What-No Crimp?

[Rule3]

What dies did you get? I am a firm believer in the Lee Factory crimp die. The revolver dies roll crimp and the semi autos taper crimp. For rifles they have a collet crimp which is more of a taper. You can not over crimp (as in cut through the jacket of the bullet) with the FCD.

You can test them as I mentioned by first measuring the OAL and then put the bullet end on the bench and push down as hard as you can with the heel of your hand. Wear a glove or put a small rag over it as it will make a indent in your hand if you push hard enough. It should not move. Check the length. If it is real loose you will feel the bullet push right into the case.
If it does, crimp it a bit more.

 

[ColColt]

What dies did you get? I am a firm believer in the Lee Factory crimp die. The revolver dies roll crimp and the semi autos taper crimp. For rifles they have a collet crimp which is more of a taper. You can not over crimp (as in cut through the jacket of the bullet) with the FCD.

I bought RCBS 3-die set. Other than one set of Pacific dies for the 30-06 I bought back in '69, I've always used theirs. They don't seem to have the quality they use to years ago but still quite good. Adjusting the seater stem and expander seemed a bit gritty but, that could be due in part to their newness.

 

[HKSmith]

I called Speer Technical Services today. The representative told me that the 135 grain Gold Dot .38 Spl short barrel load has a very light roll crimp, but that the bullet is held in place by an asphalt sealant that's applied to the inside of the case.

I rechecked my ammo (which I said in my first post had no crimp) and agree that there is a barely detectable roll, but it does not contact the bullet. I believe that the sealant is what prevents bullet movement under recoil.