Do crimp setting change with different bullets?

[TBuckus]

I'm reloading some 223 practice rounds for my AR on my Dillon 550.
I have a bunch of misc Manuf/grain bullets that I would like to use up (40gr up to 63gr)

What I am wondering is does the crimp die (Lee Factory Crimp Die) on my 550 need to be adjusted when switching to a different grain bullet?
It is my understanding is the factory crimp die is based off the brass, which doesn't change regardless of bullet. So in theory, I shouldn't have to change the crimp adjustment when I go from 40 to 52 grain.

Am I understanding this correctly?

 

[GLTaylor]

Yes and no. You're correct that only the brass is affected by the crimp. However, in my limited use, I've seen different bullet/powder combinations show preference for different crimps. So far my crimps run from "0" (still a light crimp) toas much as 3/8ths turn crimp (using the teeth on the FCD as a reference). I mostly use the FCD as the final tuning step in load development.

 

[TBuckus]

Yes and no. You're correct that only the brass is affected by the crimp. However, in my limited use, I've seen different bullet/powder combinations show preference for different crimps. So far my crimps run from "0" (still a light crimp) toas much as 3/8ths turn crimp (using the teeth on the FCD as a reference). I mostly use the FCD as the final tuning step in load development.

I absolutely agree when fine tuning a load I need to adjust the crimp amount per individual load (example- 7mmwsm 155 gr and 124gr hammers)
Some loads I'm about to start are just for short range practice with my AR. 50-100yds.
My theory, although possibly wrong is that by leaving the crimp alone say 1/4 turn give or take, I'm taking out one tuning aspect out of load development. If my first one or two powder charges give me 1-2moa, I'm happy.

 

[GLTaylor]

I absolutely agree when fine tuning a load I need to adjust the crimp amount per individual load (example- 7mmwsm 155 gr and 124gr hammers)
Some loads I'm about to start are just for short range practice with my AR. 50-100yds.
My theory, although possibly wrong is that by leaving the crimp alone say 1/4 turn give or take, I'm taking out one tuning aspect out of load development. If my first one or two powder charges give me 1-2moa, I'm happy.

Absolutely! Start with minimal crimp. If you find a good load, you're all set. Leave well enough alone.
My personal goal is 0.5". If I don't get it with initial load development, time to tune and test.