Let’s Dive into Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 promises to streamline the reloading process, offering a more efficient way to load bullets into cases. This kit is designed to convert existing feed systems to handle different bullet lengths or calibers, making it a potentially versatile addition to any reloader’s bench. Produced by Lee, a well-known manufacturer of reloading equipment, this accessory aims to reduce the time spent manually placing bullets, allowing for faster and more consistent ammunition production.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, always seeking ways to improve my efficiency and consistency. Manual bullet placement, especially when loading hundreds of rounds, becomes tedious and can introduce slight variations in seating depth. The promise of automating this step was the main driver behind acquiring the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807.
My initial unboxing experience was straightforward. The kit consists of a feed die and fingers, constructed from what appears to be durable plastic. The black color is functional, and the pieces felt solid enough to withstand repeated use.
Compared to a full progressive press with an integrated bullet feeder (which can cost hundreds more), this kit offers a more budget-friendly entry point into automated bullet feeding. I picked this over a completely new press because I already owned a Lee Load Master progressive press, and this seemed like a cost-effective upgrade. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was hoping it would live up to its promise of speeding up the reloading process without sacrificing quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my home reloading bench, working on .45 ACP rounds for an upcoming IDPA match. I wanted to load several hundred rounds, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to test the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807. After a bit of initial setup and adjustment, I started feeding bullets.
The performance was generally good, but not without a few hiccups. Some bullets would occasionally fail to feed correctly, requiring me to manually adjust them. The kit worked best with consistent bullet shapes and sizes.
Ease of use was acceptable, although it took some time to dial in the adjustments for optimal feeding. I initially experienced some bullet tipping and occasional jams, but after adjusting the die and fingers, the process smoothed out. The biggest surprise was the sensitivity to bullet shape; slight variations in bullet ogive seemed to affect the feeding reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds loaded, the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 has held up reasonably well. The plastic components show no significant signs of wear or cracking. However, I still experience occasional feeding issues, especially with cast lead bullets that have slight variations in diameter.
Durability appears to be adequate for the price point. I’ve noticed some minor scuffing on the die from repeated bullet contact, but nothing that affects functionality. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each reloading session is sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Compared to my previous fully manual bullet placement, this kit definitely speeds up the reloading process, albeit not as dramatically as a high-end, fully automated system. It’s a solid upgrade for reloaders looking to improve efficiency on a budget. The consistency in seating depth is also slightly improved, resulting in more uniform rounds.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807
Specifications
- The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 includes a feed die and fingers designed to convert existing bullet feed systems. It fits the Lee Load Master Progressive press and Lee Pro 1000.
- This kit is intended for use with .30 and .32 to .60LN bullets, offering compatibility with a range of popular calibers. The die and fingers are constructed from durable plastic, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear.
Why these specifications matter: The caliber compatibility determines the versatility of the kit, allowing reloaders to use it for various cartridges. The plastic construction keeps the cost down while providing adequate durability for the intended use. The compatibility with specific Lee presses makes it an easy upgrade for existing users of those systems.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 is designed to automate the bullet-seating process in progressive reloading presses. It aims to improve reloading speed and consistency by eliminating the need to manually place each bullet on the case.
The kit performs adequately but isn’t perfect. Occasional bullet misfeeds and a sensitivity to bullet shape are drawbacks. However, when properly adjusted and used with consistent bullets, it significantly speeds up the reloading process. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly bullet feeding solution, offering a noticeable improvement over manual bullet placement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 features a simple, functional design. The plastic construction keeps the weight down, and the components are relatively easy to handle and install. The black color is practical and doesn’t distract from the reloading process.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve involved in setting up and adjusting the die and fingers for optimal feeding. Clear instructions and a bit of experimentation are required to achieve consistent results.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic components of the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 appear reasonably durable, capable of withstanding regular use. Proper care and maintenance will extend its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down after each use is generally sufficient. Replacement parts are readily available from Lee, ensuring that the kit can be easily repaired if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 is primarily a self-contained upgrade kit, so it doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. It works best when paired with the Lee bullet collator, which automatically dispenses bullets into the feed tube.
There are no significant customization options for the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 itself, although it is compatible with a range of different bullet types and calibers within its specified range. The kit relies on the existing adjustments and features of the Lee Load Master or Lee Pro 1000 press for fine-tuning the bullet seating process.
Pros and Cons of Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807
Pros
- Affordable entry point into automated bullet feeding.
- Significantly speeds up reloading compared to manual bullet placement.
- Improves consistency in bullet seating depth.
- Easy to install on compatible Lee presses.
- Compatible with a range of bullet calibers within its specified range.
Cons
- Prone to occasional bullet misfeeds, requiring manual intervention.
- Sensitive to bullet shape and size variations, affecting reliability.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as more expensive metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807?
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 is perfect for reloaders who want to improve their efficiency without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for high-volume shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who reloads frequently and is tired of manually placing each bullet.
This product is not for reloaders who demand absolute perfection and reliability. If you need a bullet feeder that works flawlessly with every bullet, regardless of shape or size, you’ll need to invest in a more expensive, higher-end system. The user must be aware and willing to make minor adjustments.
A must-have accessory for this kit is the Lee bullet collator, which automatically dispenses bullets into the feed tube. This significantly improves the overall efficiency of the bullet feeding process.
Conclusion on Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807
The Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 offers a solid value proposition for reloaders seeking to improve their efficiency on a budget. It’s not perfect, but it significantly speeds up the reloading process and improves consistency in bullet seating depth.
The price is definitely justified, considering the improvement in productivity and the ease of installation. It’s a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who already owns a compatible Lee press.
I would personally recommend the Lee Bullet Feed Kit 40807 to reloaders who are looking for an affordable and effective way to automate their bullet-seating process. While it may require some initial setup and adjustment, the long-term benefits in terms of speed and consistency make it a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your reloading bench today and experience the difference!