Description

Forster 2 Die Set FL Sizing: The Ultimate Guide to Precision Reloading

When it comes to precision reloading, few names command as much respect as Forster. Their 2 die set with full length (FL) sizing capabilities has become a cornerstone for serious handloaders who demand consistency and accuracy. But what exactly makes these dies so special, and how can you maximize their potential?

Introduction to Forster Dies and FL Sizing

Forster Products has been manufacturing precision reloading equipment since 1943, earning a reputation for creating some of the most accurate dies in the industry. Their 2 die sets represent the perfect balance between simplicity and performance, offering everything most reloaders need without unnecessary complexity.

Full length sizing is a critical process in ammunition reloading that ensures your cases will chamber reliably in any rifle of the same caliber. Unlike neck sizing, which only resizes the neck portion of the case, FL sizing processes the entire case body, returning it to SAAMI specifications.

What Makes Forster 2 Die Sets Special?

Premium Materials and Construction

Forster dies aren’t just machined from ordinary steel – they’re crafted from premium materials that ensure longevity and consistent performance. The company uses high-grade tool steel that’s been heat-treated to precise specifications, resulting in dies that maintain their dimensions even after thousands of rounds.

The internal surfaces receive a mirror-like finish that reduces friction and prevents case galling. This attention to detail means your brass comes out looking almost as good as it went in, extending case life significantly compared to rougher dies.

Precision Engineering Standards

What sets Forster apart is their commitment to precision. Each die is manufactured to tolerances measured in ten-thousandths of an inch. The company maintains strict quality control standards, with each die being individually inspected before leaving the factory.

This precision translates directly to your ammunition. When your cases are sized consistently, powder charges burn more uniformly, and bullets seat to identical depths. The result? Tighter groups on target and more predictable ballistic performance.

Understanding Full Length (FL) Sizing

What is Full Length Sizing?

Full length sizing is the process of returning a fired case to its original factory dimensions. When a cartridge fires, the case expands under pressure to conform to your rifle’s chamber. While this creates a perfect fit for that specific rifle, it can cause chambering issues in other firearms.

FL sizing addresses this by pushing the entire case through a die that’s cut to SAAMI minimum specifications. This ensures the case will chamber in any rifle of the same caliber, making it ideal for ammunition that might be used in multiple firearms or for creating truly uniform brass for precision shooting.

Benefits of FL Sizing Over Neck Sizing

While neck sizing has its place in precision reloading, FL sizing offers several advantages that make it the preferred choice for many applications. First and foremost is reliability – FL sized cases will chamber every time, regardless of the rifle being used.

This consistency is particularly important for hunting ammunition, where a failure to chamber could mean a missed opportunity. It’s also crucial for competitive shooting, where any feeding issues could cost precious points or even disqualify a competitor.

Case Life Considerations

One common concern about FL sizing is reduced case life compared to neck sizing. While it’s true that working the entire case body creates more stress than just resizing the neck, proper technique can minimize this impact. The key is to size only as much as necessary – just enough to ensure reliable chambering.

Modern FL dies, particularly those from Forster, are designed to minimize case working. Their precise dimensions mean cases aren’t oversized and then reformed, reducing the stress that leads to case failure.

Chamber Compatibility

FL sizing ensures your ammunition will work in any rifle chambered for the same cartridge. This universality is invaluable for hunters who might use backup rifles, competitive shooters who travel to different ranges, or anyone who wants to share ammunition between family members.

Components of a Forster 2 Die Set

The Full Length Sizing Die

The heart of any Forster 2 die set is the FL sizing die. This precision-machined component performs multiple functions simultaneously – it resizes the case body, reforms the shoulder, and sizes the neck to proper dimensions for bullet seating.

Forster’s FL dies feature a unique internal geometry that provides smooth, consistent sizing with minimal force required. The expander ball is precisely positioned and sized to create optimal neck tension while preventing case mouth damage during extraction.

The Seating Die with Micrometer Adjustment

The second die in the set is Forster’s renowned micrometer seating die. This isn’t just any seating die – it’s a precision instrument that allows adjustment in increments as small as 0.001 inches. The micrometer head is clearly marked and provides positive, repeatable adjustments.

What makes this die special is its sliding chamber that aligns the case and bullet before seating begins. This eliminates the bullet runout that can occur with conventional seating dies, resulting in ammunition with concentricity that rivals benchrest-quality hand loads.

Lock Rings and Accessories

Forster doesn’t skimp on the details. Each die set includes precision-machined lock rings that hold their position securely, eliminating the frustration of dies that shift during use. The rings feature easy-to-grip knurling and split designs that won’t mar your press threads.

Setting Up Your Forster FL Sizing Dies

Initial Installation Process

Setting up Forster dies requires attention to detail but isn’t complicated. Start by threading the FL sizing die into your press until it contacts the shell holder with the ram at the top of its stroke. From this position, thread the die down an additional quarter to half turn to ensure full case contact.

The key is achieving proper case-to-die contact without over-sizing. Too much contact can overwork your brass, while too little won’t properly resize the case. Forster’s precision manufacturing makes finding this sweet spot easier than with less precise dies.

