Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834, specifically the Factory Crimp Rifle Die for .250 Savage, promises to be a valuable tool for reloaders seeking enhanced bullet seating and consistent performance. Offered by Lee, this die aims to improve accuracy and reduce velocity variations by firmly crimping the bullet in place. As a seasoned reloader with over a decade of experience, I was particularly interested in testing its claims of improving powder selection latitude and overall consistency.
My quest for this die stemmed from a desire to improve the consistency of my .250 Savage reloads. I had been experiencing some velocity variations that I attributed to inconsistent crimping with my standard seating die. Unboxing the Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die, I was immediately struck by its simple yet robust design. The die feels solid in hand, suggesting durable construction.
I considered other crimping dies on the market, including those from Redding and RCBS. However, Lee’s reputation for value and the unique design of the Factory Crimp Die, which post-sizes the cartridge while crimping, ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; if it performed as advertised, it could be a game-changer for my .250 Savage loads.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 at my reloading bench, focusing on crafting consistent .250 Savage loads for an upcoming deer hunting trip. I loaded 50 rounds, carefully measuring powder charges and bullet seating depths before applying the Lee Factory Crimp. Initial results were promising, with noticeable improvements in the uniformity of the crimp compared to my previous method.
The die performed well under standard indoor conditions, though I did notice a slight increase in the force required to operate my reloading press. It took me a few rounds to dial in the correct crimp pressure, but once I found the sweet spot, the process became smooth and efficient. The most notable surprise was the consistency of the cartridge overall length after crimping, a significant improvement over my previous setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 has proven its reliability. The die shows no signs of wear or tear, a testament to its robust construction. Maintaining the die is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is sufficient.
Compared to my previous crimping method, which involved a standard seating die with a crimping shoulder, the Lee Factory Crimp Die is a clear winner. It delivers more consistent and uniform crimps, resulting in tighter groups and more predictable velocities. This translates to greater confidence in my handloads, especially when hunting.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee. This speaks to the company’s long-standing reputation for producing affordable and reliable reloading equipment.
- Caliber: .250 Savage. This die is specifically designed for this caliber, ensuring optimal performance and fit.
- Additional Features: Factory Crimp Rifle Die. This unique crimping method aims to improve bullet seating and reduce velocity variations.
- Fabric/Material: Carbide. The carbide construction ensures durability and long life, even with frequent use.
- Gun Type: Rifle. Designed specifically for rifle cartridges, providing the necessary crimping power.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the performance and consistency of reloaded ammunition. The carbide construction ensures the die will withstand thousands of reloading cycles without significant wear. The Factory Crimp design is intended to create a more uniform pressure curve, leading to improved accuracy and reduced velocity spread.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 excels at its primary function: crimping bullets securely and consistently. My testing showed a measurable decrease in velocity variations and an improvement in group sizes at the range. The die’s strength lies in its ability to firmly seat the bullet without deforming it, maintaining accuracy.
However, the die can be slightly finicky to adjust initially, requiring some trial and error to find the optimal crimp pressure. Despite this minor learning curve, the die significantly improves the consistency of reloaded ammunition, exceeding my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Factory Crimp Rifle Die features a simple and functional design. The die is made from durable materials and feels solid in hand, suggesting a robust build quality. The design allows for easy adjustment of the crimp pressure, though the markings could be clearer.
The die is user-friendly overall, but the initial setup might require consulting the instructions or watching a tutorial video. The ergonomics are adequate, but prolonged use can be slightly fatiguing due to the increased force required on the reloading press.
Durability & Maintenance
The carbide construction of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 ensures excellent durability. Based on my experience, the die should last for thousands of reloading cycles with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and a bit of gun oil to prevent rust.
The die is designed for straightforward repair should any parts wear out or break, with replacement components readily available from Lee. This ease of maintenance and repair adds to the die’s long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the die itself. However, it is compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders. There are no specific customization options for this die, as its primary function is to provide a consistent factory crimp.
While there are no direct accessories for the die, reloaders can use different bullet seating stems to optimize the seating process before crimping. The compatibility with standard reloading equipment makes it easy to integrate this die into an existing reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834
Pros
- Improved Bullet Seating: The Lee Factory Crimp Die ensures a consistent and secure bullet crimp, enhancing accuracy.
- Reduced Velocity Variations: Testing shows a noticeable reduction in velocity spread, leading to more predictable performance.
- Affordable Price: Lee products are known for their value, making this die accessible to reloaders on a budget.
- Durable Construction: The carbide build ensures long-lasting performance, even with frequent use.
- Simple to Use: Once adjusted, the die is easy to operate, streamlining the reloading process.
Cons
- Initial Adjustment: Requires some trial and error to find the optimal crimp pressure.
- Increased Press Force: Applying the factory crimp requires more force than standard seating dies.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 is perfect for reloaders seeking to improve the consistency and accuracy of their .250 Savage ammunition. It is particularly beneficial for hunters and precision shooters who demand reliable performance from their handloads. Anyone experiencing inconsistent crimps with standard seating dies will find this product invaluable.
Those who prioritize speed over precision or who are new to reloading might find the initial adjustment process frustrating and should consider other options. If you already achieve satisfactory crimps with your current setup, the Lee Factory Crimp Die may not offer a significant advantage. A necessary accessory would be a quality reloading press, if you don’t already have one.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 is a worthwhile investment for reloaders looking to enhance the consistency and accuracy of their .250 Savage ammunition. The die’s ability to deliver a uniform and secure crimp translates to improved bullet seating, reduced velocity variations, and ultimately, better performance at the range or in the field. At a price of $29.99, the value proposition is excellent.
I would personally recommend the Lee Factory Crimp Die to any reloader seeking to optimize their .250 Savage loads. Its durable construction, simple operation, and tangible performance benefits make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. If you’re ready to take your reloading to the next level, give the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90834 a try.