Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is a simple, yet essential tool for reloaders working with the potent .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. This two-piece set, consisting of a case length gauge and shell holder, promises to ensure consistent and safe ammunition by allowing reloaders to trim cases to the correct length. Lee, a well-known name in reloading equipment, offers this at an incredibly accessible price point, making it attractive to both novice and experienced reloaders alike.
My journey into reloading began with a desire for increased precision and cost savings, especially when working with less common calibers. Reloading the .500 S&W Magnum seemed daunting until I found cost-effective tools like this one that helped manage the process.
Upon receiving the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The gauge and shell holder felt solid and well-made, despite their small size and budget-friendly price. My initial thought was, “Can something this basic really make a difference?”
Compared to a universal case trimmer, which requires more setup and adjustment, the Lee gauge seemed almost too simple. However, the dedicated nature of this tool, specifically designed for the .500 S&W Magnum, appealed to my desire for precision. I chose this over a more complex system hoping for a quick and accurate trimming process.
I was cautiously optimistic; excited to try it, yet aware that inexpensive tools sometimes come with compromises in quality. My hope was that Lee‘s reputation for value would hold true.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 in my reloading room, which is set up in a corner of my garage. I had a batch of .500 S&W Magnum brass that had been fired multiple times and likely needed trimming. The conditions were dry and at a comfortable room temperature.
The process was surprisingly straightforward. I used the gauge in conjunction with a Lee case trimmer, and the trimming process was quick and efficient. The tool proved easy to use, even without extensive experience.
I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, though I did find that I needed to ensure the case was fully seated in the shell holder for an accurate trim. Initially, I underestimated the force required to lock the shell holder, but quickly adapted to the required pressure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 for several reloading sessions spanning a few months, it has proven to be a reliable component of my process. The hardened steel construction shows no signs of wear or damage. The case length gauge and shell holder are holding up well.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient to remove any residue. This keeps the tool performing consistently.
Compared to my previous method of relying on case measurements alone, this tool has significantly improved the consistency of my .500 S&W Magnum reloads. The result is noticeably improved accuracy and more reliable chambering.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee.
- Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum. This gauge is specifically designed for this cartridge.
- Quantity: 2 Piece. You receive both the case length gauge and the shell holder.
- Additional Features: Case Length Gauge W/Shell Holder. This ensures proper case length for safe and accurate reloading.
- Fabric/Material: Hardened Steel. This provides durability and longevity for repeated use.
These specifications are important because they guarantee the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is precisely calibrated for the .500 S&W Magnum, ensuring consistent case trimming. The hardened steel construction promises long-term reliability, critical for high-volume reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 performs its intended job of ensuring proper case length with impressive consistency. It greatly improves the uniformity of my reloads.
The primary strength is its simplicity and ease of use. It effectively streamlines the trimming process. A potential weakness is that it requires a separate case trimmer to function.
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 exceeds my expectations given its low price. It provides a level of precision that I didn’t anticipate.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is robust, with the hardened steel construction feeling solid and durable. The weight is minimal, making it easy to handle.
The design is inherently user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel construction suggests that the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 will last for many years of use. This makes it a worthwhile investment.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. Cleaning only requires wiping with a dry cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 doesn’t come with additional accessories. It is designed to be used in conjunction with a Lee case trimmer or similar trimming tool.
It is compatible with any case trimmer that accepts a shell holder. This greatly expands its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019
Pros
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for reloaders on a budget.
- Simple to use: Requires minimal setup and is easy for beginners.
- Durable construction: Made from hardened steel for long-lasting use.
- Precise trimming: Ensures consistent case length for improved accuracy.
- Dedicated caliber: Specifically designed for .500 S&W Magnum, maximizing precision.
Cons
- Requires separate case trimmer: Does not function as a standalone tool.
- Caliber-specific: Can only be used with .500 S&W Magnum cases, limiting versatility.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is perfect for reloaders of .500 S&W Magnum ammunition who are looking for an affordable and accurate way to trim their cases to the correct length. It’s also ideal for beginners who want a simple and straightforward tool.
Individuals who reload a wide variety of calibers and prefer a universal trimming system might find this tool too limiting. Those who are unwilling to purchase a separate case trimmer should also skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a Lee case trimmer or similar tool. A deburring tool is also recommended for smoothing the case mouth after trimming.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 offers a compelling combination of affordability, simplicity, and precision for .500 S&W Magnum reloaders. Its hardened steel construction and dedicated design ensure reliable and consistent case trimming.
The price is absolutely justified, especially considering the increase in accuracy and consistency it provides. This is a valuable investment for any .500 S&W Magnum reloader.
I would personally recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 to anyone who reloads this powerful cartridge and wants to improve the quality of their ammunition without breaking the bank. Upgrade your reloading bench today with this simple, yet effective tool, and experience the difference precision makes!