Almost all RCBS dies use the industry standard 7/8” 14 thread, which fits nearly all single stage and progressive presses from RCBS, Hornady, Lee, Lyman, Redding, Dillon, and others. This standard was originally established by RCBS and is now universal across the industry. NOTE: you may experience variance in sizing if not loading on a press that cams over.
Full Length Sizing Dies: Resize the entire case to SAAMI minimum dimensions; best for reliability, semi autos, or brass used in multiple rifles.
~ Neck Sizing Dies: Resize only the neck; reduces the chances of case head separation and can improve accuracy in bolt action rifles fired in the same chamber.
~ Small Base Dies: Resize slightly more than standard full length sizing dies; ideal for semi autos or tight chambers where feeding reliability matters most.
Rifle dies: Yes; always use case lube to prevent stuck cases. Failing to lube rifle cases is the #1 cause of stuck brass.
~ Pistol carbide dies: No; RCBS carbide pistol dies eliminate the need for case lube (though light lube can still reduce effort).
A decapping pin is designed to be a disposable item. They can bend or break after heavy use, or when a Berdan primed case or crimped primer slips into your brass. Good news: Pins are inexpensive, replaceable, and widely available.
Yes; RCBS dies are fully serviceable. Decapping pins, expander balls, lock rings, seating plugs and even whole decapping units are all replaceable. RCBS even custom fits seating stems when needed for unusual bullet profiles.
This usually means the seating stem doesn’t match your bullet profile. Most of the time, these marks are cosmetic only - meaning your projectile’s performance downrange may not be affected. If your accuracy is affected and you wish to remove the marks, RCBS offers alternate seating plugs and will modify stems when needed.
For most sizing dies:
1. Raise the ram fully
2. Screw the die down until it contacts the shell holder
3. Lower the ram and turn the die 1/8–1/4 turn further to allow proper cam over
This removes press flex and ensures consistent sizing.
Yes, but rifle cartridges using cast bullets often require a neck expander die to properly flare the case mouth and avoid shaving lead. RCBS offers dedicated expander dies for this purpose.
RCBS dies have a limited lifetime warranty for the original customer. If a die doesn’t perform as intended due to materials or workmanship, RCBS will replace, refund, or repair it. Wear items, like decapping pins, are considered consumables and are not part of the warranty, but are easily replaced.
