Let’s Dive into Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British
The Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British is a classic reloading tool, especially appealing to those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency. Made by Lee, this kit provides everything needed to reload .303 British cartridges without the need for expensive presses or complex setups. It’s a throwback to simpler times, offering a hands-on approach to reloading that some shooters find incredibly rewarding.
My journey to this Lee Loader stemmed from a desire to become more self-reliant in my shooting. Ammunition availability and rising costs motivated me to explore reloading, but I was initially intimidated by the complexity and expense of traditional reloading setups. The Lee Loader offered a cost-effective and space-saving entry point into the world of reloading, so I decided to take a chance.
Upon unboxing the Lee Loader, I was struck by its simplicity. The kit consists of a few basic tools: a sizing die, priming chamber, powder measure, bullet seating die, and a decapping punch. The components are well-machined and feel sturdy, despite not having the heft of a full-sized reloading press.
Compared to a traditional reloading press setup, the Lee Loader is incredibly compact and inexpensive. I considered a single-stage press from RCBS or Hornady, but the cost and space requirements were significantly higher. The Lee Loader is a more economical and space-conscious choice for someone just starting out or for those who only reload occasionally.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the prospect of reloading my own ammunition, but I was also a little apprehensive about the learning curve. However, the simplicity of the Lee Loader reassured me that it was a manageable project.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Lee Loader was at my reloading bench in the garage. I followed the instructions carefully, taking my time to understand each step of the process, from decapping the spent primers to seating the new bullets. While the process is slower than using a reloading press, it’s remarkably straightforward.
I initially tested it on a relatively dry, cool day. The hand-operated nature of the Lee Loader means that weather conditions have minimal impact, unlike electronic reloading equipment. I found that the powder measure provided consistent charges, and the bullet seating die produced rounds with consistent overall lengths.
The Lee Loader does require some getting used to. The sizing die requires a bit of force to resize the cases, and the priming process takes a little practice to get right. However, after a few rounds, I developed a rhythm and found the process to be quite enjoyable.
I did encounter a few minor issues during my first use. One case got stuck in the sizing die, requiring a bit of extra effort to remove. I also found that the decapping punch required a firm hand to remove the spent primers.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Lee Loader, it has proven to be a reliable and consistent tool. The resized cases chamber smoothly in my .303 British rifle, and the reloaded ammunition has performed accurately at the range. The initial issues I encountered during my first use have largely disappeared as I’ve become more proficient with the tool.
The Lee Loader has held up well over time. Despite its simple design, the components are made from durable materials that show no signs of significant wear and tear. The sizing die still resizes cases smoothly, and the powder measure continues to provide consistent charges.
Maintenance of the Lee Loader is very simple. I clean the dies and powder measure after each reloading session, using a brush and solvent to remove any residue. I also apply a light coat of oil to the sizing die to prevent corrosion.
Compared to my previous experience with factory ammunition, the Lee Loader has allowed me to achieve greater accuracy and consistency. I can tailor my reloads to my specific rifle and shooting needs, resulting in improved performance at the range. It definitely exceeded my expectations, considering its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British
Specifications
- The Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British is specifically designed for reloading .303 British cartridges. This makes it suitable for owners of rifles chambered in this classic caliber.
- It weighs approximately one pound. This makes it extremely portable and easy to store.
- The kit includes a sizing die, priming chamber, powder measure, bullet seating die, and a decapping punch. These are all the essential tools needed to reload .303 British cartridges by hand.
- The components are made from steel and aluminum. These materials are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- The kit features a simple, hand-operated design. This eliminates the need for a reloading press and allows for reloading in almost any location.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the Lee Loader’s performance and ease of use. The caliber-specific design ensures accurate and consistent reloading, while the durable materials guarantee a long lifespan. The hand-operated design makes it a versatile tool for reloaders of all skill levels.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British performs its job admirably, consistently producing reloadable cartridges. It’s accurate enough for general range use and even some hunting applications.
The main strength is its simplicity and affordability. The downside is the relatively slow reloading speed compared to a press.
It definitely meets expectations for a budget-friendly, entry-level reloading tool. It’s perfect for learning the basics and producing reliable ammunition for personal use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Loader’s design is simple and functional. It’s made from durable materials and feels comfortable in the hand, despite its small size.
It is very user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Loader is built to last, with durable steel and aluminum components. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
It’s easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The dies can be cleaned with a brush and solvent, and the moving parts can be lubricated with a light coat of oil.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Loader comes with all the necessary tools to reload .303 British cartridges. There aren’t many customization options for this particular kit.
It is designed to work specifically with Lee reloading components. Compatibility with accessories from other brands may be limited.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British
Pros
- Affordable: Significantly cheaper than a traditional reloading press setup.
- Portable: Compact and lightweight, making it easy to take to the range or on hunting trips.
- Simple to Use: Easy to learn and operate, even for beginners.
- Reliable: Produces consistent and accurate reloads.
- Self-Sufficient: Allows you to reload your own ammunition, regardless of ammunition availability.
Cons
- Slow Reloading Speed: Significantly slower than using a reloading press.
- Requires Manual Effort: Can be tiring for high-volume reloading.
Who Should Buy Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British?
The Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British is perfect for:
- Hobbyist Reloaders: Those who enjoy the process of reloading and want a hands-on approach.
- Budget-Conscious Shooters: Those who want to save money on ammunition by reloading their own.
- .303 British Rifle Owners: Those who want to reload ammunition for their .303 British rifles, especially in remote areas or where ammo is scarce.
- New Reloaders: A great starting point without the intimidation or investment required for a full reloading setup.
Who should skip this product?
- High-Volume Shooters: Those who need to reload large quantities of ammunition quickly.
- Reloading Press Owners: Those who already own a reloading press and don’t need a simpler alternative.
A must-have accessory is a good pair of work gloves to protect your hands during the resizing process. Also, consider investing in a powder trickler for precise powder charges.
Conclusion on Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British
In summary, the Lee 90247 Lee Loader Rifle Kit 303 British is a surprisingly effective and affordable tool for reloading .303 British cartridges. It may not be the fastest or most convenient option, but it offers a unique and rewarding reloading experience.
The price is definitely justified, considering the value and self-sufficiency it provides. It’s a great way to get started in reloading without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in reloading their own ammunition, especially those who appreciate simplicity and self-reliance. The Lee Loader is a classic tool that offers a satisfying and rewarding reloading experience. Take the plunge and start reloading your own .303 British ammunition today!