Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757, specifically the Pacesetter 2 Die Set for .32 Winchester Special, promises a comprehensive solution for reloaders looking for precision and durability. Marketed as a popular choice for beginners, the set includes a full-length sizing die and a powder dipper, aiming to simplify the reloading process while maintaining quality. This die set piqued my interest because I’ve been looking to get into reloading the .32 Winchester Special, a caliber my grandfather used for deer hunting with his old Winchester Model 94. I’m hoping to recreate his loads and honor his memory with every shot.
I was searching for a reliable and cost-effective solution for reloading this specific caliber, and the Lee name often comes up in conversations about quality reloading tools. Upon unboxing, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 felt solid, with a noticeable heft to the dies, suggesting durable construction. The black powder coat finish seemed resistant to scratches and wear, a promising sign for long-term use.
Compared to other die sets I’ve used, like the RCBS and Hornady options, the Lee set appeared simpler in design, focusing on the essential functions of resizing and powder dispensing. I chose this set because it was specifically designed for the .32 Winchester Special and was more economical than some of the more premium options available. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how the set would perform in actual reloading scenarios, considering its reputation for value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 at my home reloading bench, setting up my single-stage press for the .32 Winchester Special. The Lee dies were relatively easy to install and adjust, requiring only minor tweaks to achieve the proper resizing and bullet seating depth. I performed the reloading process in a well-lit, dry environment to ensure consistent results.
The resizing die worked smoothly, reforming the spent brass with minimal effort, even on cases that had been fired multiple times. The powder dipper, while seemingly basic, provided a surprisingly consistent powder charge, although I verified it with my digital scale for accuracy. I did find that the dipper was prone to static cling, which caused some powder granules to stick, requiring careful tapping to ensure a complete transfer.
After the first use, I was pleased with the consistency of the resized cases and the ease of use of the dies. The powder dipper, while requiring some technique, proved to be a viable alternative to a traditional powder measure for small-batch reloading. However, the static issue needed to be addressed to ensure consistent powder charges.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of reloaded rounds, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear on the dies, and the black powder coat finish remains intact, even after repeated use and cleaning. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth and occasional lubrication with gun oil has kept the dies functioning smoothly.
The durability of the set has exceeded my initial expectations, especially considering its price point. I’ve experienced no issues with case sticking, die cracking, or other common reloading problems. Compared to my previous experiences with other budget-friendly reloading dies, the Lee set has consistently outperformed them in terms of reliability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee.
- Caliber: .32 Winchester Special.
- Additional Features: Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies w/Shell Holder. This indicates the die set is part of Lee’s Pacesetter series, known for its affordability and ease of use.
- Gun Type: Rifle. This confirms the die set is specifically designed for reloading rifle cartridges.
These specifications are crucial because they ensure compatibility with my reloading setup and the intended caliber. The Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies designation suggests a user-friendly design suitable for both beginners and experienced reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 performs admirably in its primary functions: resizing and bullet seating. The full-length sizing die ensures that cases are consistently resized to the correct dimensions, resulting in reliable chambering and extraction. The powder dipper, when used with care, dispenses accurate powder charges, contributing to consistent velocities and accuracy.
While the dies themselves are well-made, the powder dipper is a bit basic and might not be precise enough for some reloaders. The set meets my expectations for a budget-friendly option, providing reliable performance for reloading .32 Winchester Special cartridges.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 is designed with simplicity in mind. The dies are made from hardened steel with a durable black powder coat finish, providing both strength and corrosion resistance. The weight of the dies feels substantial, indicating quality materials and construction.
The design is user-friendly, with clear instructions and easy-to-adjust settings. There is a slight learning curve associated with using the powder dipper effectively, but it can be mastered with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 is built to last, thanks to its hardened steel construction and durable finish. With proper care and maintenance, the dies should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
The set is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only basic cleaning tools and lubricants. I expect this set to last through many years of reloading sessions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 comes with a shell holder, which is essential for holding the case during the resizing and seating processes. The powder dipper is also included, although some reloaders may prefer to use a more precise powder measure. Customization options are limited, as the set is specifically designed for .32 Winchester Special cartridges.
However, the dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses, allowing for flexibility in setup. The set does not include any advanced accessories, but its simplicity and affordability make it an attractive option for budget-conscious reloaders.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners.
- Durable hardened steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to use and adjust, with clear instructions.
- Specifically designed for .32 Winchester Special, ensuring proper fit and function.
- Includes a shell holder, simplifying the reloading process.
Cons
- Powder dipper is less precise than a dedicated powder measure.
- Limited customization options compared to more advanced die sets.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 is perfect for reloaders who are new to the .32 Winchester Special caliber and are looking for a cost-effective and reliable die set. It’s also a good choice for experienced reloaders who want a simple and durable set for small-batch reloading. This set is especially well-suited for those who appreciate value and are willing to trade some precision for affordability.
Those who require the utmost precision in their reloading process or prefer more advanced features should skip this product. They might consider investing in a more expensive die set with a built-in powder measure and micrometers for fine adjustments. A must-have accessory for this set is a good quality powder scale to double-check the charges dispensed by the dipper.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 provides a solid foundation for reloading .32 Winchester Special cartridges. Its affordability, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginners and budget-conscious reloaders. While the powder dipper may not be as precise as a dedicated powder measure, it is a viable option for small-batch reloading.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of the dies and the included shell holder. I would personally recommend this die set to anyone looking to get started with reloading the .32 Winchester Special without breaking the bank. Give the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90757 a try and experience the satisfaction of creating your own custom ammunition!