Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764, a carbide 3-die set with shellholder for the .455 Webley MKII, presents an intriguing option for reloaders of this classic British cartridge. Manufactured by Lee, this set promises both convenience and precision in reloading, utilizing carbide dies for smoother operation and eliminating the need for case lubrication during resizing. With its complete set of dies and shellholder, this package seems like a simple path for anyone looking to feed a Webley revolver.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I was drawn to this product because of my burgeoning interest in reloading antique cartridges. The .455 Webley, with its rich history and unique characteristics, has always fascinated me. Finding reliable and accurate reloading components for it can be challenging, and Lee’s reputation for affordability and quality made this set an attractive option.
Upon unboxing, my initial thoughts were positive. The dies felt solid and well-machined, and the inclusion of a shellholder was a welcome touch. The design looked functional and straightforward, and the packaging was simple but effective. Compared to other die sets I’ve used, such as those from RCBS and Hornady, the Lee set felt lighter, but not necessarily cheap. I picked the Lee set due to its specific availability for the .455 Webley and the promise of carbide dies at a reasonable price.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to get started reloading this unique cartridge, but also aware that any issues could pop up due to the inherent challenges of reloading older, less common calibers. Only a test run on the reloading bench would reveal the full picture.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 in my home reloading setup, which includes a sturdy workbench, a single-stage press, and a variety of measuring and weighing tools. I started with carefully cleaned and inspected .455 Webley cases and followed Lee’s instructions meticulously. Performance was smooth, the carbide sizer die made case resizing much easier.
The dies functioned flawlessly, even in the dusty conditions typical of my workspace. The powder-through expanding die worked effectively, and seating the bullets was straightforward. No issues were encountered during the first use.
The Lee die set proved easy to use, and the design was intuitive. It didn’t take long for me to get accustomed to the set-up, particularly as I’d reloaded other calibers with similar setups previously.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the dies themselves. The carbide sizer continues to perform flawlessly.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient. I’ve found that it outperforms other steel die sets I’ve used. The carbide die is a game-changer in terms of ease of use and speed.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee. Known for producing affordable and reliable reloading equipment.
- Caliber: .455 Webley. Designed specifically for the .455 Webley MKII cartridge.
- Quantity: 3 Dies. Includes a sizer die, an expander die, and a seater/crimper die.
- Additional Features: Carbide. The carbide sizer die eliminates the need for case lubrication.
- Gun Type: Pistol. Specifically designed for reloading pistol cartridges.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the reloading process. The carbide die ensures smoother resizing, the caliber specificity guarantees proper fit and function, and the complete set of dies allows for a comprehensive reloading experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 performs its job admirably. It allows for the consistent and accurate reloading of .455 Webley cartridges. Its strengths lie in its ease of use and the smooth operation of the carbide sizer die.
There’s always room for improvement with any product. But I have found little lacking with this set’s function and design. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations, particularly considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is good for the price. The dies are made from durable materials. They are robust, but not excessively heavy. Comfortable use is achieved through smooth operation and an intuitive design.
The Lee die set is user-friendly, even for novice reloaders. The instructions are clear and concise, and the dies are easy to adjust and set up. The carbide sizing die is an additional bonus that makes the whole process easier and reduces the need for extensive case preparation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 is expected to last for many years with proper care. Its maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning is enough to maintain peak performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 comes with a shellholder. There aren’t any specific customization options for this die set itself. The dies are compatible with standard reloading presses and accessories. These could include powder measures and bullet feeders.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764
Pros
- Carbide sizer die eliminates the need for case lubrication, saving time and effort. This feature alone makes the set worth the investment.
- Complete set includes all necessary dies and shellholder for reloading .455 Webley. Provides a comprehensive solution for reloading.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to reloaders on a budget. High value for the money, considering the carbide die.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. Designed to withstand repeated use.
- Easy to use, even for novice reloaders. Straightforward design and clear instructions simplify the process.
Cons
- Steel dies may require more frequent cleaning than other materials. Normal wear and tear for a product of this price range.
- Limited customization options. This set is specifically designed for .455 Webley and offers little room for modification.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764?
Perfect for: Reloaders of .455 Webley cartridges, particularly those seeking an affordable and user-friendly option. It’s also suitable for individuals looking to save time and effort through the use of carbide dies.
Who should skip this product? Reloaders who do not need to reload .455 Webley, as the product is very specific. Additionally, those seeking high-end, customizable die sets might prefer more expensive options from other brands.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality reloading press is essential. Also, a reliable powder measure and scale are recommended for accurate and consistent reloading.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 offers a compelling value proposition for reloaders of the .455 Webley cartridge. Its carbide sizer die, complete set of components, and affordable price make it a standout choice in its category. While it may lack some of the advanced features and customization options of higher-end die sets, its simplicity, reliability, and performance make it an excellent option.
The price is more than justified. I personally recommend this product to anyone looking to reload .455 Webley cartridges. If you’re seeking an efficient, cost-effective, and easy-to-use solution, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90764 is an excellent choice. Pick it up, and start reloading with confidence!