Let’s Dive into LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE promises a faster, more consistent way to trim your .260 Remington cases. Made by Lee Precision, a name often associated with value and simplicity, this die aims to bring case trimming into the reloading press. It’s a tempting alternative to hand-cranked trimmers or power tools, especially for reloaders who value speed and consistency.
For years, I’ve struggled with case trimming. My old hand trimmer was slow and tedious, leading to inconsistent case lengths and impacting accuracy at longer ranges during hunts. I was looking for a more efficient way to maintain precise case dimensions.
My first impression was that it’s surprisingly simple. The die is constructed of steel, promising durability, but the overall design looked almost too basic. I was skeptical if something this simple could significantly improve my case-trimming process.
I considered the RCBS Trim Pro-2 and the Hornady Case Prep Center. I chose the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE because of its lower price point and the promise of speed within my existing reloading press setup. The other options seemed overkill for the relatively small batches of .260 Remington I typically reload.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The promise of quick, consistent trims was appealing, but I’ve been burned before by reloading tools that promise more than they deliver. I was hoping for a time-saver, not another frustrating gadget.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE at my reloading bench, preparing brass for a precision rifle competition. The conditions were ideal: a controlled environment and ample time to experiment. I set up my Lee Classic Cast press and got to work.
It performed reasonably well, but it took some fiddling to get the initial setup correct. Getting the correct “feel” for the quarter-turn and twists required a few sacrificial cases, which was a little irritating. I initially over-trimmed a few cases due to applying too much pressure, requiring me to discard them.
The biggest surprise was how much force it took to trim. I expected it to be smooth, but it requires quite a bit of leverage. This was unexpected but manageable after figuring out the right technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE has proven itself to be a reliable, if somewhat crude, tool. The steel die itself shows no signs of wear. The finish is holding up well despite repeated use.
The consistency has improved with practice, although it’s still not perfect. There’s a slight variation in case lengths, but it’s within acceptable tolerances for my purposes. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a dry cloth keeps it running smoothly.
Compared to my old hand trimmer, the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE is faster and less physically demanding. However, the precision isn’t quite as good as a dedicated bench-mounted trimmer. It’s a worthwhile trade-off for the speed and convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE
Specifications
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE is specifically designed for trimming .260 Remington cases. Its main body is constructed from hardened steel for durability. This die is designed to be used in conjunction with a reloading press.
The design allows for quick trimming of cases to a predetermined length. It achieves this through a rotating radial arm that flips the case over the die. This secures it during the trimming process. The simple design focuses on speed and ease of use over ultimate precision.
Performance & Functionality
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE does its job adequately, providing a reasonably consistent trim for .260 Remington cases. It is significantly faster than manual trimming methods. It excels in high-volume reloading sessions where absolute precision isn’t paramount.
Its strength lies in its speed and ease of integration with a reloading press. The main weakness is the lack of fine-tuning and the potential for inconsistencies if not used carefully. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly, time-saving solution, but doesn’t surpass them.
Design & Ergonomics
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE features a simple, functional design. It is made from steel, which provides a robust feel, although the rotating arm feels somewhat flimsy. The weight is negligible.
The die is relatively user-friendly, but there’s a definite learning curve. Getting the feel for the correct amount of pressure and the number of twists takes practice. The instructions are minimal, which adds to the initial confusion.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel construction suggests that the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE should last for many years with proper care. There are no delicate parts that are likely to break or wear out quickly. Maintaining it is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove brass shavings.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE does not come with any accessories. It is designed to be used with a Lee case length gauge and cutter (sold separately). There are no real customization options available, as the die is designed for a specific purpose and caliber.
It is not directly compatible with accessories from other brands, as it is designed to work with Lee’s proprietary case trimming system. Adapting it to other systems would likely require significant modifications.
Pros and Cons of LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE
Pros
- Significantly faster than manual case trimming.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious reloaders.
- Simple design integrates easily with a reloading press.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively consistent case lengths when used correctly.
Cons
- Requires a separate Lee case length gauge and cutter, adding to the overall cost.
- Initial setup and learning curve can be frustrating.
- Potential for inconsistencies in case lengths if not used carefully.
- Requires more force than expected to trim cases.
Who Should Buy LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE?
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE is perfect for reloaders who prioritize speed and affordability over ultimate precision. It is also well-suited for those who primarily reload .260 Remington and want a dedicated trimming solution. Casual shooters and hunters who need to process a moderate number of cases will find this tool a valuable time-saver.
Those who demand extremely precise case lengths or reload a wide variety of calibers should skip this product. Competitive shooters who need the utmost consistency may find this tool lacking. They would be better served by a more precise, albeit more expensive, case trimming system.
A must-have accessory is the Lee case length gauge and cutter, as the die is useless without it. A good quality case chamfer and deburring tool is also highly recommended to ensure smooth case mouths after trimming.
Conclusion on LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE
The LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE offers a compelling blend of speed and affordability for .260 Remington reloaders. While it’s not the most precise case trimming tool on the market, it provides a significant improvement over manual trimming methods. Its simple design and compatibility with a reloading press make it a convenient option for high-volume reloaders.
The price is definitely justified. For around $20 (plus the cost of the case length gauge and cutter), you get a durable and relatively efficient case trimming solution. It saves considerable time and effort.
I would recommend the LEE 90399 260 REM QUICK TRIM DIE to reloaders who want to speed up their case trimming process without breaking the bank. Just be prepared to invest some time in learning how to use it effectively and to accept a slight compromise in precision. If you’re looking to streamline your reloading workflow and save time, give this die a try. You might be surprised at how much easier case trimming can be.