Reloading 223 for AR rifles

The Mann

Established Member
Jan 19, 2022
20
11
Birmingham
Just looking for insight on the big issue of crimping or not crimping? I am fixing to order my 223 dies some say 2 die set is enough others say order the 3 die set with the crimping die? This will primarily for my AR so just looking for insight to is a light crimp enough or does it need a full crimp?
 

Txbobcat

Established Member
Apr 17, 2023
19
11
Madison, AL
I reload .223 on a Lee progressive with crimp die. I would say I use a moderate crimp. Never had any problems in 1000 rounds.
 

Glassman256

Established Member
Jul 27, 2020
100
49
Sylacauga Alabama
On my reloading of any rifles I always buy the 3-4 die sets,I've found it's always best to has a good seal on the bullet ,but it's best to find your reference guide for which cal.your loading for which crimp you will be best for your load
 

Chikn

Established Member
Sep 2, 2023
56
102
Opp
Grumpy old man here.
41 years reloading.
Honestly depends on what you are doing with your ammo.
If your ammo won't feed without a crimp, you have a mechanical issue, not an ammo issue.
A crimp is not necessary in most autoloader platforms, ie bottleneck rifle.
Revolver rounds should always be crimped...mostly for secure function.
I shot thousands upon thousands of rounds from a gasser in competition. Never had an issue with accuracy or function from lack of crimp.
 
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