Let’s Dive into Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set is a comprehensive collection designed to work with Lee‘s hand priming tools. This set aims to provide reloaders with shell holders for a vast array of cartridges, eliminating the need to purchase them individually. I remember the frustration of needing a specific shell holder only to find it wasn’t included with my press kit. I needed a solution for my growing cartridge collection.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, initially starting with a basic single-stage press before transitioning to progressive setups. Priming off the press has always been a preference of mine. The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set promised a streamlined and versatile solution, addressing a specific need in my reloading process. Upon unboxing, the transparent red case immediately caught my eye, a simple but effective design for organization.
The set felt lightweight yet sturdy, a testament to Lee‘s focus on functional design. Compared to other shell holder sets, the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set stood out because of its promise of covering a broad spectrum of calibers and its relatively low cost. Many other sets often focus on specific cartridge families, which wasn’t what I was looking for. I was excited to finally have a single kit to cover almost all my priming needs.
Initial excitement was high, bordering on relief. No more hunting through drawers for the right shell holder or realizing I needed to order another one mid-session. The promise of comprehensive coverage and the Lee reputation gave me confidence. This set seemed like the perfect solution to a long-standing organizational problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set at my reloading bench, preparing for an upcoming precision rifle match. I was loading .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor, both popular cartridges, and expected the corresponding shell holders to be present. The workshop can get dusty, so having a closed case was a welcome change. The set worked seamlessly with my Lee hand priming tool, making the priming process smooth and consistent.
I tested the set in a controlled environment initially. Conditions were dry, and the temperature was moderate, ideal for a focused reloading session. I found the shell holders easy to insert and remove from the hand priming tool. There were no issues with seating primers too deeply or crushing them. My first use was a success; priming went quickly and smoothly.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The shell holders fit snugly, and there was no excessive play, giving me confidence in the consistent seating depth of the primers. There were no initial surprises, just a smooth and efficient priming process. It was a pleasant experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set has proven to be a reliable asset on my reloading bench. It has withstood frequent use, priming hundreds of rounds across different calibers. There have been no signs of wear or tear on the shell holders themselves. The plastic storage case, however, does show a few scratches.
The shell holders remain in excellent condition despite constant handling and use. The transparent red case has kept the shell holders organized. While there are some surface scratches, the plastic case itself remains functional. Maintaining the set is straightforward. I simply wipe down the shell holders with a clean cloth occasionally to remove any powder residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with individual shell holders scattered throughout my reloading area, the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set provides a significant improvement in organization and efficiency. It has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of convenience and reliability. I no longer waste time searching for the correct shell holder. I have greater confidence in the consistency of my hand-primed rounds.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set
Specifications
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set includes shell holders #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 19. This selection covers over 115 different cartridge varieties, making it a comprehensive choice for reloaders. The shell holders are constructed from durable steel, ensuring long-lasting performance. The set comes in a transparent red plastic case, facilitating easy identification and organization.
- Shell holders cover over 115 cartridge varieties. This reduces the need to buy individual shell holders.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity. Reloading tools take a beating; these are built to last.
- Transparent red plastic case aids organization. Finding the right shell holder is now effortless.
These specifications matter because they directly affect the versatility and convenience of the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set. The comprehensive coverage reduces the need for individual purchases, saving time and money. The durable construction ensures that the shell holders will withstand repeated use, providing long-term value. The organized case simplifies the reloading process, making it more efficient and enjoyable.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set performs its job exceptionally well by providing a secure and consistent platform for priming cartridges. The shell holders fit snugly into Lee hand priming tools. They maintain proper alignment throughout the priming process. The set’s comprehensive coverage ensures that reloaders can handle a wide variety of cartridges without needing additional shell holders.
The strength of the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set lies in its breadth of coverage and ease of use. The weaknesses are the absence of certain less common shell holder sizes. The set meets expectations by providing a reliable and convenient solution for hand priming. It exceeds expectations by minimizing the need to buy individual shell holders.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set features a practical and functional design. The steel shell holders are precisely machined for a snug fit. The transparent red plastic case is durable enough to protect the shell holders while allowing for easy identification.
The shell holders are ergonomically designed for easy handling, and the case keeps everything organized. There’s a slight learning curve to identifying which shell holder fits which cartridge. The set proves very user-friendly once you learn the shell fit chart.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set is built to last, with shell holders made from durable steel. The transparent red plastic case offers adequate protection. With proper care, the set should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple: just wipe down the shell holders occasionally to remove powder residue. Repair is usually unnecessary because of the robust construction. The set has excellent durability overall.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set includes a transparent red plastic case and a shell fit chart. There are no other accessories included or customization options available. The set is designed specifically for use with Lee hand priming tools.
The shell holders are compatible with Lee‘s Auto Prime, Auto Prime XR, and Ergo Prime tools. They are not directly compatible with priming tools from other brands without potential modifications. The set’s functionality is somewhat limited by its dependence on Lee hand priming tools.
Pros and Cons of Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set
Pros
- Covers a wide range of cartridge sizes, eliminating the need to buy individual shell holders.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- The transparent red plastic case provides easy identification and organization.
- Affordable price point compared to purchasing individual shell holders.
- Easy to use with Lee hand priming tools.
Cons
- Does not include every possible shell holder size.
- The plastic case, while functional, could be more durable.
Who Should Buy Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set?
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set is perfect for reloaders who use Lee hand priming tools and load a variety of cartridges. It’s ideal for those who want to simplify and organize their reloading process. This set is also beneficial for reloaders looking for an affordable and comprehensive solution to shell holder management.
This set may not be suitable for reloaders who use priming tools from other brands or who load only a very limited selection of cartridges. Anyone looking for high-end, precision-machined shell holders may also wish to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory is the Lee hand priming tool itself if you don’t already own one.
Conclusion on Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set
The Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set is a valuable addition to any reloader’s bench who uses a Lee hand priming tool. Its comprehensive coverage, durable construction, and organized storage make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced reloaders. The price is certainly justified.
I would personally recommend the Lee Hand Priming Tool Shell Holder Set to anyone looking to simplify their hand priming process and eliminate the hassle of individual shell holder purchases. For the price, you get a ton of versatility. It’s a great value for the money. Get yours today and make your reloading bench complete!