cartridge difference?

[crooked stripe]

I am loading 32 ACP and using 71 grain rncc Rainer bullet. 2.0 grains of Bullseye powder. That is what my Lee Micro Disk #21 is dropping. My loads are ranging from .985 to as little as .961 in total length. I can't seem to hold a constant length. Using a Lee turret press with Lee dies adjusted according to the instructions. The press is new. Are these loads trash? Any suggestions on how to keep my lengths constant? Hoping to use them in a Kel-tec P32.

 

[rcmodel]

1. All the same brand brass?
Mixed brass will give inconsistent seating pressure.

2. Belling the case mouth enough to get the bullet started easily?
Not enough bell may deform the bullet tip when it is forced into the tight case.

3. Seating die set to allow press ram to bottom out on the stop each pull of the handle?

4. Seating die set too far in, causing excess (or early) taper crimp.
Increased pressure after taper crimp grabs onto bullet early will change seating depth.

rc

 

[MMCSRET]

I use the same combination when loading 32 Auto; Lee dies, .21 disc on a RCBS Rockchucker. Biggest difference is the bullet. I'm using the Remington 71 gr. bullet in mixed cases, my OAL doesn't vary anywhere near as much, I think the softer bullet might be what makes the difference.

 

[crooked stripe]

Yes mixed brass. I have saved brass for over 10 years but never started reloading till recently. I checked the brass length and it varies over .015 so that must be the biggest problem. I will get out the case gauge and trimmer and start over again. We did have to increase the bell on the shell 1/4 turn as the bullet kept falling off the shell before I could raise the ram to the die. The reloader friend who set up my press and is weaning me along, set the depth by a factory load which is .964, way under the minimum allowable length. I checked more of the factory loads and they where all +or- .001. (of .964) I guess I need to do more reading, I don't remember reading stats like that. Thank you for all your input, there is a lot more to this than first thought. The more I read and do the more addicted I get.

 

[rcmodel]

First, you do not have to trim .32 ACP brass, or any other straight-wall auto pistol brass.
Length variation is not critical with a taper-crimp.

I still think you are crimping too much, and the case is gripping the bullet during seating before it gets all the way inside the case.
That in turn deforms the bullet and causes the variation in OAL you are seeing.

I'd check the case mouth dia of one of your loaded rounds.
If it is much under .336", you are over-crimping them.

rc

 

[crooked stripe]

I will give you some numbers and if you would check me out.

loaded shell just below bullet at case OD .378
bullet dia. OD .355
shell OD at base .387
shell wall thickness .0125

If my math is correct, I have a .002 crimp?
Thoughts Please.

 

[MMCSRET]

.355 bullet dia.?????? That is not 32 Auto!!!!!! Most 32 Auto jacketed bullets are .311, mine from Remington are .311, 71 grain FMJ/RN.

 

[newrugersafan]

380 maybe?????

guess that wouldn't fit in a P32 though

 

[crooked stripe]

Another lesson learned and I have read it many times. Distractions, stop and go back later. Three grandsons in the house will do it every time. Sorry!

loaded shell below bullet at case OD .322
bullet dia. OD .310
shell OD at base .329
shell wall thickness .012

bullet dia. .310
+ bullet shell thickness x2= + .024
.334
-shell below bullet -.322
=.012
rcmodel is right. I am squeezing the bullet by.012 and changing the length.
Am I right to assume I am increasing the length on both ends of the bullet? I will back off on the crimp but won't it leave a bulge in the bullet OD on the muzzle end?
I think I should find a reloading class and take it.

 

[MMCSRET]

This is the best class you will ever find. I had been reloading and casting bullets since 1956 when I came here a little over 2 years ago. I learn something new every time I sign on. Stick with this site and you can't go wrong!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[rcmodel]

I will back off on the crimp but won't it leave a bulge in the bullet OD on the muzzle end?

It might, but it doesn't matter.

A slight bulge at the base of the bullet insures you have great neck tension and won't suffer from bullet set-back during feeding.

Just crimp like I said in post #5 and fogadaboutit.

rc

 

[crooked stripe]

Thanks again for all your help. You guys are great.