In this episode of the Forster Reloading Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most common questions in precision reloading — what’s the real difference between an expander ball and a mandrel?

Josh and Scott break down the mechanics behind each, when you should use one over the other, and how both impact your brass consistency, neck tension, and overall precision.

We also wrap up the 2025 match season, thank our amazing sponsors and shooters, and talk about what’s coming next for 2026.

Topics covered:

• Expander ball vs mandrel — push vs pull sizing
• How to choose the right method for your process
• When a mandrel really shines (especially for wildcatting)
• The truth about neck tension, bushing dies, and brass life
• Forster’s approach to precision die design

In this episode, Scott and Josh break down one of the most misunderstood aspects of long-range shooting — the Ballistic Coefficient (BC). 🎯

They dive into what BC actually means, why the number printed on your bullet box doesn’t always match real-world performance, and how to true your BC for YOUR rifle to get more accurate hits downrange.

Whether you’re shooting PRS, NRL, or just stretching your rifle at the range, understanding how to measure, adjust, and apply BC can be the difference between a solid hit and a frustrating miss.

👉 In this episode:

• What Ballistic Coefficient (BC) really means
• Why factory BC numbers don’t always match your setup
• How to true your BC for accuracy beyond 600 yards
• The importance of velocity, bore height, and environment data
• Real-world examples from competition and match prep
• Tips for consistent data and performance

Scott and Josh also share behind-the-scenes insights from their latest matches, the tools they use (like Garmin chronographs), and the best ways to keep your ballistic data dialed in.

Inside Forster Products: Innovation, Precision & What’s Next! | Podcast with Vince Alber

In this episode, Scott from Forster Products sits down with Vince Alber — one of the driving forces behind Forster’s cutting-edge designs and manufacturing. Together, they dive deep into the evolution of Forster Products, from improving production processes to developing brand-new reloading tools for precision shooters and gunsmiths.

Topics Covered:

• How Forster tackled manufacturing challenges and modernized production
• The story behind the Co-Ax XL Press and why it’s changing the game
• New tools like the Neck Tension Gauge, AQ Rings, and Micrometer Powder Measure
• Big updates in headspace gauges — now including CIP cartridges
• Inside look at Forster’s chamber reamers and piloted roughing drills
• Sneak peek at upcoming products debuting at SHOT Show, including a new precision primer seater
• How Forster balances innovation, affordability, and quality for reloaders everywhere

Whether you’re a competitive shooter, gunsmith, or precision handloader, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Forster continues to raise the bar in reloading technology.

In this episode of the Straight Shooters Podcast, Josh and Scott dive deep into the world of wildcat cartridges—why shooters experiment with them, how they’re formed, and what advantages they bring on the range and in the field.

They break down the process of converting standard brass, choosing the right tools, and what makes calibers like the 25x47 so effective for balancing recoil, wind advantage, and bullet signature. You’ll hear practical insights on Forster’s dies, bushing setups, and seating tools, along with some fun side stories about Illinois deer hunting cartridges, unique coyote builds, and even the idea of creating a brand-new “Forster Man Cartridge.”

Whether you’re a precision shooter, reloader, or just curious about cartridge development, this conversation is packed with takeaways you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Scott from Forster sits down with Rod Hartman, a former owner of Forster Products, along with Josh from the team. Rod shares his 50-year journey at Forster—from starting as a machinist on Christmas break to becoming an innovator behind some of the most influential reloading tools in the industry.

We cover:

• The history and growth of Forster Products
• Stories from the shop floor and customer interactions
• Innovations like the micrometer seating die, datum dial, and 3-in-1 case trimmer
• Lessons for reloaders on brass, dies, and neck tension
• Balancing tradition with new ideas for the future of reloading

If you’re passionate about reloading, machining, or the history behind the tools you use, this conversation is packed with insight, stories, and lessons you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Forster Podcast, Scott and Josh dive deep into one of the most important — and sometimes overlooked — aspects of precision reloading: finding the lands in your rifle.

