Let’s Dive into Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177
Reloading ammunition isn’t just about saving money; it’s about achieving unparalleled precision and customizing your rounds for peak performance. One critical component in this process is bullet lubrication, and for years, Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177 has been a staple on many reloaders’ benches. It is a simple, economical solution designed to reduce leading in firearms when using cast bullets.
My journey with Lee Liquid Alox started out of necessity. I was experiencing significant leading in my .45 Colt revolver, and traditional hard-cast lubes weren’t cutting it. I had heard whispers of Alox’s effectiveness and decided to give it a shot.
Upon receiving the Lee Liquid Alox, the first thing I noticed was its consistency. It is quite thick, almost like honey, with a distinct odor that some find off-putting (but I didn’t mind). Compared to messy beeswax-based lubes, Lee Liquid Alox promised a cleaner, easier application. I considered trying traditional beeswax-based lubes and even some of the newer synthetic options, but the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of Lee Liquid Alox won me over.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could something so simple really be that effective at preventing leading? Only time and testing would tell, but I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of Lee Liquid Alox was at my local shooting range, using my .45 Colt revolver and cast bullets I had loaded myself. I applied the lube by tumbling the bullets in a plastic bag with a small amount of Lee Liquid Alox, diluted slightly with mineral spirits as per the instructions I had found online. The weather was warm and sunny, ideal for testing.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt slightly reduced, and the accuracy was surprisingly improved. Cleaning the barrel after firing revealed significantly less leading compared to my previous attempts with other lubes. I did notice a slight stickiness to the bullets initially, but this dissipated after a few hours of drying.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of using Lee Liquid Alox, I’ve become a firm believer in its effectiveness. It consistently reduces leading in all my cast bullet loads, including .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum. The durability of the lube is excellent; it doesn’t flake off or become brittle even after extended storage.
Maintenance is a breeze. Any residue left on the reloading equipment or firearms is easily cleaned with mineral spirits or a good solvent. Compared to my past experiences with more complex lubing methods, Lee Liquid Alox is a game-changer in terms of ease of use and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177
Specifications
- Product Name: Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177
- Manufacturer: Lee Precision.
- Size: 4 ounces.
- Type: Liquid bullet lubricant.
- Application: Tumble lube.
- Intended Use: Reduces leading in firearms when using cast bullets.
These specifications matter because they define the simplicity and effectiveness of the product. The liquid form allows for easy application, and the four-ounce bottle provides a substantial amount of lubricant for hundreds, if not thousands, of bullets. Its primary function is to prevent leading, which is critical for maintaining accuracy and preventing damage to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177 excels at its primary task: reducing leading. When applied correctly, it creates a protective coating on the bullet, preventing direct contact with the barrel. This results in cleaner shooting and improved accuracy.
Its biggest strength is its simplicity. The tumble-lube method is quick and easy, requiring minimal equipment. The main weakness is that it can be a bit messy if not handled carefully. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a low-cost, effective bullet lubricant.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of Lee Liquid Alox is straightforward and functional. The liquid consistency allows for easy coating of bullets, and the four-ounce bottle is convenient for storage and dispensing. The lubricant is slightly tacky to the touch when wet, but dries to a non-tacky finish.
There is virtually no learning curve. Simply follow the instructions (typically involving dilution with mineral spirits and tumbling the bullets), and you’re good to go.
Durability & Maintenance
Lee Liquid Alox has proven to be quite durable in my experience. Once applied and dried, it forms a resilient coating that withstands the rigors of firing. I have rounds loaded with Lee Liquid Alox that have been stored for years and are still performing admirably.
Maintaining equipment used with Lee Liquid Alox is also simple. Mineral spirits or any good solvent easily removes any residue, keeping your dies and other reloading tools clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
Lee Liquid Alox doesn’t come with any specific accessories. It is intended to be used as is, often diluted with mineral spirits for easier application. It is compatible with virtually all cast bullets and can be used in conjunction with other reloading components, such as different powders and primers.
Some reloaders experiment with adding other waxes or additives to Lee Liquid Alox to customize its performance. However, I’ve found that it works exceptionally well on its own.
Pros and Cons of Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177
Pros
- Easy to use: The tumble-lube method is simple and requires minimal equipment.
- Effective at reducing leading: Consistently delivers cleaner shooting and improved accuracy.
- Economical: The four-ounce bottle lasts a long time, making it a cost-effective solution.
- Versatile: Works with a wide range of calibers and cast bullet types.
- Durable: The coating is resilient and withstands extended storage.
Cons
- Can be messy: Requires careful handling to avoid spills and stickiness.
- Odor: Some users may find the smell unpleasant.
Who Should Buy Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177?
Lee Liquid Alox is perfect for reloaders who use cast bullets, especially those who are experiencing leading issues in their firearms. It’s also ideal for reloaders who value simplicity and economy. Novice reloaders will find it easy to use, while experienced reloaders will appreciate its consistent performance.
Those who prefer a completely clean reloading process or are sensitive to odors might want to skip this product. A traditional stick lube applied with a sizing/lubing press might be a better option for those individuals.
A must-have is a bottle of mineral spirits for thinning the Lee Liquid Alox. Also, a plastic container or bag for tumbling the bullets is essential.
Conclusion on Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177
Lee Liquid Alox Bullet Lube 4 Ounce 90177 is a proven and effective solution for reducing leading in firearms when using cast bullets. Its simplicity, economy, and consistent performance make it a top choice for many reloaders. At a price of $10.99, the value proposition is exceptional.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Lee Liquid Alox to anyone who reloads cast bullets and is looking for an easy and effective way to prevent leading. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve your shooting experience and extend the life of your firearms. Give Lee Liquid Alox a try; you won’t be disappointed.