Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 Review

Let’s Dive into Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 offer reloaders a streamlined and cost-effective solution for producing accurate .303 British ammunition. Lee Precision is known for providing value, and this die set is no exception, catering especially to reloaders seeking simplicity and efficiency. My journey with the .303 British cartridge started years ago, developing loads for my grandfather’s trusty Lee Enfield, a rifle with immense sentimental value and a need for tailored ammunition it just wasn’t getting from commercially available options.

I was seeking a reliable die set that wouldn’t break the bank while delivering consistent results. The moment I unboxed the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882, I was struck by its no-frills, functional design. The dies felt solid in hand, indicative of the quality steel Lee Precision employs, albeit without the polished finish of some premium sets.

Compared to RCBS and Hornady die sets I’ve used, the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 stood out for its simplicity. The RCBS set, while excellent, comes with a higher price tag and more features than a basic reloader needs. Hornady dies are well-made but again, the budget-friendly nature of the Lee set made it an attractive choice. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; I knew the Lee name was reputable, but I was curious to see how such an affordable set would perform in producing reliable .303 British rounds.


Real-World Testing: Putting Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first testing ground for the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 was my home reloading bench. I focused on reloading a batch of .303 British cartridges for an upcoming vintage military rifle match. The reloading process was smooth and straightforward, with the Lee dies performing admirably.

I encountered a bit of resistance during the sizing process due to the inherently tapered case of the .303 British, but nothing out of the ordinary. The set handled this without issue. The dies performed exceptionally well in the consistent seating of bullets with the appropriate neck tension.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of excessive wear or damage, despite processing hundreds of rounds. Keeping the dies clean and lightly oiled is crucial for smooth operation and prevents any potential rust or corrosion.

Compared to some higher-end die sets I’ve used, the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 may not offer the same level of refinement or longevity under extreme high-volume reloading. However, for the average reloader who produces ammunition for personal use or occasional matches, they perform admirably. These dies have exceeded expectations, delivering consistently accurate ammunition and proving to be a fantastic value for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882

Specifications

  • Caliber: .303 British. This die set is specifically designed for reloading the historic and widely-used .303 British cartridge.
  • Die Type: Two-Die Set (Resizer/Decapper and Bullet Seater). The two-die configuration provides the essential tools for basic reloading operations.
  • Material: Heat-treated steel. Lee Precision utilizes quality steel to ensure durability and consistent performance.
  • Shellholder: Sold Separately. This allows reloaders to use shellholders they already own or purchase the specific one they need for .303 British.
  • Features: Includes a universal shell holder and load data. The universal shell holder compatibility is a massive benefit for those who have a variety of shell holders and do not want to purchase a new one.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 performs its core functions exceptionally well, creating accurate and reliable ammunition. The resizer die effectively returns fired cases to their proper dimensions. The bullet seater die provides consistent seating depth.

While the two-die setup means a separate crimping step if desired (often done with a Lee Factory Crimp Die, sold separately), the simplicity is a significant advantage. The dies consistently produced ammunition that met my accuracy expectations for the .303 British cartridge, easily achieving acceptable groupings at 100 yards. The die set could benefit from micro-adjustments and a crimping die, but this is where the user needs to evaluate their own specific needs.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 features a straightforward and functional design. The dies are easy to handle and install in a reloading press. There is no excessive bulk or unnecessary features.

The lack of a micrometer adjustment on the bullet seater die means seating depth adjustments are made by loosening a lock ring and turning the die body, which requires a bit more patience. However, once the proper seating depth is established, the die holds its setting securely. The die set is exceptionally user-friendly, even for those who are new to reloading.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 is built to last with proper care. The heat-treated steel construction ensures the dies can withstand the pressures of reloading. Regularly cleaning the dies and applying a light coat of oil will help prevent rust and corrosion, extending their lifespan.

While the finish may not be as polished as some premium die sets, the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 is more than capable of handling years of use. These dies are simple to maintain, which ensures reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 does not come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on the essential components for reloading. As mentioned previously, a shell holder is sold separately, allowing reloaders to select the appropriate size for their needs. Lee Precision offers a variety of accessories for reloaders, including powder measures, scales, and case trimmers.

Adding a Lee Factory Crimp Die for .303 British is a popular upgrade, as it allows for consistent crimping of bullets, improving accuracy and preventing bullet setback. The dies are compatible with standard reloading presses, making it easy to integrate them into an existing reloading setup. The user can add third party components to supplement the die set and increase functionality.

Pros and Cons of Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882

Pros

  • Excellent value for the money.
  • Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
  • Durable construction.
  • Produces accurate and consistent ammunition.
  • Compatible with standard reloading presses.

Cons

  • Shellholder sold separately.
  • Two-die set requires a separate crimping step (if desired).
  • No micrometer adjustment on bullet seater die.


Who Should Buy Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882?

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 is perfect for reloaders who are new to the .303 British cartridge and want an affordable and reliable set of dies to get started. It’s also well-suited for experienced reloaders who prioritize simplicity and value over premium features. Reloaders with Lee Enfield rifles looking for accurate and cost-effective ammunition will find this set invaluable.

Competitive shooters seeking the absolute best possible accuracy may want to consider a higher-end die set with more precise adjustments and additional features. Those who prefer the convenience of a three-die set with built-in crimping capabilities might also want to explore other options. A separate crimping die is a must-have accessory for reloaders who want to ensure consistent bullet crimp.

Conclusion on Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882

The Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 offers an outstanding value proposition, delivering reliable performance and accurate ammunition at an affordable price. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of premium die sets, its simplicity and durability make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced reloaders. The low price of $37.49 is easily justified by its effectiveness and long-lasting construction.

I would definitely recommend the Lee RGB Two-Die Sets .303 British 90882 to anyone looking to reload .303 British ammunition on a budget. If you’re ready to start producing your own accurate and cost-effective .303 British rounds, this die set is a fantastic place to begin. Grab a set and experience the satisfaction of creating your own custom ammunition!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top