· top picks · 10 min read
Precision Loading: 15 Best 5.7x28mm Reloading Dies for Consistent Ammunition
Our detailed comparison of the top 5 7 X28 reloading dies helps shooters choose the right tools for their cartridge resizing needs.
Reloading cartridges requires precise measuring and cutting of brass cases to ensure accurate chambering and reliable operation in firearms. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is no exception. This article reviews the best reloading dies specifically designed for this chambering, comparing their accuracy, durability, and ease of use to help you choose the right tools for your reloading setup.
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Reviews
FN 5.7x28 Die Set 91363
When you’ve got precision shooting in your blood, every decimal point counts. This quick-trim die locks in your 5.7x28 FN cartridges with surgical accuracy, giving your rifle the edge it needs on the range. And with same-day shipping, your ammo’s ready to go before you can say “sub-minute-of-inch. “
Hornady Match Die Set
The 300 Rem Ultra Magnum die set helps you get match-grade accuracy without using multiple dies, thanks to its micro-adjustable seating feature that lets you make tiny. 001” changes. It includes everything you need for precise loading, from standard seating stems to an elliptical expander. While some users have had initial setup issues, many praise its performance and value as long-range shooting dies.
Competition Pro Carbide Die Set
The Competition Pro Carbide Die Set proves its worth through consistent, precise seating that surpasses cheaper alternatives. Users appreciate the tight tolerances and minimal bullet runout, though some note the need for a separate expander die when using single-stage presses. With Redding’s renowned attention to detail, these dies deliver reliable performance at a premium price point.
Redding 2 Die Set
When you’re reloading 7.62x39 rounds, this Redding die set has everything you need except the shell holder – that’s sold separately. The full-length sizing die and seating die work together to give you precise cases every time, with the seating die featuring a built-in crimping ring and bullet guide. The compact design fits nicely in its included storage box, which also has handy little features like built-in stands for your shell holder and spare decapping pin. It’s made in the USA with Redding’s usual attention to detail that keeps gun owners reloading confidently time after time.
Mighty Armory Magnum Case Hold Down Die
The Mighty Armory Magnum Case Hold Down Die combines precision engineering with remarkable durability, featuring a CNC-machined alloy body and heat-treated tool steel shaft. The modular design allows for versatile applications, including both hold down and decapping operations, while the. 500 diameter bore accommodates cases up to. 338 Lapua. The die’s reliable pressure system, complete with posted cap and primer flicker spring, ensures consistent performance without damaging your reloading equipment.
Hornady New Dimension Dies
This American-made die set combines precision engineering with thoughtful design features, like the zip spindle and floating seating sleeve, to help you achieve consistent, accurate reloads. Theincluded four-die set covers all the bases for 350 Legend reloading, from full-length sizing to deep-crimp seating for heavy loads. While the separate shellholder adds a small hassle, the quality construction and reliable performance make it well worth the investment for serious reloaders.
Esslinger 59.0805 Die Set
A comprehensive collection of 14 nylon dies in both flat and cupped designs, this replacement set offers precise sizing options from 16mm to 36mm for watch crystals and cases. The user-friendly set mounts with a 5mm hole and includes seven flat dies and seven cupped dies, providing versatile precision for watch case and crystal press applications.
Lee Steel 3 Die Set
The Lee Steel 3-Die Set offers essential reloading features at a more affordable price point, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious shooters. With included components like the sizer die, powder-through expander die, and bullet-seater die, along with detailed load charts and protective storage case, this reliable set helps ensure consistent cartridge sizing and proper ammunition seating.
5-7 X28 Reloading Die
Accurately set your bullet seating depth with this American-made die that lets you spin in 0.001 increments. The stainless steel tool takes the guesswork out of reloading by matching your chamber’s perfect seating depth—no more wondering if your cartridges are too long or short.
Hornady Series I 2-Die Set
Crafted with precision-engineered Sip Spindle technology, these 2-die reloading sets from Hornady deliver unmatched consistency with every load. The machined steel construction and lifetime guarantee make them a trusted choice for serious reloaders, while features like Die Locking Rings and 7/8”-14 threads ensure reliable performance session after session.
Hornady 3-Piece Reloading Die Set
Crafted for precision reloading, this three-die set features durable locking rings with wrench flats for secure installation. The included sizing, expander, and seating die combine efficient case preparation with reliable bullet seating. While it requires manual setup, the system proves accurate and consistent, delivering tight-fitting reloads that meet factory standards.
Hornady 6.5 Grendel Die Set
While Hornady’s new die set brings some welcome improvements over their standard offerings, the mixed reviews hint at both the precision engineering and occasional reliability issues that shooters have experienced. The full-length sizing die and sure-loc rings showcase the company’s technical expertise, but the seating die’s tendency to lose its setting requires careful attention to ensure consistent results. Many users appreciate the reduced resizing effort and smoother operation compared to competitor dies, though a few have noted compatibility issues with specific bullet designs.
Hornady Series II 3-Die Set
Hornady’s Series II 3-Die set makes reloading for. 357 SIG cartridges straightforward and accurate. The set includes a sizing die, expander die, and seating die, with the convenience of built-in die locking rings that secure each step of the process. Coming in at just over 7 inches tall and 2 inches wide, the compact set includes a storage box for safekeeping your new tools. While some users note occasional issues with case decapping, the overall precision and durability of these American-made dies make them a solid investment for anyone who loads ammunition regularly.
