Let’s Dive into Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set promises precision reloading for the potent 28 Nosler cartridge. Lyman is a well-respected name in reloading, known for producing quality tools at a reasonable price, so the set initially seemed like a solid choice. This die set, consisting of a sizing die and a bullet seating die, aims to provide reloaders with the necessary tools to create accurate and consistent ammunition. I was hoping to streamline my 28 Nosler reloading process, ensuring consistent neck tension and precise bullet seating depth for optimal accuracy.
My search for the perfect die set stemmed from a desire to maximize the performance of my custom 28 Nosler rifle. Factory ammunition was proving inconsistent, and handloading seemed the only way to unlock the cartridge’s full potential. I needed dies that could deliver consistent neck tension, precise bullet seating, and minimal runout to improve accuracy at long ranges.
Upon unboxing the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set, I was initially impressed with the overall appearance. The dies had a clean, silver finish and felt substantial in hand. The bullet seating die featured a thumbscrew adjustment, which seemed like a convenient feature for fine-tuning seating depth. Compared to a Redding die set I use for my .308, which is known for its precision, the Lyman set seemed similarly well-made, at least at first glance. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the Lyman set would deliver the consistent results I was seeking.
However, the performance ultimately proved disappointing. I had been eyeing a Forster Bench Rest die set, lauded for its micrometer-adjustable seating depth, but the Lyman set’s price point swayed me. It was a decision I would come to regret. Initial excitement quickly faded as I encountered significant issues with the sizing die.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set took place in my well-equipped reloading room. I meticulously prepared my once-fired 28 Nosler brass, ensuring it was clean and properly lubricated with a high-quality case lube. The bullet seating die performed admirably from the start. The thumbscrew adjustment allowed for precise control over seating depth.
However, the sizing die presented problems almost immediately. After sizing just a few cases, I noticed distinctive donut-shaped rings of brass forming on the shoulder as they emerged from the die. These rings indicated that the die was shaving brass off the neck, an unacceptable outcome that compromised case integrity and potentially affected accuracy. Despite carefully following the instructions and using adequate lubrication, the issue persisted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After contacting Lyman customer service, which, to their credit, was responsive and helpful, I received a replacement sizing die within a week. I was hopeful that the new die would resolve the issue, but unfortunately, my optimism was short-lived. The replacement die proved to be even worse than the original. It was so undersized that it resulted in two stuck cases.
Even with liberal application of case lube, the cases became firmly lodged in the die body. The cases didn’t even dump the primers before becoming stuck fast. I lost a significant amount of expensive brass to these faulty dies. Despite Lyman’s attempt to rectify the situation, the inconsistent sizing and propensity for stuck cases rendered the dies unreliable and ultimately unusable. Compared to my experiences with RCBS and Redding dies, which have consistently delivered reliable performance over years of use, the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set proved to be a significant disappointment.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set
Specifications
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set consists of two dies designed for reloading the .28 Nosler cartridge.
- Caliber: .28 Nosler
- Quantity: 2 Dies (Sizing Die and Bullet Seating Die)
- Color: Silver
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Material: Steel
These specifications suggest a standard reloading die set suitable for rifle cartridges. The steel construction should provide adequate durability for repeated use, while the inclusion of both sizing and seating dies covers the essential steps of the reloading process. The .28 Nosler caliber is known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, making it popular for long-range hunting and shooting. Therefore, precise and consistent reloading is critical to maximizing the cartridge’s performance.
Performance & Functionality
The bullet seating die of the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set performed relatively well. The thumbscrew adjustment allowed for precise control over seating depth, a crucial factor in achieving consistent bullet jump and optimal accuracy. However, the sizing die’s performance was woefully inadequate.
The sizing die consistently shaved brass off the case necks. The replacement die was even worse, resulting in stuck cases and rendering it completely unusable. This issue made it impossible to produce safe and accurate ammunition, negating the entire purpose of the die set. The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set failed to meet my expectations for consistent and reliable reloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set features a standard design for reloading dies. The dies are constructed from steel and have a silver finish. The bullet seating die incorporates a thumbscrew adjustment for seating depth, which is a convenient and user-friendly feature.
The overall build quality appears adequate, but the sizing die’s performance issues suggest underlying design or manufacturing flaws. The dies felt comfortable to handle, but the sizing die’s tendency to shave brass and cause stuck cases significantly detracted from the user experience. The design, while seemingly functional, ultimately proved to be flawed in execution.
Durability & Maintenance
The dies are made of steel, so they should withstand repeated use. However, the sizing die’s issues suggest that it may be prone to premature wear or failure. Cleaning and maintaining the dies is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping with a clean cloth and lubrication with a quality gun oil. The long-term durability of the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set is questionable, given the sizing die’s inherent flaws.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set includes only the two dies: a sizing die and a bullet seating die. No other accessories are included. The dies are compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders. There are no specific customization options available for the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set.
Pros and Cons of Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set
Pros
- Bullet seating die offers decent performance with thumbscrew adjustment.
- Responsive customer service from Lyman.
- Relatively affordable price point.
Cons
- Sizing die consistently shaves brass off case necks.
- Replacement sizing die was undersized, causing stuck cases.
- Unreliable and unusable for producing safe and accurate ammunition.
Who Should Buy Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set?
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set might be suitable for reloaders on an extremely tight budget who are willing to gamble on the sizing die working properly. Those seeking consistent and reliable performance for reloading the .28 Nosler cartridge should skip this product. This die set is not recommended for precision shooters or hunters who demand the highest levels of accuracy and reliability.
A must-have modification (or rather, a replacement) would be to purchase a sizing die from a different manufacturer, such as RCBS or Redding. This would at least salvage the bullet seating die.
Conclusion on Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set
The Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set ultimately proved to be a disappointing and frustrating experience. While the bullet seating die offered decent performance and Lyman’s customer service was responsive, the faulty sizing die rendered the entire set unusable. The sizing die’s tendency to shave brass and cause stuck cases made it impossible to produce safe and accurate ammunition.
At a price of $66.99, the value proposition is questionable, given the product’s inherent flaws. I cannot personally recommend the Lyman 28 Nosler Rifle Rifle 2 Die Set. I would advise reloaders to invest in a higher-quality die set from a more reputable manufacturer to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Consider exploring options from RCBS, Redding, or Forster, even if they come at a higher price point. The peace of mind and improved accuracy are well worth the investment.