Let’s Dive into Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger
Finding 9mm ammunition these days feels like searching for water in the desert, especially here in Northern Louisiana. The Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger offered a glimmer of hope: the chance to become self-sufficient and control my own supply. It’s a 3-hole progressive press designed for speed and efficiency, promising to churn out a decent amount of ammo with each pull of the handle.
Ammunition scarcity and rising costs were the main drivers behind my purchase. Factory loads were disappearing from shelves, and when you could find them, the prices were astronomical. Reloading seemed like the only viable option to keep my 9mm pistols fed without breaking the bank.
The kit arrived in a fairly compact box, surprisingly lightweight at just 13 pounds. My initial impression was that it looked like a good starting point for progressive reloading, but I had a nagging feeling that some upgrades might be needed down the line. It came with the press, dies, a shell plate, powder measure, case feeder, and priming system.
I had considered a few other progressive presses, notably the Dillon Precision XL750 and the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP. Ultimately, I chose the Lee Pro 1000 because of its significantly lower price point. I was willing to gamble on the potential learning curve and quirks in exchange for the cost savings.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, more excited than disappointed. The price was right, and the promise of cranking out 9mm rounds quickly was appealing. I was, however, prepared for a potentially frustrating setup process based on online reviews.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger to the Test
First Use Experience
My first attempt at using the Lee Pro 1000 took place in my garage, which I’ve converted into a reloading workshop. The ambient temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity was moderate. I was loading for my Glock 19 and Sig Sauer P320.
The press functioned reasonably well after the initial setup hassles. I experienced a few primer feed issues, but nothing that couldn’t be resolved with some adjustments. Getting the powder measure dialed in to the correct charge weight took some time and experimentation.
The Lee Pro 1000 definitely has a learning curve, as most progressive presses do. I spent a good portion of the first session tweaking settings, adjusting the case feeder, and troubleshooting minor malfunctions. It took about three hours to get everything running smoothly enough to produce a decent batch of ammunition.
The first use was frustrating initially, but by the end of the session, I was loading rounds with a reasonable amount of speed. The primers were the biggest problem, followed closely by the powder measure inconsistencies.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Pro 1000 has held up reasonably well, although not without a few ongoing issues. I have loaded approximately 2,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition with it. Some components seem a little flimsy, requiring frequent adjustments.
There are signs of wear and tear, particularly on the priming system and the case feeder. The plastic components are showing some stress marks, and the paint on the press is starting to chip in a few spots. It’s definitely not built like a tank, but it’s adequate for the price.
Cleaning and maintaining the Lee Pro 1000 is fairly straightforward. I regularly wipe down the press with a clean cloth and lubricate the moving parts with gun oil. The powder measure requires occasional disassembly and cleaning to ensure consistent powder drops.
Compared to my experience with a single-stage press, the Lee Pro 1000 is significantly faster, but requires more attention and tweaking. It doesn’t outperform higher-end progressive presses in terms of reliability and smoothness. It definitely saves time, but you have to pay attention.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger
Specifications
The Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger boasts several key specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm Luger. This kit is specifically designed for loading 9mm ammunition.
- Weight: 13 pounds. The lightweight design makes it easy to move and store.
- Material: Steel. The frame of the press is constructed from steel for strength and durability.
- Pro 1000 Reloading Kit: Includes everything needed to start reloading 9mm ammunition. This is a complete setup solution.
- Priming System: The kit includes a priming system for automated primer seating. This speeds up the reloading process.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the press’s performance and ease of use. The steel construction ensures durability, while the progressive design allows for faster reloading. The included priming system and powder measure further streamline the process.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Pro 1000 performs its core function of reloading 9mm ammunition adequately, but not flawlessly. Its strengths lie in its speed and affordability, but its weaknesses include its finicky nature and occasional malfunctions. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly progressive press.
The priming system is often the source of issues, requiring frequent adjustments to ensure proper primer seating. The powder measure, while functional, can be inconsistent, leading to variations in powder charges. The case feeder can also be prone to jamming.
The press functions okay overall, but requires constant monitoring and occasional interventions. It’s not a “set it and forget it” type of machine. Improvements are needed in the priming system, powder measure consistency, and case feeder reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Pro 1000 features a basic, functional design. It’s constructed primarily of steel, which provides a decent level of durability. It has an adequate weight, not too heavy, but not so light that it feels unstable.
The press is somewhat user-friendly, but there’s definitely a learning curve involved. New reloaders may find the initial setup and adjustments to be challenging. Experienced reloaders will likely adapt more quickly, but still need patience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Pro 1000 is not built to last forever, but should last a few years with regular maintenance. The steel frame should withstand years of use, but the plastic components are more susceptible to wear and tear. Proper care and lubrication are essential.
The press is relatively easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are readily available from Lee Precision at reasonable prices. A basic understanding of reloading principles and mechanical systems is helpful for troubleshooting issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Pro 1000 kit includes the following accessories:
- Full-length sizing die.
- Powder-through expanding die.
- Bullet seating die.
- Three-hole turret.
- #19 shell plate.
- Pro-auto disk powder measure.
- Universal case feeder.
- Priming system.
Customization options are somewhat limited, but you can upgrade the powder measure, shell plate, and dies. Aftermarket accessories are available from Lee Precision and other manufacturers. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited due to the Lee’s proprietary design.
Pros and Cons of Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious reloaders.
- Progressive design allows for faster reloading compared to single-stage presses.
- Includes all the essential components needed to start reloading 9mm ammunition.
- Relatively easy to maintain and repair.
- Great for high-volume reloaders.
Cons
- The priming system can be finicky and prone to malfunctions.
- The powder measure may exhibit inconsistencies, leading to variations in powder charges.
- The case feeder can be prone to jamming.
Who Should Buy Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger?
The Lee Pro 1000 is perfect for budget-conscious reloaders who want to increase their production speed without breaking the bank. This is also good for high-volume shooters who need to produce large quantities of ammunition. If you are willing to spend the time learning the intricacies of the system, this is a great value.
Someone who should skip this product is a reloader who values simplicity and reliability above all else, or who wants a “set it and forget it” type of machine. If you are not comfortable troubleshooting mechanical issues, it is recommended to purchase a more robust machine. New reloaders should consider starting with a single-stage press to learn the fundamentals before moving to a progressive press.
Must-have accessories or modifications include an upgraded powder measure for more consistent powder drops, and a more reliable priming system. A strong mounting system is also recommended for stability.
Conclusion on Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger
The Lee Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger offers a compelling value proposition for reloaders on a budget. It allows you to significantly increase your reloading speed compared to a single-stage press, but it requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to troubleshoot occasional issues. It gives the ability to save money and time, but it does have some drawbacks.
The price is justified for the features and capabilities that it offers, but be prepared to invest some time and effort into getting it dialed in. Would I personally recommend it? Yes, with reservations. If you’re aware of its limitations and willing to work with them, it can be a great tool.
The Lee Pro 1000 is a solid entry-level progressive press that allows you to produce ammunition at a significantly faster rate. Consider the Lee Pro 1000 as a starting point in your ammunition reloading experience. Now get out there and start reloading!