NOOB Die and Crimp question

[BHFG]

I am geting ready to order my reloading equipment and have a question about the dies and crimping. I would appreciate it if anyone could tell me if I am making any mistakes here.

For my .38 Special revolver I understand I need a roll crimp and there is not a real reason to do a use a Factory crimp die. Is that true? if so, I could go with any reputable brand and just seat/crimp in the same station. Right?

For my 9mm Luger semi-aut, I need a taper crimp. Since I plan to shoot all of these out of the same gun, I think I would be ok to seat/crimp in one step, rather than use a Factory Crimp Die. Is that true?

If this is true, then for the .39 Spl and 9mm I can use any reputable brand 's 3 die set. Right?

For .45 ACP I plan on using the Lee Deluxe Die with the Factory Crimp Die to do taper crimp. I want to use a FCS for this one becuase I will be firing these rounds in several different semi-auto guns.

For .223 I plan on using the Lee Pacesetter Die with the Factory Crimp Die. I know there is debate on whether or not to use a factory crimp on the .223 but my mentor here does, so I will as well. I also plan to do full length resizing since at least some of my brass will be range-recovered brass.

Tnx

 

[cinteal]

You are correct in all items except the FCD on the 45 ACP. Don't use it unless you see that you are having feed problems. Aside from that, sounds like you're good to go.

 

[jcwit]

I agree with cinteal, maybe I shouldn't even post this.

 

[The Bushmaster]

The .38 Special is the only one that might (I repeat) might need the FCD. You will know when you assemble some .38 specials. As far as the rest of the pistol calibers. Lee seating dies for 9mm X 19 and .45 ACP have a taper crimp built into the die. You won't need a FCD for these...If you have a feed problem. Don't patch it with a FCD. Find the problem. Solve and correct it...

The .223 is not a cartridge that I load. So I will remain quiet on that one.

 

[floydster]

The three die set from Lee in 38 spl. will do a roll crimp and seat the bullet
No need for a FCD.
Floydster

 

[cinteal]

:banghead:

floydster is right, no need for the FCD in any revolver load. It's only decent application is semi-auto. If you can't chamber a 38 in the revolver, clean the chamber.

 

[rfwobbly]

I beg to differ..... almost !!

Lee seating dies for 9mm X 19 and .45 ACP have a taper crimp built into the die. You won't need a FCD for these...

This is a true statement.


However, since you are a "noob".... IF you have a progressive press with 4 positions, and IF you are buying new dies and have a choice....

• Using a FCD in the fourth die position can make die adjustment much easier, and...
• The price difference between the 3-die set and the 4-die set is not enough to sneeze at. Whereas, buying the FCD as a separate die later on is a sizable difference. Especially when you consider the cost of extra shipping.

Therefore, I'd humbly suggest you buy the 4-die set as "insurance"... IF you have the 4-position press (such as LNL AP, or Dillon 550). But, if you have a single position press (such as a LNL Classic, or Rock Chucker) then the 3-die set will be just as accurate and faster without the extra added die change. Unless, of course, you land on Go To Jail, in which case you'll not be passing Go or receiving $200.

Clear as mud, right ????

 

[Walkalong]

Pick a plain old crimp only die, Lee - Redding - RCBS - Lyman, and use it in a fourth step, or just crimp with the seater. It's all you will ever need in .38.

Whoops, the RCBS is a seater/crimper.

 

[SASS#23149]

agree on the 4 die set for handgun ammo.Much easier to adjust than a seat/crimp die is,and you only buy it and cry once. lol