This brings back memories, 1977, I was a senior in college reloading my 6mm Rem, for my M700 ADL, with my Lee Loader, in my dorm room…that wouldn’t fly nowadays!
Yeah, I use to keep my 22 pistol in my dorm room in a locked drawer for pistol club. There was never a hassle and in those days, and it was the early 90s.
I have several of these. Started reloading with 8mm Mauser. Lots of 50 rounds. They actually work great. My wife thought I was going to blow myself up. Such fun !!!
The Lee Loader was my gateway into reloading last spring. It was enough to help me get over the mental blocks and related challenges associated with starting out. I was able to load my first set of OCW loads, and start testing and shooting my own ammo, all during the Covid ammo drought. Bought a press kit a couple months later, when I knew this was something I was actually interested in...no regrets. 30-06
Let's not forget about the Lee Hand press. Perfect for loading for a semi auto, can be used anywhere, perfect for a bug out bag or range bag and it's cheap. I love mine!
Why would you carry that in a bug out bag? It makes more sense to just carry more ammo.. you need all the components to put the cartridge together. Less bulky and less weight(no press or dies) to just. Carry ammo… or more tools that could actually help you survive. Avoiding conflict is the best way to survive.
@@roryemms7484 when this came out many reloaders may have only had a box or two of rifle brass, or one box of pistol brass. In those times it made more sense to pack around a set up like this.
You guy's just crack me up. I have a Lee Loader I also bought in 1974 at 17 years old. I was shooting in the NRA Postal Matches and I inherited a M700 Remington in 30/06. I remember seeing the loader in a shop and minutes later I was headed out the door with it, 100 CCI primers, a pound of IMR4350 and 100 Sierra 220gr. round nose bullets. Those rounds accounted for 3 deer in as many years and attested to the strength of the Remington action. That rifle kicked like a mule and I found out the reason why, the cartridges were severely overloaded. I should have been using 150's instead of 220's and they were being seated to deep too, oops. I lucked out, finally bought a RCBS Master Kit and the rest is history. It's been almost 50 years now and I still have the rifle, Lee Loader and the RCBS kit along with a MEC and a few Dillon progressives, you know how it goes. FYI I also dug up some CCI primers of the same vintage, Speer bullets (30 cal. 150's), some IMR 3031 powder in the red can ($1.65/lb) and 100 357 Magnum cases with the S&W headstamp. The shelves are pretty deep under my bench and the primers and powder still worked fine.
Possibly, but to be honest, it's often harder to find consistent reloading components than it is completed ammo in many regards. At least in common calibers, and if the lights do go out, no one is going to be worrying about using their boutique caliber. Either way, you need to have stuff stacked deep, and if you're stacking reloading components deep, then you aren't going to just have one of these kits, you have a full reloading setup.
Unless you have stocked up on primers this kit isn’t gonna be much use. Primers have gotten so expensive lately you’re honestly better carrying at least 4 handguns one in 38 one in 380 one in 9mm and one in 45 acp, then an ar7 rifle with a silencerco sparrow, 12 gauge tac 14 and Springfield Saint Victor ar pistol 556 7.5’ barrel. Whatever won’t got into a bag will go in a Sears shopping cart.
With this setup you can use up to nine different types of ammo that you’d find. I would also look into getting a hammer xt slingshot with both ball bearing and arrow configuration. Scavenging will always be fruitful. You’d be surprised how many rounds of different types ofof ammo you will find throughout the wasteland even decades after the collapse.
@@Hjerte_Verke For sure. But if you had to “bug out”, you likely aren’t going to take that, because in addition to the 1-2 lbs Classic Lee loader box, you’ll need to bring the components, including non compressed powder. Meaning awkward jugs of powder taking up precious space in your pack. I’m just saying, as someone who has a Classic Lee Loader and reloads, that I would never “bug out” and take my reloader. There are far too many things more important, and secondly, it’s easier to just bring ammo, which you’ll have if you’re someone who has a full compliment of reloading supplies and components ready to go. To make 200 rounds of 223 let’s say, you would need to bring basically a small backpack worth of stuff, reloader kit, rubber hammer, 1lb jug of powder, 200 cases, primers, bullets, etc. And it’s going to take you about half a day to make those. Way easier to just stack ammo deep for a time like that to bring with you, and then if you do need to move, move to a location that has reloading components, or just more ammo.
You can still get Lee loaders in most of the popular calibers. Inexpensive way to find out if you want to get into loading your own ammunition. They’re around $40 now, still a bargain.
@@adamsowers8957you can find them all over the place, they make them for everything from 9mm, .45 acp, .45 colt, .38 short/long/spl, .357 mag, .44 mag, .223, 5.56, .30-30, .30-06, .308, .303 and on and on.
G'day from Australia. I have a Lithgow "LA102" in .243. I re-load all my ammunition because I like to. I also have and I highly recommend a "Lee Loader" for everyone. I believe you should not re-load on a press with all the fancy doodads until you have mastered how to re-load with a "lee Loader", for the pure and simple reason of "knowing what you are doing" and the steps involved. Might only take one or two goes, but at least you will know "how and why". The use of a impact "bullet puller" is also recommended, I call it "character building".
