Question from a newby about reloading

[Xx_OIF_INFIDEL_xX]

I recently purchased a single stage reloading kit. I bought this to reload 44

spl/mag. I picked up some 240 gr swc, carbide dies, lg primers, and a lb of

unique. I loaded 3 rounds of spl with 5.6 grains. I want to know if a crimp is

necessary. If so, can someone explain to me in "idiot" terms how to adjust

a lee bullet seating die to crimp?


Oh and one more question, on the semi wad cutters, How deep does the lead

need to seated in the casing?

 

[Randy1911]

The depth of the bullet is regulated by the position of the crimp groove. You want the mouth of the case to roll into the crimp groove. It should be the first groove at the top of the bullet. You adjust the die by screwing the body of the die into the press. the more you screw it in, the more it crimps.

 

[lgbloader]

If so, can someone explain to me in "idiot" terms how to adjust

a lee bullet seating die to crimp?

I use a crimp for my 44 Mag rounds. But I find that in order to get a consistant crimp, it starts with when you process the brass. After resizing, I trim my 44 Mag and 357 Mag brass to a consistant, within spec, length. Then I adjust my bullet seater die to provide a nice neat crimp as per the manufacturer's instructions. I find that this works best for me. I hope this makes sense to you, Mate.

LGB

 

[Shoney]

Xx_OIF_INFIDEL_xX an "idiot" wouldn't ask for help, and we were all in your shoes at one time or other.

lgbloader is spot on about the need for consistent length in wheelgun brass

Randy1911 is correct about where to crimp.

You must remember that you have two settings, depth of bullet, and degree of crimp. Each need to be set seperately in order to work together.

With the ram at top dead center, screw the die in until it makes contact with a belled case without a bullet, lock the die down lightly. The bell should remain until you are ready to crimp.

Screw the seating stem up and start seating a bullet deeper and deeper by operating the ram and screwing in the seating stem, until you are at the right depth.

Back the seating stem out several turns.

Adjust the die down in small increments with each cycle of the ram, until the crimp is rolled into the crimping groove to the desired degree. Making sure the seating stem isn't pushing the bullet deeper.

Lock the die down and turn the seating stem in until it is finger tight with the bullet and lock in the stem.

Load a few cartridges and examine, readjusting if necessary. If the case bites into the bullet and shaves lead, you may be either overcrimping or you may need to seat and crimp in seperate operations.

Good Shooting!

 

[Xx_OIF_INFIDEL_xX]

I appreciate all the information and will put it to use. I figure the best place to get info is to ask experienced people.
Thanks Again