Let’s Dive into Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is a no-frills reloading solution designed for the budget-conscious handloader who wants reliable performance without breaking the bank. Manufactured by Lee Precision, this die set provides the essential tools for resizing and seating bullets in the popular 7.62x39mm cartridge. It’s a stripped-down version of Lee’s standard 2-die set, offering a cost-effective entry point into reloading this versatile caliber.
As an experienced reloader, I was drawn to this set for its simplicity and affordability. I needed a dedicated set of dies for my SKS, and I wasn’t looking for anything fancy. The promise of Lee’s tight tolerances, exceeding even those of more expensive brands, piqued my interest.
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 arrives in a basic cardboard box with minimal packaging. Initial inspection revealed a solid-looking sizing die and a bullet seating die. The finish is utilitarian, but the dies appear well-machined and ready for use.
I’ve used die sets from RCBS and Hornady, and this Lee set is definitely simpler in its presentation. I chose it over those options for this particular caliber due to Lee’s reputation for producing accurate dies at an accessible price point. I wanted to reload a bulk supply of ammunition affordably.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The lack of a shellholder, powder dipper, and load data was expected, given the “RGB” designation. The real test would be in its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my reloading bench in my garage. I used a Lee single-stage press, primed cases, measured powder charges, and Hornady 123 grain FMJ bullets. The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 performed smoothly.
I loaded several batches of ammunition in varying conditions, from warm, dry days to cooler, more humid evenings. The dies consistently resized cases to the correct dimensions, ensuring proper chambering in my SKS. Bullet seating was straightforward, with minimal bullet runout.
The dies were very easy to use. The setup was simple, and I didn’t encounter any unexpected issues. I have been reloading for over a decade, but beginners should still find this set straightforward.
The only surprise was how quickly I was able to produce consistent ammunition. The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 did its job reliably from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds reloaded, the Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 continues to perform admirably. The dies show no signs of significant wear or damage. The resizing die is showing some minor wear marks, but these do not affect performance.
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 has proven durable. No issues have been discovered while reloading over the last few months.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth and a light coat of gun oil after each reloading session keeps the dies in excellent condition. The dies haven’t needed any special attention or repair.
In comparison to my experience with other die sets, the Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 has held its own surprisingly well. It certainly offers impressive value for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877
Specifications
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm. This ensures the dies are specifically designed to resize and seat bullets for this common cartridge.
- Gun Type: Rifle. Indicates these dies are intended for reloading rifle ammunition, not pistol cartridges.
- Additional Features: RGB Rifle Die Set. Highlights the “Really Great Buy” designation, signifying a budget-friendly option with only the essential components.
- Manufacturer: Lee. A well-known and trusted name in reloading equipment.
These specifications confirm that the Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is a focused tool designed for a specific purpose: reloading 7.62x39mm rifle ammunition. The “RGB” designation indicates a cost-effective product. This can be a useful introduction to reloading, or a practical budget option for an experienced loader.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 performs its core function – resizing cases and seating bullets – very well. The resulting ammunition consistently chambers and cycles reliably in my SKS.
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877‘s strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. However, its weakness is the lack of included accessories like a shellholder and load data. The set meets expectations for a budget-friendly option, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 features a basic, utilitarian design. The dies are made from heat-treated steel and are reasonably durable for the price point.
The dies are easy to use and require no special tools or techniques. There’s virtually no learning curve for experienced reloaders. Beginners may need to consult online resources or reloading manuals for guidance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is built to last through thousands of rounds, with proper care. The steel construction should withstand normal wear and tear.
The dies are easy to maintain. Keeping them clean and lightly oiled will ensure long-term performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 includes only the resizing die and bullet seating die. A shellholder, powder dipper, and load data are not included.
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading presses. It works with any shellholder designed for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, regardless of brand.
Pros and Cons of Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 provides an extremely cost-effective way to start reloading 7.62x39mm ammunition.
- Reliable Performance: The dies consistently resize cases and seat bullets to the correct dimensions, ensuring reliable chambering and cycling.
- Simple to Use: Even novice reloaders can quickly learn to use this die set with the proper guidance.
- Durable Construction: The heat-treated steel construction should provide years of reliable service.
- Lee’s Tight Tolerances: Lee claims superior tolerances compared to more expensive brands, which translates to consistent ammunition.
Cons
- Shellholder Not Included: The lack of a shellholder adds an extra expense for new reloaders.
- Load Data Not Included: New reloaders need to consult reloading manuals or online resources for load data.
Who Should Buy Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877?
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is perfect for budget-conscious reloaders who want to produce reliable 7.62x39mm ammunition for their rifles, such as SKS or AK-47 variants. This also makes it ideal for experienced reloaders who have a surplus of shell holders from their previous sets.
Those who prioritize convenience and want a complete reloading kit with all necessary accessories should skip this product. This is a minimalist set for those who already have or are willing to acquire the necessary components separately.
A shellholder designed for the 7.62x39mm cartridge is a must-have accessory. A quality reloading manual is essential for safe and accurate load data.
Conclusion on Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877
The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 is a solid, no-frills reloading solution that delivers excellent value for the price. It provides reliable performance and durable construction in a simple, easy-to-use package.
The price is absolutely justified. The Lee Really Great Buy Rifle Die Set For 7.62X39 Russian 90877 costs less than similar offerings from competitors.
I would definitely recommend this die set to anyone looking to get started reloading 7.62x39mm ammunition on a budget. Get yours today and start saving money while producing high-quality ammunition for your rifle!