Top punch for lee C358-158-SWC?

[Dakooz]

I purchased a 429 top punch as recommended for the LEE C358-158-SWC but I'm getting damage on the nose of the bullet. Not sure what is going on. Has anyone else run into this issue?

Merry Christmas!

[Wally]

The 429 top punch (TP) is too narrow for the tip of the Lee cast bullet. Fill the TP's cavity w/epoxy ..then carefully press a wax coated (release agent) cast bullet into it to form the correct shape..let it harden and you are good to go.

[Cowboy_Dan]

As I look at their boolit designs, the nose is a little stubbier than I remember my 358429 having. Close, but not quite, but they'll probably shoot just fine. Perfect bases are more important in my experience than pretty noses.

[Dakooz]

Yes, the top punch is too narrow which leaves a nice mark.

Using epoxy is an interesting option.

Anyways it's good to know that I'm not losing it. I'm comfortable shooting them but it seems like I'm manufacturing "seconds".

[imashooter2]

A flat punch works for pretty much any SWC...

[Dakooz]

You know I have a flat punch but never thought to try it. I'll give it a try next time. Thanks.

[SniderBoomer]

I have a few makes of lube-sizers. The only one I have that has correct alignment of the centre of the die with the centre of the top-punch, is the Saeco-Redding.

A plain flat top-punch for all the flat pointed designs, really helps let the cast bullet align itself better with off-centre lubers.

Companies like NOE sell plain flat top-punches at great prices.

[Dakooz]

I've got a Lyman 450.

Thanks for the NOE recommendation. I checked out their site and the prices are very reasonable.

[Wally]

I am currently loading the Lee 158 SWC .38 Cal....I filled a SWC seating screw w/ epoxy so it it is basically now "flat"... works just fine with no unsightly marks on the bullet tips.