Let’s Dive into Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem promises a portable and affordable solution for reloading .223 Remington ammunition. This kit caters to reloaders who need a compact setup or want to reload at the range. It offers a complete, albeit basic, solution for getting started with reloading this popular caliber.
I’ve always valued the ability to tailor my ammunition for specific rifles and shooting conditions. My pursuit of consistent, accurate .223 rounds for varmint hunting and precision target shooting led me to explore hand-reloading options. The appeal of the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem was its promise of portability and cost-effectiveness.
The kit arrived in a no-frills cardboard box, but the contents seemed well-organized. Picking up the press itself, I immediately noticed its light weight, a testament to its portability but also a potential concern regarding robustness. The dies and other components felt solid enough, typical of Lee products.
Compared to a bench-mounted press, the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem offers a significantly lower initial investment. However, compared to other hand-reloading tools like the Frankford Arsenal Hand Deprimer, this kit is a complete system focused solely on .223 reloading. I chose this kit over a single-stage bench press initially for its compact nature and the ability to reload at the range.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed like a good entry point to portable reloading, but I was curious to see how it would perform under real-world conditions. The promise of convenience had to be balanced against concerns about speed and ease of use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem primarily at my local shooting range. Setting up the press on a sturdy table, I began by de-priming some previously fired .223 cases. The first few rounds were a bit awkward, requiring more force than I anticipated, but I quickly found a rhythm.
The press performed adequately in the dry conditions of the range. However, I imagine that wet conditions might present a challenge with the grip and handling of the press. Initial use required some patience, particularly in getting a feel for the press’s leverage and the proper amount of force for each step.
After the first session, I noticed some slight flexing in the press frame under heavy loads. This raised a concern about long-term durability. The de-priming stage was also messier than I had hoped, with spent primers occasionally scattering.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem has held up reasonably well. The frame has shown no signs of catastrophic failure, although the flexing remains noticeable. Some of the smaller plastic components, like the primer tray, feel a bit flimsy.
The finish on some of the dies is starting to show some wear, particularly around the case mouth. Cleaning the press is relatively straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a cloth and some gun oil keeps it running smoothly. However, I’ve noticed the importance of regularly lubricating the moving parts to prevent excessive friction.
Compared to using a single-stage bench press, the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem is significantly slower and requires more physical effort. However, it remains a viable option for small-batch reloading at the range or when space is limited. It does not outperform a quality bench press, but fulfills a different niche.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem
Specifications
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem is specifically designed for reloading .223 Remington ammunition. The kit includes a hand press, a powder dipper, a priming tool, and a set of .223 Remington dies (full-length sizing, bullet seating, and crimp). The press itself is constructed from lightweight aluminum.
The hand press design allows for portability and use in locations where a bench-mounted press is impractical. The included dies are standard 7/8″-14 threads, making them compatible with other presses. The Breech Lock quick-change system allows for fast die changes without readjusting. This speed and compatibility are key advantages.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem performs adequately for low-volume reloading. Accuracy depends more on the user’s technique and consistency than the press itself. The hand press can produce accurate rounds, but it requires more attention to detail compared to a bench-mounted press.
The main strength of this kit is its portability. The primary weakness is the slower reloading speed compared to a bench-mounted setup. The kit mostly meets expectations for a budget-friendly and portable reloading solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem features a lightweight aluminum frame, prioritizing portability. The handle provides a decent grip, but extended use can be tiring. The priming tool is functional, but can be finicky.
The press is relatively user-friendly, but requires some practice to master. The Breech Lock system simplifies die changes. The ergonomic design is acceptable for short reloading sessions, but less ideal for high-volume reloading.
Durability & Maintenance
The lifespan of the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem will likely depend on the frequency and intensity of use. The aluminum frame may be susceptible to damage under extreme stress. Regular lubrication and careful handling will extend the life of the press.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The dies are replaceable if they become damaged or worn. The long-term durability of the kit is a valid concern given the lightweight construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes essential .223 Remington reloading dies, a powder dipper, and a priming tool. While the kit is primarily designed as a standalone unit, the standard die threads (7/8″-14) allow compatibility with dies from other brands. The Breech Lock system allows for fast die changes and compatibility with other Breech Lock equipped presses.
While there are no officially supported accessories beyond replacement parts, reloaders can potentially use aftermarket shell holders and primer trays if they are compatible with the press’s dimensions. The kit offers limited customization options but is adaptable to a degree.
Pros and Cons of Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem
Pros
- Portable and lightweight design. Allows reloading at the range or in areas with limited space.
- Affordable entry point to .223 Remington reloading. Significantly cheaper than a bench-mounted press.
- Includes all necessary components. Ready to start reloading .223 Remington ammunition out of the box.
- Breech Lock system. Quick die changes without readjustment.
- Standard die threads. Compatible with dies from other manufacturers.
Cons
- Slower reloading speed. Significantly slower than a bench-mounted press.
- Less robust construction. The aluminum frame may be susceptible to flexing or damage under heavy use.
- Messy de-priming process. Spent primers can scatter during the de-priming stage.
Who Should Buy Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem?
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem is perfect for reloaders who:
- Need a portable reloading solution for use at the range or in the field.
- Are on a tight budget and looking for an affordable entry point to .223 Remington reloading.
- Only reload small batches of ammunition.
- Have limited space for a traditional bench-mounted reloading setup.
This product might not be suitable for:
- High-volume reloaders.
- Reloaders seeking maximum precision and consistency.
- Individuals who prefer the robustness and stability of a bench-mounted press.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- A reliable powder scale for accurate powder charges.
- A sturdy table or surface to mount the press.
- A dedicated case trimmer for consistent case lengths.
Conclusion on Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem
The Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem offers a valuable entry point into the world of .223 Remington reloading, particularly for those prioritizing portability and affordability. While it has limitations in terms of speed and robustness, it provides a functional and complete system for reloading small batches of ammunition. Its value proposition lies in its ability to enable reloading in environments where a traditional setup is impractical.
The price is justified for what the kit offers – a basic but functional set of tools for a specific purpose. I would recommend this kit to beginners or reloaders who need a portable option. However, those serious about high-volume or ultra-precise reloading should invest in a bench-mounted press.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to reload .223 Remington ammunition on the go, the Lee 92118 Breech Lock Hand Press Kit 223 Rem is worth considering. Get yours today and start crafting custom .223 loads tailored to your specific needs!