First Impressions of Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag.
The world of reloading can seem daunting, especially when you’re stepping up from single-stage presses. The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. aims to simplify and speed up the process for these classic revolver cartridges. With its progressive design and five stations, it promises to be a significant time-saver, allowing reloaders to produce consistent ammunition efficiently.
My reloading journey started years ago with a single-stage press, primarily for crafting specialized hunting rounds. As my shooting volume increased, particularly with my vintage revolvers chambered in .32 S&W Long and .32 H&R Mag, the single-stage process became painfully slow. I needed a system to produce quality ammo faster, without sacrificing the precision I demand for consistent performance.
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. arrived well-packaged. Initial impressions were positive, with the solid-looking turret and overall sturdy feel of the press. It seemed more robust than I anticipated.
I considered the Dillon Precision RL550C and the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP, both reputable progressive presses. However, the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. won me over with its price point and dedicated design for the .32 caliber. The Lee system seemed tailored to my specific needs, offering a cost-effective entry into progressive reloading for these cartridges.
My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. has the potential to significantly improve my reloading efficiency if it lives up to its promises. It’s time to see if it can deliver on that potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. to the Test
First Use Experience
I set up the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. in my workshop, a space dedicated to all things reloading and gun maintenance. My initial testing focused on .32 S&W Long, a cartridge I use extensively for target practice with my vintage Smith & Wesson revolvers. The process began with carefully calibrating the dies, ensuring proper seating depth and crimp.
The first few rounds were… interesting. There was a noticeable learning curve as I got accustomed to the progressive system’s rhythm. A few primers got flipped, and a couple of cases didn’t quite seat correctly, but this was expected.
The indexing system took some getting used to. I experienced a few instances where the cases didn’t align perfectly, requiring minor adjustments. Overall, the process felt smoother with each round, and the output rate significantly increased compared to my single-stage press.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. has proven its worth. I’ve loaded thousands of rounds of both .32 S&W Long and .32 H&R Magnum.
The press is holding up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. I’ve made sure to keep the moving parts lubricated, as recommended by Lee, and that seems to be key to smooth operation. The priming system, initially a source of concern, has become more reliable with practice and consistent cleaning.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring a simple wipe-down after each reloading session and occasional lubrication of moving parts. Compared to my previous single-stage setup, the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. provides a significant increase in production speed without a significant increase in maintenance effort. This progressive press has allowed me to stockpile more ammunition and spend more time at the range.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag.
Specifications
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is specifically designed for reloading these two classic revolver cartridges. It features a five-station progressive design, allowing for simultaneous case resizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping. The detachable turret simplifies die changes, allowing for quick caliber conversions.
The press itself is constructed from durable steel and aluminum. It weighs approximately 20 pounds. The five stations accept standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies.
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. also features an automatic indexing system and a universal case feeder (sold separately). These features further enhance reloading speed and efficiency. These specifications are crucial because they enable the efficient production of consistent, high-quality ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. excels at its primary function: producing large quantities of reliable ammunition quickly. Once properly set up and adjusted, the press cycles smoothly. The resulting rounds are consistent in terms of case size, primer seating, powder charge, and bullet seating depth.
The priming system can be finicky. It requires careful attention to ensure reliable primer feeding. The case feeder, while increasing speed, can occasionally jam.
Overall, the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. meets my expectations for a progressive reloading press in this price range. It offers a substantial improvement in reloading speed compared to single-stage presses, despite some minor quirks.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is built with functionality in mind. The steel and aluminum construction provides a solid and stable platform. The press feels robust and capable of withstanding years of use.
The handle is comfortable and provides sufficient leverage for resizing cases. The five-station turret is easily accessible. This enables quick die changes, but there is a learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The key to longevity is regular cleaning and lubrication of moving parts.
Spare parts are readily available from Lee, making repairs relatively simple and inexpensive. The press is designed to be user-serviceable, with straightforward disassembly and reassembly. This allows for easy maintenance and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is compatible with a range of accessories from Lee and other manufacturers. These include bullet feeders, case collators, and various die sets.
The Lee Auto-Drum Powder Measure is a popular upgrade. This provides precise and consistent powder charges. The press also accepts standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies from other brands. This allows for a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag.
Pros
- Significantly increases reloading speed compared to single-stage presses, allowing for more efficient production of ammunition.
- Dedicated design for .32 S&W Long and .32 H&R Magnum ensures optimal performance and consistent results for these cartridges.
- Cost-effective entry into progressive reloading, making it an accessible option for reloaders on a budget.
- Durable construction ensures years of reliable service with proper care and maintenance.
- Accepts standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies, providing compatibility with a wide range of accessories and customization options.
Cons
- Priming system can be finicky and requires careful attention to ensure reliable primer feeding.
- Case feeder (optional) can occasionally jam, requiring manual intervention to clear.
Who Should Buy Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag.?
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is perfect for reloaders who shoot .32 caliber revolvers frequently and need to produce ammunition in larger quantities. It is ideal for target shooters, recreational plinkers, and competitive shooters who want to reduce their ammunition costs. This press offers a significant time-saving alternative to single-stage reloading.
If you only reload a few rounds occasionally, or if you prioritize absolute precision above all else, a single-stage press might be a better option. The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. requires a bit of a learning curve. It may not be the best choice for beginners who are completely new to reloading.
A must-have accessory is the Lee Auto-Drum Powder Measure for consistent powder charges. A sturdy reloading bench is also essential for stable and efficient operation.
Conclusion on Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag.
The Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. is a solid and efficient progressive reloading press. It’s specifically designed for these classic revolver cartridges. While it has a few quirks, its speed and affordability make it a worthwhile investment for high-volume shooters.
The price is justified, considering the time and effort saved compared to single-stage reloading. The value proposition is particularly strong for those who reload frequently. It offers a significant return on investment in terms of reduced ammunition costs and increased shooting time.
I would personally recommend the Lee Load-Master .32 S&W Long/.32 H&R Mag. to anyone looking to streamline their .32 caliber reloading process. It’s a capable and cost-effective solution for producing quality ammunition quickly and efficiently. Take the plunge, and experience the benefits of progressive reloading for yourself.