Lyman 7832323 Reloading 223 Case Length/Headspace Gauge, Gray

This gauge works perfectly. It takes all the guess work out of reloading when it comes to proper sizing. I tested it with factory ammo and every cartridge was perfectly in spec, then I tested fired but not resized brass from an AR and they fall failed (as they should), I then resized the cases, and they all passed once again. The gauge checks out, it is accurate, and the perfect bang for your buck when it comes to this type of tool. Sure, there are other gauges out there that do more, but this is all you really need. Depending on how the case sits, you can tell if your resizing die is adjusted properly and make the adjustments accordingly. It is a must for safe reloading and not optional, especially for rifle cases. Do not hesitate to purchase this product!As far as other reviewers complaining that the .223 is "too small"...I did not find that to be true at all. I have the .308 version of this Lyman gauge as well, and they are the same diameter! The only difference is (obviously) the size of "chamber" in the gauge, and the height...there is nothing "too small" about this gauge! Photos are being uploaded to prove my claim.

This is a simple, quick and effective tool to verify headspace and case length. HOWEVER, there are some videos online of this being used incorrectly. For headspace, you can hold the tool in your hand and drop the case in for verification. For case length, you CANNOT do the test in your hand. The tool must be placed on a flat surface with the cartridge inside it. If you do a reading for case length while pushing the bullet in with your finger your case may measure as "too long" when it isn't.

Forget what you think you might know. If you're getting into reloading necked-down cartridges, buy yourself a headspace gauge before almost anything else. I waited to buy one and ended up not resizing several loads of 5.56 properly. This gauge along with a comparator are lifesaving tools if you're looking to produce accurate, flawlessly functioning rounds.

Great device for checking my .223 cartridges. I run all my reloads through it to ensure I do not have any oversized cartridges that jam in my rifles chamber. Highly recommend!

Very simple to use, very accurate, good quality machining.

Size and quality are good. Easy to use and pretty accurate. Functions as it should.

I read a lot of negative review about this item on amazon about it not being spec. My friend has a Wilson case gauge in 223, so I compared the two to see if there was any difference. I checked both with a number of different 223 cartridges (some that were resized and ones that were not resized). I even checked a factory 5.56 round. There was no difference in what cases would and wouldnt fit into each gauge. The only difference I noticed was the cut at the top to allow for tolerance was a little more shallow on the Lyman gauge. So far, I am impressed. This is the best value that you will find. Reloading can be expensive will all the tools and gauges you will need to buy so I try to find the least expensive items without sacrificing quality and in my opinion the Lyman 223 case gauge accomplished that goal.

Use this manly for the case length gauge. Very easy and fast to use. Can go through a hundred case is just a few minutes. Highly recommend.