standing reputation for manufacturing high-quality, precision-engineered reloading tools. For decades, they have been a trusted name among serious handloaders.

• Legacy of Quality: Redding's commitment to quality is evident in the robust construction and meticulous design of their dies. Their products are built to last a lifetime of heavy use.
• Commitment to Precision: Redding understands that accuracy is paramount. Their dies are designed with incredibly tight tolerances, ensuring repeatable results that are critical for achieving top-tier rifle performance.
• Designed for Serious Reloaders: From their competition dies to their standard offerings, Redding's product line is geared towards reloaders who are passionate about consistency and accuracy, providing the tools necessary to push the boundaries of performance.

The Redding Type S - Bushing Style Neck Sizing Die is a testament to this philosophy. It's a tool that empowers reloaders to unlock the full potential of their firearms, offering a level of control and consistency that can truly transform the shooting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Sizing Dies and Precision Reloading

Here are some common questions reloaders ask when considering tools like the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die:

• What is the best way to improve rifle accuracy through reloading? Focus on consistency across all variables. This includes using high-quality components (brass, bullets, primers, powder), carefully weighing powder charges, and critically, achieving consistent case preparation. A Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die is a top-tier tool for ensuring consistent neck tension and concentricity, which are primary drivers of accuracy.
• How do I choose the right bushing for my Redding Type S die? Start by measuring the diameter of your loaded bullet. Then measure the neck wall thickness of your fired brass. Add (2 * neck wall thickness) to the bullet diameter to get your estimated loaded neck diameter. Subtract your desired neck tension (typically .002" to .003" for precision rifle loads) from this number. This will give you a theoretical bushing size. It's usually best to purchase a few bushings around this size (e.g., .001" above and below) and test to find the optimal one for your specific rifle and components, as brass "spring-back" can vary.
• Can I use this specific die (UPC 611760711381) for other calibers? No, the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die with UPC 611760711381 is specifically designed and machined for the .223 Remington cartridge. While the "Type S" system is available for many different calibers, each die body is caliber-specific. You would need to purchase a separate Type S die for each different caliber you intend to reload.
• What are the benefits of neck sizing over full-length sizing for my rifle? Neck sizing primarily benefits rifles where the fired case fits the chamber very well. It extends brass life by minimizing working of the case body, which also reduces the need for frequent trimming. It can also lead to more consistent concentricity. Full-length sizing is necessary if cases become difficult to chamber or if you are reloading for multiple firearms with different chambers. For maximum precision in a single, dedicated rifle, neck sizing is often preferred.
• How does neck tension affect my bullet's flight? Consistent neck tension leads to consistent start pressure as the powder ignites and begins to push the bullet. This consistency directly translates to more uniform muzzle velocities. Inconsistent muzzle velocities are a major cause of vertical stringing on targets, especially at long range. By controlling neck tension precisely, you minimize this variable, leading to tighter groups.

Where to Find the Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Die (UPC 611760711381)

The Redding Type S - Bushing Style Neck Sizing Die (UPC 611760711381, SKU 71138) is a premium tool for any reloader serious about precision. For those looking to elevate their reloading game and achieve unparalleled accuracy, this die is a foundational component of a high-performance setup. You can find this essential reloading tool available at deguns.com, a trusted source for quality reloading equipment and shooting supplies. Investing in this die is investing in the consistency and performance of every round you load, ultimately leading to greater confidence and success on the range or in the field.

Product Details & Specifications

Feature	Description
Product Type	Neck Sizing Die
Style	Bushing Style (allows for interchangeable sizing bushings for precise neck tension control)
Manufacturer	Redding Reloading Equipment
Primary Function	Provides reloaders with a simple and highly effective means to precisely control case neck size and tension, crucial for consistent bullet seating, optimal concentricity, and enhanced accuracy.
Benefits	Improves cartridge concentricity, extends brass life by minimizing case body work, allows for micro-adjustment of neck tension, leads to more consistent muzzle velocities, and helps achieve tighter group sizes. Ideal for precision, match, and long-range shooting where consistency is paramount.
UPC	611760711381
SKU	71138
Compatibility	This specific die (UPC 611760711381) is designed for .223 Remington cartridges.
Material	High-grade steel, precision machined for durability and accuracy.
Application	Essential for competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, varmint hunters, and any reloader seeking to produce the most accurate and consistent ammunition possible for their rifle.
Key Feature	Utilizes Redding's interchangeable bushing system (bushings sold separately) to customize neck sizing down to .001" increments, ensuring optimal grip on the bullet while minimizing brass stress.
Recommended Use	Best paired with fired cases from a dedicated rifle to maintain a custom fit to that rifle's chamber, preventing excessive brass working and maximizing case longevity. For high-volume shooters or those using different rifles, a combination of neck sizing and occasional full-length sizing might be employed.
Availability	Available at deguns.com.