Lee Factory Crimp Die - Rifle

[Steve Koski]

Hit me with your pros and cons, likes and dislikes for this die for the Lee FCD for:

RIFLE
Lee Factory Crimp Die:

Crimps the bullet in place more firmly than any other tool.
It is impossible to buckle the case as with regular roll crimp dies.
Trim length is not critical.
Tests demonstrate that even bullets which have no cannelure will shoot more accurately if crimped in place with the Lee Factory Crimp Die.http://leeprecision.com/graphics/shoppingcart/fcdie.jpg
Factory ammunition is often more accurate and better able to withstand rough handling because the bullet is firmly crimped in place.A firm crimp improves accuracy because pressure must build to a higher level before the bullet begins to move. This higher start pressure insures a more uniform pressure curve and less velocity variation. Even powder selection is less critical.
Until now, handloaders seated the bullet to touch the rifling to achieve similar results. This is not always possible nor desirable. The Lee Factory Crimp Die is included at no extra charge with Lee PaceSetter Dies. It's just another added value that only Lee Dies offer.

[Steve Koski]

I have one of these in 500 S&W Mag. Yes, I know it isn't a rifle round, but it is long enough to use the collet type crimping action. I love it. It applies a good firm crimp and I've never had any bullets pull under recoil in the monster.

I use the FCD to load 350 grain Speer Uni Cor bullets which don't have a cannelure. The FCD crimps them nice and firm.

[freakshow10mm]

I use one for .223 Rem, 375 H&H Magnum, and 45/70 Gov. I absolutely love them. The only rifle round I need to crimp is 45/70 but I like the uniform crimp the FCD gives. I haven't done testing but sense that it gives better, more consistent ignition and burn. I like the collet type action and it seems to hit the area that needs it and that's it.

[Jumper]

Hi GP - I crimp 25-06 with one. I think it gives me a uniform bullet pull. To get the same pull from case to case I would have to anneal the case necks every time. It works great for me.

[WalterGA]

I used a FCD for crimping .223s, until I grew wiser. No more crimping for me.