Let’s Dive into Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super
For over a decade, I’ve immersed myself in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, from testing survival knives in the wilderness to evaluating the performance of firearms and their related equipment at the range. One area that has always fascinated me is the art of reloading, the process of crafting custom ammunition tailored to specific needs. The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super promises to streamline this process, offering an automated solution for high-volume reloaders.
I was drawn to this kit because I’ve been spending more time shooting my 38 Super at local competitions. While factory ammunition is available, the cost and variability in performance have become a significant issue. I needed a reliable and efficient way to produce consistent, high-quality ammunition without spending hours at a single-stage press.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super was one of solid construction. The cast iron frame felt robust, and the components seemed well-machined. While progressive presses can appear intimidating, the setup instructions seemed clear enough.
Compared to other progressive presses I considered (namely, the Dillon Precision RL550C and the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP), the Lee Pro 1000 stood out due to its more affordable price point. While the Dillon and Hornady options are renowned for their quality and reliability, the Lee kit seemed like a worthwhile entry point into progressive reloading, especially for a relatively uncommon caliber like 38 Super. I hoped to find a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness with this Lee setup. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it could live up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super was my workshop, meticulously setting up the press and following the instructions. I primed a few hundred cases, loaded them with carefully measured powder charges, and seated bullets, all under controlled conditions. The setup took a few hours, and required careful adjustments.
The press performed admirably in this controlled setting, cranking out rounds consistently with each pull of the lever. The automated primer feed and powder dispensing system seemed to function reliably, and the finished cartridges were within my desired specifications for overall length and bullet seating depth. Despite the overall success, the primer feed was a bit finicky, occasionally requiring a gentle nudge to ensure proper seating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, I’ve reloaded thousands of rounds using the Lee Pro 1000. The cast iron frame has proven its durability, showing no signs of flex or wear. The primer feeding system, while initially troublesome, has become more reliable with practice and the occasional cleaning.
The press requires regular maintenance, including cleaning the primer track and powder measure, but this is a standard practice for any reloading equipment. I’ve noticed that certain powders meter more consistently than others in the Lee powder measure, so careful selection of powder is essential for achieving consistent velocities. Compared to my previous single-stage press experience, the Lee Pro 1000 has significantly increased my reloading speed and efficiency. It still requires diligent monitoring and careful setup, but the time savings are undeniable.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super
Specifications
The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super is specifically designed for reloading the 38 Super cartridge. The kit includes a cast iron press frame, designed for strength and stability during operation. The press features a four-station die arrangement, allowing for progressive reloading: depriming, resizing, priming, powder charging, and bullet seating in a single operation.
The kit includes a Pro Auto-Disk Powder Measure, designed for consistent and accurate powder dispensing. Also included is the Safety Prime system, which automatically feeds primers to the priming station. The Lee Pro 1000 also features an automatic indexing system, which advances the cartridge cases to the next station with each pull of the lever. The kit comes with a 38 Super die set, including a sizing die, powder-through expanding die, and bullet seating die.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the reloading process. The cast iron frame ensures consistent operation and reduces vibration, while the progressive design allows for high-volume reloading. The included powder measure and priming system contribute to the accuracy and consistency of each round.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super performs its primary function, reloading ammunition, effectively and efficiently. Once properly set up, the press cycles smoothly, producing consistent rounds with each pull of the lever.
The strengths of the Lee Pro 1000 lie in its speed and automation. The automated primer feed and powder dispensing systems save significant time compared to manual operations. The progressive design allows for a high volume of ammunition to be produced in a relatively short amount of time. One area that could be improved is the primer feeding system, which can be finicky and prone to occasional jams.
Overall, the Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super meets my expectations for a progressive reloading press in its price range. It delivers on its promise of increased speed and efficiency, but requires careful attention to detail and regular maintenance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Pro 1000 is built around a robust cast iron frame, providing a solid and stable platform for reloading. The press is relatively compact, making it suitable for use in smaller workshops or reloading benches.
The lever arm provides ample leverage, reducing fatigue during extended reloading sessions. The design is generally user-friendly, but the setup process can be somewhat challenging for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The cast iron frame of the Lee Pro 1000 ensures excellent durability. With proper care and maintenance, the press should last for many years of reliable service.
Regular maintenance is required, including cleaning the primer track, powder measure, and dies. Disassembly and cleaning are relatively straightforward, and replacement parts are readily available from Lee.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super comes with the necessary dies for reloading 38 Super. Users can purchase additional die sets for reloading other calibers. The Lee Auto-Disk Powder Measure can be customized with different disks to accommodate various powder charges.
Lee offers a variety of accessories for the Pro 1000, including case feeders and bullet feeders, which can further increase reloading speed and efficiency. The press is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies, allowing for the use of dies from other manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super
Pros
- Affordable entry point into progressive reloading.
- Cast iron frame provides a solid and stable platform.
- Pro Auto-Disk Powder Measure delivers consistent powder charges.
- Significantly increases reloading speed and efficiency compared to single-stage presses.
- Automatic indexing system streamlines the reloading process.
Cons
- Primer feeding system can be finicky and prone to jams.
- Setup process can be challenging for beginners.
- Requires regular maintenance and careful attention to detail.
Who Should Buy Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super?
The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super is perfect for reloaders looking to increase their production volume without breaking the bank. It is well-suited for competitive shooters, or high-volume shooters who reload the 38 Super caliber. It is also a good option for reloaders who want to experiment with different loads and bullet types for their 38 Super.
This product is not for those who prioritize absolute simplicity and ease of use above all else. Reloaders who are completely new to reloading may find a single-stage press to be a more manageable starting point. Also, reloaders who demand the absolute highest levels of precision and consistency may prefer a more expensive, higher-end progressive press.
A must-have accessory is a good quality caliper for verifying cartridge overall length. Different powder disks and powder baffle can improve the consistency of powder charges. A case feeder and bullet feeder are highly recommended for high-volume reloading.
Conclusion on Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super
The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super offers a compelling combination of affordability and performance. It provides a significant increase in reloading speed and efficiency compared to single-stage presses, making it a worthwhile investment for reloaders who need to produce a high volume of ammunition.
While the primer feeding system can be finicky, this is a common issue with many progressive presses, and it can be mitigated with practice and careful attention to detail. The price is justified by the increased productivity and the ability to tailor ammunition to specific needs.
I would recommend the Lee Pro 1000 to reloaders who are comfortable with a bit of a learning curve and are willing to invest the time in proper setup and maintenance. If you are looking for a cost-effective way to increase your reloading output, the Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super is definitely worth considering. Take the plunge, invest in this kit, and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own high-performance 38 Super ammunition.