Redding 73 Style Steel Bushing/.253

The Redding 73 Style Steel Bushing/.253 is a precision neck-sizing bushing engineered for reloaders who demand consistency and reduced setup friction. This heat-treated steel component integrates into Redding's 73-style sizing die system, allowing you to fine-tune neck clearance without full-length resizing—a critical advantage for shooters seeking to extend brass life and improve concentricity. The .253" sizing diameter makes this bushing ideal for bottleneck cartridges that require a tight, controlled fit around fired necks.

Hand-polished sizing surfaces with a hardness rating of Rc 60–62 minimize the effort required to push brass through the die, reducing press wear and operator fatigue during longer reloading sessions. This polished finish also helps prevent scoring and scratching of case necks, which is essential for maintaining case integrity across multiple reloads. Whether you're prepping match-grade ammo for precision rifle competition or fine-tuning hunting loads, the quality of the sizing surface directly affects both your consistency and your brass longevity.

Redding manufactures these bushings in .001" increments across a range from .185" to .368", so the .253" size slots into a comprehensive lineup. If you're working with a cartridge slightly different from .253", Redding's granular sizing options mean you can dial in the exact neck tension your loads demand. This flexibility is why serious reloaders rely on bushing-style dies: one die body, swapped bushings, infinite precision without die replacement.

Key Features

• Heat-treated steel construction for durability and consistent performance
• Hand-polished sizing diameter to reduce press effort and brass marking
• Hardness of Rc 60–62 for long service life
• Designed for Redding 73-style neck-sizing die systems
• Part of a .001" increment bushing lineup (.185" to .368") for precision customization

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What cartridges does the .253" bushing fit?

The .253" sizing diameter is designed for bottleneck cartridges with a .253" neck dimension. Redding offers bushings in .001" increments across a range from .185" to .368", so if your cartridge requires a slightly different size, check Redding's full lineup to find your exact match.

How do I use this bushing with my Redding die?

This bushing is engineered for Redding 73-style neck-sizing dies. The bushing inserts into the die body; consult your specific die's instructions for installation. Swapping bushings allows you to adjust neck tension without replacing the entire die.

What's the advantage of hand-polished sizing surfaces?

The hand-polished, hardened finish reduces the force required to size brass, which means less strain on your press and operator hands. The smooth surface also prevents case-neck scratching and scoring, protecting case integrity across multiple reloading cycles.

Is this bushing suitable for match-grade or precision reloading?

Yes. Neck-sizing bushings like this one allow you to control neck clearance precisely, which is essential for consistency in precision rifle loads and competitive ammunition. The tight tolerances and polished finish support the repeatability that match-grade work demands.