Let’s Dive into Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a purpose-built solution designed to simplify the process of lubricating and sizing cast bullets, specifically for .308 caliber projectiles. Manufactured by Lee, a respected name in reloading equipment, this kit promises a fast, easy, and consistent method for preparing bullets for reloading. It’s designed to fit any standard reloading press with 7/8″ x 14″ threads, making it a versatile addition to any reloader’s bench.
I’ve been casting and reloading my own .308 bullets for years, primarily for my hunting rifle and a few AR-10 platform rifles, always chasing that perfect balance of accuracy and economy. Traditionally, I’ve relied on more manual methods of bullet lubrication and sizing, which are time-consuming and sometimes inconsistent. This kit promised to streamline the process, which is why I decided to give it a try.
Upon unboxing the Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit, I was initially struck by its simple, no-nonsense design. The kit is comprised of the sizing die itself and a bullet collection container. The build quality seemed sturdy enough for the intended purpose, with the die constructed from what appears to be durable steel, promising a long service life.
Compared to dedicated bullet sizers from Lyman or RCBS, the Lee kit stands out for its price point and simplicity. I chose this particular kit over the others primarily because of its affordability and its method of sizing bullets nose-first. This eliminates the need for specialized nose punches, simplifying the process even further.
My first impression was a mix of cautious optimism and anticipation. While the simplicity of the design was appealing, I was eager to see if it would truly live up to its promise of speed and consistency, particularly compared to my existing methods.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit at my reloading bench, primarily focusing on sizing cast bullets for my .308 Winchester bolt-action hunting rifle. The conditions were fairly controlled, inside my garage, with a typical temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I had already cast a batch of bullets using a Lee mold, so I was ready to size and lube them.
The initial setup was straightforward, screwing the die into my RCBS Rock Chucker press. The instructions were clear, and the process of pushing the bullets through the die was relatively smooth, requiring a moderate amount of force. The lube applied with my fingers before sizing seemed sufficient.
One initial surprise was the amount of lubrication needed for some of the harder cast bullets. Several bullets required significantly more force than others, leading to some inconsistent sizing initially until I adjusted my lubrication technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of sized bullets, the Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit has proven to be a reliable, if not perfect, tool. The die itself shows no signs of wear, and the bullet collection container works as intended, preventing the sized bullets from scattering across my bench. Cleaning the die is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a cloth and solvent to remove any accumulated bullet lube.
While the kit has held up well, I have noticed that the consistency of sizing depends heavily on the consistency of the initial bullet casting and the lubrication applied. Bullets with minor imperfections sometimes require more force to size, potentially leading to slight variations in final diameter. However, with careful attention to detail, these variations can be minimized.
Compared to my previous method of using a Lyman 450 Lube Sizer, the Lee kit is faster and simpler, especially when dealing with bullets that don’t require gas checks. However, the Lyman sizer offers more precise control over the amount of lubrication applied. It also has a more robust build quality overall.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee. This is a well-known company in the reloading industry, known for producing affordable and functional equipment.
- Projectile Caliber: .308 Caliber. The kit is specifically designed for sizing bullets of this diameter, making it ideal for .308 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield, and other .308 caliber cartridges.
- Quantity: One Kit. The kit includes the sizing die and a bullet collection container.
- Additional Features: Lube & Sizing Kit. It’s intended for both lubricating and sizing cast bullets in a single operation.
- Threads per Inch: 7/8×14. This is the standard thread size for most reloading presses, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
These specifications are important because they define the kit’s compatibility and intended use. The standard thread size means it will fit almost any reloading press, and the .308 caliber specification ensures it will accurately size bullets for a popular and versatile cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit performs its core function of sizing and lubricating cast bullets effectively, though with some caveats. It’s particularly well-suited for reloaders who prioritize speed and simplicity over absolute precision. The die sizes the bullets to the specified diameter, ensuring consistent chambering and improving accuracy.
The main strength of the kit is its ease of use. The nose-first sizing method eliminates the need for special nose punches, streamlining the process significantly. The primary weakness is the lack of precise control over lubrication.
Overall, the kit meets expectations for a budget-friendly bullet sizing solution, but it may not satisfy reloaders who demand the highest levels of precision and control.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit is straightforward and functional. The steel die is robust and durable, while the bullet collection container is a simple, yet effective, addition. The kit is lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport.
The kit is reasonably user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. However, the lack of integrated lubrication can be a minor inconvenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit appears to be durable enough for its intended use, thanks to its all-steel construction. With proper care, it should last for many years of reloading. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a solvent to remove bullet lube residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit itself comes with only the sizing die and bullet collection container. There are no additional accessories included. There are no real customization options for this product, although it does work with aftermarket bullet lubes.
It’s compatible with any standard reloading press that accepts 7/8″ x 14″ threaded dies. This makes it easy to integrate into an existing reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Pros
- Affordable price point. Significantly cheaper than dedicated bullet sizers from other brands.
- Simple and easy to use. The nose-first sizing method eliminates the need for special nose punches.
- Fast sizing process. Speeds up bullet preparation compared to more manual methods.
- Standard 7/8″ x 14″ threads. Compatible with most reloading presses.
- Durable steel construction. Ensures a long service life with proper care.
Cons
- Lack of precise lubrication control. Requires manual application of bullet lube.
- Sizing consistency can vary. Depends on bullet casting quality and lubrication technique.
- No included accessories. Only the sizing die and collection container are provided.
Who Should Buy Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?
The Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit is perfect for reloaders who are on a budget and want a simple, fast way to size cast bullets for their .308 caliber rifles. It’s particularly well-suited for reloaders who primarily shoot cast bullets at moderate velocities.
This kit is NOT ideal for reloaders who demand the highest levels of precision and control over bullet sizing and lubrication. It’s also not the best choice for those who primarily shoot jacketed bullets or who require gas checks on their cast bullets.
A must-have accessory is a good quality bullet lube, such as Lee Liquid Alox or a similar product, to ensure smooth and consistent sizing.
Conclusion on Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .308 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads offers a compelling value proposition for reloaders seeking an affordable and straightforward bullet sizing solution. While it may not offer the same level of precision as more expensive options, its simplicity and speed make it a worthwhile addition to any reloader’s bench, especially if you are on a budget.
The price is definitely justified by the kit’s functionality and durability. It provides a significant improvement over purely manual sizing methods.
I would personally recommend it to reloaders who are just starting out with cast bullets or who are looking for a cost-effective way to speed up their reloading process. It’s a solid, no-frills tool that gets the job done. If you are ready to streamline your .308 cast bullet reloading, give the Lee 90037 Lube & Sizing Kit a try!