Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is a collet die set designed for reloading the .220 Swift cartridge. Manufactured by Lee, this set promises enhanced accuracy and extended case life through its unique collet neck sizing system. This isn’t just another die set; it’s a system designed to optimize bullet fit and minimize run-out.
As a dedicated reloader with over a decade of experience, I was seeking a more precise and gentle method for neck sizing my .220 Swift brass. Traditional resizing methods can overwork the brass, leading to premature case failure. The promise of extending case life while simultaneously improving accuracy piqued my interest in the Lee 90702.
Upon unboxing the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702, I was immediately impressed by the simplicity and solid construction of the dies. The set included the collet neck sizing die, a dead length bullet seating die, a shell holder, a powder measure charge table, and a sturdy storage box. The dies felt robust, and the instructions were clear, offering a straightforward approach to reloading.
Compared to my existing full-length resizing dies from Redding and RCBS, the Lee collet die system presented a fundamentally different approach. I chose this set specifically for the neck sizing aspect, hoping to reduce stress on the brass and enhance accuracy. The other sets I own work well, but sometimes it’s nice to try new approaches to solve the same problems.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well-thought-out, but the real test would be in its performance at the reloading bench and, ultimately, at the range. Would the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 deliver on its promise of increased accuracy and extended case life, or would it fall short?
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 took place at my home reloading bench, carefully following the instructions provided. I was using previously fired .220 Swift brass that had been cleaned and prepped. The reloading process was relatively smooth.
I tested the resulting reloads at my local shooting range. I typically prefer to reload in my workshop. My goal was to assess accuracy at 100 and 200 yards using my custom-built .220 Swift rifle. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The collet neck sizing die required a bit of getting used to. It’s different than standard full-length resizing. However, once I got the hang of it, the process became quite efficient. There was a slight learning curve, but nothing significant.
The first few rounds showed promising results, with tighter groupings than I typically achieved with full-length resized brass. There were no malfunctions or issues with the reloaded ammunition. I was encouraged by the initial results.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of reloading and shooting with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702, I’ve observed a noticeable improvement in brass longevity. I’m still seeing brass after 5 reloads that look great, unlike some brass I had been working with. Cases that had previously shown signs of stretching and thinning after only a few reloads now appear to be holding up significantly better. I have had no failures yet.
The dies themselves have shown no signs of wear and tear, maintaining their smooth operation and consistent performance. Regular cleaning with a solvent specifically designed for reloading dies is all that’s required. The dies have remained clean and functional.
Compared to my previous experiences with full-length resizing, the Lee 90702 has demonstrably outperformed in terms of both accuracy and case life. The difference isn’t dramatic, but it’s certainly noticeable. The difference is measurable in group size and visual inspections.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702
Specifications
- The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is specifically designed for the .220 Swift caliber. This ensures optimal performance and compatibility with this particular cartridge.
- It features a collet neck sizing die that squeezes the case neck against a precision mandrel. This results in perfect bullet fit and minimal run-out.
- The set includes a dead length bullet seating die. It helps ensure consistent seating depth and improved accuracy.
- A shell holder is included in the set. This means you have all the necessary components to begin reloading (excluding the press and other standard reloading tools).
- The product is designed for reloading rifle ammunition. It is not intended for handgun cartridges.
- The kit includes a powder measure charge table. This helps users accurately measure powder charges for their reloads.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 excels in its primary function: accurately and consistently resizing the necks of .220 Swift cases. This results in improved bullet seating and reduced run-out. The result has been better accuracy.
The collet neck sizing system is a key strength. It avoids overworking the brass compared to full-length resizing. A potential weakness is that it only sizes the neck, which may not be ideal for all reloading scenarios. It’s perfect for my needs, however.
The set meets and even slightly exceeds my expectations for accuracy and case life extension. It’s a solid addition to my reloading setup. I have been very happy with the reloads so far.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies are constructed from high-quality steel, providing excellent durability and longevity. The design is simple and functional, with a focus on ease of use. The steel design feels very durable.
The Lee 90702 is relatively user-friendly. However, some reloading experience is recommended. The instructions are clear.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 should last for many years. The dies are made from durable materials and are designed to withstand repeated use. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential.
The dies are easy to clean and maintain. I typically clean the dies after each reloading session with a dedicated solvent and then apply a light coat of oil. The solvent works wonders, and a tiny coat of oil really helps.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 comes with a shell holder. This is crucial for proper case alignment during resizing. There aren’t any significant customization options for the dies themselves.
The set is compatible with standard reloading presses and other common reloading tools. This makes it easy to integrate into an existing reloading setup. I use a Dillon press, and it works great.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702
Pros
- Extends case life significantly by minimizing brass stress. This is a huge advantage, especially for reloaders who value their brass.
- Improves accuracy through precise neck sizing and reduced bullet run-out. This leads to tighter groupings and more consistent shots.
- Affordable price point compared to other high-end die sets. This makes it accessible to a wider range of reloaders.
- Easy to use with a clear instruction manual, even for reloaders with some experience. It’s not overly complicated to get started.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. It is an investment that should pay off in the long run.
Cons
- Only performs neck sizing, not full-length resizing. May not be suitable for all reloading applications.
- Slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with collet neck sizing dies. However, it’s manageable.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is perfect for reloaders who are looking to maximize the life of their .220 Swift brass and achieve the best possible accuracy. It’s also great for those who are meticulous about their reloading process. This is truly an amazing addition to any arsenal.
This product may not be ideal for reloaders who prioritize speed over precision or those who prefer the simplicity of full-length resizing. Novice reloaders might find it slightly challenging initially. However, with some practice, they’ll be able to adapt to the neck sizing.
A quality reloading press is a must-have accessory. A good set of calipers is also essential for measuring bullet seating depth and ensuring consistent reloads. You can’t go wrong with either of those.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is a well-designed and effective tool for reloaders seeking to optimize the performance of their .220 Swift cartridges. Its unique collet neck sizing system offers a significant advantage in terms of case life and accuracy. This little tool is a great advantage.
The price is definitely justified. The benefits of extended case life and improved accuracy far outweigh the cost. The price is almost unbelievable.
I would definitely recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 to any serious reloader looking to get the most out of their .220 Swift ammunition. If you value accuracy, case life, and a meticulous approach to reloading, this set is a must-have. Invest in your reloading setup and experience the difference!