Let’s Dive into Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627
The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 represent a commitment to precision and affordability in the world of reloading. Offered by Lee, a trusted name in reloading equipment, this die set provides everything a reloader needs to get started crafting accurate and reliable ammunition for the venerable 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge.
I’ve been a handloader for over a decade, primarily focusing on bottleneck rifle cartridges for hunting and precision shooting. I was looking for a reliable and cost-effective set of dies to reload 6.5×55 Swedish for my vintage Husqvarna rifle. I needed a set that included everything necessary to get started without breaking the bank.
Unboxing the Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627, I was immediately impressed by the neatness and organization. The dies are well-protected within a sturdy storage case, and the inclusion of a shellholder, powder dipper, and load data is a welcome bonus, especially for new reloaders.
Compared to more expensive die sets from Redding or Forster, the Lee set appears more basic in terms of finish, but that does not mean it is lacking in function. I picked this set over others for its affordability and the included Lee Factory Crimp Die, which is known to improve accuracy in many rifles.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I knew that Lee products are generally reliable, and I was excited to see if this die set could deliver consistent results without the higher price tag of some competitors.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 was at my home reloading bench, preparing ammunition for a weekend deer hunt. I focused on developing a load using a 140-grain Nosler Partition bullet and Hodgdon H4831 powder. The dies were used to resize, deprime, seat bullets, and crimp the cases.
The dies performed admirably in moderately humid conditions; there was no sticking or excessive force required during resizing. Using the dies was straightforward, but I did need to spend a little time adjusting the bullet seating depth to achieve my desired cartridge overall length (COAL). After resizing about 20 cases, I was comfortable with the setup and could maintain consistent COAL.
The only initial issue I had was with the powder dipper. I highly recommend using a scale rather than relying on the powder dipper, as it can provide inconsistent powder charges.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds loaded with the Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627, the dies are still performing well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the resizing die continues to produce cases with consistent dimensions. I always use Lee Resizing Lubricant before resizing to minimize any friction or potential damage.
Maintenance is simple: I clean the dies after each reloading session with a dry cloth and occasionally use a solvent to remove any stubborn powder residue. This process is no more or less difficult than maintaining dies from other manufacturers.
Compared to my previous experiences with other brands, I’ve found the Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 to be a reliable and cost-effective option. While they may not have the same level of refinement as some premium dies, they provide excellent performance for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627
Specifications
- The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 are designed specifically for the 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge. This ensures proper fit and function with cases and projectiles of this caliber.
- The set includes a full-length sizing die, a bullet seating die, and the Lee Factory Crimp Die. This provides all the necessary tools for resizing, seating bullets, and applying a consistent crimp.
- A universal shellholder designed to fit the 6.5×55 Swedish case is included. This eliminates the need to purchase a shellholder separately, making the set ready to use out of the box.
- A powder dipper and load data are also included. This provides a starting point for new reloaders and a convenient way to measure powder charges.
- The dies are made from heat-treated steel for durability and long-lasting performance. This ensures that the dies can withstand the pressures of reloading without wearing out prematurely.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of the ammunition produced. Proper resizing ensures that cases chamber correctly, while consistent bullet seating and crimping contribute to uniform pressures and velocities.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 perform their intended function well, consistently producing accurate and reliable ammunition. I was able to achieve sub-MOA accuracy with my Husqvarna rifle using loads developed with this die set. The factory crimp die is a significant asset in improving accuracy and consistency.
The primary strength is its affordability and the inclusion of the Factory Crimp Die. The main weakness is the somewhat basic finish compared to more expensive die sets.
This die set meets my expectations for a reliable and cost-effective set of reloading dies. It consistently produces accurate ammunition and has proven to be durable over extended use.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies are well-machined and easy to handle. Their relatively simple design means there’s not much to go wrong, which aids in reliability.
The dies are user-friendly, even for novice reloaders. The included instructions are clear and concise, and the dies are easy to adjust.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 are built to last. The heat-treated steel construction ensures that they can withstand the rigors of reloading without significant wear.
The dies are easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that is required to keep them in good working order. Replacement parts are also readily available from Lee Precision.
Accessories and Customization Options
The set comes with a shellholder and a powder dipper, as well as load data, providing a complete package for reloading the 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge. No additional accessories are strictly necessary to start reloading.
The dies are compatible with standard reloading presses and accessories from other brands. This allows for customization and upgrades as needed.
Pros and Cons of Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627
Pros
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly die sets on the market.
- Lee Factory Crimp Die included: Significantly improves accuracy and consistency.
- Includes shellholder: Ready to use out of the box.
- Durable construction: Built to last with heat-treated steel.
- Easy to use: Suitable for novice and experienced reloaders alike.
Cons
- Basic finish: Not as refined as more expensive die sets.
- Powder dipper: Inconsistent powder charges; a scale is recommended.
Who Should Buy Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627?
The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 are perfect for reloaders on a budget who want a reliable and accurate die set for the 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge. They are also a good choice for new reloaders who are just starting out.
Those looking for the highest level of precision and finish might want to consider more expensive die sets from other manufacturers. Reloaders looking for match-grade precision might opt for premium die sets.
A good quality reloading scale is a must-have accessory to ensure accurate powder charges. Additionally, a case trimmer may be necessary to maintain consistent case lengths.
Conclusion on Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627
The Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 offer exceptional value for the money. The inclusion of the Lee Factory Crimp Die makes this set a standout performer in its price range.
The price is definitely justified. It allows reloaders to produce accurate and reliable ammunition without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Lee Pacesetter Dies W/Shellholder For 6.5X55 Swedish 90627 to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable die set for the 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge. Get yours today and start reloading!