Converting 450/400 3 1/4 cases to 450/400 3"?

[Kevin Peacocke]

I am battling to find 450/400 3" brass but found some 3 1/4". Can these be trimmed down for use in a 3"?

 

[degoins]

Unfortunately not. Several differences in the case dimensions. Rim thickness being one.

 

[IvW]

Nope wont work I will try and source some for you

 

[Kevin Peacocke]

Nope wont work I will try and source some for you

Thanks Ivor.

 

[IvW]

Magnum Arms Nelspruit or Kevin Steward I will confirm tomorrow...

 

[fsrmg1]

You'd be better off sizing down .450 - 3 1/4" cases and trimming to length.

When you do the initial sizing, set the shoulder length a bit long and try for fit, gradually screwing the die in 1/8th turn at a time to reduce shoulder length until the case rim sits flush with the breech face. You can verify this with a straight edge. This will give you close to zero headspace off the shoulder. I like to then fire form the case. Once done, you are good to go.

For hunting loads, I further reduce the headspace a few thousandth of an inch to ensure easy clambering of the rounds, even if a bit fouled.

Happy shooting!

 

[IvW]

Magnum Arms Nelspruit or Kevin Steward I will confirm tomorrow...

Called all my connections......no stock....they will let me know as soon as they get any in and I will let you know....

 

[Kevin Peacocke]

Called all my connections......no stock....they will let me know as soon as they get any in and I will let you know....

Thanks