I am loading 180 gr. Partitions for my Winchester Model 70 in .300 Weatherby. I am wondering how many of you would crimp bullets on this round. I am wondering if the recoil will set bullets back in the case or force them out of the case into the magazine well. If you crimp, is the Lee factory crimp ideal for this? Thanks, Dave

[ 01-12-2003, 01:37: Message edited by: Shark Bait ]

If you go to the Accurate home page and look under FAQ there is a study done on crimping useing the Lee fartory crimp die. He used 3 different loads and accuracy was better in every one useing the crimp die so I don't think it will hurt but most will tell you not to though.

I always like to crimp a hunting bullet if I can.

The recoil forces will batter the noses of the bullets, and any movement ought to be into the case if there is any movement at all.

A light kicker like the 300 Wby probably wouldn't be enough to dislodge a good non-crimped seating, unless that is a flyweight rifle.

A full case of powder (100% loading density) and no crimp would be a good way to go if that is what your rifle likes best. That will usually mitigate any movement of the bullet deeper into the case.

I would still prefer a 100% load and a crimp in a hunting rifle, if possible.

Only heavy recoil rifles need the bullet crimped in place. Ammo subjected to rough use should be crimped in place. Only bullets with a crimp groove in thier jacket should be crimped in palce. My best accuracy is acheived with the uncrimped bullets. Their is plenty of bullet baring surface to hold the bullet in place on a 300 Weatherby magnum case. Another myth about bullets is deformed bullet points do not effect the accuracy of that bullet. Testing has proven that a bullet with a severely deformed nose will still strike point of aim. Bullets with minor nicks or damage to the rear of the bullet will fly off point of aim. Every bullets center of stability is maintained at the base or rear of that bullet. I have conducted my own tests and found this to be true.

For hunting ammo, I recommend a crimp after having seen a bullet move in the magazine during an elk hunt. I use the Lee Factory Crimp die for all my hunting rifles.