I have to use a drop tube with my .223 load. 27 grains of H4895 doesnt want to fit too well otherwise. I also use a drop tube with my .221 Fireball load. In both cases, the bullet does make contact with the powder. There is no crunching, so I dont consider it too compressed. The 55 grain Vmax in the .223 load does stick down into the case a bit.