Let’s Dive into Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is designed for reloaders who cast their own .429 caliber bullets and need a reliable method for lubricating and sizing them. Lee offers this kit as an all-in-one solution, fitting standard reloading presses with 7/8″ x 14 threads. It aims to simplify the often messy process of bullet sizing and lubrication.
I’ve been casting bullets for my .44 Magnum revolvers for years, always searching for a more efficient and less messy way to size and lube. The old “dip and roll” method was inconsistent and a pain. I was hoping the Lee kit would offer a more consistent and cleaner approach.
Upon unboxing, the kit felt sturdy, though the plastic container seemed a bit basic. The sizing die itself felt well-made, and the threading was clean. I appreciated the simplicity of the design.
I considered the Lyman 4500 Lube-Sizer and the RCBS Lube-A-Matic II, but the Lee kit’s significantly lower price point and direct compatibility with my existing press swayed me. I needed something economical and efficient for moderate-volume reloading. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the design seemed clever, but I wondered about the long-term durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit in my reloading room, using cast lead bullets for my .44 Magnum. I was looking to achieve consistent sizing for improved accuracy in my Smith & Wesson Model 29. The ambient temperature was around 70°F, and I was using Lee Liquid Alox lubricant.
The initial setup was straightforward, and I quickly mounted the die in my Lee Classic Cast press. The kit performed well, consistently sizing the bullets to .429″. However, I noticed that the plastic container filled up quickly.
There were no major issues, but I did learn to apply the lubricant sparingly to avoid excess buildup in the die. I was pleasantly surprised at how easily the bullets passed through the die with proper lubrication.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Lee Lube & Sizing Kit, it has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective solution. I’ve processed several hundred bullets without any significant issues. The die shows no signs of wear, and the sizing process remains consistent.
Minor scratches have appeared on the plastic container from repeated use. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping with a cloth and solvent. Compared to my previous method, this kit is a huge improvement in terms of speed, consistency, and cleanliness.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Specifications
Caliber: The kit is specifically designed for .429 caliber bullets, commonly used in .44 Special and .44 Magnum cartridges. This ensures a proper fit and consistent sizing.
Threads: The die features standard 7/8″ x 14 threads, making it compatible with almost all reloading presses. This universal compatibility is a significant advantage.
Material: The sizing die is made from hardened steel, ensuring durability and consistent sizing over time. The container is made of plastic.
Function: The kit is designed for both lubricating and sizing cast bullets in a single operation. This streamlines the reloading process.
Gas Check Seating: It automatically seats and crimps gas checks (if used) during the sizing process. This is a time-saving feature.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the accuracy and consistency of handloaded ammunition. Proper sizing and lubrication are crucial for achieving optimal performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit performs its core function of sizing and lubricating bullets effectively. The sized bullets are consistently .429″, resulting in improved accuracy. The kit excels at producing uniform bullets that chamber and shoot reliably.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced reloaders. One area for improvement could be the capacity of the plastic container. Overall, it meets my expectations for a budget-friendly sizing solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use. The hardened steel die feels robust, though the plastic container feels less premium. The kit mounts easily onto standard presses.
The kit is user-friendly, even for those new to bullet casting and reloading. The process is intuitive, and there’s little learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel die should last for thousands of rounds with proper care. The plastic container is likely the weakest point in terms of durability. Cleaning is easy, requiring only occasional wiping down with a solvent to remove excess lubricant.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes with the sizing die and a plastic container to catch the sized bullets. Lee offers different sizing dies for other calibers that are compatible with the same press setup. There are no other readily available accessories or modifications for this particular kit, aside from different sizing dies.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Significantly cheaper than competing lube-sizing systems.
- Easy to Use: Simple design with minimal learning curve.
- Consistent Sizing: Delivers uniform .429″ bullets for improved accuracy.
- Gas Check Seating: Automatically seats gas checks, saving time.
- Universal Compatibility: Fits standard 7/8″ x 14 reloading presses.
Cons
- Small Container: The plastic container fills quickly and requires frequent emptying.
- Plastic Container Durability: The plastic container may not be as durable as the steel die.
Who Should Buy Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?
This kit is perfect for reloaders who cast their own .429 caliber bullets for .44 Special or .44 Magnum cartridges. It’s ideal for those seeking an economical and straightforward method for sizing and lubricating bullets. This kit is also great for reloaders who prioritize simplicity and ease of use over high-volume production.
Those who need to size large quantities of bullets quickly or desire a more robust and automated system should skip this product. A sturdier catch container may be a must-have for those who resize hundreds of bullets per session.
Conclusion on Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90054 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .429 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads offers excellent value for the money. It provides a simple and effective solution for sizing and lubricating .429 caliber cast bullets. The price is definitely justified, given the consistent results and ease of use.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for an affordable entry into bullet sizing. It’s a practical and reliable tool for producing accurate and consistent handloads. Stop struggling with messy lubing methods and give this kit a try!