I load all my .223 to 2.258, in order to stay under the 2.26 max overall length, as listed in the Lyman 5th. That works well in my ars so I have been able to stick with it. I have never had any issue reaching the cannelure or loose bullets, with 55gr or 62gr from rmr. I only crimp lightly. I never shorten a bullet length, without starting my loads at the suggested minimum and working up using the chronagraph, verifying ft/sec, so I don\’t go over on case pressure. How tight is the bullet seated before crimping?