Lee 90856 Factory Crimp Rifle Die 45-70 Government

The Lee Precision Factory Crimp Rifle Die for .45-70 Government is a specialized reloading die designed to improve accuracy and consistency in your hand-loaded cartridges. Unlike standard seating dies that merely hold a bullet in place, this crimp die applies a firm, uniform grip that keeps bullets from moving during the firing sequence. Whether you're loading for a Sharps, modern lever-action, or single-shot .45-70, a proper crimp builds pressure more predictably and reduces shot-to-shot velocity variation—two factors that directly impact downrange accuracy.

The die features a collet mechanism that squeezes the case mouth directly into the bullet's crimp groove, delivering the firm, consistent hold that benchmark accuracy requires. Lee's design proves effective even with bullets that lack a traditional crimp groove; the extra pressure control still yields measurably tighter groups. This is especially valuable for precision hunting and long-range work, where every shot counts.

Built to universal standards, the Factory Crimp Die threads into any reloading press with a 7/8"-14 mounting system—the industry standard for single-stage and progressive equipment alike. Note that the shellholder is sold separately, so check your press setup before ordering. If you're serious about consistent, accurate .45-70 ammunition, this die belongs in your reloading kit.

Key Features

• Firm collet-style crimp improves bullet seating consistency and reduces velocity variation
• Effective on bullets with or without dedicated crimp grooves
• Works with all standard 7/8"-14 reloading presses (single-stage and progressive)
• Specifically engineered for .45-70 Government cartridges

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Factory Crimp Die work in my reloading press?

Yes, if your press has a standard 7/8"-14 threaded die station. This is the universal mounting for nearly all single-stage and progressive rifle reloading equipment. You'll need a separate shellholder sized for .45-70 Government.

Do I need a crimped groove on my bullets for this die to work?

No. While bullets with a crimp groove are ideal, Lee's Factory Crimp Die improves accuracy even with bullets that lack one. The collet mechanism will still apply a firm, consistent crimp to the case mouth.

How does a factory crimp improve accuracy?

A firm crimp prevents bullet movement during the pressure curve, allowing pressure to build more uniformly and consistently from shot to shot. This reduces velocity variation and tighter velocity spreads directly improve group size downrange.