RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets Review

Let’s Dive into RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets are a specialized reloading tool designed for enthusiasts of Cowboy Action Shooting and those who appreciate the charm and history of period firearms. Crafted by RCBS, a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment, these die sets promise precision and reliability when loading straight-wall cartridges with lead bullets. My journey into reloading for Cowboy Action Shooting began a few years back, driven by the desire to craft ammunition tailored to my vintage revolvers and lever-action rifles. Factory ammunition, while readily available, often lacked the specific characteristics I sought – softer lead bullets, optimized powder charges for period firearms, and the satisfaction of creating my own rounds.

I had been using a universal die set, but the results were inconsistent, especially with lead bullets. I was looking for a die set specifically designed for lead bullets and period firearms. When I stumbled upon the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets, I was intrigued by the promise of optimized sizing, expanding, seating, and crimping specifically tailored for lead bullet ammunition.

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets arrived in a sturdy, no-frills package, characteristic of RCBS. Upon opening, the dies felt substantial and well-machined, with a reassuring heft that spoke to their quality. The carbide construction immediately caught my eye. This promised smooth operation and long-term durability, especially when working with lead bullets.

I considered other options like the Lee Carbide 3-Die Set and the Hornady Custom Grade New Dimension 3-Die Set. I chose the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets because of RCBS’s reputation for exceptional quality and the specific design catering to lead bullets used in cowboy action loads. The RCBS name carries weight in the reloading world, and I trusted their expertise in crafting dies that would deliver consistent results. My initial excitement was tempered with anticipation. Could these dies truly elevate my reloading game and deliver the precision and reliability I craved for my vintage firearms?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets was my home reloading bench, a space dedicated to the meticulous process of handloading ammunition. I focused on loading .38 Special rounds for my Uberti 1873 Cattleman revolver. The setup process was straightforward, following the clear instructions provided by RCBS. Each die seated smoothly into my RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme press.

I started with a batch of 50 rounds, carefully monitoring each step. The carbide sizer die effortlessly resized the cases, providing a consistent diameter for proper bullet seating. The expander die flared the case mouth just enough to prevent shaving lead from the bullets during seating. After seating the lead bullets, the roll crimp die provided a consistent and secure crimp, ensuring proper ignition and preventing bullet setback during recoil. No issues arose during the initial loading process, giving me confidence in the dies’ capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past several months, the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets have become an indispensable part of my reloading process. I have loaded thousands of rounds with these dies, spanning .38 Special, .32 H&R Magnum, and .32 S&W Long. The dies have consistently delivered accurate and reliable ammunition for my cowboy action firearms. I inspect the dies regularly, cleaning them with a nylon brush and solvent to remove any lead or powder residue.

The carbide construction has proven to be remarkably durable, showing no signs of wear or damage despite extensive use. These dies outperform the universal die set I previously used. That die set experienced issues with bullet seating depth and inconsistent crimps. The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets deliver uniform results.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets

Specifications

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets are specifically designed for loading straight-wall cartridges common in Cowboy Action Shooting. These sets include a sizer die, an expander die, and a roll crimp die, each playing a crucial role in the reloading process. The Manufacturer is RCBS, a trusted name in reloading equipment. The sets are available in various calibers, including .327 Federal Magnum, .32 H&R Magnum, and .32 S&W Long.

Each set contains three dies. These are constructed from carbide for exceptional durability. They are suitable for reloading handgun ammunition. The country of origin is the USA, ensuring high quality and manufacturing standards. The carbide construction ensures smooth operation and reduces friction. This is particularly important when working with lead bullets. The roll crimp die ensures proper bullet seating and prevents movement during firing.

Performance & Functionality

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets excel at their intended purpose: creating accurate and reliable ammunition for Cowboy Action Shooting. The sizer die ensures consistent case dimensions, which is crucial for proper chambering and accuracy. The expander die gently flares the case mouth to prevent lead shaving during bullet seating. The roll crimp die provides a secure crimp. This enhances powder ignition and prevents bullet setback, especially important in revolvers.

The dies are incredibly accurate, consistently producing ammunition that groups tightly at the range. There are no notable weaknesses. The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets have exceeded my expectations. They provide a level of precision and consistency that was previously unattainable with my universal die set.

Design & Ergonomics

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets feature a robust and functional design. They are made from high-quality steel and carbide. This contributes to their durability and smooth operation. The dies feel substantial in hand, inspiring confidence in their ability to withstand years of use. The dies are user-friendly, with clear markings and easy adjustability.

There is no significant learning curve associated with using these dies. The design is well thought out and intuitive, allowing even novice reloaders to achieve excellent results.

Durability & Maintenance

Thanks to their carbide construction, the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets are built to last. They will withstand thousands upon thousands of reloading cycles without showing signs of wear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a nylon brush and solvent to remove any lead or powder residue. These dies are designed for long-term reliability, providing years of consistent performance with minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets come with the three essential dies needed for reloading straight-wall cartridges: a sizer die, an expander die, and a roll crimp die. While no additional accessories are included in the set, RCBS offers a wide range of reloading equipment and accessories that complement these dies. These include shell holders, priming tools, and powder measures. The dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses, including those from RCBS, Hornady, and Lee. The availability of a wide range of compatible accessories allows reloaders to customize their setup to suit their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets?

These RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets are perfect for Cowboy Action Shooters, reloaders who primarily use lead bullets, and anyone seeking precision and reliability in their straight-wall cartridge reloading. Those who appreciate quality tools and the satisfaction of crafting their own ammunition will find these dies particularly rewarding.

If you reload exclusively bottlenecked rifle cartridges, or are on an extremely tight budget, this product may not be the best fit. Those seeking the most cost-effective option might explore alternative die sets. A shell holder is essential for use with these dies, as it is not included.

Conclusion on RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets

The RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about reloading straight-wall cartridges for Cowboy Action Shooting or other applications where lead bullets are preferred. The precision, durability, and ease of use make these dies a standout choice.

At $79.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the precision engineering, and the long-term reliability that RCBS is known for. I wholeheartedly recommend the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets to anyone looking to elevate their reloading game and achieve consistent, accurate results with their straight-wall cartridges. Upgrade your reloading bench with the RCBS Cowboy 3-Die Carb Sets and experience the difference that quality dies can make!