Information Source: Lee Precision


Shot Shell Crimp Problems

Crimp problems are usually caused by not having the correct wad length for the shell and components selected. If the crimp is too deep use a longer wad. If none are available, you can use a wad that is too short and use a fiber or a cardboard wad from a smaller gauge to take up the excess space. It is usually best to place this directly below the shot. Even a crumbled scrap of paper will do.

Sometimes a wad slightly long can be compressed in the wad starting station. Do this by moving the wad starter up 1/4 inch (for 3" shells). Then use a 1/4 inch spacer under the shell. The spacer should have a hole in the center so nothing will touch the primer. A few washers work fine. This will then permit the wad to be seated deeper.

Poorly formed crimps can be caused by using the wrong crimp starter, 6 or 8 segment, or starting in the wrong place. Be sure to align exactly on the fold. With some brands of shells a better crimp is formed by starting exactly in the wrong place. That is where the shell previously folded out, recrimp with the fold in.