LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO Review

Let’s Dive into LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO is more than just a set of reloading dies; it’s an entry point into the fascinating world of handloading ammunition for the .380 ACP. This set, manufactured by Lee Precision, promises precision, durability, and ease of use, all at a surprisingly accessible price point. Having spent over a decade tinkering with various reloading setups, from basic single-stage presses to more complex progressive systems, I was intrigued to see how this relatively inexpensive Lee set would perform.

What drew me to this particular die set was the promise of simplified adjustments and the inclusion of a carbide crimp die. I wanted a reliable set for churning out accurate .380 rounds for practice. My first encounter with the LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO was positive.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the compact, organized storage case. The dies felt solid and well-machined, especially considering the price. The LEE set seemed like a fantastic option for reloaders of all skill levels, even though other sets might provide more flexibility and features.

I initially considered the RCBS Carbide Die Set for .380 ACP, renowned for its long-standing reputation and quality, as well as the Hornady Custom Grade New Dimension 3-Die Set, known for its innovative bullet seating system. I chose the LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO due to its inclusion of a factory crimp die and its lower cost. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – could something so affordable truly deliver on its promises of accuracy and reliability?

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Real-World Testing: Putting LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO took place at my local shooting range, where I have a dedicated reloading bench. I set up the dies in my Lee Classic Turret Press, using a variety of components, including Berry’s plated bullets, Hodgdon Titegroup powder, and CCI small pistol primers. The dies adjusted easily, and the instructions, while basic, were clear enough to get me started.

The initial rounds I produced with the Lee die set performed flawlessly. There were no issues with case sizing, bullet seating, or crimping. The rounds chambered smoothly in my Glock 42, and accuracy was consistent, with groupings comparable to factory ammunition at 15 yards.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, I’ve reloaded hundreds of .380 ACP rounds with the LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO. The set has proven to be remarkably durable. The carbide sizing die shows no signs of wear, and the other dies maintain their adjustments well. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each reloading session is sufficient.

Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive die sets, the Lee set holds its own remarkably well. While it may lack some of the fine-tuning capabilities of higher-end sets, its simplicity and reliability are definite strengths. It certainly outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO

Specifications

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO comes with the following specifications:

• Caliber: .380 ACP. This defines the specific ammunition the dies are designed to reload.
• Includes: Storage Case, Load Data, Powder Dipper, Factory Crimping Die, Seating Die, Powder Through Expander Die, Carbide Sizing Die, Instructions, and Shell Holder. These components offer a comprehensive solution for reloading .380 ACP ammunition.
• Gun Type: Pistol. Specifies the dies are for reloading pistol ammunition.
• Gun Make: Colt. Indicates compatibility with Colt .380 ACP pistols, but will work for all pistols chambered in .380 ACP.
• Carbide Sizing Die: This die resizes the brass case to the correct dimensions for reloading; carbide ensures smooth operation and long life.
• Powder Through Expander Die: This die bells the case mouth to allow easy bullet seating while metering powder if a compatible powder measure is used.
• Seating Die: Used to seat the bullet to the correct depth in the case.
• Factory Crimping Die: This die applies a final crimp to the bullet, ensuring a secure fit and consistent performance.

Performance & Functionality

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO performs its job exceptionally well. The carbide sizing die ensures smooth and consistent case resizing, while the powder-through expanding die allows for efficient powder charging (when used with a compatible powder measure). The seating die seats bullets accurately, and the factory crimp die provides a consistent and reliable crimp.

The set’s greatest strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The included instructions are clear and concise, making it easy for even novice reloaders to get started. The factory crimp die is a standout feature, ensuring that each round is properly crimped for optimal performance. One area that might need improvement is the powder dipper, which is useful for getting started, but a dedicated powder measure is recommended for more consistent loads.

Design & Ergonomics

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO features a practical and functional design. The dies are made from high-quality steel and carbide, ensuring durability and longevity. The storage case is compact and well-organized, making it easy to keep the dies clean and protected.

The dies are designed to be user-friendly, with clear markings and easy adjustments. There is a slight learning curve involved in setting up the dies correctly, but once that’s done, the process is straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO is built to last. The carbide sizing die is particularly durable, and the other dies are made from high-quality steel that can withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each reloading session is all that’s required.

With proper care, this die set should provide many years of reliable service. The carbide sizing die, in particular, is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for lubrication and reduces wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO comes with a basic set of accessories, including a powder dipper and a shell holder. While the set doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of reloading presses and components from other brands.

For example, you can use the dies with a Lee Classic Turret Press or a single-stage press from another manufacturer. You can also use different bullet seating stems to accommodate various bullet shapes and sizes.

Pros and Cons of LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO

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Who Should Buy LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO?

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO is perfect for:

• New reloaders: Its ease of use and affordable price make it an excellent starting point for those new to reloading.
• High-volume shooters: The durable construction and carbide sizing die make it ideal for reloading large quantities of .380 ACP ammunition.
• Budget-conscious reloaders: Its low price point makes it a great option for those looking to save money on ammunition.

Who should skip this product? Those who require the utmost precision and fine-tuning capabilities might prefer a higher-end die set with more advanced features.

A must-have accessory is a reliable powder measure for more consistent powder charges.

Conclusion on LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO

The LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO is an exceptional value for the money. Its combination of affordability, durability, and ease of use makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced reloaders. While it may not offer all the bells and whistles of higher-end die sets, it delivers reliable performance and consistent results.

The price is more than justified by the set’s performance and longevity. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get started reloading .380 ACP ammunition. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable way to reload .380 ACP ammunition, the LEE 90447 4 DIE SET 380 AUTO is an excellent choice. Invest in this die set, start reloading, and experience the satisfaction of creating your own custom ammunition!