Many products are used to lubricate the case for case sizing. For neck-turning, a variety lubricants is preferred. The video above explains how to lubricate cases with die wax and spray lubricants. We have listed three products below that have been very effective. Ballistol is a good choice for cases that fit tightly to your chambers via custom FL dies. It’s easy to apply and remove. Some of our Forum members have found great success using automotive lubricants for neck-turning. Three Good Lubricants That You May Not Have Tried BeforeUse Ballistol in the aerosol can to lubricate a body die, or a full length sizing die. It works great without the sticky or tacky residue left behind by most case lubricants. As you lubricate the case, it will also remove carbon residues from the neck. Spray a little onto a cotton patch or your fingertips and wipe each case. If you’re using a steel bushing for the neck, make sure to wipe it as well. Ballistol can be used on a half dozen BR-sized cases without needing to reapply it. Ballistol does not contain any toxic chemicals, is biodegradable, and won’t harm your skin. It is very slick, but it can be easily removed with a paper towel or rag. Try it, you may be able to retire your One-Shot. Ballistol is also useful for protecting wood stocks. We still recommend Imperial Die Wax for heavy case-forming and necking up of case necks. Ballistol is sufficient for case sizing after the neck has been expanded. You won’t have to tumble the brass afterwards. Ballistol is easily removed with a paper towel. STP Blend and Assembly Lube are great for neck-turning.
Many people use a mixture of STP(r), Oil Treatment, and Mobil 1, to lubricate the neck-turning mandrel when turning case necks. Chuckw2 says: “Try STP with Mobile 1 Synthetic Oil in a 50/50 mix.” You will need to tumble the cases after turning. STP is a thick lubricant that flows and adheres like honey. Jason says that the STP blend can be easily removed in an ultrasonic bath with a little detergent. Many retailers sell STP in a convenient 7 ounce tube. This way, you don’t need to buy a large container. Assembly lubricant is another cheaper option. RStreich uses assembly lubricant from an auto parts shop to turn his case necks. He says: “The brand that I have is reddish and sticky like honey. It’s much better than the Imperial Die Wax I was using before. There are many types, with or without moly additive. You can choose the viscosity that you prefer by sampling a few different brands. After you’ve finished neck-turning, clean any lubricant residue from your necks.
