Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set Review

First Impressions of Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set promises a comprehensive and affordable solution for rifle reloaders. As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of firearms and reloading, I was keen to see how this set stacks up against more expensive alternatives. The set includes a Full Length Sizing Die, Bullet Seating Die, Universal Shell Holder, Powder Dipper, and Instructions/Load Data, offering a seemingly complete package to get started reloading rifle cartridges.

I’ve been using a progressive press for pistol rounds for years, but I was looking to develop more accurate loads for my hunting rifle. I specifically wanted more control over neck tension and bullet seating depth. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set seemed like a cost-effective way to experiment with single-stage reloading for precision rifle cartridges.

Unboxing the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set, my initial impression was one of practicality. The dies appeared well-machined, although with a more utilitarian finish than some premium brands. The included accessories, while basic, seemed adequate for the task at hand. It certainly wouldn’t win any awards for aesthetics, but I wasn’t expecting luxury at this price point.

Compared to a Redding or Forster die set, the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set lacks some of the refinements like micrometer adjustments and smoother internal polishing. However, the price difference is substantial, making the Lee set an attractive option for budget-conscious reloaders or those just starting out. I ultimately chose the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set because of its affordability and the positive reputation of Lee products for delivering functional performance at a reasonable cost.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set might not be the prettiest or most feature-rich option on the market, it seemed like a solid and functional set that could potentially deliver accurate and consistent reloads. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world testing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set at my local shooting range, using it to reload .308 Winchester cartridges for my bolt-action hunting rifle. The conditions were fairly mild, with a slight breeze and temperatures in the mid-60s. I was specifically focused on evaluating the ease of setup, the consistency of the sizing and seating dies, and the overall smoothness of the reloading process.

The setup process was straightforward, thanks to the included instructions and load data. The dies threaded smoothly into my single-stage reloading press, and the universal shell holder fit my .308 Winchester cases perfectly. The full-length sizing die required a bit of effort to resize the cases, but it produced consistent results.

The bullet seating die also performed well, allowing me to seat bullets to the desired depth with reasonable precision. The only minor issue I encountered was a slight variation in seating depth from case to case, likely due to variations in case neck thickness. Overall, the initial experience was positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set has proven to be a reliable and functional reloading tool. The dies have held up well to repeated use, with no signs of excessive wear or damage. The resizing die still requires a fair amount of force, but it continues to produce consistent results.

The bullet seating die remains accurate and easy to use. I’ve noticed that case lubrication is crucial for smooth and consistent resizing, and I’ve been using a high-quality case lube to minimize friction. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is easy to clean and maintain. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep the dies in good working order.

Compared to my previous experience with a more expensive die set, the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set doesn’t offer quite the same level of precision or smoothness. However, the difference in performance is relatively small, especially considering the significant price difference. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set has exceeded my expectations for a budget-friendly reloading set.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set

Specifications

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set includes the following specifications:

• Full Length Sizing Die: Resizes the entire case to factory specifications, ensuring reliable chambering in your rifle. This is crucial for consistent performance, especially in semi-automatic rifles.
• Bullet Seating Die: Seats the bullet to the correct depth, ensuring proper cartridge overall length (COAL) and optimal accuracy. The consistency of seating depth is paramount for precision reloading.
• Universal Shell Holder: Accommodates a wide range of rifle cartridges, making the set versatile and adaptable to different calibers. The universal design simplifies the reloading process.
• Powder Dipper: Measures powder charges by volume, allowing for quick and easy loading. While not as precise as a powder scale, it’s a convenient option for basic reloading.
• Instructions/Load Data: Provides detailed instructions and load data for various rifle cartridges, making the set suitable for beginners. The included load data is a valuable resource for safe and effective reloading.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and ease of use of the reloading process. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set provides the essential tools needed to produce consistent and accurate rifle ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set performs its job effectively, producing reliable and accurate reloads. The resizing die ensures that cases chamber smoothly, while the bullet seating die allows for consistent bullet placement. The set is relatively easy to use, even for beginners, thanks to the clear instructions and simple design.

The main strength of the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is its affordability and ease of use. The main weakness is the lack of advanced features, such as micrometer adjustments and smoother internal finishes. However, for the price, the performance is excellent. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set meets my expectations for a budget-friendly reloading set.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set features a simple and functional design. The dies are made from heat-treated steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The set is lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable to use for extended reloading sessions. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is relatively user-friendly, although some users may prefer dies with more ergonomic designs.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is built to last. The steel dies are resistant to wear and tear, and the set should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is easy to maintain. Cleaning the dies with a solvent and lubricating them with gun oil after each use will help to prevent rust and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set comes with a universal shell holder and a powder dipper. Lee offers a wide range of accessories and customization options for their reloading dies, including different shell holders, bullet seating stems, and powder measures. The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is compatible with most standard reloading presses and accessories, allowing for a high degree of customization. You can also use aftermarket micrometer seating stems for improved precision.

Pros and Cons of Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set

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Who Should Buy Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set?

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is perfect for budget-conscious reloaders, beginners, and those who want a simple and reliable reloading solution. It is also a good option for reloaders who want to experiment with different rifle cartridges without investing in expensive die sets.

Competitive shooters seeking the ultimate precision and reloaders of large quantities of ammunition might want to consider more advanced die sets with features like micrometer adjustments and progressive presses. Those who value premium finishes and ergonomic designs might also be disappointed by the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set‘s utilitarian appearance.

A must-have accessory for the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set is a high-quality case lube. A powder scale is also highly recommended for precise powder measurements, especially for critical applications like hunting or long-range shooting.

Conclusion on Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set

The Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set offers an excellent value proposition for reloaders on a budget. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive die sets, it delivers reliable performance and consistent results. The price is definitely justified, making it an ideal choice for beginners and those who prioritize functionality over luxury.

I would personally recommend the Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set to anyone looking for an affordable and effective reloading solution. It’s a great way to get started with rifle reloading and to produce accurate and reliable ammunition. Get your Lee PaceSetter 2-Die Rifle Set today and start reloading like a pro!