Let’s Talk About Lee X-press Shellholder #16
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 might seem like a small, insignificant piece of reloading equipment, but it’s absolutely crucial for reloaders working with specific cartridges. Lee Precision, a name synonymous with affordable and reliable reloading tools, offers this shellholder for use with their APP (Automatic Processing Press) and Deluxe APP Reloading Press. What makes it special? It’s designed to handle larger diameter cartridges like the 7.62×54 Russian and the powerful 500 S&W Magnum.
I reload a wide range of calibers, from .223 to .45-70, and the 7.62x54R has always been a favorite. I recently acquired a significant quantity of surplus 7.62x54R brass and wanted to streamline the resizing process using my Lee APP press. This led me to the Lee X-press Shellholder #16.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the shellholder’s robust construction. The steel feels solid, and the finish is clean and functional. It’s small and simple, but you can feel the Lee quality.
I already own shellholders from RCBS and Hornady. The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 differs due to its specific design for the APP press, making it a dedicated tool for this press. My initial impression was positive. It seemed well-made and purpose-built, and I was eager to put it to work and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee X-press Shellholder #16 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee X-press Shellholder #16 in my reloading room, focusing on resizing 7.62x54R brass. The conditions were controlled, but I did simulate the dusty environment sometimes encountered at outdoor ranges by introducing some fine grit into the press. The primary goal was to see if the shellholder consistently and reliably secured the case.
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 was easy to install into the APP press. It took only a few seconds to snap it into place. The shellholder worked flawlessly from the start, securely holding the 7.62x54R case for resizing. I experienced no slippage or misalignments during the resizing process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, processing hundreds of 7.62x54R cases, the Lee X-press Shellholder #16 continues to perform admirably. I’ve noticed no signs of wear and tear. The steel construction appears resistant to deformation or corrosion.
Maintaining the shellholder is incredibly simple. I just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each reloading session to prevent rust. Compared to universal shellholders that require frequent adjustments, the Lee X-press Shellholder #16 offers unmatched simplicity and consistency for its intended cartridges. It exceeds my expectations given its low price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee X-press Shellholder #16
Specifications
- Material: The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 is constructed from steel. This provides the necessary strength and rigidity to securely hold cartridges during the reloading process.
- Compatibility: It’s specifically designed for use with the Lee APP Reloading Press and Deluxe APP Reloading Press. This ensures a proper fit and optimal performance within the APP system.
- Cartridge Compatibility: This shellholder supports 7.62×54 Russian and 500 S&W Magnum cartridges, and similar sized cases. This makes it a versatile tool for reloaders who work with these popular calibers.
- Function: Used to hold the case in place during resizing, decapping, and other reloading operations. This ensures that the case is properly aligned for each step of the reloading process.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 performs its intended function perfectly. It reliably grips the case rim. This enables smooth and consistent reloading operations.
The shellholder’s strength is its simplicity and dedicated design. There are no adjustments needed; it simply works. Its main weakness is its limited compatibility. It is only suitable for specific cartridges. It meets my expectations for a Lee product. It offers reliable performance at an affordable price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the steel construction feeling durable and long-lasting. It is small and light, which makes it easy to handle and store.
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 is exceptionally user-friendly. Its design makes it very easy to install and use. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures that the Lee X-press Shellholder #16 will last for years, even with frequent use. Cleaning it is as simple as wiping it down with a cloth.
Maintaining it with a light coat of oil will prevent rust. Its simple design minimizes the risk of breakage or malfunction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 doesn’t come with any accessories, nor does it require customization. Its function is straightforward: to hold specific cartridges in the Lee APP press. The shellholder is inherently compatible with any standard reloading dies designed for the 7.62x54R or 500 S&W Magnum.
Pros and Cons of Lee X-press Shellholder #16
Pros
- Affordable: The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 is very budget-friendly, making it accessible to all reloaders.
- Durable: Its steel construction ensures that it will withstand years of use.
- Easy to Use: Its simple design makes it incredibly easy to install and use.
- Reliable: It consistently holds cases securely during the reloading process.
- Cartridge Specific: Designed to perfectly fit specific calibers like 7.62x54R and 500 S&W Magnum.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: It only works with the Lee APP Reloading Press.
- Cartridge Restriction: It is only compatible with certain cartridges.
Who Should Buy Lee X-press Shellholder #16?
This shellholder is perfect for reloaders who own a Lee APP Reloading Press and reload 7.62x54R or 500 S&W Magnum cartridges. It’s also a great choice for those who value simplicity, affordability, and reliability in their reloading equipment.
If you don’t own a Lee APP press or don’t reload the specified cartridges, then this product isn’t for you. Consider a universal shellholder if you reload many different calibers on another type of press.
A must-have accessory is a good set of reloading dies for the specific cartridge you’re reloading. Also, a case trimmer will help ensure consistent case lengths for optimal accuracy.
Conclusion on Lee X-press Shellholder #16
The Lee X-press Shellholder #16 is a simple, affordable, and reliable tool that performs its intended function flawlessly. For reloaders using the Lee APP press and working with 7.62x54R or 500 S&W Magnum cartridges, it’s an essential piece of equipment.
At just $5.99, the price is absolutely justified. It offers excellent value for money.
I would definitely recommend the Lee X-press Shellholder #16 to anyone who needs it. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in the reloading process. So, if you are looking for a reliable shellholder for your Lee APP press and reload the cartridges it supports, then grab this shellholder and get back to reloading.