Let’s Dive into Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT is a complete solution for reloaders looking to size and lubricate cast bullets, specifically those in the .225 caliber range. Manufactured by Lee, this kit simplifies the process, ensuring consistent bullet dimensions and proper lubrication for improved accuracy. It’s a compact, affordable, and seemingly straightforward system designed to be compatible with any standard 7/8″ x 14 reloading press.
My foray into bullet casting and reloading was born out of necessity. Factory ammunition prices skyrocketed, and I sought a more economical and customizable solution for my .223 AR-15. The promise of consistent bullet sizing and easy lubrication drew me to the Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT, aiming to produce match-grade ammunition without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing the kit, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The components felt solid, though decidedly un-flashy. The Lee sizing die, the lube container, and bullet guide all had a no-nonsense, utilitarian appearance. I was somewhat apprehensive, hoping the simplicity wouldn’t translate to fragility or inconsistent performance.
I considered other options, including more elaborate and expensive bullet sizing systems that involved dedicated lubrication presses. However, the Lee kit’s compatibility with my existing reloading press and its significantly lower price point proved too compelling to ignore. I wanted to try my hand at cast bullet reloading without committing to a massive initial investment.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a clever, space-saving design. Whether it would deliver on its promise of ease and consistency remained to be seen, but I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my reloading bench, a dedicated space in my garage meticulously organized for precision and safety. I began by mounting the Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT onto my RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme press. The 7/8″ x 14 threads ensured a snug and secure fit, just as advertised.
My first batch of cast .225 bullets came straight from my Lee six-cavity mold. The alloy was a mixture of wheel weights and a touch of tin, aiming for a hardness suitable for my AR-15’s gas system. I applied Lee Liquid Alox to the bullets before running them through the sizer.
The first few bullets went through the sizing die with surprising ease. The leverage provided by the reloading press made the process almost effortless. However, I soon noticed that the liquid alox application wasn’t entirely uniform, leading to some bullets feeling a bit “sticky” as they passed through the die.
I experienced one minor hiccup during the initial sizing session. A bullet became lodged in the die, requiring a bit of persuasion with a dowel rod to dislodge. It was a momentary setback, but it highlighted the importance of consistent lubrication.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of sized bullets, the Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT has proven to be surprisingly robust. There have been no signs of wear and tear on the die itself. The aluminum components of the lube container and bullet guide still look and function as new.
Maintaining the kit is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each sizing session is usually sufficient. Periodically, I’ll use a solvent to remove any accumulated lubricant residue from the die and other parts.
Compared to my previous experience using a more manual “push-through” sizing method, the Lee kit is a revelation. It’s significantly faster and more consistent, producing bullets that are uniform in diameter and evenly lubricated. The time savings alone make it a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14
Specifications
- Caliber: .225. This kit is specifically designed for sizing bullets of this diameter.
- Threads: Standard 7/8″ x 14 threads. This ensures compatibility with most reloading presses.
- Function: Lubricates and sizes cast bullets. This combines two crucial steps into one process.
- Material: Primarily aluminum and steel. These materials offer a good balance of durability and affordability.
- Compatibility: Designed for use with Lee Liquid Alox lubricant. This lubricant is widely available and easy to use.
These specifications are critical because they determine the kit’s compatibility with different reloading setups and the type of bullets it can handle. The .225 caliber restriction is important for reloaders who specialize in cartridges like the .223 Remington with cast bullets. The universal thread size means almost any reloader can easily integrate the kit into their existing press.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT performs its core function – sizing and lubricating cast bullets – admirably. It consistently produces bullets that are within the specified .225 diameter, ensuring proper fit and function in my AR-15. The lubrication process, when done correctly, significantly reduces leading in the barrel.
One of the strengths of this kit is its simplicity. The design minimizes the number of steps required to size and lubricate bullets, making it a fast and efficient process. However, the kit’s biggest weakness is the somewhat messy nature of liquid alox lubrication.
This kit exceeded my expectations in terms of speed and consistency. The minor issue of lubricant application is easily addressed with practice and careful attention to detail. The kit produces consistent sized bullets.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT has a very functional and utilitarian design. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the steel sizing die provides the necessary durability. The kit fits comfortably in hand when assembling and disassembling it.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, although a bit of trial and error is required to master the lubricant application. There is a slight learning curve to achieve consistent results. After sizing about 20 bullets you will find your rhythm.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT appears to be built to last for a considerable time. The steel sizing die shows no signs of wear after sizing hundreds of bullets. The aluminum components should withstand years of use with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. Cleaning the die and other parts with solvent after each use prevents lubricant buildup and ensures smooth operation. A little bit of care is all that is needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT comes as a complete kit for the .225 caliber, so there are not many accessories that are included or customization options available. The kit is designed to be used with Lee Liquid Alox lubricant. While other lubricants could be used, Lee specifically recommends their product for optimal performance.
While not a customization, one can purchase additional sizing dies for different calibers. This would require separate Lee lube and sizing kits for each bullet diameter.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14
Pros
- Affordable. Significantly cheaper than dedicated bullet sizing presses.
- Easy to use. Simplifies the bullet sizing and lubricating process.
- Consistent results. Produces uniform bullet diameters.
- Durable construction. Built to withstand repeated use.
- 7/8″ x 14 threads. Compatible with most reloading presses.
Cons
- Messy lubricant application. Requires careful attention to avoid over-lubrication.
- Caliber specific. Limited to .225 caliber bullets.
Who Should Buy Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14?
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT is perfect for reloaders who are interested in casting and shooting their own .225 caliber bullets. It is a great fit for those looking for an affordable and efficient way to size and lubricate their bullets. This kit is perfect for the reloader looking to produce accurate and cost-effective ammunition.
This product might not be the best choice for reloaders who are exclusively using jacketed bullets. It would also be wise to skip this product if you prefer more elaborate and less “hands-on” lubrication methods. If you don’t have the space or budget for a separate dedicated sizing press, the Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT is a great alternative.
A must-have accessory is a good supply of Lee Liquid Alox lubricant. Also beneficial are some disposable gloves and paper towels to manage the lubricant mess. You also will need a quality reloading press.
Conclusion on Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .225 Standard 7/8″ X 14
The Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT offers a compelling value proposition for reloaders seeking an affordable and effective way to size and lubricate cast .225 caliber bullets. Its simplicity, durability, and consistent results make it a worthwhile addition to any reloading bench. While the lubricant application can be a bit messy, the overall benefits far outweigh this minor drawback.
The price is more than justified by the time savings and the improved accuracy that comes with consistently sized and lubricated bullets. The Lee kit empowers reloaders to produce high-quality ammunition at a fraction of the cost of factory loads. This makes it a good choice for high volume reloaders.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lee 90036 LUBE/SIZING KIT to anyone looking to venture into the world of cast bullet reloading. It offers an excellent entry point without requiring a significant financial investment. Dive into the world of cast bullet reloading with confidence and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own accurate and affordable ammunition!