Let’s Dive into Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum
The Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum is a classic, no-frills reloading solution for the iconic .44 Magnum cartridge. This isn’t your high-tech, progressive press setup; it’s a minimalist kit designed for the reloader who appreciates simplicity and a hands-on approach. For those seeking to produce accurate, reliable ammunition without a large investment, the Lee Loader has been a staple for decades.
I was drawn to the Lee Loader because I wanted to explore reloading without committing to expensive equipment. Space is also a concern for me, so the compact nature of the kit was a major selling point.
Upon unboxing, the Lee Loader felt surprisingly robust for its size and price. The steel components appeared well-machined, and the instructions, though basic, were clear enough to get started. It’s a far cry from the polished chrome of some modern presses, but it exudes a sense of rugged functionality.
I briefly considered a single-stage press from RCBS or Hornady, but the cost was significantly higher. I also looked at a used Lyman hand-held tool, but its condition was questionable. The Lee Loader offered a brand-new, complete solution at a fraction of the price.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. I was eager to start reloading my own .44 Magnum rounds, but also a little intimidated by the manual process. I knew I had a learning curve ahead, but I was ready for the challenge.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Loader in my garage, setting up a dedicated workspace on a sturdy workbench. Initial attempts were slow, as I carefully followed the instructions and double-checked each step. The kit performed as expected, resizing cases, seating primers, and crimping bullets with reasonable consistency.
Working in my somewhat cluttered garage, dust became a minor issue. I learned to keep the components clean and to inspect each case carefully before proceeding. Using the Lee Loader is a tactile process, so you quickly develop a feel for what’s right and wrong.
There was a definite learning curve. My first few rounds were a bit rough, but with practice, I was producing consistent, accurate ammunition.
The only real surprise was the amount of force required to resize the cases. It’s a manual process, and I quickly understood why some reloaders prefer the leverage of a dedicated press.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Loader is holding up well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the dies or other components. The kit remains as functional as it was on day one.
The Lee Loader requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s needed. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the dies to prevent rust.
Compared to my previous experience of buying factory ammunition, the Lee Loader offers a far greater level of control over the reloading process. I can tailor my loads to specific applications, and I’m saving money in the long run. It isn’t faster, but it is more rewarding.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum
Specifications
The Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum is specifically designed for reloading .44 Remington Magnum cartridges. The kit includes a resizing die, priming tool, powder dipper, bullet seating die, and crimping die. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
- Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum. This dictates the specific cases and bullets you can reload with this kit.
- Gun Type: Pistol. The Lee Loader is designed for pistol cartridges, providing a controlled and safe reloading experience.
- Lee Loader Pistol Kit. This is a complete kit, providing everything necessary to reload .44 Magnum rounds, excluding components (primers, powder, bullets, cases).
- Manufacturer: Lee. Lee is known for affordable and reliable reloading equipment.
These specifications are important because they define the limitations and capabilities of the Lee Loader. It’s a dedicated tool for .44 Magnum, and its manual operation requires understanding and adherence to safe reloading practices.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum performs its job admirably, producing accurate and reliable .44 Magnum ammunition. The manual process requires patience and attention to detail, but the results are worth the effort. The Lee Loader excels in simplicity and affordability.
The main strength of the Lee Loader is its simplicity and low cost. Its primary weakness is its slow, manual operation. It’s not for high-volume reloading.
The Lee Loader largely meets expectations. I wasn’t expecting it to be as fast as a progressive press, but I was pleased with the quality of the reloaded ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Lee Loader is surprisingly good, considering its price. The steel components are well-machined and feel durable. The compact design makes it easy to store and transport.
The Lee Loader is relatively user-friendly, but there is a learning curve. The instructions are basic, and it takes practice to develop a feel for the process.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Loader appears to be quite durable and should last for many years with proper care. It requires minimal maintenance.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient. Occasional application of oil to the dies helps prevent rust.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Loader doesn’t come with many accessories. It is a self-contained kit.
There are limited customization options for the Lee Loader. You can purchase different powder dippers for varying powder charges. The Lee Loader is primarily designed for its specific function.
Pros and Cons of Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum
Pros
- Affordable entry point into reloading. The Lee Loader is one of the least expensive ways to start reloading.
- Compact and portable. The kit takes up very little space and can be easily transported.
- Simple to use (once mastered). The manual process is straightforward, requiring no complex machinery.
- Produces accurate and reliable ammunition. With careful attention to detail, the Lee Loader can create high-quality .44 Magnum rounds.
- Durable construction. The steel components are built to last.
Cons
- Slow and manual operation. Reloading with the Lee Loader is a time-consuming process.
- Requires significant manual effort. Resizing cases and seating primers can be physically demanding.
Who Should Buy Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum?
The Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum is perfect for: budget-conscious shooters, reloaders with limited space, those who enjoy a hands-on approach, and individuals who only need to reload small quantities of ammunition. It is also well-suited to those seeking to reload in remote locations.
This product is not ideal for high-volume shooters or those who prioritize speed and convenience over cost. Anyone who prefers a more automated and less physically demanding reloading process should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a quality reloading manual, a powder scale, and a set of calipers. A bullet puller is also highly recommended for correcting any mistakes.
Conclusion on Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum
The Lee 90260 Lee Loader Pistol Kit 44 Remington Magnum is a classic, no-frills reloading solution that offers exceptional value for the price. It’s not the fastest or most convenient way to reload, but it provides a hands-on experience and produces accurate, reliable ammunition.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of the components and the potential savings on ammunition costs. This kit pays for itself quickly.
I would personally recommend the Lee Loader to anyone looking for an affordable and simple way to get into reloading .44 Magnum. It’s a great way to learn the fundamentals and develop a deeper understanding of the reloading process. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and put in some elbow grease, the Lee Loader is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the satisfaction of creating your own custom ammunition!