45 Colt reloading 250gr XTP's

Stumps13 · Nov 29, 2012

My first experience loading 45 colt with XTP (250gr .452) they are next to impossible to load as they will not always seat. I have done all that I can think of as far as full length sizing and expanding. Any ideas as to how I can avoid crushed cases?
TNX

Iron Mike Golf · Nov 29, 2012

What die set are you using? I load that same bullet using RCBS sizing and seating dies and a Lyman powder-though M-die and have no problem.

Is the case crumpling during seating or crimpping?? Are you trying to seat and crimp at the same time? Measure the diameter of your expander to make sure it's not undersized.

Stumps13 · Nov 29, 2012

I am using RCBS dies and the problem is when I try to seat the bullet. The expander is mic at .452. It happens about one out every 4 that I try to load. I am NOT crimping when I seat the bullet. :roll:

Rclark · Nov 29, 2012

You are belling the case mouth with the expander die to accept the bullet? I can see this happening if you are not.

WIL TERRY · Nov 29, 2012

IN ALL PROBABILITY your loading dies are incorrectly set. Go back and read the expading die and seating die instructions. What you are saying is happening CANNOT happen otherwise.

catfish621 · Nov 29, 2012

Put just enough bell that the bullet can start without shaving. You probably have the seating die screwed in too far. Screw die in until it just touches the case and then back off about a quarter turn and lock down. Turn seat stem in a little at a time while seating bullet till you get it in to the cannelure. You now have the correct length. Now back seating stem out and loosen lock ring on die. With cartridge in shell holder turn die in until you have the crimp you want and lock down. Now turn seating stem in until you feel it touch the bullet and lock it down. Now you can seat and crimp in one step. Of course you can do these steps separately but process is same.