Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set Review

First Impressions of Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set promises to be a comprehensive solution for reloaders seeking precision and consistency in their ammunition. Lee has a reputation for providing quality reloading equipment at an accessible price point, and this die set appears to follow that tradition. The inclusion of the Factory Crimp Die is a noteworthy feature, suggesting a focus on ensuring consistent bullet seating and neck tension, ultimately improving accuracy.

My interest in this particular die set stemmed from a desire to fine-tune my .22-250 reloads for varmint hunting. I had been experiencing inconsistent groupings at longer ranges, and I suspected that variations in bullet seating depth and crimp were contributing factors. The Lee set, with its included Factory Crimp Die, seemed like a cost-effective way to address this issue.

Upon unboxing, the Lee die set presented itself as a no-frills, functional package. The dies themselves felt solid and well-machined, while the inclusion of the Smart Lock bushings, universal shell holder, and powder dipper was a thoughtful touch, especially for reloaders just getting started. The colored Smart Lock bushings offer easy die identification.

Compared to die sets from Redding or Forster, which are undeniably higher-end, the Lee set lacks some of the refined finish and features, like micrometer adjustments. However, the Lee set is significantly more affordable, making it an attractive option for reloaders on a budget. I chose the Lee set primarily for its value proposition and the inclusion of the Factory Crimp Die, a feature not always found in other similarly priced sets.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The set seemed well-made for the price, and I was eager to see if it could deliver the improved consistency I was seeking in my .22-250 reloads. I hoped the Factory Crimp Die would live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set at my reloading bench, focusing on producing consistent rounds for an upcoming prairie dog hunt. I used the dies to reload several batches of .22-250 ammunition with varying powder charges and bullet weights. The Easy Adjust Dead Length Bullet Seating Die made seating depth adjustments relatively easy.

In terms of performance, the dies functioned smoothly, though I found the instructions somewhat basic. After some experimentation, I achieved consistent bullet seating depths and a noticeable improvement in crimp uniformity thanks to the Factory Crimp Die. This helped to tighten up neck tension.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use and hundreds of rounds reloaded, the Lee die set has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the dies themselves, and the Smart Lock bushings continue to function smoothly. Cleaning the dies is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth after each reloading session.

Compared to my previous experiences with RCBS dies, the Lee set offers a comparable level of performance at a lower price point, though it lacks some of the premium features. The Factory Crimp Die, however, is a significant advantage, providing a consistent crimp that has noticeably improved the accuracy and consistency of my .22-250 reloads. It does outperform other dies in that regard.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set

Specifications

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set includes:

• Full Length Sizing Die: This die resizes the entire case to factory specifications, ensuring reliable chambering in any .22-250 rifle.
• Easy Adjust Dead Length Bullet Seating Die: This die allows for precise bullet seating depth adjustments with a simple hand-adjustable knob. It ensures consistent seating.
• Factory Crimp Die: This die applies a consistent crimp to the bullet, improving bullet retention and consistency. This is achieved by squeezing the case neck.
• Universal Shell Holder: Accommodates .22-250 cases for use in a reloading press.
• Powder Dipper: A simple measuring tool for dispensing powder charges.
• Instructions/Load Data: Provides guidance on using the dies and recommended load data for various .22-250 bullet and powder combinations.

These specifications are crucial for reloaders seeking to produce accurate and reliable ammunition. The Full Length Sizing Die ensures proper chambering, the Bullet Seating Die allows for fine-tuning of seating depth for optimal accuracy, and the Factory Crimp Die enhances bullet retention and consistency.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set performs its job admirably, producing consistent and accurate ammunition. The dies are easy to adjust, and the Factory Crimp Die is particularly effective in improving the consistency of the crimp. The bullet seating die provides very consistent seating depths.

A notable strength is the Factory Crimp Die, which significantly improves crimp uniformity and bullet retention. A potential weakness is the lack of micrometer adjustments on the bullet seating die, which could make fine-tuning seating depth slightly more challenging for some reloaders. Overall, it meets my expectations and is a great value.

Design & Ergonomics

The dies are constructed from high-quality steel and are well-machined. The Lee Breech Lock system makes swapping dies quick and easy. The overall design is functional and straightforward, with no unnecessary frills.

The dies are relatively lightweight and comfortable to handle. The Easy Adjust knob on the bullet seating die is easy to grip and adjust. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the Factory Crimp Die to achieve the desired crimp, but the included instructions are helpful.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee dies are built to last, constructed from durable steel that should withstand years of use. With proper care and maintenance, this die set should provide a lifetime of reliable performance. Cleaning the dies is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth after each reloading session.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set comes with a universal shell holder and a powder dipper. While there are no specific customization options for the dies themselves, they are compatible with the Lee Breech Lock system, which allows for quick and easy die changes. The dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses.
Other brands, such as Hornady and RCBS, have compatible shell holders and presses.

Pros and Cons of Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set

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Who Should Buy Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set?

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set is perfect for:

• Hunters seeking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their .22-250 ammunition.
• Reloaders on a budget who want a quality die set without breaking the bank.
• Beginner reloaders who are looking for an easy-to-use and comprehensive die set.

This product may not be ideal for reloaders who:

• Require the precision and fine-tuning capabilities of a high-end die set with micrometer adjustments.
• Prefer more detailed and comprehensive instructions.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A quality reloading press.
• A reliable powder scale.
• A case trimmer.

Conclusion on Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set

The Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set is a solid and affordable option for reloaders seeking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their .22-250 ammunition. The inclusion of the Factory Crimp Die is a significant advantage, providing a consistent crimp that noticeably enhances bullet retention and accuracy. While it lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end die sets, its performance and value proposition are undeniable.

At a price of $61.90, the Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set represents an excellent value. The performance benefits provided by the Factory Crimp Die alone justify the cost. I would personally recommend this die set to anyone looking for a quality and affordable .22-250 reloading solution.

If you’re looking to tighten up your groups and improve the consistency of your .22-250 reloads, the Lee .22-250 Remington Breech Lock Pacesetter 3-Die Set is a great place to start. Don’t let inconsistent ammunition hold you back – invest in this die set and start reloading with confidence!