APW Expander Mandrel Set

Product Description

The APW Expander Mandrel Set provides a controlled way to smooth and expand cartridge case necks before bullet seating. It uses precisely sized interchangeable mandrels to help establish consistent neck tension across prepared brass.

The set includes mandrels for six common calibre groups. In addition, each calibre has two mandrel sizes, allowing approximately 0.001″ or 0.002″ neck tension. As a result, reloaders can select the appropriate mandrel for their preferred neck tension and brass preparation process.

The APW system fits a standard reloading press. Furthermore, the updated mandrel body accommodates a wide range of presses, including the Forster Co-Ax.

APW Expander Mandrel Set for Case Preparation

The APW expander mandrel works by smoothing and gently expanding the inside of the case neck. Therefore, it provides a consistent inside diameter before bullet seating.

Commercial sizing dies can use different expander-ball dimensions. As a result, the inside diameter of prepared case necks can vary between dies and manufacturers. The APW system provides a more controlled way to establish the desired neck diameter.

In addition, the interchangeable mandrels use precise dimensions for each calibre. This allows the reloader to change mandrels while keeping the same die body and press setup.

The system is intended for use as a final neck-expanding step before powder charging. Furthermore, APW recommends removing the expander ball from the resizing die when using this process.

APW Mandrels and Neck Tension

The APW Expander Mandrel Set includes two mandrels for each of six calibre groups. The difference between the mandrel sizes provides approximately 0.001″ or 0.002″ neck tension, depending on the case, brass thickness and bullet diameter.

The included mandrels are:

• .224 Cal: 0.223″ and 0.222″
• .243 Cal / 6mm: 0.242″ and 0.241″
• .264 Cal / 6.5mm: 0.263″ and 0.262″
• .284 Cal / 7mm: 0.283″ and 0.282″
• .30 Cal / .308: 0.307″ and 0.306″
• .338 Cal: 0.337″ and 0.336″

Therefore, the complete set covers a broad selection of popular rifle cartridges. At the same time, the two mandrel sizes for each calibre give the reloader a choice of neck-tension settings.

APW Expander Mandrel Set for Consistent Neck Tension

Consistent neck tension can help create a more uniform relationship between the case neck and bullet. The APW system is designed to provide a consistent neck diameter before seating.

In addition, APW states that this process can help reduce Extreme Spread (ES) and Standard Deviation (SD) figures. However, actual results depend on brass condition, case preparation, bullet dimensions, seating equipment and the complete reloading process.

The interchangeable design also makes the system practical for reloaders who work with several calibres. Rather than using a separate complete die for each neck diameter, the same mandrel body accepts the required interchangeable mandrel.

When using the mandrels, APW recommends applying Imperial Sizing Lube sparingly. Therefore, only a small amount is required for the neck-expanding operation.

APW Expander Mandrel Set for Precision Reloading

The APW system suits precision reloaders who want greater control over case-neck preparation. In addition, the two mandrel sizes for each calibre provide a practical way to select the desired neck tension.

The storage base keeps the interchangeable mandrels together when they are not in use. Furthermore, the complete set covers .224 through .338 calibre groups, making it suitable for reloaders working with several common rifle calibres.

The mandrel body works with a standard reloading press. Also, the updated design accommodates presses such as the Forster Co-Ax. As a result, the system can fit into a range of existing case-preparation setups.

For more case-preparation equipment, see our Brass Prep. You can also compare it with other reloading equipment in our Reloading Equipment range.

For another case-preparation option, see the RCBS Trim Pro 3-Way Cutter 6mm.

For additional manufacturer information and setup guidance, see the APW Expander Mandrel Guide.

Key Features

• Complete APW expander mandrel set
• Interchangeable precision-sized mandrels
• Approximately 0.001″ and 0.002″ neck-tension options
• Mandrel body for use with a standard reloading press
• Updated body compatible with Forster Co-Ax presses
• Six calibre groups included
• .224 calibre: 0.223″ and 0.222″
• .243 calibre / 6mm: 0.242″ and 0.241″
• .264 calibre / 6.5mm: 0.263″ and 0.262″
• .284 calibre / 7mm: 0.283″ and 0.282″
• .30 calibre / .308: 0.307″ and 0.306″
• .338 calibre: 0.337″ and 0.336″
• Storage base for interchangeable mandrels
• Designed to smooth and gently expand case necks
• Suitable as a final neck-expanding step before powder charging
• Designed for consistent case-neck preparation

Product Specifications

Brand: APW
Product: Expander Mandrel Set
System: Interchangeable expander mandrels
Neck Tension Options: Approximately 0.001″ and 0.002″
Press Compatibility: Standard reloading presses
Forster Co-Ax Compatibility: Yes, updated body
Calibre Groups: .224, .243/6mm, .264/6.5mm, .284/7mm, .30/.308 and .338
Mandrels Included: 12
Storage Base: Included
Mandrel Body: Included

What’s Included

The complete APW Expander Mandrel Set includes:

• APW expander mandrel body
• 12 interchangeable mandrels
• Mandrel storage base
• .224 calibre mandrels: 0.223″ and 0.222″
• .243 calibre / 6mm mandrels: 0.242″ and 0.241″
• .264 calibre / 6.5mm mandrels: 0.263″ and 0.262″
• .284 calibre / 7mm mandrels: 0.283″ and 0.282″
• .30 calibre / .308 mandrels: 0.307″ and 0.306″
• .338 calibre mandrels: 0.337″ and 0.336″