Tom Gresham's Gun Talk - The After Show 11.02.14

Published on November 6, 2014
Duration: 42:15

This discussion delves into the nuances of cartridge crimping in reloading, particularly its impact on rifle cartridge accuracy. The experts emphasize consistency in case length and crimp depth as crucial for predictable results. They also address the necessity of crimping for certain pistol cartridges to prevent bullet setback under recoil, which can affect revolver function and overall firearm safety.

Quick Summary

Cartridge crimping in reloading involves squeezing the case mouth to secure the bullet, preventing setback. For rifle accuracy, consistent case length is key. For pistols like .38/.357, crimping prevents bullet setback under recoil, ensuring reliable function. While not critical for hunting accuracy, crimping may offer marginal benefits in precision shooting.

Chapters

  1. 08:17What is Cartridge Crimping?
  2. 08:40Cannelure and Bullet Crimping
  3. 09:29Consistency in Crimping
  4. 10:03Crimping for Pistol Cartridges
  5. 10:41Crimping's Impact on Accuracy
  6. 11:07When to Avoid Crimping

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cartridge crimping in reloading and why is it done?

Cartridge crimping is a reloading process where the mouth of the cartridge case is slightly squeezed inward to grip the bullet more firmly. This is primarily done to prevent bullet movement or setback within the case, which can occur due to recoil or magazine cycling, ensuring consistent headspace and reliable feeding.

How does case length consistency affect crimping accuracy?

For consistent crimping, especially in rifle cartridges, it's vital that all brass cases are trimmed to the exact same length. This uniformity ensures that each case enters the reloading die identically, allowing for a predictable and repeatable crimp depth, which is crucial for accuracy.

When is crimping necessary for pistol cartridges?

Crimping is often necessary for pistol cartridges, particularly in revolvers like .38 Special and .357 Magnum, to prevent 'bullet setback.' Under recoil, the bullet can be pushed further into the case, which can affect chambering, cylinder rotation, and potentially lead to malfunctions. A proper crimp secures the bullet.

Does crimping rifle cartridges significantly impact accuracy?

The impact of crimping on rifle cartridge accuracy is generally considered minimal for standard hunting applications. However, for precision shooting disciplines like benchrest or extreme long-range, consistent crimping might offer marginal benefits by ensuring uniform bullet seating depth and preventing setback.

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