Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set Review

First Impressions of Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set promises to be a comprehensive solution for reloaders venturing into the versatile world of .300 Blackout. Coming from Lee, a brand known for its accessible and functional reloading equipment, this die set aims to provide everything needed to produce accurate and reliable ammunition. The inclusion of a factory crimp die is particularly intriguing, something not always standard in other die sets.

I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily focusing on bottleneck rifle cartridges like .223 and .308. However, with the increasing popularity of the .300 Blackout for its subsonic capabilities and AR platform compatibility, I decided to expand my reloading repertoire. I was looking for a die set that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered the essential tools to create quality .300 Blackout rounds.

Unboxing the Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set, I was immediately struck by the compact and straightforward nature of the kit. The dies felt solid and well-machined, typical of Lee products. The inclusion of a universal shell holder is a welcome addition, saving the hassle of purchasing one separately.

I considered die sets from RCBS and Hornady, both reputable brands, but ultimately chose the Lee set for its price point and the included factory crimp die. The RCBS set was significantly more expensive, and while the Hornady set was closer in price, it lacked the factory crimp. My initial impression is cautiously optimistic, with a keen interest in seeing how these dies perform in real-world loading scenarios. I hope this die set will improve my ability to reload .300 AAC Blackout rounds.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set took place in my home reloading workshop. This well-lit and organized space allows for careful attention to detail during the reloading process. I focused on producing both supersonic and subsonic loads, using a variety of bullet weights and powder charges.

The dies performed well, even under pressure. The sizing die smoothly resized the cases, and the bullet seating die allowed for precise bullet placement. I did find that the instructions provided by Lee were somewhat minimal, requiring a bit of prior reloading knowledge.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set has proven to be a reliable and functional addition to my reloading bench. The dies have held up well, with no signs of excessive wear or damage. Proper cleaning and lubrication are key to maintaining their performance.

I’ve reloaded hundreds of .300 Blackout rounds using this die set, and the consistency and accuracy of the resulting ammunition have been impressive. Compared to my previous experiences with other die sets, the Lee set performs admirably, especially considering its price point. The factory crimp die is still the highlight.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set

Specifications

• Caliber: .300 AAC Blackout. This is explicitly designed for this popular cartridge, ensuring proper case sizing and bullet seating.
• Included Accessories: 3 Dies in a Set (Full Length Sizing Die, Easy Adjust Dead Length Bullet Seating Die, Factory Crimp Die), Universal Shell Holder, instructions and load data. This comprehensive set offers all the essentials for reloading .300 Blackout.
• Manufacturer: Lee. Lee is well known for offering high quality goods.
• Gun Type: Rifle. The dies are specifically designed for reloading rifle cartridges.
• Height: 1.5 in. This compact size allows for easy storage and handling.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the compatibility and functionality of the die set. Proper case sizing and bullet seating are essential for accuracy and safety. The inclusion of a factory crimp die helps to ensure consistent bullet seating depth and improved accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set performs its job admirably. The full-length sizing die consistently brings cases back to SAAMI specifications. This is crucial for reliable feeding and extraction in AR-15 platforms.

The bullet seating die allows for precise depth adjustments, leading to consistent seating depths and improved accuracy. The factory crimp die is a standout feature, providing a consistent and uniform crimp that enhances bullet retention. However, the instructions could be more detailed for novice reloaders.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set features a simple and functional design. The dies are made from high-quality steel, offering good durability and resistance to wear. The dies are easily adjustable with clear markings, allowing for precise and repeatable results.

The Lee Breech Lock system facilitates quick die changes. While the dies themselves are robust, the included plastic storage case is somewhat flimsy.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set is expected to last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the dies are essential to prevent rust and corrosion. Disassembling and cleaning the dies periodically is also recommended to remove any accumulated powder residue or debris.

Spare parts for Lee dies are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making repairs straightforward should they be needed. The robust design and readily available parts contribute to its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set comes with a universal shell holder, which is a welcome addition. The Lee Breech Lock system allows for quick die changes, facilitating the use of other Lee dies or accessories. This offers a degree of customization.

While the set doesn’t include any specific customization options, the .300 Blackout cartridge itself is highly versatile and can be loaded with a wide variety of bullets and powder types. This versatility allows reloaders to tailor their ammunition to specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set

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Who Should Buy Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set?

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set is perfect for reloaders who are new to the .300 Blackout cartridge or who are looking for an affordable and functional die set. It’s also a good choice for experienced reloaders who appreciate value and performance. This die set is most beneficial for those who reload in medium to high volumes.

Those seeking premium features or extremely precise tolerances might consider more expensive die sets from other manufacturers. If one requires highly detailed instructions or expects top-tier storage solutions, there are other alternatives to consider. A premium die set can offer more precise tolerances.

A quality powder measure and scale are essential for reloading consistent and accurate .300 Blackout ammunition.

Conclusion on Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set

The Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set offers exceptional value for money. It provides all the essential tools needed to reload accurate and reliable .300 Blackout ammunition. While the instructions could be more detailed and the storage case is flimsy, these drawbacks are minor compared to the overall performance and affordability of the set.

The price is definitely justified, considering its functionality and the inclusion of the factory crimp die. For reloaders seeking an economical and functional solution for .300 Blackout, I wholeheartedly recommend the Lee .300 AAC Blackout Breech Lock 3-Die Set. This is a great option for reloaders.

Don’t hesitate to add this die set to your reloading bench and start producing your own .300 Blackout ammunition today!