I recently got this question from a reader (recoilamrs) regarding loading 45ACP on the Hornady Lock-N-Load:
Hi! This is killing me I swear!! No matter what I do I can’t reload 45 auto that fits into my XD45. It doesn’t look like new ammo and it always seems to bend the case wall. I don’t know what else I can do. I’ve tried reading the manual. Can you please make a video on setting the dies? I got the deprimer down good but the other two are driving me crazy. If I could just see someone else do it that would be great. And I’m watching your video on 45 auto reloading and your instruction is awesome. So can you help me PLEASE!!???
I think everyone who has reloaded pistol ammo has run into this problem (crushed cases). It can be quite madening!
I’d bet you are over-crimping. Here’s how I setup a seat/crimp die for automatics:
- Install seat/crimp die in LNL bushing, snap into place
- Back the seating plug mostly out
- Raise the die in the bushing fairly highÂ
- Take a loaded round that is properly sized (factory ammo would be good option) and put it in the shellplate before the seat/crimp station
- Raise the ram, keep the ram at the top of its stroke
- Turn the die down until you feel it contact the case (make sure seating plug is not touching bullet
Tighten slightly (slightly!!!) - Turn down the seating plug (make sure you’re using the right profile, flat point versus round nose) until it contacts the bullet.
That should be enough to dial you in. Run a test round through, check your cartridge overall length with calipers and dial in.