Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955 Review

Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955, specifically the Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die for .22-250 Remington, is a precision tool aimed at reloaders seeking enhanced accuracy. It promises to provide a better bullet fit with minimal run-out, a key factor for consistent performance.

My reloading journey began with a desire to achieve tighter groups and consistent velocities for my .22-250, primarily used for varmint hunting. Factory ammunition often left me wanting more, both in terms of accuracy and consistency, prompting me to explore the world of reloading.

Upon receiving the Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die, I was immediately impressed by its simplicity and robust construction. The design seemed straightforward, suggesting ease of use, while the materials felt durable enough to withstand repeated use. It was smaller than I anticipated, a compact package of precision.

I had been considering other neck sizing dies, notably those from Redding and Forster, but the price point of the Lee die made it a more accessible entry point for exploring collet neck sizing. While the others offered seemingly more features or complexity, I valued the Lee’s reputation for producing consistent results with a simpler design, along with favorable reviews on accuracy enhancements.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to see if this die could deliver on its promise of improved accuracy, but also aware that reloading is a precise art, and the die is only one piece of the puzzle.


Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my home reloading bench, followed by range sessions at my local shooting range. I prepared a batch of .22-250 cases, carefully following the instructions provided by Lee.

The Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die proved to be remarkably easy to use. Unlike full-length sizing, which can require significant force, the collet neck sizing process was smooth and consistent. The process involves minimal case lubrication, which helped maintain cleanliness and reduced the chances of denting cases.

There were no initial issues, other than a slight learning curve in adjusting the die for optimal neck tension. The collet system seemed to work as advertised, providing consistent neck sizing and a noticeable reduction in run-out. I could feel that the die created accurate cases for precision reloading.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die continues to perform admirably. The die shows no signs of wear and tear, despite processing hundreds of cases.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s needed. The robust construction and straightforward design contribute to its long-term durability.

Compared to my previous experience with full-length sizing dies, the Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die offers a significant improvement in case life and accuracy. Cases sized with the collet die exhibit less work hardening and maintain more consistent neck tension, leading to more consistent velocities and tighter groups. This improves on what I’ve experienced with other case prep methods, with more consistency in the long run.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Lee
  • Caliber: .22-250 Remington
  • Type: Collet Neck Sizing Rifle Die
  • Gun Type: Rifle
  • Additional Features: Collet Squeezes Case Neck Against Mandrel for consistent neck tension.

These specifications are vital because they directly influence the accuracy and consistency of reloaded ammunition. By sizing only the neck of the case, the die minimizes case stretching and work hardening, extending case life and improving bullet seating consistency.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955 performs exceptionally well in its intended role: precisely sizing the necks of .22-250 cases. This die provides consistent neck tension, leading to more uniform bullet seating and improved accuracy.

A notable strength is its simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible to both novice and experienced reloaders. A potential area for improvement could be clearer instructions for initial die adjustment. This can be tricky for beginners.

The die exceeded my expectations, delivering a noticeable improvement in the consistency and accuracy of my reloaded ammunition. The difference between a full-length sizing die and this collet neck sizing die is very noticeable at the range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die features a simple and robust design. The materials used appear durable and well-suited for repeated use.

The die is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. The learning curve is relatively short, even for reloaders new to neck sizing.

Durability & Maintenance

The die’s construction suggests it will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.

The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean, minimizing the risk of damage during maintenance. This ensures it is ready for the next reloading session.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die does not come with any additional accessories beyond the die itself and basic instructions. However, reloaders may benefit from using a dedicated case neck lubrication kit to further reduce friction during sizing.

While not strictly customization, adjusting the mandrel size can allow for fine-tuning neck tension to suit specific bullet types and preferences. This is an area that could use more comprehensive documentation for optimal usage.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955

Pros

  • Excellent Accuracy: Provides consistent neck tension for improved bullet seating and accuracy.
  • Easy to Use: Simple design makes it accessible to reloaders of all skill levels.
  • Extends Case Life: Minimizes case stretching and work hardening, maximizing case life.
  • Affordable Price: Significantly less expensive than comparable neck sizing dies from other manufacturers.
  • Consistent Results: The mandrel design ensures that each case neck is sized to the correct inner diameter.

Cons

  • Can require additional lubrication for smooth operation.
  • Instructions could be more detailed for initial die adjustment.


Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955?

This die is perfect for reloaders seeking improved accuracy and consistent performance from their .22-250 ammunition. It’s also well-suited for reloaders who are looking to extend the life of their brass and reduce the amount of work hardening that occurs during full-length sizing.

Those who prioritize convenience over ultimate precision may want to skip this product. Full-length sizing is faster, but may be less precise than neck sizing.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality case neck lubrication kit. This kit helps ensure smooth operation and prevents cases from sticking in the die.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955 is an excellent tool for reloaders looking to enhance the accuracy and consistency of their .22-250 ammunition. Its simple design, ease of use, and affordable price make it an attractive option for both novice and experienced reloaders.

The price is justified, given the die’s ability to deliver consistent results and extend case life. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about reloading accurate and reliable ammunition.

I would personally recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90955 to anyone looking to improve the performance of their .22-250 reloads. Take the plunge and experience the difference that precision neck sizing can make!

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