Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads Review

Let’s Dive into Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads promises a streamlined solution for reloaders seeking consistent and accurate cast bullet sizing. Made by Lee, a company renowned for its affordable and innovative reloading equipment, this kit aims to simplify the often-messy process of lubricating and sizing cast bullets, specifically for the popular .243 Winchester caliber. The appeal lies in its claimed ease of use and compatibility with standard reloading presses, making it a potentially valuable tool for both novice and experienced reloaders aiming to optimize their ammunition performance.

I’d been struggling with inconsistent groupings using cast bullets in my .243 rifle, a common issue when dealing with variations in bullet diameter. Hand-lubing and sizing was tedious, time-consuming, and never yielded the uniformity I desired for target shooting and varmint hunting. I was looking for a quicker, more precise method to ensure consistent bullet diameter and proper lubrication, hoping to improve accuracy and reduce leading in my rifle’s barrel.

Upon unboxing, the kit felt robust, despite its relatively light weight. The sizing die appeared well-machined, and the push-through design seemed straightforward. The container for catching sized bullets was a welcome addition, promising to minimize mess. My initial thought was: “Finally, a potentially cleaner and faster way to size cast bullets.”

I considered the RCBS Lube-A-Matic II and the Lyman 4500 Lube Sizer, but their higher price points pushed me towards the Lee kit. The Lee kit seemed like a cost-effective entry point into consistent bullet sizing. Ultimately, the promise of ease of use and affordability swayed my decision.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity of the design and the reputation of Lee for delivering functional reloading tools sparked excitement. However, a small part of me wondered if the lower price point might translate to compromises in durability or performance compared to more expensive options.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads at my reloading bench, preparing cast bullets for my .243 Winchester rifle. The weather was mild, and the controlled environment of my reloading room provided ideal conditions for evaluating the kit’s performance.

The initial setup was quick and intuitive, threading the die into my Lee single-stage reloading press with ease. The push-through design was simple to understand, and I quickly got into a rhythm of lubricating the bullets and pushing them through the die. However, I noticed that some bullets required more force than others to pass through, suggesting slight variations in the as-cast diameter.

After sizing approximately 50 bullets, I noticed a build-up of lubricant on the die and the bullet catcher. A small amount of lubricant was also being forced around the base of the die where it threaded into the press. This was easily addressed, but initially unexpected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads continues to perform consistently. The aluminum construction of the die shows no signs of wear, and the sizing process remains relatively smooth.

However, the accumulation of lubricant around the die and in the bullet catcher persists, requiring periodic cleaning. The bullet catcher, while functional, feels somewhat flimsy and could benefit from a more robust design.

Compared to my previous method of hand-lubing and sizing, the Lee kit offers a significant improvement in speed and consistency. The uniform bullet diameter translates to more consistent groupings on the target range. However, the occasional need to apply excessive force to push bullets through the die indicates that bullet alloy hardness and initial casting quality play a crucial role in achieving optimal results.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

Specifications

• The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is specifically designed for sizing cast bullets to .243 Winchester caliber. This ensures compatibility with rifles chambered in this popular cartridge.
• The kit features standard 7/8″ x 14 threads, making it compatible with virtually all standard reloading presses. This universal fit eliminates the need for specialized equipment or adapters.
• It is a One Kit system, containing the necessary die and bullet collection cup to begin sizing .243 caliber cast bullets. This simplifies the purchasing process by providing all essential components in a single package.
• The kit operates via a push-through design, pushing bullets through the sizing die nose-first. This eliminates the need for separate nose punches, streamlining the sizing process and reducing the number of required components.
• The Lube & Sizing Kit enables the application of bullet lubricant during the sizing process. This reduces friction and ensures a consistent bullet diameter, which promotes improved accuracy and reduces leading in the barrel.

These specifications collectively ensure the Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is compatible, effective, and convenient. The proper bullet size impacts accuracy and prevents excessive pressure build-up. Standard threads provide universal compatibility, and the lube function ensures smooth, consistent sizing, which reduces friction and increases reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads performs its primary function of sizing cast bullets effectively. The push-through design simplifies the process and promotes consistent bullet diameter.

The kit’s greatest strength lies in its ability to quickly and consistently size bullets to the correct diameter. However, the occasional need for excessive force during sizing indicates that the hardness of the bullet alloy and initial casting quality significantly impact performance.

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads largely meets my expectations for an affordable and easy-to-use bullet sizing solution. While it may not match the performance of more expensive options in terms of effortless operation and reduced lubricant mess, it offers a significant improvement over hand-lubing methods and delivers consistently sized bullets.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads features a simple, functional design. The aluminum construction provides adequate durability while keeping the kit lightweight.

The ergonomic design is adequate, but not exceptional. The push-through operation is straightforward, but the small size of the bullet catcher can make it somewhat awkward to handle.

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads presents a small learning curve. Once the user understands the importance of proper lubrication and consistent press operation, the process becomes relatively seamless.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is expected to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum die is robust, and the overall design is simple and reliable.

The kit is very easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning to remove accumulated lubricant is the primary maintenance requirement.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads comes with a bullet collection container, but doesn’t offer significant customization options. The primary focus is on providing a simple and affordable sizing solution for .243 caliber cast bullets.

The Lee kit is compatible with all standard reloading presses that accept 7/8″ x 14 threaded dies, but it’s limited in terms of customization. The die is specifically designed for .243 caliber bullets, and there are no interchangeable parts or accessories to expand its capabilities beyond this specific application.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

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Who Should Buy Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is perfect for reloaders seeking an affordable and easy-to-use solution for sizing cast bullets in .243 Winchester. It’s a great choice for beginners who are just starting to reload cast bullets and experienced reloaders who are looking for a budget-friendly way to improve the consistency of their ammunition.

Reloaders who demand the absolute highest level of precision and are willing to invest in more expensive equipment should skip this product. Also, reloaders who frequently work with a wide range of calibers might prefer a more versatile system with interchangeable dies.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality bullet lubricant specifically designed for cast bullets. A dedicated lubricant will help reduce friction, prevent leading, and ensure smooth sizing.

Conclusion on Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

The Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads offers a compelling value proposition for reloaders seeking a simple and affordable solution for sizing .243 caliber cast bullets. While it has minor drawbacks, its ease of use and consistent performance make it a valuable tool for improving ammunition accuracy and reducing leading.

The price is definitely justified for the performance and convenience it offers. It’s hard to argue with its price, especially if you are already using a Lee reloading press.

I would personally recommend the Lee 90083 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .243 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to improve their cast bullet reloading process for .243 Winchester. If you are tired of the mess and inconsistency of hand-lubing, this kit is a great place to start. Add it to your bench and start casting more accurate loads today!