Let’s Dive into Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870, specifically the RGB Rifle Die Set for .222 Remington, represents Lee’s commitment to providing affordable reloading solutions. For seasoned reloaders and aspiring gunsmiths alike, the ability to craft consistent and accurate ammunition is paramount. This die set promises precision and value, a combination often sought but rarely found in the reloading world.
My journey into reloading began out of necessity. Factory ammunition for my vintage .222 Remington rifle was becoming scarce and expensive, making consistent practice difficult. After comparing several die sets, including those from more expensive brands, I opted for the Lee set due to its reputation for tight tolerances and attractive price point.
Upon unboxing the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870, I immediately noted the simplicity of the set. The dies themselves felt solid and well-machined, giving me confidence in their ability to perform. However, it’s important to remember that this is the RGB version, meaning it comes without a shellholder, powder dipper, or load data.
Compared to RCBS or Redding die sets, which I’ve used in the past, the Lee set felt more utilitarian. However, the price difference was significant, and Lee claims their tolerance is 50% less than some of the more expensive brands. My initial excitement was tempered by the understanding that I would need to source additional components to get started.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity and affordability of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 were appealing, but the lack of included accessories meant extra steps were required before I could begin reloading.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 was at my home reloading bench. I carefully followed the instructions provided online (since load data is not included) and used a separate shellholder that I already owned. The dies were easy to set up in my single-stage reloading press, and the process felt smooth and consistent.
I tested the reloaded ammunition at my local shooting range in relatively dry conditions. The reloads consistently grouped within 1 MOA in my .222 Remington rifle, which was comparable to factory ammunition. I was particularly impressed with the consistency of the bullet seating depth.
Using the Lee dies was straightforward, although I did need to consult online resources for proper die setup and load data. No major issues arose during the first reloading session. The sizing die worked smoothly, and the bullet seating die provided precise control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 has held up remarkably well. The dies show no signs of wear and tear, despite processing hundreds of rounds. Minimal maintenance is required; a quick wipe-down after each reloading session is sufficient.
The durability of the Lee dies has been impressive. They have maintained their tight tolerances, ensuring consistent ammunition production. Compared to some of my older reloading equipment, the Lee dies are proving to be reliable and consistent.
Cleaning the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is very simple. A quick wipe with a clean cloth or a bit of gun cleaner will keep them in top condition. My overall experience with these dies has been very positive, especially considering their affordable price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870
Specifications
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is a two-die set designed for reloading .222 Remington cartridges. It includes a sizing die and a bullet seating die. These dies are made from high-quality steel and are designed to provide consistent and accurate results.
The set is specifically for .222 Remington, a popular varmint and target shooting cartridge. The absence of a shellholder, powder dipper, and load data keeps the initial cost down but requires the user to purchase these items separately. Lee’s commitment to tight tolerances, reportedly 50% less than some competitors, is a key selling point.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 performs its intended function admirably, producing consistent and accurate reloads for the .222 Remington cartridge. The sizing die resizes the spent brass effectively, ensuring proper chambering in the rifle. The bullet seating die allows for precise bullet seating depth, which is crucial for accuracy.
The set’s strength lies in its simplicity and consistency. The lack of included accessories, however, can be seen as a weakness for novice reloaders. Despite this, the performance of the dies themselves exceeds expectations, given their price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies are made from durable steel, which ensures a long lifespan. While not aesthetically fancy, the Lee dies are functional and easy to use. The dies’ compact size makes them easy to store and handle.
The design is straightforward, minimizing any learning curve. The dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses. The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is designed with the user’s convenience in mind.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is built to last, using quality materials. With proper care, these dies should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
The steel construction ensures that the dies can withstand the pressures of reloading without wearing down quickly. The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 offers excellent durability and requires minimal upkeep. This set is a great investment for any reloader.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 RGB Rifle Die Set does not include any accessories. Users will need to purchase a shellholder, powder dipper, and load data separately. It’s compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded reloading presses.
While the set itself offers no customization, users can fine-tune their reloading process by using different bullet types, powder charges, and seating depths. The Lee dies will work with a wide variety of .222 Remington components. The lack of included accessories allows for maximum flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Significantly cheaper than many other die sets on the market.
- Tight Tolerances: Lee’s reputation for precision ensures consistent ammunition production.
- Durable Construction: Made from quality steel for long-lasting performance.
- Simple to Use: Easy to set up and use, even for novice reloaders.
- Consistent Results: Produces accurate and reliable reloads.
Cons
- No Included Accessories: Shellholder, powder dipper, and load data must be purchased separately.
- Basic Finish: The dies are functional but lack the polished finish of more expensive sets.
Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870?
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is perfect for budget-conscious reloaders who are looking for a reliable set of dies for their .222 Remington rifle. This die set is also suitable for experienced reloaders who don’t mind sourcing their own accessories and load data. It’s an excellent choice for varmint hunters and target shooters who want to create custom ammunition.
This product may not be the best choice for complete beginners who are unfamiliar with reloading. Individuals who prefer an all-inclusive kit with all necessary accessories should look elsewhere.
A shellholder and a reliable reloading manual with load data are must-have accessories. A quality powder measure will also greatly enhance the reloading experience.
Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870
The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 is a solid and affordable option for reloaders seeking precision for their .222 Remington cartridges. While it requires purchasing additional accessories, the savings compared to premium brands are significant. The dies perform exceptionally well, producing consistent and accurate reloads.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering the quality and performance. For reloaders on a budget, this set offers exceptional value.
I would personally recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90870 to anyone looking to reload .222 Remington without breaking the bank. It’s a reliable, accurate, and durable set of dies that will provide years of service. Step up your reloading game with Lee, and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own custom ammunition.