Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die

Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die Set

​Transform Fired Cartridge Cases into Precision Bullet Jackets

The Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die Set enables the conversion of fired, annealed handgun cartridge cases into bullet jackets suitable for core swaging. This process offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing commercial jackets, providing flexibility for custom bullet designs.​

Select the cartridge you are trying to convert, and the resulting jacket size you desire. Any additional notes, put in the details box. 

Key Features:

• Efficient Conversion: Designed to convert fired, annealed 9mm cartridge cases into approximately one-inch-long .308-inch bullet jackets. It's crucial to deprime and anneal the cases to a dull red before processing to ensure optimal results.​
• Compatible Presses: Ideal for use with the CSP-1H Hydro-Mite press, achieving desired jacket dimensions in a single pass. While the S-Press can also be used, multiple passes may be necessary due to its shorter ram stroke. Utilizing a long handle option can ease the effort required.​ Make sure to select the proper die type for your press. 
• Enhanced Bullet Formation: After core seating, the jacket's base may swell, potentially affecting the fit in the point-form die. To address this, the jacket draw die's punch can be reversed, allowing the seated core and jacket to pass through the die smoothly, facilitating easier point forming.​

Additional Considerations:

• Material Compatibility: Suitable for straight-walled cartridge cases; bottle-necked cases are not recommended. The CSP-1 hand press should be set to the reloading or long stroke mode, with the stop pin removed, to accommodate the drawing process. Employing a long handle option can further reduce the effort needed.​
• Jacket Specifications: The resulting jackets may have a tapered wall, starting at approximately .015 inches thick at the mouth. For example, converting a 9mm case typically yields a jacket with an internal diameter around .3077 inches, which pairs well with a .284-inch core seating punch.​
• Limitations: These jackets are not ideal for making rebated boat tail (RBT) bullets due to their thicker base section. However, applying a modest boattail shape using the BT-1 die before proceeding to the point-form die can produce satisfactory results.​

Conversion Possibilities:

The Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die Set allows for the conversion of various handgun cartridge cases into bullet jackets suitable for core swaging. Some of the possible conversions include:​

• .25 ACP to .257, .251, 243, 236, .228 and .224
• .32 ACP to 312, .310, .308, .284, .277, .264 and .236 ​
• .380 ACP or 9mm to 357, 38 Special, 9mm or .380, .338, .323, .318, .311 or .308 ​
• 10mm​
• .40 S&W or 10mm to .40, .375, .366, .358, .351, .348, and 338 (but short bullets only)
• .45 ACP to .45, .430, .429, .423,  416, 412, .410, 400 and .375 (short bullets only) ​

Instructions for Using the Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die Set

The Cartridge to Jacket Converter Die Set allows you to transform fired, annealed handgun cartridge cases into bullet jackets suitable for core swaging. This process is cost-effective and enables customization of bullet designs.​

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Cartridge Cases:
   • Deprime the Cases: Remove any primers from the fired cartridge cases.​
   • Anneal the Cases: Heat the cases to a dull red (approximately 1,100°F or 593°C) to soften the brass, making it more malleable for drawing. Allow them to cool to room temperature.​
2. Set Up the Press:
   • Install the Draw Die: Secure the draw die into the press head, ensuring it is properly aligned.
   • Install the Draw Punch: Place the draw punch into the press ram.​
3. Lubricate the Components:
   • Apply a thin, even layer of high-quality sizing die lubricant (e.g., Corbin Swage Lube) to the exterior of the annealed cartridge case.​
   • Lubricate the draw punch to reduce friction during the drawing process.​
4. Draw the Jacket:
   • Insert the lubricated cartridge case into the draw die.​
   • Operate the press to draw the case through the die, forming it into a jacket.​
   • Repeat the drawing process if necessary to achieve the desired jacket length and diameter.​

Additional Tips:

• Press Settings: When using the CSP-1 hand press, set it to the reloading or long stroke mode with the stop pin removed to accommodate the drawing process.​
• Lubrication: Use lubrication sparingly to prevent issues such as case crumpling or lube dents.
• Die Maintenance: Regularly clean and inspect dies and punches to ensure consistent performance and prevent damage.​

Important Notes:

• Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and hearing protection, when operating reloading equipment.​
• Ensure that all components are properly lubricated to prevent damage to the cases and equipment.​​

By following these steps, you can effectively convert fired cartridge cases into bullet jackets tailored to your specifications, enhancing your reloading and bullet-making processes.