Adding a cannelure to bullets

[sharp tooth]

Been reading up on a device that can add a cannelure to jacketed bullets like the .357 180 grain xtp that use to have 2 but now have one. I reload 357 max (contender) which doesn’t need a crimp technically but is nice to have the option to load hotter. I also have a few lbs of plated 325 grain s&w 500 bullets lying around without cannelure which would be nice to add one for extra security. Does any one use these devices would it even be worth my money /time to deal with it?

 

[Fyrstyk]

I have the "CH" version of the tool. I use it when loading some lighter weight bullets in my 30-30 contender, and my .375 Contender. Comes in real handy for compressed loads. I would recommend one if you are using hard recoiling loads or compressed loads, especially in a revolver.

 

[EricBu]

You can also use a collet type crimp die. These work pretty good.

 

[Varminterror]

I have the Corbin tool, forget now why I originally decided to buy it, but my only remaining common use is to cut the second cannelures into 180 .357” and 300 .430” XTP’s.

Can’t say it’s worth the money or time - because there is no return on that investment, it’s just an expenditure. But I WANT to seat these bullets long, and LIKE having control of crimp grip by adding the cannelure, so I don’t consider it to be money or time wasted. Just hobby cost.

 

[Jackiesman]

I have used a cannelure manual cutting tool for 30 years to get the maximum COL for my 44 Blackhawk to refine hot loads of 240 And 300 Sierra bullets, and for my 454 Casull. I bought it so long ago I have forgotten where I got it, but I seem to remember that it was made by Lee. I felt that H110 and W296 would benefit from the extra COL but figured a cannelure crimp would help with crimping. Works for me but I urge caution - go slow. Watch closely for pressure.

 

[LaneP]

Agree with above, not going to be worth the money invested for a small run. I bought the Corbin tool decades ago to add a cannelure to semi-auto pistol cases at the base of the bullet to help reduce bullet setback from repeatedly chambering carry loads. The Corbin has gone up in price quite a bit in recent years (along with everything else).

Additionally, I don't believe it's recommended to cannelure plated bullets, for the same reason they advise not to over-crimp them.

 

[tightgroup tiger]

You can also use a collet type crimp die. These work pretty good.

You know I have one of those and have never tried it.
I will have to try it tomorrow on my dayoff, too see how it works. I was thinking it would be nice to have a cannulure tool also, but don't want to spend the money on it.

 

[sharp tooth]

Thanks for the info everyone seems if I picked it out of a garage sale or on line for penny’s I probably would just to have some control on specific cartridges but in the end I don’t competitively shoot so it would make no difference just another paperweight lying around

 

[earplug]

Recoil isn't a issue with a single shot.

 

[Jackiesman]

Thanks to LaneP I remembered that the cutter I have is a Corbin, and it still works fine.

 

[AJC1]

Having one would make the new rmr bullets more desirable. I shoot a tube fed carbine the most so no cannalure is a show stopper for me.