Lee Precision .404 Jeffery Large Series Factory Crimp Die
$37.50
The Lee Precision .404 Jeffery Large Series Factory Crimp Die is purpose-built for reloaders who demand consistent, accurate ammunition in this powerful cartridge. Unlike standard sizing dies, a factory crimp die applies uniform pressure to the case mouth and bullet during the final reloading stage—a step that separates precision handloads from mediocre ones. Whether you're preparing match-grade rounds for the range or building hunting ammo for dangerous game, this die tightens the relationship between bullet and case in ways that noticeably improve shot-to-shot consistency.
The crimp mechanism uses a collet that squeezes the case mouth firmly into the bullet's crimp groove, creating the kind of solid bullet hold that ammunition manufacturers achieve in factory production. That firm mechanical grip allows chamber pressure to build uniformly before the bullet moves, which means more stable pressure curves and tighter velocity spreads—two hallmarks of accurate, reliable ammunition. Tests show that even bullets without a dedicated crimp groove shoot more accurately when run through a factory crimp die, making this tool valuable across a wide range of .404 Jeffery loads.
Designed to work with any standard 7/8"-14 reloading press, this large series die slots into your existing reloading setup without requiring special adapters or modifications. It's the kind of straightforward, no-nonsense tool that Lee has built its reputation on—effective, durable, and focused on delivering real results downrange. If you reload .404 Jeffery and aren't currently crimping, you're leaving accuracy on the table.
Key Features
- Collet-based crimp design applies firm, uniform pressure to case mouth and bullet
- Improves accuracy and velocity consistency across all loads
- Effective on bullets with or without dedicated crimp grooves
- Compatible with all standard 7/8\"-14 reloading presses
- Large series format for .404 Jeffery and similar magnum rifle cartridges
Specifications
| Caliber | .404 Jeffery |
| Series | Large |
| Type | Factory Crimp Die |
| Press Compatibility | 7/8\"-14 threaded reloading presses |
| Shellholder | Not included |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this crimp die work with my current reloading press?
Yes, if your press features a standard 7/8\"-14 threaded die station. This is the industry-standard thread size used on most single-stage, turret, and progressive presses. Verify your press manual if you're unsure, but the vast majority of modern reloaders will have no compatibility issues.
Do I need a separate shellholder for this die?
A shellholder is not included with this die. You'll need to source a .404 Jeffery shellholder separately if you don't already have one. This holds the case during the crimping stroke.
What's the real difference between a factory crimp die and a standard seating die?
A factory crimp die's collet mechanism grips the case mouth and applies concentrated, uniform pressure specifically designed to seat and crimp the bullet in a single motion. Standard seating dies crimp as a secondary function during bullet seating. The factory crimp die's dedicated collet design delivers more precise, repeatable crimp pressure—which translates to more consistent ammunition and tighter velocity spreads.
Can I use this crimp die on bullets without a crimp groove?
Yes. Testing demonstrates that factory crimp dies work effectively on bullets regardless of whether they have a dedicated crimp groove. The collet still applies firm, uniform pressure to the case mouth, which improves accuracy and pressure consistency.