Proper Height Adjustment

Proper die height is crucial for consistent results. The case should enter the die smoothly and be sized its full length without excessive force. If you’re feeling significant resistance, you may have the die set too low, which can damage both the case and the die.

Start conservatively and adjust downward in small increments until you achieve the desired amount of sizing. Remember, the goal is to resize just enough to ensure reliable chambering – not to reduce every case to minimum dimensions.

Shell Holder Considerations

The shell holder plays a crucial role in FL sizing consistency. Forster recommends using shell holders that provide proper case support without interfering with the sizing process. The shell holder should grip the case rim securely while allowing the case body to enter the die fully.

Some reloaders prefer to use different shell holders to fine-tune their sizing, effectively changing the amount of shoulder bump by altering the case’s position relative to the die. This technique requires careful measurement and isn’t necessary for most applications.

Step-by-Step FL Sizing Process

Case Preparation

Proper case preparation is essential for consistent FL sizing results. Start with clean cases – dirty brass can scratch die internals and produce inconsistent results. Remove any primer pocket debris and inspect cases for cracks or other defects.

Trimming cases to proper length before sizing ensures consistent results and prevents case mouths from being damaged during the sizing process. While Forster dies are designed to handle slight length variations, maintaining consistent case length produces the best results.

Lubrication Techniques

Adequate lubrication is critical when FL sizing. Unlike neck sizing, which works only a small portion of the case, FL sizing involves contact between the die and most of the case surface. Insufficient lubrication can result in stuck cases, galled brass, or even damaged dies.

Apply a thin, even coat of case lube to the case body and shoulder. Avoid getting lubricant on the case neck, as this can affect neck tension and bullet seating consistency. A light touch is key – too much lubricant can cause hydraulic dents in case shoulders.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

The most common mistake in FL sizing is using too much force. Forster dies are designed to size cases with minimal effort when properly set up and lubricated. If you’re fighting the press handle, something isn’t right.

Another frequent error is inconsistent ram travel. Make sure you’re operating the press handle the same way for each case, reaching the same top-of-stroke position every time. Inconsistent ram travel produces inconsistent sizing, which defeats the purpose of using precision dies.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Stuck Cases and Solutions

Even with proper technique, cases occasionally stick in sizing dies. When this happens, resist the urge to use excessive force, which can damage the case, die, or press. Instead, try working the case gently back and forth while applying penetrating oil around the case mouth.

For severely stuck cases, Forster offers a stuck case removal kit that safely extracts cases without damaging the die. Prevention is better than cure, so ensure proper lubrication and avoid oversizing cases whenever possible.

Inconsistent Sizing Results

If your cases aren’t sizing consistently, check several factors. First, ensure your die height is set correctly and hasn’t shifted. Verify that your shell holder is properly positioned and that cases are entering the die straight.

Worn or damaged expander balls can also cause inconsistent results. These components take significant wear over time and may need replacement after processing thousands of cases. Fortunately, Forster offers replacement parts for all their dies.

Die Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance extends die life and ensures consistent performance. Clean your dies regularly using appropriate solvents to remove lubricant buildup and brass particles. A bronze brush works well for removing stubborn deposits from die internals.

Store dies in a dry environment to prevent rust, and consider using a light coating of oil on external surfaces for long-term storage. Avoid using steel brushes or abrasive cleaners that could damage the precision internal surfaces.

Comparing Forster to Other Brands

While several manufacturers produce quality FL sizing dies, Forster consistently ranks among the top choices for precision reloaders. Their attention to detail, quality materials, and precision manufacturing set them apart from budget alternatives.

Compared to other premium brands, Forster dies offer competitive accuracy at a reasonable price point. The micrometer seating die included in their 2 die sets often costs as much as an entire die set from other manufacturers, making Forster sets an excellent value.

The company’s customer service and parts availability also deserve mention. Forster stands behind their products and maintains parts inventory for dies produced decades ago, ensuring your investment remains functional for years to come.

Best Practices for Long-Term Use

To maximize the life and performance of your Forster dies, establish consistent procedures and stick to them. Use the same lubricant, apply it the same way, and operate your press with consistent technique. This consistency pays dividends in ammunition uniformity.

Keep detailed records of your die settings, especially for the micrometer seating die. Recording successful load combinations saves time and ensures you can duplicate accurate ammunition batches in the future.

Consider investing in Forster’s additional accessories, such as their case trimmer and primer pocket reamer. Using products designed to work together often produces better results than mixing components from different manufacturers.

Conclusion

Forster 2 die sets with FL sizing capability represent an excellent investment for serious reloaders who demand precision and consistency. Their combination of quality materials, precision manufacturing, and thoughtful design makes them suitable for everything from hunting ammunition to benchrest competition loads.

While proper technique and maintenance are essential for optimal results, Forster’s precision manufacturing makes achieving consistent performance easier than with lesser dies. The investment in quality tools pays dividends in ammunition accuracy and shooting enjoyment.

Whether you’re a competitive shooter seeking maximum accuracy or a hunter who demands reliable ammunition, Forster’s FL sizing dies provide the precision and consistency needed to achieve your goals. With proper care, these dies will serve you well for decades, making them one of the best investments you can make in your reloading setup.