Let’s Dive into Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ promises to be an all-in-one solution for reloaders looking to lubricate and size their cast bullets. Designed by Lee, it also handles the seating and crimping of gas checks. For reloaders focusing on specific calibers like .278, this kit offers a potentially streamlined approach, but does it truly deliver on its promise of simplicity and effectiveness?
I embarked on this review because my own attempts at casting and reloading .270 caliber bullets have been inconsistent. Finding a reliable and cost-effective way to size and lubricate my cast bullets to achieve better accuracy has been a persistent challenge. This kit seemed like a practical solution to address that problem.
Upon unboxing, the kit appeared straightforward, consisting of the die body, sizing punch, and top punch. The steel and plastic construction felt reasonably solid, though not exceptionally premium. My initial impression was that it was a no-frills, functional tool, designed for practicality over aesthetics.
I considered other methods of bullet sizing, like using a dedicated lubrisizer from Lyman or RCBS. However, those options represented a significantly larger investment and required separate lubricant application. The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ offered a more economical and potentially simpler path to achieve the same results, making it an attractive alternative.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was hopeful that the kit would deliver consistent sizing and lubrication, but also mindful that its simplicity might come with compromises in precision or ease of use. I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world reloading scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ in my reloading workshop, focusing on preparing cast bullets for my .270 Winchester rifle. My initial run involved sizing and lubricating approximately 100 cast bullets using Lee’s Alox bullet lube. The process was relatively straightforward, although I did find the initial sizing required more force than expected.
Working in controlled conditions, I did notice a slight variance in the amount of lubricant applied to each bullet. This variability made me concerned about the consistency of subsequent loads. The sizing process itself seemed to work well, reducing the bullets to a uniform .278″ diameter, as advertised.
After my first use, I was neither completely thrilled nor entirely disappointed. The kit did what it claimed – sized and lubricated the bullets. The inconsistencies in lube application were a minor concern that I hoped to address with some adjustments to my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″, I’ve cast and reloaded several hundred bullets. I have noticed that the die body started to show some minor wear around the entry point. However, this hasn’t noticeably impacted its functionality.
Maintaining the kit is easy; I simply wipe down the die and sizing punch with a clean cloth after each use. I have also applied a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust. Compared to my previous method of hand-lubricating bullets, this kit is faster but not necessarily more consistent in lubrication.
Overall, the Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ has proven reasonably reliable. While it hasn’t completely eliminated inconsistencies in lube application, it does offer a quicker and more uniform sizing solution compared to manual methods. The kit performs adequately but doesn’t exceed expectations in terms of ease of use or precision.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″
Specifications
- The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ is designed specifically for sizing cast bullets to a diameter of .278 inches. This is critical for reloaders aiming to produce accurate and consistent ammunition for firearms chambered in calibers like .270 Winchester that may benefit from this specific bullet diameter.
- The kit is constructed from steel and plastic, providing a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. The steel components ensure the sizing die can withstand repeated use, while the plastic elements contribute to overall weight reduction and ease of handling.
- The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ features standard 7/8×14 threads per inch. This allows it to be used with virtually any standard reloading press, providing broad compatibility for reloaders with existing equipment.
- The kit is designed to both lubricate and size cast bullets in a single operation. This simplifies the reloading process by reducing the number of steps required, which can save time and effort.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ functions as intended, reducing cast bullets to the specified .278″ diameter. The kit ensures consistent sizing, which is essential for achieving uniform bullet seating and consistent velocities.
One of the kit’s strengths is its simplicity. It integrates directly into standard reloading presses, making it easy to incorporate into an existing reloading workflow. A noticeable weakness is the potential for inconsistent lubricant application, especially with softer bullet lubes.
The kit meets basic expectations for bullet sizing. It is functional and cost-effective, but it doesn’t offer the same level of precision or ease of use as more advanced lubrisizing equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate, with the steel die body feeling robust enough to withstand repeated use. The plastic components, while functional, do give the kit a slightly less premium feel.
The kit is generally user-friendly, but there is a slight learning curve involved in optimizing the lubrication process. Users might need to experiment with different lube types and application techniques to achieve the desired results.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ is expected to last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning and light lubrication of the steel components will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Maintenance is simple. Disassembling and cleaning the kit after each use is easy, ensuring any accumulated bullet lube or lead residue is removed, which helps maintain its performance and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ does not come with additional accessories beyond the core die body, sizing punch, and top punch. There are no customization options available for this kit, as it is designed for a specific bullet diameter and purpose.
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ is primarily designed to work with Lee’s own bullet lubes, such as Alox. Its compatibility with lubes from other brands can vary depending on the consistency and application properties of the lube.
Pros and Cons of Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″
Pros
- Cost-effective solution for sizing and lubricating cast bullets.
- Compatible with standard 7/8×14 threaded reloading presses.
- Simple design that’s easy to integrate into existing reloading setups.
- Provides uniform bullet sizing for improved consistency.
- Reduces the number of steps required compared to manual methods.
Cons
- Potential for inconsistent lubricant application.
- Plastic components might not be as durable as all-steel alternatives.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″?
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ is perfect for reloaders on a budget who are looking for a straightforward and economical way to size and lubricate cast bullets for .270 caliber rifles. It is well-suited for hobbyists who reload in smaller quantities and prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness over ultimate precision.
Those seeking the highest levels of precision and consistency in lubrication should skip this product. They should invest in a more advanced lubrisizer with adjustable lubricant metering. Also, reloaders who frequently work with a wide range of calibers may find a more versatile lubrisizing system more beneficial.
A must-have accessory to complement this kit is a high-quality bullet lube. Lee’s Alox is a popular choice, but experimenting with other lubes can help optimize performance and reduce leading in the barrel.
Conclusion on Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″
The Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ is a decent, no-frills option for reloaders seeking a budget-friendly solution for sizing and lubricating cast bullets. While it might not offer the precision or ease of use of higher-end lubrisizers, it provides a functional and cost-effective way to prepare cast bullets for reloading.
The price is justified, considering the kit’s functionality and simplicity. It offers a significant advantage over manual lubrication methods.
I would recommend the Lee Lube & Sizing Kit .278″ to reloaders who are just starting out with casting and reloading. Or, I’d recommend it to those who prioritize affordability and ease of use over absolute precision. If you’re looking for a simple and economical way to size and lubricate your .278″ cast bullets, give this kit a try!