Very helpful video. I just received my first Lee factory crimp die (300 BLK) and will be setting it and up and using it soon. I was surprised at the results. Conventional wisdom, if I remember correctly, is that crimping hurts accuracy. However, this video showed it did not. In fact, it improved accuracy.

I have learned more from your series of videos on reloading than I have in 5 years of doing it myself. Thanks so much for doing this!

Nothing better then a Johnnys reloading bench video in the morning!

Thank you for taking the time, money, and effort to make your videos. They have been very informative and fascinating. I appreciate it.

Your videos should be mandatory viewing for any person that is learning to reload. 300BLK series is awesome.

watching these videos makes me really appreciate my lee progressive press with removable turrets

Liking where your head is at....handy way of indexing LFCD. Thanks for the lead on the military surplus ammo supplies. Great video's Keep them coming.

You are the MAN! I’m a newer reloader and often have many random questions I either can’t find enough information about OR can’t get a good visual on what’s being explained. You do a GREAT job of both. Thanks!

Thanks for this video. It confirms my personal thoughts on the hot topic of contention regarding crimping. I've always been one to crimp everything when running semi-auto rifles and pistols. You didn't have any major accuracy issues even on the non-cannellure bullets. I always crimp my 168 and 175 SMK for 308 SR25 loads and get half MOA to 3/4 MOA and I'm happy with that. Everyone always screaming at me "NEVER CRIMP EVER EVER EVA" and even if I show my groups and brass with no pressure signs they call it lucky. If the military does it, I'm gonna do it. Thanks for the vindication. Anyhow, what I'm really interested in is the functional 147gr subsonic rounds you got there. I have that powder, and I have thousands of Hornady 150gr FMJ-C's that I can try this with. You mean I don't have to spend .45 cents a round anymore on those 220 gr SMK's? AWESOME. Never even thought to try it. Oh, have you tried that new Hornady CFE-BLK powder yet? Just got 16 pounds ordered but won't be home until March to try it out. Would be cool to see you try out some loads.....others are having great results with it. Thanks again sir. Subbed.

I'm sure glad you are as thorough as you are and your interests in reloading are so similar to mine because you save me a lot of time, money and experimentation. I hunt deer in northern Michigan with the 300 BO so your experimentation with that caliber is of high interest to me. The way you present information is very "conversational" and it's as if I'm in the same room with a buddy working out different loads, etc. Great Job and thanks a lot.

The man that taught me how to reload had me push the bullet into the table. If it moved needed a tighter crimp. Also, tap it on the table that may move it. Nice Vid Thanks

Good work and very helpful. Medium crimp

I know this is old… but you need to crimp to prevent the bullet from moving out as you chamber a round. It doesn’t get pushed in like everyone thinks. It moves out like a puller.

Great video!.I just started reloading 300 blackout, and this really clarified how to set up the crimp die. Thank you so much.

Johnny, you would make a helluva H. S. Science teacher. You'd have them on the edge of their seats!

The thing about having a crimp is that the bullet is held back in the case allowing the powder to build pressure as it starts to burn for a more complete burn and to allow the bullet to be under decent pressure so that when it starts moving and hits the rifling, it does so under a strong enough force that the bullet is less inclined to pause until pressure builds enough to force it along down the barrel.

Thank you for all your videos. I am also a .300 BLK shooter and loader. When you did your videos about sizing dies, I detected one, what I would call a major oversight. It has to do with setting the case shoulder dimension during full length sizing. I do not setup my press the way you do. I use a Sheridan Engineering (or a Wilson case gauge) to establish the position of the shoulder. A case length gauge will allow you to set the sizing die in the correct position so that you do not set the shoulder back too far (or not far enough). The case length gauge has two steps ground into it. You simply screw the die into the press until the head of the case falls between the two steps. It's just that simple. Thanks again for your videos. Best regards, Gene B.

Hi Jonny, I shoot M1 Garand and Springfield M1A NM since 1987. I recently became concerned about bullet movement on chambering. My M1 Garand experienced (dummy rounds with the actual bullet seated to proper depth) with the CBTO being increased by about .003” after two single load chamberings. My M1A experienced the opposite result. The bullets were set back into the brass, I figured that was due to the chamber ramp feed causing resistance. That aside, I just purchased a LEE 30-06 factory crimp die. I saw how you were struggling to quantify the crimp value. I’m a retired Mechanical Engineer, don’t hold that against me! I am trying to quantify the crimp setting setup. I am trying by using feeler gauges to measure the collet gaps (2) that are across from each other. On my die, the state (no ram force applied) measures 0.032” on both collet 180 deg. opposed slots. At the LEE directed shell holder touch plus 1/2 I measured both gaps at 0.013”. The amount of crimp is still subjective, appearance, but maybe this method of quantifying the die will make repeatability easier. The only other consideration is the loaded cartridge neck O.D. before crimping. May have to alter for brass neck thickness. Just, an idea.

