Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 Review

Let’s Dive into Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 might seem like a small, insignificant piece of reloading equipment, but it’s a critical component for anyone loading the 6.8 Remington SPC cartridge. This seemingly simple tool ensures proper and safe primer seating, which is paramount for consistent and reliable ammunition. A poor shell holder can lead to inconsistent primer seating depths, squibs, or even dangerous malfunctions.

I needed a reliable shell holder specifically for reloading 6.8 Remington SPC for my AR-15 platform. Previously, I had been making do with a universal shell holder, but the results were inconsistent, and frankly, I felt uneasy using it. I was looking for something that would fit the 6.8 SPC case precisely and provide consistent primer seating depth, giving me peace of mind and improved accuracy.

Out of the package, the Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is a small, unassuming piece of machined steel. It feels solid and well-made, with no sharp edges or obvious imperfections. Its weight is negligible, but the fit and finish instill confidence.

Compared to a universal shell holder, which attempts to accommodate multiple calibers, the Lee #21 offers a much more precise fit. The universal holder felt sloppy and imprecise, while the Lee holder cradles the 6.8 SPC case perfectly. I also considered shell holders from RCBS and Hornady, but opted for the Lee due to its positive reviews and affordable price.

My first impression was one of relief. Finally, a shell holder that felt like it was actually designed for the 6.8 SPC! I was excited to get to the reloading bench and start producing some consistent, reliable ammunition.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 at my reloading bench, which is set up in my garage. The conditions were fairly controlled, though ambient temperature varied. The first use involved priming several hundred 6.8 SPC cases using the Lee Auto Prime tool.

The Lee #21 performed flawlessly during the priming process. Cases seated smoothly and consistently, and I encountered no issues with primer crushing or sideways seating. The shell holder made the process faster and more reliable than my previous attempts with a universal holder.

Using the Lee #21, I found it incredibly easy to seat primers to the correct depth. The consistency and smoothness provided by the shell holder were noticeable improvements. The only thing I had to get used to was the slightly different “feel” compared to the universal holder, which required a lighter touch.

There were no surprises or issues during the initial use. The shell holder performed exactly as expected, which was a welcome change.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use and thousands of primed cases, the Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 continues to perform reliably. It shows no signs of wear or tear, despite being used regularly. The finish is still intact, and the fit remains precise.

The durability of the Lee #21 is impressive, considering its relatively low price point. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, even after being exposed to humidity and occasional spills. Maintenance is simple: I just wipe it down with a clean cloth after each reloading session.

Compared to my previous experiences with the universal shell holder, the Lee #21 is a night-and-day improvement. The consistency and reliability it provides have significantly improved the quality of my reloaded 6.8 SPC ammunition. It has definitely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031

Specifications

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is specifically designed for the 6.8mm Remington SPC cartridge. It’s made from hardened steel for durability and long life. The shell holder is designed to fit the Lee Auto Prime and Auto Prime II tools.

The Lee #21 is sized specifically for the 6.8 SPC case head. This precise fit is critical for ensuring consistent primer seating depth and preventing damage to the primer or case. The hardened steel construction ensures that the shell holder will withstand repeated use without deforming or wearing out.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 performs its job exceptionally well. It holds the 6.8 SPC case securely and consistently, allowing for smooth and reliable primer seating. The precise fit eliminates any wobble or play, ensuring that the primer is seated squarely and to the correct depth.

The main strength of the Lee #21 is its precise fit and consistent performance. The only potential improvement would be to offer it with a slightly smoother finish, although this is a minor point. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a shell holder.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 features a simple, functional design. It’s made from high-quality materials and feels solid in hand. There’s no learning curve; it’s immediately user-friendly.

The build quality is excellent for the price. The weight is negligible, but the steel construction feels strong and durable. Its ergonomic design fits perfectly into the Auto Prime tool.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is designed to last for many years of use. Its hardened steel construction makes it resistant to wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after use.

The durable construction ensures that the Lee #21 will withstand the stresses of repeated use. There are no moving parts to break or wear out, making it a very reliable tool. Repair is unlikely to be necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is not designed to be customized. It is a specific tool for a specific cartridge. It works with the Lee Auto Prime and Auto Prime II tools.

The Lee #21 is compatible with all Lee reloading presses and priming tools that use shell holders. There are no other accessories or customization options available. The simplicity and focused design are actually a strength, as they ensure reliable performance.

Pros and Cons of Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031

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Who Should Buy Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031?

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is perfect for reloaders who are loading 6.8 Remington SPC ammunition and using a Lee Auto Prime or Auto Prime II tool. It’s also ideal for those who want consistent primer seating depth and reliable performance.

Those who do not load 6.8 Remington SPC should skip this product, as it is specifically designed for that cartridge. Those who use other priming systems, such as hand primers or bench-mounted priming tools from other manufacturers, should also look for a shell holder that is compatible with their equipment. A must-have is the Lee Auto Prime or Auto Prime II tool to use this shell holder effectively.

Conclusion on Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031

The Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 is a simple but essential tool for anyone reloading 6.8 Remington SPC ammunition with Lee priming tools. Its precise fit, durable construction, and affordable price make it an excellent value. The price is definitely justified for the peace of mind and consistent results it provides.

I would absolutely recommend the Lee #21 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 6.8 Remington Special 90031 to anyone reloading 6.8 SPC. If you’re serious about reloading consistent and reliable ammunition, this shell holder is a must-have. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to something as critical as primer seating. Grab a Lee #21 and start reloading with confidence!