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.