Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 is a seemingly simple, yet crucial tool for reloaders chambering the .270 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM). This two-piece set, manufactured by Lee Precision, consists of a case length gauge and a shell holder, essential for ensuring your reloaded ammunition meets the precise specifications needed for safe and accurate firing. After years of reloading, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of accurate case trimming, and I was curious to see how this Lee product would perform.
My journey with reloading started as a way to save money and gain greater control over the performance of my ammunition. Case stretching is an inevitable part of the reloading process, and if left unchecked, it can lead to dangerous pressure issues and misfires. The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 promised a simple solution to this problem, which is why I picked it up.
Upon receiving the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117, my initial impression was that of functional simplicity. The hardened steel construction felt robust, and the design was straightforward. Compared to more elaborate case trimming systems I’ve used, this Lee tool seemed remarkably minimalist.
I’ve used RCBS and Hornady case trimming solutions in the past, which offer more features like adjustable trimming length and power adapters. However, for straight-forward, caliber-specific trimming, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 seemed like a streamlined and cost-effective option. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could deliver the consistent results I needed.
I was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity of the design made me wonder about its precision, but the reputation of Lee for producing reliable reloading tools at an affordable price point gave me hope.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 took place in my reloading room, where I typically spend several hours a week prepping and loading ammunition. I had a batch of .270 WSM cases that had been fired multiple times and were showing signs of stretching. The goal was to trim them all back to the specified case length using the Lee gauge.
The performance was straightforward; slip the case into the shell holder, insert the gauge, and trim with a case trimmer (sold separately). I used a Lee case trimmer for the operation. The trimming process itself was smooth and consistent.
There were no major issues during the first use. The gauge and shell holder worked as expected. My only slight concern was the manual labor of using a hand-cranked trimmer, but this is a factor of the trimmer, not the Lee gauge and holder.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of trimmed cases, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear on the hardened steel.
The durability is impressive for such an affordable tool. Cleaning is simple – just wipe it down with a cloth after use.
Compared to some of the more complex case trimming setups I’ve used, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 is incredibly easy to maintain. It reliably produces consistent case lengths for my .270 WSM reloads. It has become an essential part of my reloading process.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117
Specifications
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 is specifically designed for trimming .270 Winchester Short Magnum cases. It consists of two pieces: a case length gauge and a shell holder. The case length gauge dictates the final trimmed length of the case.
The shell holder securely holds the case during the trimming process. Both components are constructed from hardened steel for durability. This ensures accurate and repeatable trimming over the long haul.
These specifications are vital for achieving consistent ammunition performance. Correct case length ensures proper chambering, consistent pressure, and optimal accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 performs its job admirably. It allows for precise and consistent case trimming of .270 WSM brass.
Its strength lies in its simplicity. It’s a straightforward tool that delivers reliable results. The downside is that it is caliber-specific and requires a separate case trimmer.
The tool meets expectations for accurate and repeatable case trimming. It contributes to improved consistency in my reloads.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is minimalist and functional. The hardened steel construction gives it a robust feel.
It is very user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel construction suggests it will last for many years of reloading. Maintenance is minimal.
It requires only a quick wipe down after each use. This simple care routine ensures the tool remains in good working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 doesn’t come with accessories as such, but it requires a compatible case trimmer for operation. Lee sells its own case trimmers, which are designed to work seamlessly with this gauge and shell holder.
While there are no real customization options, the beauty of the Lee system is its interchangeability. Different caliber gauges and shell holders can be purchased separately to accommodate various cartridges.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all reloaders.
- Hardened steel construction ensures long-term durability.
- Simple and easy to use, even for novice reloaders.
- Provides consistent and accurate case trimming for improved reloading precision.
- Compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
Cons
- Caliber-specific; requires purchasing separate gauges and shell holders for different cartridges.
- Requires a separate case trimmer for operation.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 is perfect for reloaders of .270 WSM ammunition seeking a simple, accurate, and affordable case trimming solution. It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced reloaders who value consistent results without unnecessary complexity.
Those who reload a wide variety of calibers and prefer a universal case trimming system might want to skip this product. They may prefer an adjustable system.
A compatible case trimmer is a must-have accessory. Lee trimmers are a natural pairing, but other brands can work as well.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117 offers exceptional value for reloaders of .270 WSM. Its simple design, durable construction, and accurate performance make it an essential tool for ensuring consistent and safe ammunition.
The price is more than justified by the improved accuracy and consistency it brings to my reloads. For anyone loading .270 WSM, I wholeheartedly recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90117.
Take control of your reloading process and achieve the consistency you deserve!