Abstract: A die casting method initially injects an alloy with minimal volumetric contraction during solidification into a die cavity, monitors at least one of the pressure of the shot cylinder and the position of the plunger, and reduces the injection pressure during the final stage of filling of the die mold. A die casting machine includes a shot cylinder having one of a pressure detector located for detecting the hydraulic pressure applied to the cylinder or a position sensor for a plunger rod. The plunger rod includes a tip extending into a cold chamber, which receives a metal alloy having a minimal shrinkage characteristic. A source of hydraulic pressure is coupled to the shot cylinder by a control valve and a control circuit is coupled to said valve and to one of said detector or sensor for reducing the injection pressure near the end of an injection cycle.