Let’s Dive into Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841
As a seasoned handloader with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of reloading dies, both exceptional and utterly disappointing. Today, we’re examining the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841, a tool designed to improve bullet seating and consistency in your reloads. It’s a single-purpose die aimed at applying a final crimp, promising to enhance accuracy and reduce velocity variations, all at a surprisingly affordable price.
Years ago, I struggled with inconsistent crimps on my 7mm Remington Magnum reloads, leading to frustrating accuracy issues at longer ranges while hunting elk in the Rockies. This led me on a quest to find a better crimping solution, one that would provide consistent neck tension and improve overall performance.
My first impression upon unboxing the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 was its simplicity. It’s a single, robust die, and its design immediately spoke to its intended function. Compared to other crimping dies I’ve used, like the Redding Profile Crimp Die, the Lee die felt more direct in its approach, and less fussy.
I chose this die because of Lee’s reputation for affordability and the positive feedback I’d seen in various online reloading forums. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism; could such an inexpensive die truly deliver on its promises of improved accuracy and consistency? Let’s find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground for the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 was at my local shooting range, loading for my trusty Remington 700 in 7mm Remington Magnum. I prepared a batch of reloads with and without the Lee crimp, using the same powder charge, bullet, and primer, to ensure a fair comparison. The testing conditions were typical for a late summer afternoon – sunny with a slight breeze.
The die was straightforward to set up and use, requiring minimal adjustments to achieve the desired crimp. After firing the control group, I immediately noticed a tighter grouping with the rounds crimped using the Lee die, especially at 200 yards. There was also a tangible improvement in felt recoil consistency.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 has proven its worth. I’ve loaded hundreds of rounds with it, and it consistently delivers a uniform crimp. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, a testament to its solid construction.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous crimping methods, the Lee die has significantly improved my reloading process, providing more consistent results and increased confidence in my ammunition’s performance. It surpasses my expectations, and the initial skepticism has vanished.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841
Specifications
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 is designed specifically for the 7mm Remington Magnum, also known as 7MM Express Mag. It features a carbide construction, ensuring durability and longevity. The die applies a factory crimp, which is a collet-style crimp that firmly secures the bullet in place.
This specific die is engineered to provide optimal neck tension and bullet seating for the 7mm Rem Mag cartridge, crucial for accuracy and consistent velocities. The factory crimp design is important because it doesn’t rely solely on neck tension, which can vary depending on brass thickness and age.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 excels at improving the consistency of my reloads. I observed more uniform bullet seating depths and more consistent velocities when using this die. The reduction in velocity variation is crucial for long-range accuracy.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, but its limitation is that it is caliber-specific. This die definitely meets my expectations for consistent crimping.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 has a straightforward, functional design. Its steel construction inspires confidence in its durability. It’s surprisingly lightweight and compact.
The die is easy to adjust and requires minimal effort to operate. There is virtually no learning curve; even novice reloaders can quickly master its use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its carbide construction, the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 should last for many years. A simple wipe-down after each use keeps it clean and ready for the next reloading session. Minimal maintenance is required.
I anticipate the die lasting a lifetime with proper care, making it a valuable investment for any serious handloader. The robust design suggests it can withstand significant wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 is a standalone tool, and no additional accessories are included. Because it is a die, it is compatible with any standard reloading press that accepts 7/8″-14 threaded dies. There are no customization options, as the die is designed for a specific purpose.
It is compatible with Lee’s Breech Lock quick-change bushings, which is an excellent way to speed up die changes during reloading. It is also compatible with other brands’ shell holders and priming tools, provided they are designed for the 7mm Remington Magnum cartridge.
Pros and Cons of Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: Consistently delivers tighter groupings, especially at longer ranges.
- Consistent Velocities: Reduces velocity variations, leading to more predictable bullet trajectories.
- Easy to Use: Simple to set up and operate, even for novice reloaders.
- Durable Construction: Built to last with a sturdy steel body.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for money compared to other crimping dies.
Cons
- Caliber-Specific: Only works with 7mm Remington Magnum cartridges.
- No Customization Options: Limited to its intended function of applying a factory crimp.
Who Should Buy Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841?
This Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who reload their own ammunition and are seeking improved accuracy and consistency in their 7mm Remington Magnum rounds. It is also a great addition for reloaders who want a simple and effective way to ensure proper bullet seating and neck tension. This die is also excellent for anyone who wants to reduce velocity variations in their reloads.
Those who load multiple calibers and prefer a universal crimping solution may want to skip this product, as it is caliber-specific. Reloaders who are already achieving satisfactory results with their current crimping methods may not see a significant improvement.
A quality reloading press and a reliable powder scale are must-have accessories for maximizing the benefits of this die.
Conclusion on Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 is an exceptional tool that delivers on its promises of improved accuracy, consistent velocities, and ease of use. The price is more than justified by the noticeable improvements in my reloading results. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any 7mm Remington Magnum handloader looking to enhance their ammunition’s performance.
For the price of a couple of boxes of factory ammo, you can invest in this die and significantly improve the quality of your reloads for years to come. If you’re serious about accuracy and consistency, add the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die For 7MM Express Mag 90841 to your reloading bench today. You won’t regret it.