Another headspace question

[Randyc]

I am building a .284 Win. On a savage 12 single shot action. I can't find a go gauge, can I press a bullet into virgin brass to make a SAMMI round close to a factory round to set headspace? What are my options for setting my headspace?

[Zero333]

You don't need a bullet for setting headspace.

You can...
full size a virgin case,
tape 2 pieces of masking tape on the head,
snug the barrel up to it,
remove the sized brass,
tighten the barrel nut.

Now you'll be limited to this brass and sizing die only,... no one can tell how much a FL sizing die will size compared to a go-gauge.

You could use just the virgin brass with out sizing it but who knows how far off it's going to be compared to when you FL size it.

[Hotolds442]

Try to source a 6.5x284 go gauge. They are far more popular than the 284 Winchester and the datum line is in the same location.

[Randyc]

I will try that method, thanks for the detailed explaination. Will using fire formed brass make any difference if I use this method?

[Randyc]

Thanks Hotolds, I will see if I can buy one.
I know they are priced high as a giraffes ass but money well spent I think.

[Randyc]

Found one on midway in stock, I didn't see one that was actually in stock before, or I just missed it.
Thanks guys for the information. Greatly appreciated.

[BillPa]

Found one on midway in stock, I didn't see one that was actually in stock before, or I just missed it.
Thanks guys for the information. Greatly appreciated.

If its a one and done swap save yourself some bucks and rent a set from 4D http://www.4-dproducts.com/displayitem.php?rowid=114&tname=rental

Bill

[mike21]

Recently ran across this sale on Forster's if you haven't ordered from Midway yet. Seems a fair savings.

http://www.eabco.net/Forster-Headspace-Gauges_p_14570.html

[Zero333]

I will try that method, thanks for the detailed explaination. Will using fire formed brass make any difference if I use this method?

Yes, fireformed brass would be better than FL sized brass. But only need 1pc of masking tape on the head of the fireformed brass. Same procedure.

[RC20]

Recently ran across this sale on Forster's if you haven't ordered from Midway yet. Seems a fair savings.

http://www.eabco.net/Forster-Headspace-Gauges_p_14570.html

Some good cross information on the calibers they cover as well.

I went with the Clymer set, go and no go (they seem to have a bit better reputation) and wanted to be pretty solid with the first one I did. They do cost more.