Let’s Dive into Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730
The Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 offers reloaders a specialized set of tools for a somewhat obscure, yet historically significant cartridge. This die set, manufactured by Lee, allows you to produce your own 6.5x50mm Arisaka ammunition, breathing new life into classic Japanese rifles. The inclusion of a shellholder is a nice touch, getting you one step closer to the reloading bench.
I’ve always been fascinated by historical firearms and the cartridges they fire. Acquiring an Arisaka rifle a few years back ignited a desire to reload for it, a process often hindered by the scarcity and cost of commercially available ammunition. These Lee dies offered a solution to create accurate, custom loads for my Arisaka without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sturdy construction of the dies. They have a solid feel, typical of Lee products, inspiring confidence in their durability and ability to withstand repeated use. The shellholder fit my 6.5 Japanese cases perfectly, a crucial detail often overlooked by other manufacturers.
Comparing these to a set of RCBS dies I use for .30-06, the Lee set felt a bit more basic in its finish, but functionally equivalent. I chose the Lee dies specifically for their affordability and the availability of load data, essential for a caliber I’m less familiar with. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, tempered by the knowledge that limited production dies sometimes require a bit more finesse.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 was at my reloading bench in my garage. It was a relatively mild day, temperature-wise, and the humidity was low. I started with a batch of carefully prepped cases and followed Lee‘s recommended load data closely.
The dies performed admirably, resizing the cases smoothly and seating the bullets consistently. I did notice a slight increase in effort required for resizing compared to more common calibers, likely due to the less common dimensions of the 6.5 Japanese round. Overall, the initial experience was positive, and I began to develop a feel for the die set.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of reloading with the Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730, they’ve proven to be reliable and consistent. There are no signs of wear or tear on the dies themselves, and the shellholder continues to function perfectly. Cleaning has been simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each reloading session.
Compared to my previous experiences with other die sets, the Lee dies perform well, especially considering their price point. They are a great way to create accurate and reliable ammunition for my Arisaka rifle at a fraction of the cost of commercially loaded rounds. They outperform my expectations, providing a consistent and affordable reloading solution for an uncommon caliber.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee. Lee is known for producing affordable and reliable reloading equipment.
- Caliber: 6.5x50mm Arisaka. This is a classic Japanese military cartridge used in Arisaka rifles.
- Additional Features: Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies w/Shell Holder. The “LP” signifies Limited Production, meaning it may not include all the features of a standard Pacesetter die set, specifically lacking a Factory Crimp Die.
- Gun Type: Rifle. These dies are specifically designed for reloading rifle ammunition.
These specifications matter because they determine the compatibility and performance of the dies with your firearm and reloading setup. The correct caliber ensures that the dies will accurately resize and seat bullets for your 6.5x50mm Arisaka rifle. The inclusion of a shellholder further simplifies the reloading process, as it is essential for holding the case during resizing and priming.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 perform their intended function of resizing, decapping, and bullet seating effectively. Accuracy is largely dependent on the consistency of your reloading technique and components, but the dies contribute to a consistent final product. The dies do meet my expectations.
The primary strength of this die set is its affordability and the fact that it allows you to reload a relatively obscure cartridge. A potential weakness is the lack of a factory crimp die, which some reloaders prefer for improved bullet retention and consistent ignition. This might require an additional purchase if crimping is desired.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies themselves are made from hardened steel, providing adequate durability for repeated use. The shellholder is also well-made and fits the 6.5 Japanese case perfectly. The dies are not overly heavy, making them easy to handle and maneuver during the reloading process.
The dies are user-friendly, especially for those familiar with reloading. There may be a slight learning curve for beginners, but Lee provides clear instructions. Adjustments are straightforward, and the dies work well with standard reloading presses.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. With basic maintenance, these dies will provide reliable performance for a long time.
Maintenance is simple, involving cleaning with a solvent and applying a light coat of oil after each use. No specialized tools or skills are required. The dies are designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making maintenance hassle-free.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 comes with the necessary shellholder. Since it is a limited production set, it does not include a factory crimp die.
The dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses. If you desire a factory crimp, a separate Lee Factory Crimp Die for 6.5 Japanese can be purchased. This is the only immediately obvious customization option.
Pros and Cons of Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730
Pros
- Affordable price point. This makes reloading the 6.5 Japanese more accessible.
- Includes necessary shellholder. Reduces the need for additional purchases.
- Enables reloading of a relatively rare cartridge. Keeps classic Arisaka rifles shooting.
- Durable steel construction. Ensures long-lasting performance.
- Straightforward to use. Suitable for both beginners and experienced reloaders.
Cons
- Lacks a factory crimp die. Requires a separate purchase for crimping.
- Finish is more basic compared to premium die sets. This is purely cosmetic and does not affect functionality.
Who Should Buy Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730?
Perfect for: Arisaka rifle owners, reloaders interested in historical cartridges, budget-conscious shooters. These dies benefit those who want to extend the life of their classic rifles and create custom ammunition without spending a fortune.
Who should skip this product? Those who require a factory crimp die as part of the set or those who prefer premium die sets with more features and a polished finish. If crimping is essential, a separate die is required.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A Lee Factory Crimp Die for 6.5 Japanese is highly recommended for those who prefer a crimped bullet. A quality reloading press and other necessary reloading components (powder, primers, bullets) are also essential.
Conclusion on Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730
The Lee Limited Production 6.5 Japanese Dies W/Shellholder 90730 offers an excellent value proposition for reloaders seeking to produce ammunition for the 6.5x50mm Arisaka cartridge. It provides a cost-effective solution for keeping these historical rifles in action. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to reload this relatively uncommon caliber. While it lacks a factory crimp die, the overall performance, durability, and affordability make it a worthwhile investment. If you own an Arisaka rifle and want to shoot it more without breaking the bank, this die set is a great choice. Give these dies a try and experience the satisfaction of reloading your own 6.5 Japanese ammunition.