Let’s Dive into Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781
Reloading ammunition offers shooters the chance to fine-tune their loads, improve accuracy, and save money over factory ammunition. One of the critical steps in the reloading process is crimping, and the Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 promises to enhance this process for revolver cartridges. Made by Lee, a company renowned for its affordable and innovative reloading equipment, this die aims to provide a consistent and reliable taper crimp, addressing common issues reloaders face.
My journey to this crimp die started with frustration. I was experiencing inconsistent bullet seating and occasional setback issues in my .357 Magnum loads, particularly when using heavier bullets and generating higher recoil. I had tried various roll crimps with limited success and was searching for a solution that would improve both accuracy and safety.
Upon receiving the Lee Taper Crimp Die, I immediately noted its simple but robust design. The die felt solid and well-machined, reflecting Lee’s commitment to functionality over aesthetics. Compared to a standard roll crimp die, the taper crimp design appeared more streamlined and potentially less prone to deforming the bullet. I had considered the RCBS taper crimp die and the Dillon Precision die, but ultimately chose the Lee for its reputation for value and straightforward setup.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The die seemed well-made for its price point, and I was eager to see if it would solve my crimping woes. I hoped it would bring more consistency to my reloads and give me greater confidence in their performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Lee Taper Crimp Die was at my local shooting range, where I have a small reloading bench set up. I had prepared a batch of .357 Magnum rounds using 158-grain jacketed bullets, specifically designed for testing the crimp die. The weather was clear and mild, ideal for a comfortable reloading session.
The die was incredibly easy to set up in my Lee Classic Turret Press. After adjusting the die according to the Lee instructions, I began crimping the prepared rounds. The taper crimp action felt smooth and consistent, and I noticed a significant improvement in the uniformity of the finished rounds compared to my previous attempts with a roll crimp. One initial concern I had was potential over-crimping, but careful adjustment of the die eliminated this issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Lee Taper Crimp Die for my .38 Special and .357 Magnum reloads, I can confidently say it has become an indispensable part of my reloading process. The die has consistently produced reliable and uniform crimps across numerous bullet types and powder loads. There has been no sign of wear or damage.
The durability of the Lee Taper Crimp Die has proven to be excellent; it is easy to clean with a simple wipe down after each reloading session. Compared to my previous experiences with other crimp dies, the Lee die has been far more consistent and less prone to causing bullet deformation. The finished rounds exhibit improved accuracy and have shown no signs of bullet setback, even in my most powerful .357 Magnum loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781
Specifications
The Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 is specifically designed for reloading .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. It features a hardened steel construction, ensuring durability and longevity. This taper crimp pistol die is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded reloading presses.
This die’s ability to provide a consistent taper crimp without deforming the bullet is particularly important for accuracy. Proper crimping ensures consistent bullet seating and reliable ignition, contributing to improved shooting performance. The Lee die addresses the common issue of bullet setback, especially crucial when using heavier bullets or generating higher recoil in magnum loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Taper Crimp Die performs its job exceptionally well, providing a consistent and reliable taper crimp for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds. Its primary strength lies in its ability to improve bullet seating consistency, leading to enhanced accuracy and reduced bullet setback. However, it’s important to note that jacketed bullets must have a crimp groove.
While the Lee Taper Crimp Die excels at providing a consistent taper crimp, it requires careful adjustment to avoid over-crimping. It meets expectations by offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for reloaders looking to improve their crimping process.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Taper Crimp Die is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. Its robust construction and straightforward design make it easy to use, even for novice reloaders. The die is constructed from high-quality materials, providing it with a weight and feel that inspires confidence in its durability.
Its user-friendly design ensures that reloaders can quickly and efficiently achieve a consistent taper crimp without a steep learning curve. The ease of adjustment allows for fine-tuning the crimp to match specific bullet types and powder loads.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Taper Crimp Die is built to last, thanks to its hardened steel construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide reliable service for many years. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth to remove any residue.
The die’s durable construction and ease of maintenance make it a practical and long-lasting investment for any reloader. Its robust design ensures that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use without showing signs of wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 does not come with any additional accessories. However, the die is compatible with all standard reloading presses that use 7/8″-14 threads. Reloaders can also use it in conjunction with other Lee reloading dies and accessories to create a comprehensive reloading setup.
The Lee Taper Crimp Die works seamlessly with other brands’ reloading equipment, provided they adhere to standard threading and dimensions. While there are no direct customization options for the die itself, its compatibility with a wide range of presses and accessories makes it a versatile addition to any reloading bench.
Pros and Cons of Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781
Pros
- Provides a consistent and reliable taper crimp, enhancing bullet seating and reducing setback.
- Improves accuracy by ensuring uniform bullet release and consistent ignition.
- Easy to set up and adjust, making it suitable for reloaders of all skill levels.
- Durable hardened steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Requires careful adjustment to avoid over-crimping.
- Jacketed bullets must have a crimp groove.
Who Should Buy Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781?
The Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 is perfect for reloaders seeking to improve the consistency and accuracy of their .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition. It is particularly beneficial for those who reload for revolvers and experience issues with bullet setback or inconsistent bullet seating. Competitive shooters and hunters will appreciate the enhanced accuracy and reliability this die provides.
This product might not be the best fit for reloaders who primarily use cast lead bullets without a crimp groove or those who are completely satisfied with their current roll crimp setup. Those new to reloading might also want to start with a more comprehensive die set before adding specialized dies like this one.
For optimal performance, the Lee Taper Crimp Die should be used with a quality reloading press and a set of accurate scales. A good bullet puller is also recommended to correct any over-crimped rounds.
Conclusion on Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781
The Lee Taper Crimp Die For 38 Special/357 Magnum 90781 is an excellent addition to any reloader’s bench, especially for those working with .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. Its ability to provide a consistent and reliable taper crimp significantly enhances bullet seating and reduces setback, leading to improved accuracy and overall shooting performance. At $13.99, the price is justified by the enhanced consistency and quality of reloaded rounds.
I would personally recommend this die to anyone looking to refine their reloading process and achieve more consistent results. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable solution that addresses common crimping issues. Invest in the Lee Taper Crimp Die today and take your reloading to the next level!