To crimp or not to crimp; that is the question.

[KenSel]

I always crimp my hunting loads but now I'm loading up some rounds for my 7-08 for long range competition. I'm wondering is it better to leave them uncrimped or to crimp them just like my hunting loads? 

thanks,
Ken

[Grumulkin]

The only reasons I crimp is if I'm loading for a cartridge with heavy recoil that is to be fed through a magazine or used in a revolver.  I don't think you'll find any serious bench rest shooters crimping their bullets.  For the 7mm/08, if you're target shooting you'll probably use a match bullet and they don't have a cannelure (at least not the match offerings of Berger, Sierra, Nosler and Hornady).

[torpedoman]

I have found that a light consistent crimp will give better groups

[LaOtto222]

Most factory loads are crimped. Most bench rest shooters do not crimp. I think I would try it both ways and find out what works best. Not matter which way you go, proper neck tension is very important. personally I do not crimp most of my loads. I find very good accuracy without crimping. There are exceptions, like mentioned above, I crimp straight walled cartridges, no matter if they are being shot in a lever action, pistol or a single shot. I also get better results in 22 hornets with a crimp. I rarely crimp higher pressure rounds. There are many who do crimp every round they do and there are lots that do not crimp. It comes down to personal experience and results that you find. I personally would not crimp and see if you get the results you are looking for, if not try crimping. Good Luck and Good Shooting.

[huntswithdogs]

The only shells I crimp are the ones for my 45LC. Any of the rifle loads from when I started back in the early 80's to now have all just used neck pressure.

HWD