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Lee loading dies
- Thread starter 1Longbow
- Start date
I use Lee dies for rounds I don't load very often(32 S&W long, 44 Special,and a Factory Crimp Die for 45 ACP) with no complaints. I don't have any problems with the lock rings either,but I'm loading for pistol so maybe that is the difference.
I prefer my RCBS dies,but big difference in price. On a side note, I can't stand the new RCBS lock rings and replace with old style RCBS rings or Hornady rings.
I prefer my RCBS dies,but big difference in price. On a side note, I can't stand the new RCBS lock rings and replace with old style RCBS rings or Hornady rings.
totalloser
New member
The difference is that locking collars that actually lock can be counted on if pulled and reinstalled in the same hole. Lee O-ring collars will be close, or maybe dead on. But the key here is "maybe".
But it ain't exactly rocket science to verify depth on setup, so I see it as a minor issue, though I think it's an uphill battle to say they are equal to other positive lock systems. For me it really doesn't make any difference- because since I have turrets that sometimes might sit for a year, I am going to recheck any time I reinstall a die anyhow- after brushing off the dust, can I remember FOR SURE that it wasn't reset for a second operation in a different press or turret? I can't. So the recheck is gonna happen regardless.
But this is something to be aware of. Someone using a single stage, for instance, might really benefit from a lock collar that actually *locks* so that they can snug it in with confidence and get rolling.
But it ain't exactly rocket science to verify depth on setup, so I see it as a minor issue, though I think it's an uphill battle to say they are equal to other positive lock systems. For me it really doesn't make any difference- because since I have turrets that sometimes might sit for a year, I am going to recheck any time I reinstall a die anyhow- after brushing off the dust, can I remember FOR SURE that it wasn't reset for a second operation in a different press or turret? I can't. So the recheck is gonna happen regardless.
But this is something to be aware of. Someone using a single stage, for instance, might really benefit from a lock collar that actually *locks* so that they can snug it in with confidence and get rolling.
Like most who have been reloading for a few days I have a collage of dies frequently duplicating calibers with different die manufacturers. Lee dies do generally cost less but they work. It cost more to manufacture a steel locking nut than aluminum and yes, Lee dies cost less. That does not make them an inferior die. The question in this example is does the Lee lock ring work? While I prefer other designs the Lee lock rings work fine.
All I care about is what comes out of the die and the Lee dies have worked just fine for me. Just like all the others.
Ron
All I care about is what comes out of the die and the Lee dies have worked just fine for me. Just like all the others.
Ron
I have about half and half RCBS and Lee dies, some calibers both brands. some calibers I use the brands mixed on my turret press, some calibers I use RCBS for sizing, Lee for flaring, etc. I have seen no difference in the quality of the ammunition that is produced. some of my RCBS dies have been bought second hand, some new. When I find a need for a die I get what I can find at the best price.
As for the locking rings, hated them at first, changed all of them out for other locking rings. But after using them on two calibers and learning to use them properly(watching the Lee videos on you tube) I am a believer in them and have gone back to them on all the dies I use on the turret press. I just do not have enough left over rings to use them on all my dies.
And yes, you do have to have wrenches hand at the bench to retighten the decapping pins, but have not had to in a long time.
David
As for the locking rings, hated them at first, changed all of them out for other locking rings. But after using them on two calibers and learning to use them properly(watching the Lee videos on you tube) I am a believer in them and have gone back to them on all the dies I use on the turret press. I just do not have enough left over rings to use them on all my dies.
And yes, you do have to have wrenches hand at the bench to retighten the decapping pins, but have not had to in a long time.
David
jetinteriorguy
New member
I used to be Leary of the Lee locking nuts too. But after using them I love them, makes any minor adjustments simple requiring no tools. But there is a way to eliminate any changes in your settings when installing or removing the dies. Just get the little 3D printed tool for the nuts from Titan. When using this tool your dies will hold their setting every time they are removed or installed. Now I prefer these to other styles, especially those using a set screw.
mikejonestkd
New member
Another happy Lee customer, I have a dozen handgun sets, and 8 or so rifle sets.
They work exactly as advertised, and I have never had a problem with any of them in over 50K rounds loaded.
The 4 die handgun sets are my go to pick for all of my handgun calibers
They work exactly as advertised, and I have never had a problem with any of them in over 50K rounds loaded.
The 4 die handgun sets are my go to pick for all of my handgun calibers
berettaprofessor
New member
Neat, jetinteriorguy, I've never seen that Titan tool. I'll keep it on my wish list, however, I just realized a 1 1/8 deep socket fits over all my dies...maybe a cheap one at a pawn shop so I don't have to break up my tool set?