Let’s Dive into Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set
Reloading ammunition is a demanding, yet rewarding, process. It requires precision and the right tools to ensure safety and consistency. The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set is designed to provide reloaders with a comprehensive set of shellholders to accommodate a wide range of popular pistol and rifle calibers.
I’d been struggling with inconsistent seating depths on my reloads. My old, mismatched shellholders were causing problems. I needed a reliable and comprehensive set of shellholders. This kit promised a good selection and organized storage.
Upon unboxing, the shellholders looked solid and well-made. The storage case was a welcome addition. I was immediately impressed by the organized layout. The steel construction gave a sense of durability.
Compared to individual shellholders from various brands, this set offered better value and organization. I considered buying individual shellholders from RCBS and Hornady. However, the Lyman set’s price point and included storage case sealed the deal.
Initially, I was optimistic but cautious. Shellholders are a critical part of the reloading process. Subpar quality could lead to inconsistent results. I hoped these would live up to Lyman’s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set while reloading .45 ACP for a local pistol match. I used it with my Lyman single-stage press. The shellholder fit snugly and securely, holding the case firmly in place.
The shellholders performed flawlessly in dry conditions. There were no issues with the fit or stability, even when seating stubborn primers. The ease of swapping between different calibers was immediately apparent.
The shellholders were easy to use. The snug fit ensured minimal case wobble. This led to more consistent seating depths.
After reloading about 200 rounds, I encountered no issues. The shellholder’s performance was consistent. This gave me confidence in the quality of my reloads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set has proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading bench. It’s become an essential part of my reloading process. I’ve used it to reload thousands of rounds across various calibers.
The shellholders have shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The steel construction has held up well to repeated use. There are no visible cracks or deformations.
Maintaining the shellholders is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is sufficient. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
The Lyman set significantly outperforms my previous collection of mismatched shellholders. The consistency and reliability are noticeable. My reloads are now more accurate and consistent.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set
Specifications
The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set includes 12 of the most commonly used shellholders. These fit a wide range of popular pistol and rifle calibers. The set includes shellholders #1, 2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14B, 15, 17, 22, and 26.
These specific shellholder numbers correspond to many common calibers. This includes .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .45 ACP, .223 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, and more. The shellholders are made of steel for durability and long-lasting performance. This is crucial for maintaining consistent reloading practices.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set performs its job exceptionally well. The shellholders provide a secure and stable platform for reloading. The snug fit ensures minimal case wobble.
The shellholders’ main strength is their comprehensive coverage of common calibers. The organization provided by the included case is also a significant benefit. A minor weakness is the lack of larger magnum rifle calibers.
The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set exceeds expectations. The consistent performance and organized storage make it a valuable tool. It has greatly improved my reloading efficiency.
Design & Ergonomics
The shellholders are made of steel. They feel solid and durable in hand. The weight is appropriate, providing stability without being cumbersome.
The shellholders are designed to be user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. The easy identification of each shellholder simplifies the reloading process.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures the shellholders will last for many years. They are resistant to wear and tear. Proper care will extend their lifespan.
The shellholders are easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are sufficient. This keeps them in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set comes with a handy compartmented storage box. This keeps the shellholders organized and easily accessible. There are no other accessories included.
The Lyman shellholders are compatible with most standard reloading presses. This includes Lyman, RCBS, Hornady, and Lee presses. There are no further customization options available.
Pros and Cons of Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set
Pros
- Comprehensive caliber coverage: Includes 12 of the most commonly used shellholders. This covers a wide range of popular pistol and rifle calibers.
- Durable steel construction: Made from high-quality steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Organized storage case: Comes with a compartmented storage box, keeping the shellholders organized and easily accessible. This significantly streamlines the reloading process.
- Improved reloading consistency: Provides a secure and stable platform, minimizing case wobble and ensuring consistent seating depths.
- Excellent value for money: Offers a cost-effective solution compared to buying individual shellholders, especially considering the included storage case.
Cons
- Limited magnum caliber support: Does not include shellholders for larger magnum rifle calibers. This may require purchasing additional shellholders separately.
- No specialized shellholders: Lacks specialized shellholders for specific tasks. This includes primer pocket uniforming or case neck turning.
Who Should Buy Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set?
The Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set is perfect for reloaders who work with a variety of common pistol and rifle calibers. It is also ideal for those looking for an organized and durable solution for their reloading needs. New and experienced reloaders alike will benefit from this set.
This product is not ideal for reloaders who primarily work with magnum rifle calibers. This is also not for those who require specialized shellholders for advanced reloading tasks. In such cases, individual shellholders or specialized sets may be more appropriate.
A must-have accessory for this set is a comprehensive reloading manual. This will ensure proper caliber selection and reloading practices. A high-quality reloading press is also necessary to utilize the shellholders effectively.
Conclusion on Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set
Overall, the Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set is a valuable addition to any reloader’s bench. The comprehensive caliber coverage, durable construction, and organized storage make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $66.19 is justified. The quality and convenience offered by the set are worth the cost. It provides a reliable and organized solution for a variety of reloading needs.
I would personally recommend the Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set to any reloader looking to improve their efficiency and consistency. It’s a well-made, practical tool that simplifies the reloading process.
If you’re serious about reloading, this set is a must-have. Get organized, stay consistent, and enjoy the rewarding experience of crafting your own ammunition with the Lyman 12 Piece Shellholder Set.