Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708
The world of reloading can seem daunting, especially with the myriad of tools and equipment available. Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708, a Lee Collet Die Set for the .22-250 Remington, aims to simplify the neck sizing process. This die set promises improved accuracy and extended case life.
As an experienced handloader, I was seeking a die set that could offer consistent neck tension and minimize case stretching, particularly for my .22-250. I had heard tales of the Lee Collet Die’s accuracy potential. I wanted to see if it could really deliver tighter groups and prolong the life of my brass.
Upon unboxing, the kit felt solid and well-organized. The collet die, bullet seating die, shell holder, and powder measure chart were all neatly packaged. The build quality seemed adequate for the price point, though not as refined as some of the higher-end die sets I’ve used.
I considered Redding and Forster die sets, both renowned for their precision. However, the Lee Collet Die system’s unique approach to neck sizing and its more budget-friendly price swayed my decision. I was drawn to the idea of minimal case working and potentially extending the life of my precious .22-250 brass.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design looked intriguing, and the price was certainly attractive. Whether it could live up to the hype and deliver on its accuracy promises remained to be seen.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 took place at my reloading bench, preparing ammunition for a prairie dog hunt. I was loading 50-grain V-Max bullets over a charge of Hodgdon Varget. The goal was to produce accurate and consistent ammunition for long-range varminting.
Working in a well-lit, temperature-controlled environment, I found the die set relatively easy to use. The collet neck sizing die required a firm press to properly size the case neck. I noticed that the seating die provided consistent bullet seating depth.
The collet die requires a slightly different technique compared to full-length sizing dies. I had a minor issue with getting used to the required amount of leverage. Despite the initial learning curve, the process felt smooth overall.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708, it has proven to be a reliable tool. The dies have consistently produced ammunition with tight neck tension and consistent bullet seating depths. There are no signs of undue wear and tear.
The finish on the dies has held up well, and there’s no evidence of rust or corrosion despite occasional exposure to lubricant. Cleaning is straightforward. I simply wipe down the dies with a clean cloth after each reloading session.
Compared to my experience with full-length sizing dies, the Lee Collet Die has noticeably reduced case stretching. This has likely contributed to improved case life. The resulting ammunition consistently delivers tighter groups at the range, a clear improvement over my previous handloads.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708
Specifications
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 is specifically designed for the .22-250 Remington cartridge. This ensures optimal performance and compatibility. It features a collet neck sizing die, a dead-length bullet seating die, and a shell holder.
The collet neck sizing die uses a mandrel to size the case neck, promoting concentricity. This minimizes run-out and improves accuracy. The dead-length bullet seating die ensures consistent seating depth. This is crucial for consistent velocities and accuracy.
The set includes a shell holder specifically designed for the .22-250 Remington. This guarantees proper case alignment and function with the dies. Also included is a powder measure charge table. This serves as a helpful reference guide for developing accurate loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The collet neck sizing die consistently produces cases with uniform neck tension. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced bullet run-out.
The dead-length bullet seating die provides consistent seating depth, resulting in uniform velocities. This contributes to tighter groups and improved long-range performance. The die set is relatively easy to use, although it requires a slightly different technique compared to full-length sizing dies.
The Lee Collet Die excels at neck sizing cases with minimal case working. However, it is important to note that the collet die only sizes the neck. Full-length sizing may be required periodically, especially for cases fired in different rifles.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies are constructed from high-quality steel and feature a durable finish. The weight feels substantial and indicative of solid construction. The knurled surfaces on the dies provide a secure grip during use.
The die set is relatively user-friendly, but it does require some familiarity with reloading techniques. A detailed instruction manual is included. This is helpful for novice reloaders.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 should last for many years. The steel construction and durable finish resist wear and tear. Cleaning is simple and requires only a clean cloth and occasional application of gun oil.
The collet is a wear item and may eventually require replacement after extended use. However, replacement collets are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Overall, the Lee Collet Die set offers excellent durability and ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 comes complete with the necessary components for reloading .22-250 ammunition. It includes the collet die, bullet seating die, shell holder, and powder measure chart. There are no additional accessories included in the set.
The die set is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded reloading presses. This ensures compatibility with most common reloading setups. The seating die can be used with various bullet seating stems to accommodate different bullet shapes and profiles.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The collet neck sizing die promotes concentricity and minimizes bullet run-out.
- Extended Case Life: Minimal case working reduces stretching and extends the life of your brass.
- Consistent Neck Tension: The collet die provides uniform neck tension for consistent bullet release.
- Ease of Use: Relatively easy to use, with a straightforward setup and operation.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to higher-end die sets.
Cons
- Only neck sizes: Does not full-length size the case.
- Requires proper setup: The collet tension must be properly adjusted for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 is perfect for precision-oriented reloaders seeking improved accuracy and extended case life for their .22-250 ammunition. It benefits varmint hunters, target shooters, and anyone looking for consistent performance from their reloads.
This product might not be suitable for high-volume reloaders who prioritize speed over precision. Also, reloaders who require full-length sizing for semi-automatic rifles or cases fired in multiple rifles might need a different die set.
A dial caliper is a must-have accessory for precisely measuring bullet seating depth. Case lubricant is essential for smooth die operation.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 provides an excellent entry point into the world of precision reloading for the .22-250 Remington. Its unique collet neck sizing system delivers consistent neck tension, improved accuracy, and extended case life. For $56.39, the price is more than justified by the performance and benefits it offers.
I would personally recommend this die set to any reloader looking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their .22-250 ammunition. The Lee Collet Die system is a valuable tool for achieving tighter groups and maximizing the performance of your rifle.
Give the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90708 a try, and experience the benefits of precision neck sizing for yourself!