Crimping ?

[oldsnow]

I have a question on reloading for my 357Maximum. It is an MGM 16.250 long rifle barrel, with a 1X16 twist, on a T/C Encore.

When I am reloading for this rifle, how important is it crimp the bullet in the case?

 

[Grumulkin]

Not important at all.

 

[Slamfire]

I have a question on reloading for my 357Maximum. It is an MGM 16.250 long rifle barrel, with a 1X16 twist, on a T/C Encore.

When I am reloading for this rifle, how important is it crimp the bullet in the case?

This is a longer 357 case loaded to 48,000 psia, which is higher than the pressures of a 357 Magnum, 35,000 psia. I don't have one of these, but I am going to say, the most important characteristic is case neck tension. Your sizing die should reduce the case neck enough, that when a bullet is inserted into the case, there is a slight bulging around the bullet. Then, lightly crimp. If you are shooting lead bullets, also crimp into the case groove. With jacketed bullets you do not want to crimp so heavily that you swage the soft lead core of the bullet. With cast bullets, just roll the case into the crimping groove.

 

[Walkalong]

I agree with Slamfire and while I don't load the .357 Max, and even though you don't need to worry about bullet creep with a single shot rifle, I believe a good solid crimp (Not over done) will help get a better burn.

Neck tension is king though.

 

[Varminterror]

Depends on the powder you choose. H110/W296, crimp.