Let’s Dive into Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 is a specialized reloading tool designed to improve the consistency and reliability of ammunition. Manufactured by Lee, this die aims to address issues like bullet setback and inconsistent crimps often encountered when reloading the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge, particularly for use in semi-automatic rifles. This is achieved through its unique design that post-sizes the cartridge while applying a consistent crimp.
My journey to this die began with frustrating inconsistencies in my .300 AAC Blackout reloads. I was experiencing varying levels of accuracy and, more concerning, occasional feeding issues in my AR-15, especially when using subsonic loads. I needed a solution to ensure consistent neck tension and prevent bullet movement during the feeding cycle.
Upon unboxing, the die felt solid and well-machined, despite its relatively low price point. It’s a simple, straightforward design, consisting of the die body, a collet crimping system, and an adjustment screw. The carbide sizer ring inside seemed like a practical feature to ensure proper case dimensions after crimping.
I considered other crimp dies from Hornady and RCBS, but the Lee Factory Crimp Die stood out due to its collet-style crimp and its promise of post-sizing. The other dies seemed like they were more focused on just a regular crimp without the added benefit of the post-sizing feature. I was hopeful that this die would offer a more consistent and secure crimp than standard seating/crimping dies.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could such an affordable die really solve my problems? The proof, as they say, would be in the pudding – or, in this case, at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 at my local shooting range, focusing on both supersonic and subsonic loads. I loaded 50 rounds of each type, carefully adjusting the die according to the instructions. My goal was to observe the impact on accuracy and feeding reliability in my AR-15.
The die performed remarkably well, even when used in humid conditions, demonstrating a consistent crimp across all rounds. The setup was surprisingly straightforward, and I quickly developed a feel for the correct amount of crimp pressure. There were no noticeable issues during the first use, and I was particularly pleased with how smoothly the rounds chambered in my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Lee Factory Crimp Die, I’ve reloaded hundreds of rounds of .300 AAC Blackout ammunition. The die has held up exceptionally well, with no signs of wear or damage. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s needed.
The crimps remain consistent, and I’ve experienced a significant improvement in the reliability of my reloads, particularly with subsonic rounds. Compared to my previous setup, where I sometimes encountered bullet setback, the Lee Factory Crimp Die has been a game-changer. It consistently outperforms my old method, ensuring that my ammunition performs reliably every time.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590
Specifications
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 is specifically designed for the .300 AAC Blackout caliber, also known as .300 Whisper. It is constructed primarily from steel with a carbide sizer ring. This die performs a crimping function on loaded cartridges and is intended for use with a standard reloading press.
The carbide sizer is a crucial element, as it ensures that the case dimensions are within spec after crimping, which is critical for reliable chambering in semi-automatic rifles. The crimp die itself is designed to apply a collet-style crimp, which provides a consistent and uniform pressure around the bullet. The die body is threaded to fit standard reloading presses, making it compatible with a wide range of equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 excels at ensuring consistent neck tension and preventing bullet setback. This is especially important for .300 AAC Blackout cartridges, which are often used in AR-15 platforms and can experience feeding issues if the bullet isn’t held securely. The collet-style crimp and post-sizing feature work together to ensure reliable performance.
One of its strengths is the simplicity of setup and use, allowing even novice reloaders to achieve consistent results. A minor weakness is that it requires careful adjustment to avoid over-crimping, which can damage the bullet or case. Despite this minor caveat, it significantly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Factory Crimp Die is a relatively simple and straightforward design. It consists of a die body, a collet crimping mechanism, and an adjustment screw. The materials used are high-quality steel and carbide, making it durable and long-lasting.
It is a very user-friendly and does not have a significant learning curve. The clear instructions and intuitive design make it easy to use, even for those new to reloading.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Lee Factory Crimp Die suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. The carbide sizer ring is particularly durable and should withstand thousands of reloading cycles without significant wear. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove any accumulated residue.
The die appears to be easily repairable, and replacement parts are readily available from Lee, should they ever be needed. Its simple design and durable materials contribute to its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the die itself. However, it is designed to work seamlessly with other standard reloading equipment, such as a reloading press and shell holder. There are no specific customization options available for the die itself.
The die is compatible with any standard reloading press that accepts 7/8″-14 threaded dies. It is also compatible with standard shell holders for the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge.
Pros and Cons of Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590
Pros
- Consistently improves accuracy by ensuring uniform bullet seating and neck tension.
- Enhances feeding reliability, especially crucial for semi-automatic AR-15 rifles chambered in .300 AAC Blackout.
- Simple to set up and use, making it accessible even to novice reloaders.
- Affordable price point compared to other crimp dies on the market.
- Durable construction with a carbide sizer ring for long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Requires careful adjustment to avoid over-crimping, which can damage the bullet or case.
- May not be necessary for experienced reloaders who already achieve consistent results with standard seating/crimping dies.
Who Should Buy Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590?
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 is perfect for reloaders who are experiencing inconsistent results with their .300 AAC Blackout ammunition, particularly those using AR-15 platforms. It’s also ideal for reloaders who prioritize reliability and accuracy in their ammunition. It is especially helpful for those loading subsonic rounds.
Experienced reloaders who already achieve consistent results with standard seating/crimping dies may not find this die necessary. Also, those who primarily reload for bolt-action rifles may not benefit as much from the enhanced crimp and post-sizing feature.
A quality reloading press is a must-have accessory, along with a shell holder specifically for the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge. A good set of calipers for measuring case dimensions and bullet seating depth is also essential for achieving optimal results.
Conclusion on Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590
The Lee Factory Crimp Die .300 AAC Blackout 90590 is a valuable addition to any reloader’s bench, especially for those working with the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge. Its ability to enhance accuracy and improve feeding reliability makes it well worth the investment. The consistent crimp and post-sizing feature ensure that ammunition performs reliably in semi-automatic rifles.
At a price of $15.89, the value proposition is excellent. This product delivers consistent results and improves reliability at an affordable price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lee Factory Crimp Die to anyone reloading .300 AAC Blackout ammunition, especially if they are seeking to improve accuracy and reliability in their AR-15 rifles. Don’t hesitate to upgrade your reloading setup with this simple but effective tool – you won’t regret it!