Lee Classic Turret Press Setup PART 4

Published on May 19, 2012
Duration: 11:27

This guide details the setup of the bullet seating die on a Lee Classic Turret Press. It covers indexing the seating stem, properly threading and adjusting the die to avoid unwanted crimping, and the process of seating a bullet to a specific cartridge overall length (COL). The instructor emphasizes using manufacturer specifications for COL and being conservative with adjustments.

Quick Summary

To set up the bullet seating die on a Lee Classic Turret Press, index the seating stem, thread the die until it contacts the case, then back it off 180 degrees. Adjust the seating stem to achieve the desired cartridge overall length (COL), measuring with calipers. Lock the stem and die once the correct depth is achieved.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Overview
  2. 00:13Bullet Seating Die Functionality
  3. 01:00Indexing the Seating Stem
  4. 01:33Positioning the Die
  5. 02:04Initial Die Threading and Adjustment
  6. 03:18Seating a Bullet
  7. 03:58Adjusting Seating Depth
  8. 04:31Understanding Cartridge Overall Length (COL)
  9. 05:19Measuring and Adjusting COL
  10. 06:43Final COL Considerations
  11. 07:34Bullet Crimping Die Setup
  12. 08:15Adjusting the Crimping Die
  13. 09:43Demonstrating Maximum Crimp
  14. 10:46Crimping Necessity and Severity
  15. 11:05Locking Down the Die
  16. 11:14Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you properly set up the bullet seating die on a Lee Classic Turret Press?

First, index the seating stem with a marker. Thread the die in until it contacts the case, then back it off 180 degrees. Place a bullet on a case, guide it into the die, and turn the stem down to contact the bullet. Lower the ram and adjust the stem to achieve the desired cartridge overall length (COL), then lock the stem and the die.

What is the recommended method for adjusting bullet seating depth?

Use the index mark on the seating stem as a reference. Make small adjustments, such as quarter turns, and measure the cartridge overall length (COL) with calipers after each adjustment. Be conservative, as it's easier to seat deeper than to raise the bullet.

What is the purpose of the crimping die in the fourth station?

The crimping die in the fourth station is used to create a factory-like crimp by squeezing the case mouth inward around the bullet. This prevents bullet setback, especially in autoloaders with extended magazines, and ensures a secure fit.

How much crimp is typically necessary?

While a strong crimp can prevent bullet setback, a very light crimp is usually sufficient for uniform velocities and ignition. Often, less than a third of a full crimp is all that is necessary for most reloading applications.

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