Do you need to crimp wadcutter bullets when reloading?

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 by 
[ltr]DocDerm[/ltr]
 » Fri Nov 26, 2021 2:58 pm
Hi, all
I would appreciate your input on the above question. 32 Smith and Wesson as well as 38 special.

Some folks on the Internet seem to argue that there is sufficient neck tension from just pressing the word cutter into the mouth of the case to hold the wadcutter bullet immobile.

Others caution that crimping a wadcutter bullet can put excess pressure on the cartridge case leading to bulging of the case.

What can go wrong if there is no crimp or if the crimp is insufficient? These rounds are going to be used in a Pardini HP and a Smith & Wesson model 52.

What is best practice?

Thanks

This is the crimp I use on my HBWC for my 52

Yes, a crimp is needed - period.  Ensures consistent ignition and velocities which leads to better accuracy.  Some use a roll crimp which is typical in 38 Spl dies.  All well and good.
In my case, I have a 52 with a Clark barrel 1:10 twist.  I switched to a taper crimp die since this barrel headspaces off the case mouth, not the rim.