Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 Review

Let’s Dive into Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137

The Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 is a simple, yet essential tool for any reloader working with the classic .30-40 Krag cartridge. Manufactured by Lee Precision, this tool allows reloaders to accurately trim their brass cases back to the correct length after they have stretched during firing and resizing. This ensures consistent and safe reloading practices, and is crucial for maintaining accuracy and preventing malfunctions in the firearm.

I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily focusing on modern cartridges. However, recently a friend inherited a beautiful Krag-Jørgensen rifle from his grandfather, and he was eager to start shooting it. Finding readily available .30-40 Krag ammunition can be difficult and expensive, so reloading was the obvious solution.

Upon receiving the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137, my initial impression was that of functional simplicity. It’s a two-piece set, featuring a case length gauge (pilot) and a shell holder, both constructed from hardened steel. The finish is utilitarian, but clean, and the weight feels appropriate for the task.

Compared to other case trimming methods, such as power trimmers or hand-cranked trimmers, the Lee system is incredibly basic. However, its affordability and ease of use, especially for a cartridge I wasn’t deeply invested in loading large quantities of, made it a compelling choice. For someone like me who reloads many calibers and needs a cost-effective solution for less frequently used rounds, it seemed ideal. I picked this over a more complex trimmer because of the simplicity and price point.

My first impression was positive. It’s a no-frills tool that promises to do a specific job and do it well, without breaking the bank. While not as flashy or technologically advanced as some other options, its straightforward design and reputation for accuracy instilled confidence.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 in my reloading workshop, a space that I try to keep climate controlled but can get dusty during extensive projects. I had a batch of once-fired .30-40 Krag brass that needed trimming after being resized. The shell holder fit perfectly into my Lee hand press, and the case length gauge was easy to insert into the case mouth.

The process was simple: insert the case into the shell holder, place the gauge inside the case neck, and then use a Lee case trimmer (sold separately) to trim the excess brass until it’s flush with the gauge. The whole process was smooth and consistent. I encountered no issues even with cases that had slightly thicker necks due to inconsistent brass thickness.

The ease of use was noteworthy. It took only a few minutes to get the hang of the system, and I quickly trimmed a dozen cases with consistent results. There were no surprises, no jams, and no need for excessive force.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and a few hundred trimmed cases, the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 has held up remarkably well. The hardened steel construction shows no signs of wear or deformation. The dimensions of the gauge and shell holder have remained consistent, ensuring accurate trimming with each use.

Durability is excellent; there is no wear evident. The gauge still fits snugly into the case necks, and the shell holder retains the cases securely. Cleaning and maintenance are minimal, as the steel resists corrosion. I simply wipe the tool down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to prevent any rust from forming.

Compared to previous experiences with other case trimming methods, the Lee system stands out for its simplicity and consistency. While power trimmers offer speed and convenience, the Lee gauge and shell holder provide a more tactile and controlled trimming experience, especially for a cartridge like .30-40 Krag, where precision is paramount. It has exceeded my expectations for a tool in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137

Specifications

• Caliber: Specifically designed for the .30-40 Krag cartridge. This ensures the gauge fits the case neck precisely and the shell holder securely holds the case head.
• Material: Constructed from hardened steel. This provides excellent durability and resistance to wear, ensuring a long service life.
• Quantity: The set includes two pieces – a case length gauge and a shell holder. Both components are necessary for the trimming process.
• Additional Features: Functions as a case length gauge with a shell holder. The case length gauge dictates the final trimmed length of the case, while the shell holder provides a secure base for trimming.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the consistency and safety of the reloading process. Using the correct gauge for the .30-40 Krag ensures that cases are trimmed to the proper length, preventing overpressure issues and ensuring consistent bullet seating. The hardened steel construction guarantees that the tool will withstand repeated use without losing its accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 performs its job with remarkable accuracy and consistency. The gauge precisely dictates the trim length, while the shell holder provides a secure and stable platform. This ensures that each case is trimmed to the correct length, resulting in consistent and safe reloads.

The tool’s greatest strength is its simplicity. There are no complex adjustments or settings to fiddle with. Its weakness is that it requires the use of a separate Lee case trimmer to actually perform the cut; it does not trim the case itself.

It meets expectations admirably, delivering consistent and accurate results every time. For the price, it’s difficult to find a more reliable and user-friendly solution for trimming .30-40 Krag cases.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use and accuracy. The materials used are appropriate for the task, and the weight feels balanced. The shell holder fits comfortably into a standard reloading press, and the gauge is easy to manipulate.

It is user-friendly. There is no learning curve, as the tool operates on a straightforward principle. The process is intuitive, even for novice reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the hardened steel construction, the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to prevent rust and corrosion. There are no moving parts to lubricate or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 does not come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone tool designed for a specific purpose. It is, however, essential to purchase the appropriate Lee case trimmer to actually perform the trimming operation.

This system is compatible with all standard Lee reloading presses and shell holders. There are no customization options available for this particular tool, as its function is strictly defined.

Pros and Cons of Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137

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Who Should Buy Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137?

Perfect for reloaders who work with .30-40 Krag ammunition and prioritize accuracy and consistency. It’s also great for those who are on a budget and want a reliable case trimming solution without breaking the bank. This is a must have for the reloader who is just getting started, who is on a budget, or only reloads occasionally.

This product isn’t a great fit for high-volume reloaders who need a faster, more automated trimming solution. Anyone who only reloads modern calibers would also not need this particular tool, obviously.

A must-have accessory is the Lee case trimmer, as it is required to actually perform the trimming operation in conjunction with this gauge and shell holder.

Conclusion on Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137

Overall, the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 is a solid and reliable tool that delivers excellent value for money. Its accuracy, simplicity, and durability make it an essential addition to any .30-40 Krag reloader’s toolkit. This is a great tool and is worth every penny.

The price is definitely justified, given the tool’s performance and longevity. It’s an investment that will pay for itself over time, especially for reloaders who regularly work with .30-40 Krag ammunition.

I would personally recommend the Lee 30/40 Krag Case Length Gauge/Shell Holder 90137 to any reloader looking for an affordable and accurate case trimming solution. It’s a simple, yet effective tool that gets the job done right. So, go ahead and add this essential tool to your reloading bench, and start enjoying consistent and safe .30-40 Krag reloads!