Thread: Resized Cartridges Won't Chamber

Originally Posted by will.i.em

Hi all,

I have reloaded 100 cartridges using a Lee FL Sizing Die. In my Savage 16, they chamber fine.

However, in my Howa 1500, I can't get the bolt handle down on 1 in 4 rounds. It feels like the handle is jambed, and I can't close it.

Case length is within spec for 7mm08.
OAL is 2.800"

I screw the sizing die in until it makes contact with the ram, so I can't imagine that it's a headspacing issue.

Is it an issue with the tolerances on a Lee die? I've always heard people say they aren't good quality.

@will.i.em Did you try to chamber a sized case b4 adding powder and projectiles? Useful to know this b4 rushing off with a lot of solutions.

How much do you think a bit of emery is going to remove?

You probably need to push the shoulder back a little more / screw your sizing die in a little more.