We break down multiple methods, including the Hornady OAL gauge, custom case modifications, and Josh’s personal “feel” technique. You’ll learn why finding the lands matters, how different bullets impact measurements, and why consistency is more important than perfection.

We also touch on:

•  Common pitfalls when measuring lands
• Why magazine length and chamber pressure matter
• Tips for new reloaders to avoid mistakes
• How seating depth impacts accuracy and harmonics

Whether you’re new to reloading or a seasoned precision shooter, this episode will give you practical tools and insights to improve your process.

📍Explore tools, guides, and articles at: https://forsterproducts.com

In this episode of the Forster Straight Shooters Podcast, Scott and Josh dive deep into the art of reloading and why the smallest details can make the biggest difference. Fresh off a Scheels training event, they break down what happens when 80 different people get hands-on with reloading gear—and the surprising factors that affect consistency.

From seating depth issues to the impact of handle pressure, carbon build-up, and even the simple act of brushing case necks, the guys uncover why process and technique matter just as much as equipment.

But that’s not all—Scott and Josh also share exciting news about Iron Door Guns, Forster’s growing sister company. They discuss building a true one-stop shop for precision rifle shooters, covering everything from barrels, actions, and triggers to fluting services and full custom builds.

Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a reloading enthusiast, or just love geeking out about precision, this episode is packed with lessons, stories, and behind-the-scenes insights you won’t want to miss.

👉 Topics Covered:

• Lessons learned from the Scheels training event
• Why consistency in reloading is EVERYTHING
• Troubleshooting seating depth variance
• Brushing case necks and the “aha” moment
• Introduction to Iron Door Guns and new precision rifle components
• Fluting, barrels, actions, and the road ahead

In this episode, we sit down with Craig from Area 419 and Scott from Forster Products to talk all things reloading, manufacturing, and innovation in the shooting sports industry.  

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Why competition in the reloading space fuels innovation, not rivalry
• The massive potential for growth in the reloading market
• Behind the scenes of product development from both Forster and Area 419
• The role of Scheels in industry education and consumer engagement
• What’s next for both companies, including exciting upcoming releases

Whether you're a seasoned handloader or just curious about precision shooting and product design, this episode offers unique insight into how modern companies are working together to make better tools for the shooting community.

Explore tools, guides, and articles at: https://forsterproducts.com

In this episode of the Forster Podcast, we sit down with Brandon from Scheels during their national training event to talk about how Scheels is investing in the future of reloading.

We cover everything from hands-on associate education to the evolution of the customer—from beginners with basic kits to precision reloaders using top-tier gear like the Co-Ax® Press.

What’s inside:

• Why in-store expertise still matters
• How Scheels trains associates with real tools and hands-on reloading
• The shift from budget-focused reloading to precision performance
• Scheels’ unique blend of big box scale and local shop service
• The deep partnerships that drive premium product availability

In this episode of the Straight Shooters Podcast, we sit down with Nick from Peterson Cartridge to talk all things brass. From quality control to customer support, this episode offers a deep dive into what makes Peterson brass unique in the reloading industry.

Nick shares insights into Peterson's meticulous inspection and production process, how small changes affect performance, and why consistency is key. The conversation covers tips for maximizing brass life, and the innovations behind their magnum cartridge designs. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and behind-the-scenes knowledge.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• What sets Peterson brass apart from other brands
• Why Peterson prioritizes quality over volume
• The full inspection and QC process used during manufacturing
• Best practices for handling new brass out of the box
• Why overworking your brass shortens case life
• How Peterson’s magnum long brass improves case longevity
• The impact of neck tension, shoulder bump, and chamber fit on consistency
• The real role of customer service in the reloading world
• What happens when something goes wrong—and how Peterson handles it

📍Explore tools, guides, and articles at: https://forsterproducts.com