Lee Precision crimp - not tight?

Huddles10

Member
Rating - 100%
6   0   0
Ok, VERY new (read first time trying tonight). I am using the collet/ neck size die only as my rifle once fired case (first mistake should I just full size regardless? Lots of internet opinions). Bullet seems to be seated to proper lengths (separate die) but when I am using the factory crimp die, following instructions to have collet hit shell holder and then 1/2 turn more, the crimp is not firm and I can move bullet with my have 2 1/100ths. No charge in case rounds as just trying it out. I get a faint but clear crimp line. The collet does not seem to 100% close the gaps/lines when I push handle down firmly.

Thoughts?
 

Attachments

  • IMG_5163.jpeg
    IMG_5163.jpeg
    101.6 KB · Views: 5
Maybe Sask. tightened the die into the turret a bit more and as you said, turned the case a few times around while doing it.

First two made!! No powder or primers but all metrics look good in the calipers.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_5164.jpeg
    IMG_5164.jpeg
    137.8 KB · Views: 13
You can turn the crimp die in farther then a half turn
You just have to make sure the 4 crimping fingers on the die are not crushing into each other
With the press handle all the way down you can see how much it’s crimping by looking at the top of the crimp die
 
1. If you can move a seated bullet with your hand, then the sizing operation is not correct. Sizing should create a neck dimension just slightly smaller than the OD of the bullet and thus neck tension on the bullet more than sufficient to prevent the bullet moving under hand pressure.

Remove the crimp die and set up your sizing die correctly first. Crimping is a secondary operation and should not be relied upon to hold the bullet in place.

2. The Lee crimp die can be adjusted in / down until the collet fully closes. That is max possible crimp for the die.
 
Back
Top Bottom