Let’s Dive into Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads offers reloaders a simple and effective solution for lubricating and sizing cast bullets. Manufactured by Lee, this kit aims to streamline the often tedious process, allowing for more consistent and accurate ammunition. It’s designed for use with standard reloading presses, making it accessible to a wide range of handloading enthusiasts.
My journey to this kit stemmed from frustration with inconsistent cast bullet performance in my .30-30 lever action rifle. I was experiencing leading in the barrel and inconsistent accuracy, issues often attributed to improperly sized and lubricated bullets. I needed a reliable and affordable way to size my cast bullets to .309″ diameter to eliminate these issues.
Upon unboxing, the kit felt robust, if simple. The sizing die itself is a solid piece of steel, and the bullet collection container is a practical addition. It’s clear this isn’t a high-end, polished system, but rather a functional tool designed to get the job done efficiently.
I considered other sizing methods, including hand-operated lubrisizers and more expensive, progressive press-mounted systems. Ultimately, I chose the Lee kit because of its affordability and simplicity. It seemed like a good entry point into bullet sizing without breaking the bank.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed straightforward, but I was eager to see how it would perform in practice. I had high hopes for improved bullet consistency and, ultimately, better accuracy downrange.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit in my reloading room, using my trusted single-stage reloading press. The initial setup was simple: screwing the die into the press and attaching the collection container. I used a batch of .311″ diameter cast bullets I had previously made, intending to size them down to .309″.
The process was surprisingly smooth. With a light coating of Lee Liquid Alox (which, notably, isn’t included and must be purchased separately), the bullets fed easily into the die. The press handled the sizing operation with minimal effort, and the bullets dropped cleanly into the container.
There were no major issues in the beginning. One minor annoyance was the occasional bullet sticking in the die, requiring a little extra force on the press handle. However, this was easily remedied with a slightly heavier application of lube.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds sized with the Lee kit, I’m impressed with its consistency. The bullets are uniformly sized, and I’ve noticed a significant reduction in leading in my rifle barrel. This has directly translated into improved accuracy at the range.
Durability has been excellent. The die shows no signs of wear, and the container is holding up well despite repeated use. The simple design means there’s little to break or wear out.
Maintenance is straightforward. I occasionally wipe down the die with a clean cloth to remove any accumulated lube. The container is easily emptied and cleaned. Compared to more complex lubrisizers, the Lee kit is a breeze to maintain.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Specifications
- Caliber: Designed for sizing .309″ diameter bullets. This is ideal for many .30 caliber rifles, including .30-30, .308 Winchester, and some .30-06 loads with cast bullets.
- Threads: Features standard 7/8″ x 14 threads, compatible with virtually all modern reloading presses. This universal compatibility makes it easy to integrate into any existing reloading setup.
- Material: Constructed from hardened steel for durability. This ensures the die can withstand the pressure of sizing bullets repeatedly without deformation.
- Sizing Method: Pushes bullets nose-first through the die. This eliminates the need for special nose punches, simplifying the process.
- Gas Check Seating: Automatically seats and crimps gas checks (if used) during the sizing process. This is a major time-saver for reloaders who use gas checks to prevent leading with high-velocity cast bullet loads.
- Collection Container: Includes a container to catch sized bullets. This keeps the reloading bench tidy and prevents the sized bullets from being damaged or deformed.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the kit’s compatibility, ease of use, and performance. The standard threads guarantee it will fit most presses, the steel construction ensures durability, and the nose-first sizing and gas check seating features streamline the reloading process, saving time and effort.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit performs its primary function—sizing bullets—exceptionally well. It consistently produces bullets of the correct diameter, which is critical for accuracy and preventing leading in firearm barrels.
The kit’s greatest strength is its simplicity and ease of use. It requires minimal setup and is easy to operate, even for novice reloaders. However, one area for improvement is the occasional bullet sticking in the die, which requires more liberal lube application.
Overall, the kit meets my expectations for an affordable and effective bullet sizing solution. It delivers consistent results and has improved the performance of my cast bullet loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee kit features a utilitarian design. The die is robust but unadorned, and the collection container is functional but basic. The emphasis is clearly on practicality rather than aesthetics.
The kit is user-friendly, although some reloaders might prefer a handle or lever for easier operation. The lack of a handle can make sizing large batches of bullets somewhat tedious.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit is built to last. The hardened steel die should withstand years of use with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a solvent to remove accumulated lube. The simple design ensures there are few parts to wear out or break.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes the sizing die and a collection container. It does not include bullet lube, which must be purchased separately. Lee recommends their Liquid Alox lube.
There are no specific customization options for the Lee kit itself. However, reloaders can use different types of bullet lube to fine-tune the sizing process. Additionally, the Lee Precision Bullet Sizing Kit can be combined with other Lee reloading products to create a comprehensive handloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Pros
- Affordable and economical.
- Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
- Consistently produces accurately sized bullets.
- Durable steel construction for long life.
- Automatically seats and crimps gas checks.
Cons
- Bullet lube not included, must be purchased separately.
- Can be tedious for sizing large batches of bullets without a dedicated handle on the press.
- Occasional bullet sticking in the die can occur with insufficient lubrication.
Who Should Buy Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?
This Lee kit is perfect for reloaders who are just starting to experiment with cast bullets and want an affordable and easy-to-use sizing solution. It’s also well-suited for reloaders who primarily load for one or two calibers and don’t want to invest in a more expensive, progressive lubrisizer. Hunters and recreational shooters who load their own ammunition will appreciate the improved accuracy and reduced leading that comes from properly sized bullets.
This product might not be the best choice for high-volume reloaders who need to size thousands of bullets per month. Also, those who want or require more automated lube application should consider other solutions.
A must-have accessory is Lee Liquid Alox bullet lube or a similar product. A dedicated reloading press is also essential.
Conclusion on Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .309 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a solid and reliable tool for reloaders who want to size their cast bullets. Its simplicity, affordability, and consistent performance make it an excellent value.
The price is definitely justified, especially when considering the improved accuracy and reduced leading that comes from using properly sized bullets. This translates to better performance and longevity for your firearms.
I would definitely recommend this kit to anyone looking for an affordable and effective bullet sizing solution. If you’re tired of leading and inconsistent accuracy with your cast bullet loads, the Lee 90038 Lube & Sizing Kit is a worthwhile investment that will enhance your handloading experience and the performance of your firearms. Get yours today and experience the difference!