Wrinkled Bullets

[cs1245]

I have been using a Dillon 550B reloader for my 9mm Ruger handgun. I purchased it May 2012. I have reloaded about 3000 rounds without much of an issue. Now I have been getting about 1 out of 5 bullets with what looks like a "wrinkle" the bullet at the case mouth on just one side of the bullet. I am using 115 grain Rainer Leadsafe bullets. What seems to be happening is at station 2 on the reloader it doesnt seem to expand the bullet casing. I also noticed if I use a bullet puller and remove the wrinkled bullet and put the "defective" casing" back into station 2 and re-expand the casing and then put a new bullet in it there is no wrinkle. I have cleaned stations 2 and 3 and still nothing has changed. Any thoughts? I have reloaded these brass casings 2 times before.

[UTraab]

Do you have any pictures?

[Ronnie j]

Adjust the bell at station 2 ,

[feederic]

Definitely need more bell. The wrinkled bullet opens up the case a little more, thats why the second bullet doesn't wrinkle when you put that casing back into stage 2.

[cs1245]

Do you have any pictures?

Here is the pic. So the answer seems to be lower the bell so there is a greater flare placed the the bullet casing?

[OUshooter]

The color of the press doesn't really come into play here. It's all about the setup of the expander die. I've had similar issues on an RCBS turret press and Hornady LNL AP.

Get yourself a bit more flare and you should be fine.

[feederic]

So the answer seems to be lower the bell so there is a greater flare placed the the bullet casing?

Yes.

I had the same issue with Berry's plated. Increased the bell and no more wrinkles. Don't go overboard. I use a bullet feeder and bell enough so the bullet sits in the case and doesn't tumble out on a fast index.

[dillon]

Flare the case mouth so it is .010-.020" larger than a sized, unflared case mouth.