RCBS Small Base 2 Die Set .308 Winchester

• Small base full-length sizing: Sizes fired brass slightly below standard full-length dimensions to improve chambering in rifles with tight or fast-cycling actions, making it especially useful for dependable feeding in semi-automatic platforms.
• Two-die loading setup: Combines a sizing/decapping die with a bullet seating die, giving handloaders the core tools needed to process and assemble .308 Winchester or 7.62x51mm ammunition in a straightforward workflow.
• Steel die construction: The sizing die is made from steel for long service life and stable dimensions, helping maintain consistent case sizing over repeated loading cycles.
• Seating and decapping in one set: With bullet seating, decapping and full-length sizing covered in the same kit, the set supports efficient bench work without adding unnecessary complexity.
• Built for bottleneck rifle cases: The die geometry is intended for Boxer-primed bottleneck rifle brass, supporting correct case handling for one of the most common precision and service-rifle cartridge formats.

About the Small Base Series

RCBS Small Base die sets are designed for handloaders who need ammunition to chamber with a greater margin of reliability than a standard full-length die may provide. Within the RCBS rifle-die lineup, this series sits alongside conventional full-length and neck-sizing sets, but it is tailored to applications where feeding consistency matters as much as case preparation. That makes it a natural fit for semi-automatic rifles, service-rifle platforms and other firearms that can benefit from brass being sized a little further down toward the case head.

The series follows the traditional RCBS approach of steel reloading dies, straightforward adjustment and durable bench use. Small Base sets are typically chosen by reloaders working with popular bottleneck rifle cartridges who want dependable cycling with once-fired brass, mixed brass lots or ammunition intended for more than one rifle. Rather than focusing on specialized micrometer adjustments or competition-style seating systems, the emphasis here is on practical case sizing and repeatable loading. For shooters assembling .308-class ammunition for field use, training or general-purpose rifle work, the Small Base family offers a simple, proven route to reliable cartridge fit.

About the RCBS Small Base 2 Die Set .308 Winchester

The RCBS Small Base 2 Die Set .308 Winchester is built for reloaders who want dependable function from one of the most widely used rifle cartridges in both sporting and service-style rifles. Chambered for .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm, this set is particularly relevant when ammunition may be used in semi-automatic rifles or in rifles with tighter chambers, where standard full-length sizing does not always provide the same margin for smooth feeding and lockup.

The key difference is the small base full-length sizing die. By sizing the case body a bit more than a standard die, it helps fired brass return to dimensions that chamber more easily after repeated use. In practice, that can reduce resistance during bolt closure and support more consistent cycling in rifles that run quickly under recoil. The included sizing die also handles decapping, so spent primers are removed during the same step, keeping case preparation efficient.

The second die is the bullet seating die, which completes the set for assembling loaded rounds after sizing and case prep. Together, the two-die format keeps the loading process straightforward while still covering the essential operations needed for bottleneck rifle ammunition. With its steel sizing die, standard adjustment layout and compatibility with Boxer-primed rifle cases, this RCBS die set suits handloaders who value reliable chambering, repeatable setup and a conventional reloading workflow for .308-class ammunition.

About RCBS

RCBS was founded in 1943 by Fred T. Huntington in Oroville, California. The company built its reputation around ammunition handloading equipment and remains closely associated with rifle and pistol reloading tools. The RCBS name came from Rock Chuck Bullet Swage, Huntington’s original bullet-swaging die, which reflects the brand’s roots in practical toolmaking for shooters and reloaders.

Today, RCBS specializes in reloading equipment such as presses, dies, shell holders, powder measures and priming tools. Its catalog spans single-stage, turret and progressive press systems, giving the brand a broad presence from entry-level bench setups to higher-output loading benches. For products like rifle dies, RCBS is known for durable construction, conventional adjustment systems and tools intended for long-term workshop use.

Main Features

• Manufacturer: RCBS
• Made in: USA
• Pack size: 2 die set
• Die operation: Bullet seating, Decapping, Full length sizing
• Die type: Standard
• Bushing: No
• Case body design: Bottle neck
• Case type: Boxer, Rifle
• Sizing die material: Steel
• Adjustment: Standard
• Bullet Diameter (mm).: 7.85 mm
• Bullet Diameter (inch).: 309.00 inch
• Compatible calibers: .308 Winchester, 7.62x51mm

Warranty

2 years.

In the Box

• Sizer die
• Seater die
• Expander-decapping unit
• Seater plug
• Die lock ring(s)
• Decapping pin