Lee 7.62X39 dies

[Garage Dog]

I just received my Lee dies for 7.62x39. This the first rifle cal I've loaded...lots of 38 sp and 357.

My question is regarding the Lee factory crimp die for the rifle. It leaves small indentations in the brass that I don't like. This cannot be good for the longevity of the brass. Is this normal for rifle crimp or should I be looking for a better set of dies?

The Lee factory crimp die for the 38sp did not leave any marks.

 

[david_r]

That's what it is designed to do. I suspect you are going to see a blown head before a neck crack in your brass.

 

[steve4102]

If you are going to Crimp your x39 loads(I do) the Lee Factory Crimp die it the best die available. It will help secure the bullet during the violent cycling of the action and in Most instances Improves accuracy.

 

[chris in va]

Also note, the die set comes with a 308 and 311 mandrel/decapper. Make sure you use the right one for the application.

The crimp die doesn't hurt the brass. I've reloaded mine about five times with no issue.

 

[Walkalong]

I have the same die set. While it is kind of an ugly crimp, it can be effective, and does not seem to hurt brass life. Good for blasting ammo.

 

[jim243]

I prefer using the FCD myself, but if you don't like the results, don't use it and do a roll crimp with your seating die.

Jim

 

[Garage Dog]

Thanks Guys, Upon inspecting some of the range brass I have I see there are quite a few cases with the Lee Crimp marks, so given that fact and all of your input I guess I won't worry about it.

but if you don't like the results, don't use it and do a roll crimp with your seating die.

I might try that

QUOTE]the die set comes with a 308 and 311 mandrel/decapper.[/QUOTE]

This leads me to another question. I have .311 SP / cannelure Speer 125gr Hot-Cor bullets and I have been using the .311 mandrel. The bullets will not fit into the case for seating. I have to hold the bullet as I raise the ram into the die. I pulled a bullet to see if it galled the bullet but there was no sign of galling at all. Is this normal for loading rifle?

 

[steve4102]

Yes, it is normal to guide the bullet into the seating die. Just make sure you have chamfered the inside of the case mouth. This only needs to be done once with new and then again after trimming.

 

[splattergun]

Thanks Guys, Upon inspecting some of the range brass I have I see there are quite a few cases with the Lee Crimp marks, so given that fact and all of your input I guess I won't worry about it.


I might try that

QUOTE]the die set comes with a 308 and 311 mandrel/decapper.

This leads me to another question. I have .311 SP / cannelure Speer 125gr Hot-Cor bullets and I have been using the .311 mandrel. The bullets will not fit into the case for seating. I have to hold the bullet as I raise the ram into the die. I pulled a bullet to see if it galled the bullet but there was no sign of galling at all. Is this normal for loading rifle?[/QUOTE]
You will see factory ammo with crimp marks. I had a box of Federal with the same marks.

Hey, it is a Factory Crimp die, after all.