Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867 Review

Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867, specifically the Factory Crimp Carbide Pistol Die for .380 ACP, is a seemingly small piece of equipment that can make a huge difference in the quality and reliability of your reloaded ammunition. Manufactured by Lee Precision, this die is designed to apply a precise taper crimp to your .380 ACP rounds, ensuring proper headspacing and consistent performance, especially crucial for semi-automatic pistols. It promises to be a time-saver and a worry-reducer for any serious reloader.

I initially sought out this product due to experiencing inconsistent feeding and occasional failures to extract in my .380 ACP pistol with my reloads. I suspected that an inconsistent crimp was to blame, leading to improper headspacing and cycling issues. The Lee Factory Crimp Die seemed like a straightforward and affordable solution to address this specific problem.

Upon unboxing, the Lee Factory Crimp Die impressed me with its solid construction and straightforward design. The carbide sizer ring felt smooth and durable, suggesting longevity and consistent performance. It’s heavier than I initially anticipated, which lends to the impression of quality.

I had considered using the Redding Profile Crimp Die and the Dillon Precision .380 ACP Carbide Crimp Die. However, the Lee die’s significantly lower price point, coupled with Lee’s reputation for producing reliable reloading equipment, ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if this simple tool could truly solve my reloading inconsistencies.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Lee Factory Crimp Die took place at my local shooting range, where I systematically loaded and fired batches of .380 ACP rounds with varying crimp pressures. The range offered a controlled environment to observe the effects of the crimp on the ammunition’s performance. I was also able to use my chronograph to capture velocity differences.

The die performed exceptionally well, even under slightly dusty conditions that are common at the range. The adjustment screw was easy to manipulate, allowing me to fine-tune the crimp with precision. The ease of use was a welcome surprise, as I anticipated a steeper learning curve.

My immediate observation was a noticeable improvement in the consistency of the rounds feeding into the chamber. The first-time use eliminated any failures to feed or extract with the newly crimped rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Lee Factory Crimp Die has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my reloading bench. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the carbide sizer ring, despite processing hundreds of rounds. The die cleans easily with a simple wipe-down after each reloading session.

Compared to my previous reloading experiences without the Lee Factory Crimp Die, the difference is substantial. The die provides a consistent and reliable crimp that significantly improves the overall performance and reliability of my .380 ACP reloads. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable tool in my reloading process.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867

Specifications

• Caliber: Specifically designed for .380 ACP rounds, ensuring a precise fit and optimal performance. This specificity is crucial for achieving proper crimp and function.
• Die Type: Factory Crimp Die with a carbide sizer ring. The carbide ring ensures smooth resizing and crimping without the need for lubrication.
• Gun Type: Primarily intended for pistol ammunition reloading, specifically for semi-automatic pistols. The taper crimp it provides is essential for reliable cycling.
• Material: High-quality steel construction with a carbide sizer ring. This ensures durability and longevity, even with frequent use.
• Adjustability: Features an adjustable screw for precise control over the amount of crimp applied. The adjustable nature gives the reloader the ability to tailor the crimp for specific bullet and powder combinations.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867 excels in ensuring consistent headspacing and reliable feeding of .380 ACP rounds, particularly in semi-automatic pistols. Its primary strength lies in its ability to apply a uniform and accurate taper crimp.

The die effectively eliminates bullet setback during the feeding cycle, a common issue with reloads. The only area for potential improvement could be clearer markings on the adjustment screw for easier repeatability. The die consistently meets and often exceeds expectations, delivering enhanced reliability and accuracy.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee Factory Crimp Die boasts a simple yet effective design. The steel construction provides a solid and durable feel, while the adjustment screw is easily accessible and straightforward to use.

The die’s ergonomic design minimizes user fatigue during extended reloading sessions. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible to both novice and experienced reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-quality materials used in the Lee Factory Crimp Die suggest a long lifespan. The carbide sizer ring is particularly resistant to wear.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove residue. The die is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Factory Crimp Die itself doesn’t require additional accessories for its primary function. It works seamlessly with standard reloading presses and shell holders.

While there are no specific customization options for the die itself, it is compatible with a wide range of .380 ACP bullets and powder combinations. The ability to fine-tune the crimp pressure allows for some degree of customization in achieving optimal ammunition performance.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90867