At first I was gonna talk some shit about not using a turret at least buuuut I like where you're going being able to get down into the more detailed parts of reloading while keeping it interesting and informative for those who are new to the game. Good job!!

Great test so meidum is just about right. Waiting to see some new videos from you soon

Very good job. Thank you for the time and effort you have put in to this. Cheers

1. Measure case mouth after seating bullet. 2. Measure case mouth after crimping. 3. You now have a crimp that can be repeated or varied as necessary.

Ahh 2016, the good ole days of a $0.16 projectile :)

First, this is a very good, informative video. Thanks for doing this. I am working on trying to improve group size on an AR Stoner barrel, that has not been impressive with factory loads. And just need to make some because it is not available from stores. I wish you had chronographed this, but the data is good enough. I agree with you that most of the group size differences are insignificant, at least with that amount of data you have so far. The 147 grain heavy crimp group was effected by the velocity in and out of the sound barrier, but again nothing too dramatic. I liked your method for determining the medium crimp and I intend to replicate it. Looks like I have 18 more videos to watch. Hopefully they are all this informative.

35:23 Confirmed, Johnny has an ass manual. Good vid. Gathering things to start loading .300blk, and was curious about the crimp setting. This helped a lot. Thanks!

Found it very informative, definitely think I will get the lee crimp and do some crimp testing very nice build by the way!

I kept thinking that deer was going to get shot to pieces at the end of the video. Then I was like "Naw, he wouldn't do that.."

Very interesting, good job. Thanks!

Shame you didn't chronograph them mate. I'd suggest that the reason why quite a few of your heavier crimped subs went supersonic was due to an increase in pressure and consequently velocity from crimping. Thanks for the insight mate I've been enjoying your videos.

Very interesting, definitely one video to add for reference.

On the subject of repeatable crimps, I'm using the Lee FCD as well, but then I found the Redding Micrometer adjustable taper crimp die and it is quite amazing. Not cheap, but if repeatability is a problem, it might be just the ticket.... It does stick to the brass a little.....so if running progressive, it might bother you....I'm still running the FCD on my 1050 though, because I haven't had any issues, but it's great for precision rounds in the future.

#1 Thanks a million for posting all your hard work. #2 They need to increase production and distribution of Accurate 1680! #3 I need a piece of property where I can shoot and test my loads. driving 30 minutes to test 4 strings of 5 rounds suuuucks! Anyway, based on your excellent research, I was able to get my 8.3" to cycle and lock unsuppressed with 220gr using Alliant Reloader 7. That's awesome! But because of your videos, I now considered 1680 as a holy grail of subsonic power for .300 blackout. Even AAC recommends using 1680! I suspect that .300BLK ammo manufacturers are snatching up all the 1680, by any contract, wholesale, or retail means necessary to meet the commercial demand. Q: Have you noticed any cycling issues with your subs suppressed vs unsuppressed, and with your 8 inch vs your 16 inch? As if you don't a lot going on, but I'd love to see you redo those 147gr subs WITH hand thrown charges. I was rooting for a singlr ragged hole with 147gr heavy crimp! I swear I can't trust a mechanical powder thrower. I only feel safe doing it by hand. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Nice touch on the doe relaxing

Your Videos are awesome.. Keep up the good work..

The heavy crimp 147 gr shot bad because they all ran right at the sound barrier. Thats a rough place.lol

I think you need to seat them a little deeper so the crimping occurs right in the middle of the crimp groove. Awesome video, I've learned something, how to find repeatable crimp.

I realize this is an older video, but I certainly think you used the Lee Crimp Die set up improperly. You set it up with the case in place and then after making contact turn it in. You are set up to over crimp the way you set it up. Just saying it doesn't hurt to read directions. I use Lee Crimp dies all the time to at least have a light crimp for consistency.

The lock ring locks the crimp position so that you can repeat the setting.

Use a Hornady lock ring on the LEE Factory Crimp die and tighten to the same torque using the lock-ring wrench. Works for me. Dave & The Girls

That's great show since I tried figure why black hill .300 matchking keep jam sometime wont ejected. So I have been learned from you said crimp think didnt have crimp might that's why stuck inside chambers. Other everything fine like seller bellet 147 gr FMJ and everything except matchking trouble. Thanks

Idea for a Johnny's Reloading Bench T-shirt. "let's see what happens..."

good stuff.

Reloading die Locking rings...."do exist".... IF ALWAYS USING SAME PRESS AND SAME SHELL HOLDER... Setting repeatability with a LOCKED ring , which includes "some sort of set screw" is a real possibility. There are basically two types of "die locking rings": One is a split and clamp-able ring with a screw that squeezes the C-ring together... The other has solid uncut ring with a set screw that actually 'seats on the die threads' . www.midwayusa.com/s?userSearchQuery=die+locking+rings

So I guess the question is, what's the difference between crimp, and neck tension, when dealing with let's say, factory ammo? Are the factory dies doing something special/specific to maybe set a particular neck diameter to affect the performance of their loads? And.... Is that something to consider when handloading ammo, to ensure proper pressures and also controlling set back...?? Man that's a lot of experimentation to conduct, to see what works best. You would think the easiest way to control set back would be the Lee factory crimp die...but, if you had the proper die, you could also set your neck tension for best performance and also control set back. That's a huge HMMMMMM.....

