[dodgestdshift]

I was loading 45 acp ammo, with the 200 gr D & J rn fp.  I seated the bullets to 1.2 inches cartridge overall length.  I then went to the Lee crimp die (not the factory crimp die) and crimped as per instructions.  I happened to notice that the cartridges were now about 1.185 inches long.  The instructions were to screw in the die until it hits the shell holder, then 1/2 turn more in.  I began backing it out until the cartridge length stayed at 1.2 inches.  The die now did not even touch the shell holder.  I examined the crimp, and noticed that it was not as strong as before, but seemed to be holding.  I have not shot them yet.  All the work being done with dummies.  It seems that the crimper is hitting the bullet.  I will next try another bullet to see if other makes do the same thing.

I was wondering if any else has had a similar experience with this.  Thanks for the info.

 

[imashooter2]

Re read those instructions... it sounds like you used the set up for the sizer die. To set the crimp, place a cartridge with a seated bullet on the ram. If the die is a combination seat and crimp die, back the seater plug way out. Raise the ram to full extension. Screw the crimp die down until it contacts the case. Lower the ram. Screw the die down 1/4 turn and lock. Raise the ram and check the crimp. If a heavier crimp is desired, screw the die down further in 1/4 turn increments, checking after each movement. If the die is a combination seat and crimp die, set the seater plug by placing your crimped cartridge on the ram, raising to maximum extension and turning the seater plug in until it contacts the bullet. Lock the plug in place (taking care not to turn the die body further into the press) and you are done. Hope this helps.

 

[dodgestdshift]

imashooter2:

I have reread the instructions and I misread them.  I several times read "touches the case mouth" as "touches the shell holder".  When I reset the die without the instructions mis read it worked much better.  The operative word is "oops".

Thank you for the wake up call.

 

[Leanwolf]

DodgeS.S, I've not used the Lee crimper die, but is it a "roll crimp" die???

If so, on .45ACP, you're screwing up your ammo, as the .45ACP in a Govt. Model, headspaces on the mouth of the case. If it's a "roll crimp" you can have some misfires.

I've never used anything but a "taper crimp die" on .45ACP, and don't know any other .45ACP shooters who use anything but "taper crimp" dies.

Perhaps the Lee die you have is a "taper crimp"??

Just wondering. L.W.

 

[dodgestdshift]

Leanwolf:

It is a taper crimp die.  I missread the instructions and set it wrong.  When I noticed it seated the bullet deeper, I began experimenting with the setting of the die, gradually moving it out until the die didn't set the bullet deeper.  The die then worked fine.  I was confused why the instructions were so "wrong", when I asked the questions.  Another point of confusion, that other bullets set properly and were not seated deeper, probably due to their shape.  When advised to reread the instructions, I saw my error.  The die works fine, when set properly.