Ammo checker VS case gauge

[Tretas]

I'm starting reloading. I want to do it properly, but I don't want to dive into unnecessary steps.

I like lee and they don't even have nothing for that.

What is really the importance of the ammo checker and case gauge?

[zanes]

For my money, case length measurement using calipers and then a fit test in the relevant rifle are enough.

[Tretas]

For my money, case length measurement using calipers and then a fit test in the relevant rifle are enough.

That was actually what I was thinking. Why can't I check with the calliper? I guess it would be an improvement in the way we do it, but not a requirement since we can use the calliper.

[sarge4318]

Depends upon the case.

9mm, for instance, the case length is critical for headspace.
On some necked cases the headspace is measured to a datum on the shoulder, so neck length is less important in this regard.
Other cases headspace on the case rim.

So measuring the overall length on the case is only part of the story and can still leave you with an out of spec round. If you've sized with the correct die and it chambers easily there is less chance the case size is wrong. Neck trimming may still be needed on some cases though.

[sparko]

Well, if the cases are fire formed from your rifle, all I would do is use a Lee case length trimmer for your calibre and away you go.

[Black Beard]

They can help you set up the dies on rifle cases. When you resize a case it stretches forward so you often have to set the shoulder back. If you can measure against a known case then it lets you check the finished case and may reduce the amount of cases you mess up when setting up the dies.

But... If you use a breech lock style press the dies are set up all the time so you don't need one. Just set up the die so the finished case gives a bit of resistance to the bolt, add a couple of mm (on the circumference of the die, not vertically!) of turn clockwise turn on the die and it should be good. Resize again and see if it feels good lo load.

The thing about a case guage is that the dimensions can be relative to another case. Any cup shaped thing of around the right internal diameter can be dropped on top of the case and a measurement made between the base to the top of the cup. A 9mm case or a Lee powder scoop works fine. If you want the resized case to be the same as your fire formed one then adjust the die until they measure the same. Easy.

BB
(If any more experienced reloaders disagree, please do comment)

[Fox Tales]

Rewrote this , apologies