3-die set vs. 4-die set for 45acp

[john16443]

Ok, I seem to be having a little trouble getting my sizing correct for plated 230grn round noce 45acp and was wondering if a 4-die set might work a little better. The brass cuts into the bullet. I don't seem to have a problem with FMJ in 45acp (or 9mm) when using the 3-die set.

Using a single stage RCBS.

What are most folks using with a single stage.

Thank you all.

Are you getting shavings of the plating or are you getting a cut ring through the plating around the bullet at the top of the case? These symptoms are caused by different things.

Cut ring through plating is caused by applying TOO MUCH crimp. Readust your current die accordingly and you're good to go.

Shaving the plating off as the bullet is inserted could be caused by too little flare as noted, but can also be caused by improper adjustment of the seater/crimp die.

You indicate you have no problems with FMJ, so I think some minor adjustment of your current seater/crimp die should solve your issues. I separate the seating and crimping operations, but still have to make minor adjustments when crimping plated vs. FMJ bullets, and when loading different brass headstamps.