I have a NEI mold for 45 cal 225 gr. SWC which has a beveled base. I'm getting a small smear of lube on the bevel at the base when I lube and size. I'm wiping it off because I don't want it to contaminate the powder. I haven't used this mold in a number of years but don't remember having this problem. I've tried adjusting the stem for the travel but that hasn't improved the situation. I'm looking for suggestions on eliminating the problem or is it even a problem as far as powder contamination? Thanks.

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Firearms stand next in importance to the Constitution itself…To insure peace, security and happiness, the rifle and pistol are equally indispensable…They deserve a place of honor with all that’s good…”
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Have the same problem when using any kind of BB mold.
I just wipe the base off before tossing them into a box for later use.
I have only one mold that is of a BB base design.
Everything else is a flat base design.

Tom

You sound like an experienced caster. I'm thinking of shrinkage which may allow enough clearance for your lube to flow under your bullets. I would check the as-cast diameter of the bullet and add some tin to the alloy if the bullets are coming out undersized.

I wouldn't rule out seater stem adjustment in eliminating your problem either.

Thanks for the input. Someone else suggested putting a cardboard spacer under the bullet in the die. That seems to have improved it some.

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Firearms stand next in importance to the Constitution itself…To insure peace, security and happiness, the rifle and pistol are equally indispensable…They deserve a place of honor with all that’s good…”
George Washington

or a piece of styrofoam cut from a grocery store meat package tray.
..

I don't know what sizer or dies you are using. The Lyman dies have a row of holes, so they tend to flow lube in everywhere. The RCBS have holes at one level, and if you line the bullet up in it to fill your lube grooves with it, then remember to take pressure off the lube before pushing the bullet out of the die, it can help reduce flow into the bevel as it passes the dispensing hole. The Star should let you block unused holes. A custom ejection ram can be made to match your bullet bases or just a ring that fills in the base profile, but unless you have lathe and can do it yourself, that's probably a cost prohibitive approach.

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Nick

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