For 357Max, you want a ROLL crimp. Even though you're shooting in a Contenter (no worries about recoil pullout or setback from a feeding ramp), the strong crimp will let pressure build in this round. That's what you need to improve accuracy. Without the crimp, you get early release, unburned powder, sooty cases and large ES in velocity. At least that's what I've seen. YMMV.
I run 357Max in a Contender and a Handi Rifle. Both shoot great.
This is the go to page for 357Max. http://www.bellmtcs.com/store/index.php?cid=121
CAST LEAD BULLETS:
Reduced loads are ok with most any weight and type of plain base or gas checked bullet.
Slower powders tend to minimize potential to lead the barrel.
Hunting bullets should be gas checked and have a WIDE FLAT NOSE design for best effect on game.
Stick with 180 gr. and heavier bullets for deer with the benefit of a potential velocity increase of 100 to as much as 150 fps over the same weight of jacketed bullet. With the throats I cut, .358" sized diameter should be best across the board, but would not dismiss .357" diameter.
CRIMP OR NOT TO CRIMP:
I've always said it is not necessary to crimp the Max, BUT all those nice groups David White has posted here were with crimped loads, crimped in the factory cannelure, meaning a largish jump to the rifling and raising doubts about the common wisdom of seating bullets to the lands for best accuracy.
TIP REGARDING CRIMPING:
I have not done anything with or given much credence to the Lee Factory Crimp Die, BUT, recent reports are that with the thin jackets of handgun bullets especially, the Lee Factory Crimp Die will effectively make its own cannelure groove in the bullet.
Try it with bullets seated out where no cannelure/crimp groove exists.