Reloading dies compatibility (38LC)

Mataham said:

Hi,
I would like to reload my old BP 38LC with a Lee breech loch hand press. I've read here and there that 38 short & long colt dies would allow me to reload some 38SP or 357 ammo. Could someone confirm or infirm this?

Besides, how can I get a correct crimp for 38LC ammo? Would the standard 3-dies set work? I ask it cause no 4-dies set is available for 38LC for Lee press.

Thanks for your attention.

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My recently delivered 38 Colt (short or Long) die set by Lee has a unique seat/crimp die with the other two standard 38/357. I do not need a factory crimp die (4th die) and would be skeptical of anyone else's belief that they need one. However, a 38/357 FCD would smooth out any rounds that would not gauge. I just don't believe a skilled reloader would need to run every round through it, covering up problems in die settings or bullet size.

Lee and most other die manufacturers will usually not develop new dies for cartridge which don't have a hugh following. (FCD) The development costs are not warrened.

Mataham said:

Great! Thanks for sharing.

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I should note that part of the die set is the expander plug size in the powder through expander. That is Lee part SE1699.