Seating and Crimping in different steps

[vanbuzen9]

Hi all,

I was wondering if seating and crimping the bullet in two different steps is better than doing them at the same time.  I am reloading for a 9mm.

thanks,
vanbuzen9

[ricciardelli]

Definately better done as a two-step operation...
...in all calibers.

[PA-Joe]

I use the Lee Factory Crimp Dies so it is always done in two steps.

[Questor]

Doing it in a single step is a convenience. I used an RCBS 3-die set for 45ACP before getting a progressive reloader and I really appreciated having one less step to do.  In a progressive press I use a separate taper crimp die. It makes sense to have the taper crimp die on a progressive because it simplifies adjustments when you change bullets.

In terms of quality, the RCBS 3-die set was fine. Every bit as good as what I get from the progressive.  It's just a little more difficult to adjust that third die.

It is important to get the right amount of crimp on it, so expect a little trial and error those first few sessions at the range. After you've got it adjusted the way you want it, you probably won't need to change it again unless you make a mistake when adjusting seating depth for a different bullet.

[KN]

For general plinking 9mm loads I doubt that you'll se any advantage to crimping separate. For my rifle loads I like to do it that way. I get a more consistent OAL that way.  KN

[Vern Humphrey]

Separate crimping has a lot of adavantages.  For one thing, you have to have the die very carefully adjusted to crimp and seat in one step -- and there is little tolerance for differences of length in cases.

Secondly, if you crimp separately the crimp can be used to iron out dimensional problems that arise in the seating process -- some people go so far as to post size (run the finished rounds through a sizing die with the decapping rod removed.)

[while99]

I've done it both ways but prefer the two-step approach.

[stimpylu32]

for what its worth ,  general plunking rounds in my handguns i just seat and crimp in one stroke - but for my hunting handgun ammo and rifle i use the lee factory crimp dies after seating the bullet