trimming 380 ACP - RCBS

[trappst]

Kinda need some help here folks...

Trying to set up my RCBS power case trimmer to prep some 380 ACP brass. My problem is that I can't get the cutting head close enough to the case. I can't find my owner's manual at the moment and the RCBS website is ridiculously slow.

Am I doing something wrong here or is the 380 ACP just too short to trim on the RCBS power trimmer?

[sha-ul]

you might have to try an extended shell holder if you haven't already

[Eric in NC]

Have you measured the cases? Do they need trimming?

[trappst]

I measured several out of a box of 100 (starline) and all that were measured were .003" or so short of max case length. They don't need it, but I was kinda wanting to trim 'em all so they would be exactly the same.

I shot RCBS an email this morning. Kinda curious as to what they'll say.

[helotaxi]

I'll wager that they'll shrink over time without any trimming. Also since you won't really be crimping them, case length isn't critical. From an accuracy and reliability standpoint, you'd probably make things worse by shortening the case from where it is. As you shorten the case, you increase headspace.

[trappst]

Good point! I haven't done much loading for semi auto pistols so I'm learning as I go. I'm used to rifle and revolvers. I still haven't heard from RCBS although their website says it could be a few days before a response is received.

I think I may just load a few up (starting low of course) and she what the little S&W bodyguard will do.

[Smokey262]

I never trim my .380 and .45ACP cases. I don't even measure them.

[Joe O]

I never trim my .380 and .45ACP cases. I don't even measure them.


Onlr handgun cases I ever trimmed were 45 Colt and 357 Mag,and that was because I put a strong roll crimp
on the bullet.Otherwise it's a wast of time and unnecessary.

[frank1947]

I shot uspsa for years and still do I know 100 s of people and none trim semi auto pistol cases

[jlcpls]

What kind of 380 you shooting, just out of curiosity?

[trappst]

Got a new Smith & Wesson Bodyguard about a week ago. After 50 rounds of cheap RWS ammo, I'm liking it.

I'm about ready to load up some rounds with 90g XTP's and Unique.....

[frank1947]

nice, i have a rcbs power trimmer if you really want to trim them you made need to loosen the black knobs and push motor all the way forward to trim them, if you need more then put a 380 case in that is close to what lenght you want loosen shaft collar and move cutting shaft forward.