Let’s Dive into Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 is a reloading die set designed for the 7×30 Waters cartridge, a popular choice for lever-action rifles. Manufactured by Lee Precision, this limited-production die set provides reloaders with the essential tools to create their own ammunition. The set includes a sizing die, a bullet seating die, and a shellholder, offering a complete solution for reloading this classic cartridge.
I have been reloading for over a decade, mainly focusing on common calibers. However, I recently acquired a beautiful Marlin 336 chambered in 7×30 Waters. Finding factory ammunition proved challenging and expensive.
Upon receiving the Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The steel construction felt solid and well-machined. The included shellholder was a perfect fit for the 7×30 Waters case head.
Compared to my RCBS die sets for .308 and .223, the Lee set lacks the fancy finishing and extra bells and whistles. But I was more interested in its functionality and value. Initial impressions were positive. This looked like a practical and affordable solution to keep my 7×30 Waters rifle fed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my reloading room. I started by resizing some once-fired brass. The sizing die worked smoothly, requiring minimal effort to resize the cases.
I then primed the cases and charged them with powder. Seating bullets was straightforward, and I was able to achieve consistent seating depths. The rounds were loaded and ready to go to the range.
I used the reloaded ammunition in my Marlin 336 lever-action rifle. The rounds chambered smoothly and accurately. After shooting off the bench, the results were immediately gratifying. The dies created consistent ammunition without any issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of reloading and shooting, the Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the dies themselves. I have reloaded hundreds of rounds with this die set, and it still produces consistent and reliable ammunition.
Cleaning the dies is easy. A simple wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each reloading session keeps them in excellent condition. This set has not only met, but exceeded my expectations, especially considering its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748
Specifications
- The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 is specifically chambered for the 7×30 Waters cartridge. This ensures accurate and consistent reloading.
- The set includes a sizing die, which resizes the spent brass to factory specifications. This ensures reliable chambering in your rifle.
- Also included is a bullet seating die, used to seat bullets to the correct depth. Bullet seating depth is crucial for accuracy and proper cartridge performance.
- The set comes with a shellholder designed to fit the 7×30 Waters case head. The shellholder securely holds the case during the reloading process.
- Lee states the die set is a “Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies w/Shell Holder.” This indicates a focus on value and essential functionality for reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 performs its job admirably. The die set produces accurate and consistent ammunition for my 7×30 Waters rifle.
The sizing die consistently resizes brass, ensuring reliable chambering. Bullet seating is easy and consistent, which is crucial for accuracy. Overall, the performance of this die set has been excellent.
However, this die set does not include a factory crimp die. Crimp dies are generally considered optimal for ammunition used in lever-action rifles. This is a small sacrifice.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee die set features a simple and functional design. The steel construction feels durable. The dies are easy to handle and operate.
The dies are straightforward to set up and use. There is no significant learning curve for reloaders familiar with standard die sets.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 appears to be built to last. The steel construction is durable. Proper maintenance, such as cleaning and oiling, will ensure a long lifespan.
The dies are easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep them in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 comes with the essential dies and a shellholder. As mentioned, it does not include a factory crimp die.
Reloaders can purchase a Lee factory crimp die separately, or use a universal crimp die from another manufacturer. These dies use a standard 7/8″-14 thread, making them compatible with most reloading presses.
Pros and Cons of Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to reloaders of all budgets.
- Includes all essential dies for reloading the 7×30 Waters cartridge (sizing, bullet seating).
- Simple and functional design makes it easy to use.
- Durable steel construction ensures a long lifespan.
- Produces accurate and consistent ammunition.
Cons
- Does not include a factory crimp die, which is desirable for lever-action rifles.
- Limited production may make it difficult to find in the future.
Who Should Buy Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748?
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 is perfect for reloaders who own a rifle chambered in 7×30 Waters. It is especially suitable for those looking for an affordable and reliable die set to create their own ammunition. This die set is also good for reloaders who are on a budget.
Those who prioritize having a factory crimp die included in the set may want to consider other options, or purchase a crimp die separately. Furthermore, anyone not interested in reloading should avoid this product.
A factory crimp die is a must-have accessory to use with this set.
Conclusion on Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748
The Lee Limited Production 7X30 Waters Dies W/Shellholder 90748 is a solid and affordable die set that provides reloaders with the essentials needed to load for the 7×30 Waters cartridge.
The price is absolutely justified, especially considering the difficulty and cost of finding factory ammunition. I have to give it my recommendation.
If you own a 7×30 Waters rifle and want to create your own custom ammunition, don’t hesitate. Grab this Lee die set and start reloading today!