36:33 My total knowledge of reloading at the moment. I think I need to watch more videos

I APPRECIATE YOUR DATA TIME AND EXPENSE FOR YOUR RANGE TESTS THANK YOU !

Awesome series, learning a lot. Noticed something at about 28:40ish 4th shot medium crimp eldx something happens right before bullet impact. Idk either a fly lands and gets shot or the tip is flying before the bullet. Ideas thoughts?

U need a Lee Press, noticed the COL varies.

Excellent video! I don't know if you know this or not, but when testing hand loaded Groups, you're supposed to eliminate the flier and measure the group of the other ones. Your groupings would actually be a lot tighter than what your vid shows.

I really struggle with crimp vs. no crimp. Most of my 300 loads are no crimp to light. Your data seems to show light to medium crimp might be something I need to dig into a bit.

Did you ever find a mid weight 308 projectile, kinda like the 55gr Hornady FMJ/Bobs's 55s? For cheap shooting in the 1-2" groups

How Did the Accurate 1680 performed for 300 BLK? It's easier to get on the shelf over the H110 or Win 296. Thank you for the video.

Great video, sorry I have to ask. How did you record you shooting plus the target at the same time? I just subscribed to your channel. nice job

I could use some advice. I have decided to load some 300 Blackout rounds (200 grain) on the fast side to 1200 fps with "Maker REX" bullets. Tried some Armscor 208 A-max (1200 fps) factory loads - advantage is reliable function, and reduced recoil. What do you think about powders? Thinking A5744 (availability), but since I'm going hot, what about H110? I am afraid that H110 might not fill the case enough or be too hot.

Hey Johnny, Widener's will not ship the 147gr. General Dynamics bullets to CA, just for you and other reloads. If you want to be the middle man for me that would be cool, but...

Have you done a video comparing crimps to velocity?

have you found a sub load for your 168 A-max's? I'm working on a 178 sub A-max/BTHP. I find better accuracy without crimping, could be because it allows me to seat longer?

Another great video! I don't remember if you ever said, but what cameras do you use to record your videos? Thanks

How long did you let the barrel cool between shots / groups?

Hi Johnny, first time watching your video, very good info and am now subscribed, but if you could possibly help me with an issue I have and been trying to fix... I also shoot a 16" barrel with 1:7 twist, (note: NY so not tax stamp allowed) my issue is I can not cycle subs at all, every sub or close to is a bad cycle or at the least no bolt open on empty.. (I've tried various mags) so after some research I finally drilled out my gas hole. (Before that I tried lighter buffer spring, and other simple things, with no luck) so after I drilled out the gas hole I did see a better improvement, but heavier subs above 150 seem to still be no good. The rifle shoots 110-150 supers great, but what's the difference between your rifle and mine, also running carbine length in my 16" 1:7... any ideas or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

does a medium to light crimp affect neck concentricity?

Stop the video!! Did you say you are loading subsonic 147 grain?!!! Let me go get a drink and some popcorn for this one..

Also, do you weigh your primers before you install them? A heavy primer indicates more priming compound and more starting pressure and is the most likely cause for fliers.

Could you please tell me what the meaning of the 'C' on the end of a measure in grains in a reloading chart? For example, 19.0C gr of IMR 4227. Thanks!

All my BO testing shows that 147-160 grain bullets don't perform in 16 inch barrels. 110 grain with highest precision.

Why would you not use shims under your lock ring to adj the amount of crimp for repeatability!!!

Did you see any pressure signs on the brass with the heavy crimp?

I don't get the crimp thing. Match bullets don't seem to have them while "hunting bullets do". If there is no cannelure, then you just rely on neck tension. So don't crimp it? (supposedly weakens neck tension without cannelure to bite into). ???

Just noticed Channel name change.

I use a caliper to see how much was crimped

Why is it easy to hit something with a 30 dollar BB gun at Walmart than a damn rifle. Like hell my groups are super tight with a bb.

does anybody measure with a caliper micrometer !

What was the place you got the 147 gr bullet from?

I like pancakes

I'm sorry ,but you cannot do accuracy testing with out a rock solid rest/hold....especially at 100 yards....still interesting stuff though thanks

at 12:40, you completely missed the crimp area. The crimp area should barely be visible. I know this is a problem with 300 blkout but it is the purpose of the cannelured area on the bullet.

I have yet to ever crimp 5.56/223 ammo for my AR's and have yet to have any issues....not saying you can't....I just have not seen it to be necessary...