Squib Loads

[bglz42]

Sorry for the resurrection of an old thread, but I am experiencing this same issue. I have been reloading since 1980, have loaded tens of thousands of rounds on this press and have just started having squibs. The only thing that changed? I got a deal on 1500 Xtreme plated 125gr Flatpoints. I have always loaded 158 grain LRN or SWCs. I adjusted the load, (have used the same powder and charge since 1986 or so), adjusted the seater and let fly. I visually check EVERY round for powder and weigh a charge every ten. The powder is there. Mixed brass, proven primers. Several squibs, with one lodging in the 6" barrel of my 27-2.

So my theory? These Xtreme bullets are very heavily plated, they look jacketed to me. They are cannelured. I was roll-crimping in the cannelure , but not very heavy. I think I am getting insufficient case tension. It is definitely puzzling! I am going to re-crimp 50 or so from the same batch that gave me fits today and see if I can mitigate the problem.

BTW I had loaded 250 158 LRNs just before loading the 125s and got not a single squib. Same powder, same press... very curious.

 

[Clovishound]

What powder and load are you using?

Plated bullets probably should not be loaded at low end lead loads. Too much friction compared to naked lead. I prefer to use powders for plated that have overlap between cast and jacketed loads. That way high end lead loads will be within jacketed data. I've had better accuracy with these powders. I am reluctant to use loads for plated that are a good deal above max cast data.

 

[Wise_A]

Plated bullets probably should not be loaded at low end lead loads.

This.

You don't mention what your load actually was, but for reference, I start by looking at jacketed data for a similar-weight bullet. 158-grain lead data would be next to useless.

 

[bglz42]

125 gr, Clays 3.5
158 gr, Clays 3.1