204Ruger

Hi, hope someone can help me figure out what I'm doing wrong here. The setup:

RCBS single stage press
RCBS FL sizing die/RCBS seating die - both from AR series of dies.
Brass: Fiocchi and Hornady
Bullet: Speer TNT 39 grain

I've already reloaded this batch of brass once and had no problem using Nosler 40 grain V-Max. When I try to seat the bullet on this new batch, the bullet either drops into the case or I can push it in to the case with just my index finger. I set up the sizing die exactly as per the instructions included with the dies, and set up the seating die to create a taper crimp, but even with some crimp the neck is too big for the bullet. I'm hesitant to do anything other than what the instructions indicate as I'm a new rifle reloader (but have done this a lot for pistol if that helps).

Thanks in advance for any assistance!

Two things come to mind here.

First, it sounds like your brass needs to be annealed prior to any more loading.
Second, you may want to consider using bushing dies to control the actual neck dimensions and neck tension.

By being able to control the finished neck I.D., you'll always have the proper amount of bullet tension in the neck of the case.

Thanks for the quick reply Rick. It only happens with the Hornady brass. Weird. Thanks again!

Could have something to do with the button on the end of the decapping pin being too big. As you withdraw the case from a FL die the button is supposed to set the I.D. Decap in a separate operation so the ball doesn't interfere with neck tension. Just another reason to go with a bushing neck sizing die. Adjust the die so that the bushings can float allowing them to self-center on the case neck. Once you incorporate Rick's suggestions you'll never look back.

Annealing reduces brass spring back.
I found this on 270 brass...it would spring back, some cases, until I was annealed. Lee collet die.

However, this may not be the cause.

Maybe double check your set up again...after having a break. Sounds very exasperating.