Let’s Dive into Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
The Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a crucial tool for any serious reloader who casts their own bullets. This kit allows you to precisely size and lubricate cast bullets to ensure proper fit and function in your firearm. The Lee brand has a long-standing reputation for producing affordable and reliable reloading equipment, and this kit appears to be no exception.
My journey to this kit began with a desire for complete control over my ammunition. I wanted to move beyond commercial bullets and explore the benefits of casting my own for my .323 caliber rifles. I quickly realized that consistent bullet sizing and proper lubrication are essential for accuracy and preventing leading in the barrel.
Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the simplicity and robust construction of the kit. The sizing die is machined from steel and feels solid in hand. The included bullet sizing punch appears to be well-made, and the container for catching sized bullets is a nice touch.
I’ve used similar sizing dies from Lyman and RCBS in the past, but the Lee kit’s method of pushing the bullet nose-first seemed like a potentially easier and more efficient approach. The price point was also a significant factor, making the Lee kit a more accessible option. My initial excitement was tempered by the knowledge that proper lubrication is key to successful sizing, and I was eager to see how well the kit performed in that regard.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads in my reloading room, using a Lee Classic Cast single-stage press. The process was straightforward: I mounted the die in the press, applied Lee Liquid Alox lubricant to the cast bullets, and then pushed them through the die. The bullets sized smoothly and consistently, with minimal effort required on the press handle.
The initial test was performed using bullets cast from a lead alloy consisting of mostly lead, a little tin and antimony, with a hardness of approximately BHN 12. The die performed admirably in removing inconsistencies. I observed no leading or excessive friction during the sizing process.
The “nose-first” sizing method did prove to be convenient, eliminating the need for special nose punches. After the initial batch of approximately 50 bullets, I noticed a slight build-up of lubricant in the die.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of sized bullets, the Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads continues to perform reliably. I have noticed no signs of wear on the die or the bullet sizing punch. Cleaning the die is simple; I typically use a solvent-soaked patch to remove any accumulated lubricant and lead residue.
Compared to my previous experience with Lyman sizing dies, the Lee kit offers a simpler and faster sizing process. The “nose-first” method and integrated gas check seating make it a more efficient system overall. While the Lyman dies felt slightly more robust, the Lee kit’s performance has been more than satisfactory for my needs.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Specifications
- Caliber: Designed for sizing .323 diameter bullets, making it suitable for various .323 caliber rifles. This is critical for reloaders focusing on this specific caliber as it will ensure uniform bullet diameter and improve consistency.
- Threads: Features standard 7/8″ x 14″ threads, ensuring compatibility with virtually all reloading presses. This means you don’t need special adapters and can easily integrate it into your existing reloading setup.
- Material: The sizing die is constructed from steel, offering durability and resistance to wear. This adds to the longevity of the product, ensuring consistent performance over time.
- Gas Check Seating: Automatically seats and crimps gas checks during the sizing process. This simplifies bullet preparation and ensures that gas checks are properly attached, improving bullet performance.
- Bullet Collection: Includes a container to capture sized bullets, preventing them from scattering and making cleanup easier. This saves time and keeps the reloading area tidy, streamlining the reloading process.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads performs its primary function – sizing cast bullets – exceptionally well. The bullets come out consistently sized, leading to improved accuracy and reduced leading in my rifle barrels. While the die requires lubrication to operate smoothly, the process is simple and efficient.
The biggest strength of this kit is its ease of use and consistent results. A potential weakness lies in the container provided, it is very thin and brittle. It meets expectations, providing reliable bullet sizing for reloaders who cast their own bullets, particularly in the .323 caliber.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit features a simple, functional design. The steel die feels robust and the sizing punch is comfortable to use. The integrated gas check seating is a clever design element that saves time and effort.
The kit is very user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and no specialized knowledge. The entire process is simple enough for even a novice reloader to master quickly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction, the sizing die should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The only part that might require eventual replacement is the bullet sizing punch, but it also seems well-made.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving occasional cleaning with solvent and lubrication. The simple design minimizes the number of parts that could potentially break or require repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes complete with everything needed for sizing .323 caliber cast bullets, including the sizing die, bullet sizing punch, and bullet collection container. There are no accessories or customization options available for this kit. It is designed to perform a specific task – sizing bullets – and it does so effectively.
The Lee sizing dies are generally not compatible with accessories from other brands due to their unique design. This kit is designed to be a standalone solution for sizing cast bullets.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Pros
- Efficiently sizes cast bullets to .323 diameter.
- Standard threads fit most reloading presses.
- Integrated gas check seating simplifies bullet preparation.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious reloaders.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Requires the purchase of bullet lubricant.
- The bullet collection container is fragile.
Who Should Buy Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?
The Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is perfect for reloaders who cast their own .323 caliber bullets and seek consistent sizing and gas check seating. It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced reloaders looking for an affordable and reliable solution. Anyone reloading for rifles such as the 8mm Mauser, .32 Winchester Special, or .323 British would find this kit extremely useful.
Individuals who primarily use commercially manufactured bullets or those not interested in casting their own should skip this product. It’s also not suitable for reloaders working with calibers other than .323.
The only must-have accessory is bullet lubricant, such as Lee Liquid Alox or a similar product. A sturdy bullet collection container might also be a worthwhile addition, given the fragility of the included container.
Conclusion on Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads
Overall, the Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a well-designed and effective tool for sizing cast bullets. The simple design, ease of use, and integrated gas check seating make it a standout product in its price range. The value proposition is excellent, offering reliable performance at an affordable price.
I would definitely recommend this kit to any reloader who casts their own .323 caliber bullets. It’s a valuable addition to any reloading bench and will undoubtedly improve the accuracy and consistency of your handloads. So, if you’re ready to take control of your ammunition and unlock the potential of cast bullets, grab the Lee 90686 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .323 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads and start reloading!