Let’s Dive into Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208
As a seasoned handloader with over a decade under my belt, I’ve learned that precision and reliability are paramount, especially when dealing with powerful cartridges. The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208 promises to deliver exactly that, ensuring consistent and safe priming for these substantial calibers. This seemingly simple tool plays a crucial role in the reloading process, affecting everything from accuracy to safety at the range or in the field.
I needed a shell holder that could reliably handle the substantial rim dimensions of the .416 Rigby and the .45-70 Government, two cartridges I regularly load for different applications. The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder filled this precise need.
Upon unboxing, the Lee shell holder felt solid and well-machined. The steel construction gives an immediate impression of durability, and the finish is clean and functional. Its weight is reassuring, suggesting it can handle the pressures involved in seating primers for these powerful cartridges.
Compared to the RCBS shell holders I traditionally use, the Lee #8 felt equally robust. However, it boasted compatibility with the Lee Auto Prime system, something my RCBS holders lacked, providing a significant advantage in terms of speed and efficiency. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it would live up to my expectations in terms of both durability and ease of use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder was my reloading bench, where I was preparing a batch of .45-70 Government rounds for an upcoming black bear hunt. I tested the shell holder on both my single-stage press and with the Lee Auto Prime II. The performance was flawless, with each shell fitting snugly and securely within the holder.
During a particularly humid day in my non-climate-controlled reloading room, I noticed no slippage or issues with the holder’s grip on the shell casings. The ease of use was immediately apparent; the shell holder slid effortlessly into my press and the Lee Auto Prime II. There were no initial surprises other than a quiet satisfaction at how smoothly the priming operation proceeded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of reloading sessions, including processing hundreds of rounds of both .45-70 Government and .416 Rigby, the Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder continues to perform admirably. The steel construction shows no signs of wear or deformation, even with the significant pressures involved in seating primers in these large cases. The holder remains firmly in place during operation.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in pristine condition. Compared to some other shell holders I’ve used in the past, the Lee #8 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable, outperforming some higher-priced options. I would definitely describe it as an upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208
Specifications
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208 is specifically designed to accommodate cartridges with larger rim diameters. It is crafted from hardened steel, ensuring strength and longevity. The “#8” designation indicates its specific fit for calibers including .416 Rigby, .45-70 Government, and .40-82 Winchester.
The steel construction ensures resistance to wear and deformation under the pressures of reloading, directly contributing to the safety and consistency of the reloading process. The precise fit for the specified calibers means that the shells are held securely, preventing slippage or misalignment during priming, which is critical for achieving consistent ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder performs its primary function – securely holding the cartridge case during priming – exceptionally well. The shells seat perfectly, allowing for consistent primer seating depth and preventing crushed primers or other issues that can affect accuracy and safety. It excels in its simplicity and reliability.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction and precise fit, however, its only potential limitation is its specific caliber compatibility. It definitively meets and exceeds expectations for reliable priming.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder features a straightforward, functional design. The steel construction is robust and provides a solid feel in hand. Its weight, while not significant, adds to the sense of quality and durability.
The design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for installation and use. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction, the Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder is built to last for many years with proper care. The hardened steel resists deformation and wear, even with frequent use and high-pressure applications. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove any accumulated grime or residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder doesn’t require any additional accessories for its primary function. Its main compatibility feature is its intended use with Lee‘s Auto Prime and Auto Prime II tools.
The fact that it works flawlessly with Lee‘s Auto Prime system enhances the speed and efficiency of the priming process. Its compatibility with other Lee reloading equipment adds to its overall value.
Pros and Cons of Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208
Pros
- Robust steel construction ensures durability and long life.
- Precise fit for .416 Rigby, .45-70 Govt., and .40-82 Win. ensures consistent primer seating.
- Compatibility with Lee Auto Prime systems speeds up the reloading process.
- Simple and user-friendly design requires no special tools or skills.
- Affordable price makes it an excellent value for handloaders.
Cons
- Limited caliber compatibility restricts its use to specific cartridges.
- Lack of any advanced features may not appeal to some users.
Who Should Buy Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208?
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208 is perfect for handloaders who regularly reload .416 Rigby, .45-70 Government, or .40-82 Winchester cartridges. It is particularly well-suited for those who use or plan to use Lee‘s Auto Prime or Auto Prime II tools to streamline their priming process. It’s also a great choice for beginner reloaders.
Those who load a wide variety of calibers and prefer a universal shell holder system might want to consider alternatives. Those needing a shell holder for progressive presses should also look at other options. A must-have accessory would be the Lee Auto Prime or Auto Prime II for maximum efficiency.
Conclusion on Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208
The Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder For 416 Rigby/45-70 Govt./40-82 Win. 90208 is a reliable, durable, and affordable tool that performs its intended function exceptionally well. Its simple design and robust construction make it an excellent choice for handloaders working with these larger calibers. Given its performance and price, it offers outstanding value.
I would absolutely recommend the Lee #8 Auto Prime Shell Holder to anyone reloading these cartridges, particularly those using the Lee Auto Prime system. Don’t hesitate – this small investment can significantly improve the speed and consistency of your reloading process. Start seating primers with confidence today!