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Removing a Case Stuck in a Die
Cases get stuck in re-sizing dies for a couple of reasons; mostly because of insufficient lubrication, also because the cases were dirty; sometimes the wrong die/case combination is used. Sometimes cases stick in the forming die while forming a wildcat. Forming dies usually do not present a problem, as the case can be knocked out with a punch. Re-sizing dies usually have a de-capping/neck sizing shaft inside the stuck case, and this presents a problem.
This is what your buddy brings to your shop, a case, stuck in a die, with the extractor rim ripped off and the de-capper in place.
First, loosen the de-capper and remove as much as possible.
Second, drill the primer pocket with your #3 drill.
Drill the whole way through, but DO NOT run into the de-capper.
Third, tap the drilled hole with your 1/4-28 tap, again being careful of the de-capper.
With a bolt, washers and spacer, pull the case from the die by tightening the bolt.
The case is out! You can pull the de-capper out by hand if the stem is held in a vise.
These are the required items. A Number 3 drill and 1/4-28 (1/4-inch fine thread) tap, a bolt with 1/4-fine threads, this one is 3-inches long, some fender (plate) and standard washers, and a spacer. This spacer is a 1/2-inch EMT (electrical metallic tubing or thinwall conduit) screw coupling, but a piece of pipe or conduit about 2-inches long is perfect.
This shows why you want your case stuck in an RCBS die rather than a Lee die. The RCBS de-capping assembly can be moved out of the way, as it is much shorter than the Lee assembly; also, the RCBS de-capping pin is replaceable.