Hornady 6.5-284 Dies
These precision-engineered dies deliver exceptional results time after time, thanks to their durable steel construction and innovative Sip Spindle design that prevents slippage during use. The full-length sizing and seating capabilities ensure your ammunition meets the highest standards, while the lifetime guarantee speaks volumes about Hornady’s confidence in their craftsmanship.
Hornady 2-Die Set
These American-made die sets combine precise engineering with thoughtful design details like heat-treated steel construction and smooth-acting components. The included locking rings and sturdy brass storage box make them a practical choice for reloaders, though some users have noted slight inconsistencies in case sizing. With options for both resizing and bullet seating, these affordable dies have earned a solid reputation among shooters who prioritize reliability over extreme precision.
Buyer’s Guide
5/7x28 reloading dies are essential tools for precision rifle cartridge reloaders. These dies require careful consideration due to their specialized design and the critical dimensions they control. Understanding the key aspects of 5/7x28 reloading dies will help you select the right tools for your precision rifle reloading setup.
Die Components and Functionality
5/7x28 dies consist of several critical components, including the resizing die, case neck forming die, and case neck tension adjusting mechanism. The resizing die imparts proper case body dimensions, while the case neck forming die ensures proper bullet seating depth and neck uniformity. The tension adjuster allows for precise control over case neck expansion, crucial for consistent cartridges.
Material Quality and Durability
Investing in high-quality steel construction is paramount when selecting 5/7x28 dies. Choose dies made from at least 70crv Steel, which offers superior temper stability and wear resistance compared to lower-grade steels. Premium dies may feature case-hardened exteriors, stainless steel components, and hardened interior working surfaces to extend tool life and maintain accuracy.
Size and Compatibility
These dies typically require a substantial press capable of at least 30,000 pounds of force. The die neck size must match your precision rifle ammunition’s case neck diameter. Some dies offer adjustable neck sizes through interchangeable sleeves or stepped diesets. Ensure your reloading bench and press have adequate clearance for the die length and proper press fitting techniques.
Calibration and Tolerance Control
Proper calibration is essential for accurate 5/7x28 die sets. Dies should include built-in micrometer adjustments for precise neck size control and case height setting. Consider die sets that offer built-in tension adjustment mechanisms to maintain consistent case neck expansion. Regular maintenance, including die barrel cleaning and lubrication, ensures continued accuracy and reliability.
FAQ
What are the main applications of 5.7x28mm reloading dies?
5.7x28mm reloading dies are specifically designed for the 5.7x28mm NATO cartridge. They enable reloaders to perform critical resizing and forming operations on the cartridge case, ensuring proper dimensions and geometry for reliable chambering and firing.
These dies typically work in conjunction with a case neck expander and flaring tool to ensure accurate neck sizing and proper case mouth geometry, which is essential for consistent case sealing and reliable ignition in the chamber.
What is the primary purpose of the resizing die?
The resizing die is the most critical component of the set, responsible for resizing the case to the proper dimension while creating the correct brass-to-metal contact area. This ensures proper case length and uniform wall thickness, which is crucial for consistent chambering and reliable cycling in firearms.
During the resizing process, the die also forms the case mouth to the correct diameter, creating a uniform shoulder angle and proper case head seating surface. This precise geometry is essential for reliable chambering and firing.
How do the case neck expander and forming die work together?
The case neck expander is used in conjunction with the resizing die to create the correct neck diameter and flare. It expands the neck to the proper dimension while preserving the neck tension, which is crucial for consistent case neck tension and proper bullet seat height.
The forming die then trims any excess neck metal and creates the correct case mouth angle, ensuring proper bullet seating and reliable headspace measurements. Together, these dies produce a necked case that consistently seats bullets to the correct depth while maintaining proper case mouth geometry.
What maintenance requirements are there for these dies?
The dies should be cleaned thoroughly after each use with brass cleaner and a brass brush. After cleaning, they should be lubricated with appropriate die lubricant to prevent sticking and maintain smooth operation.
Regular inspection of the die components for wear is essential. The resizing die barrel should show consistent wear patterns, and the forming die should maintain its angle without excessive wear. Any noticeable changes in size or shape should prompt replacement of the affected component.
How do I choose the correct sizing die adjustment?
The correct sizing die adjustment is determined by comparing the actual case length to the ideal length for your specific cartridge and firearm. The goal is to resize the case to its maximum usable length while maintaining proper wall thickness and case taper.
Most manufacturers provide charts or guidelines for proper sizing die adjustments based on case type and firearm model. It’s important to start with a slightly loose setting and gradually increase until the case shows proper resize marks and proper wall tension.
What are the consequences of using worn or improperly adjusted dies?
Using worn dies can result in inconsistent case geometry, improper neck tension, and unreliable chambering. This can lead to poor rifle performance, malfunctioning firearms, and potential safety issues.
Improperly adjusted dies can create cases that are either too long or too short, affect case taper consistency, and impact bullet seating depth. These issues can compromise chamber fit, case sealing, and overall reliability in the firearm.
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