My first reloading experience was with my dad and his Lee Loader for 30-06. It produced an accurate load. We loaded everything from groundhog loads to deer cartridges. I still have dad’s and several more including shotgun gauges too. I use them now and then. I do own several presses. But there’s something about nostalgia reloading sometimes.
Used one to load for my Rem 700 in 30-06 when I was in the Marines in the 2000's. I had no room for a press or any were to mount one so this worked for me fine.
The Lee Classic Reloader in 308 was used to teach Army Special Forces Snipers(in SOTIC) to reload, some students used the 300 WM version also. They stopped teaching reloading in the course in 2008.
Too bad, I think if more people specifically young people learn more about fire arms then they would have more respect and they would show that they can take responsibility off guns and there will be less gun violence
I bought a Ruger Blackhawk 41 mag. Couldn't find any ammo. Every store told me no such thing and recited the scale from 22 on up the line to 44 mag like I was an idiot so then I showed them the spent brass from the box I got with my 41 mag and walked. So I ordered my Lee Loader kit and a powder charge measure kit. I loaded them for years till I made the worst gun mistake ever by trading it in at a very eager to trade gun shop for the 44 mag Blackhawk to match my 44 mag Ruger carbine The 41 was the best firing single action 6 I ever fired. The Lee Loader was slow but I loaded A 100 at a time and cast my own bullets in a double cavity Lee mold. They worked fine. That was in 73 and I was 25. Now I'm just Old but still in the mountains. Dandahermit
Handloader Magazine states in a recent article that the Lee Loader produces accurate rounds because it keeps the case necks centered and concentric. Better than many reloading presses.
The Lee classic loader is how I got started reloading. I still believe it’s the best way to start out. Doing anything bye hand really gives you a great understanding about reloading. I’d love to see you do a video where you reload using the classic loader vs modern reloading presses then check the size of your groups.
I purchased one clear back in the mid-seventies when I was in High school. A .410 3" set and I loaded many Winchester=Super X shoo shells. I shot many rabbits, doves and even ducks with it when we could shoot lead shot. My two boys when then got old enough also shot those reloads. After High school I got a Texan Shotshell reloader but I still have my old Lee Hand loader press. I will never get rid of it and its been a great tool to have in the loading room. Its good to go back from time to time. Thanks guys!
When I decided to start handloading last year all I could find in stock were the lee loaders, started reloading 45ACP with some very old stock primers I found for sale that surprisingly all fired. I use it regularly and have since acquired more.
I have a number of Lee Loaders and just picked up a couple more. They’re very handy for small tasks and small batches because they require no setup. An arbor press eliminates the hammering, and also probably the chance of priming whoopsies. My late brother once bounced the priming rod off the ceiling while seating primers in a .45 ACP cases. The Lee tool also crimps by reversing the die over the loaded round and tapping it until the desired crimp is achieved. Lee also made a very precise Target Loader that inside-reamed cases and the set included a thumb-operated priming tool. I used a pair of those to load .223 and 7x57, long ago and far away…..
Off the ceiling! 🤣 Reloading .410 I was actually removing a good shotshell magnum primer from a hull and after breaking down a couple the magnum primed hull went off and my depriming rod is probly in orbit still to thios day,,,,! deod
I was considering an arbor press for my Lee Loaders but went with the hand press instead so I could use my existing dies. I will, however, ask which arbor press you chose.
At age 15 in 1979 I bought my first rifle a Remington 700 BDL in .222 Rem, factory new brass, and the rest of the components and the LEE Target Model Zero Error Loader. It is similar to the one you review but with a finely adjustable die, neck reamer, case trimmer, and squeeze type priming tool. My paperwork is marked 1975. I made several hundred rounds of exceptionally accurate rounds with it over the next several years. I never shot factory ammo in that rifle. Still have the gun and loading tools but haven’t loaded for it in years. I now have a couple of Dillon presses and reload other calibers but I wouldn’t hesitate to use the old LEE tools if I wanted to shoot the .222 again. Very fond memories of sitting in my bedroom meticulously loading with those tools for targets and prairie dogs and most of the deer I shot in my teens and twenties.
I saw a reloader from the 1800s at the Marquis De More’s house in Medora, ND. I visit there every few years as I learn a little more about life in those days. Medora was also a town Teddy Roosevelt visited regularly when he lived at his ranch near there. Well worth a visit if you’re near Western North Dakota.
I paused the video just 37 seconds in to say WOW. This brings back some awesome memories. This is how I reloaded shells for my Model 94, my Springfield 30-06 and my 300 H&H Mag. Level scoop was good. Want a little more knock down power? Just slightly mound the scoop of powder. Was taking big chances back then and just didn't know it. "If I only knew then what I know now".
I did the same thing, bought my Rem 700 in 1982 in 25-06, and bought the Lee Loader for the same. Love the ease of reloading and as it is a rifle for hunting big game, brass does not get recycled often for full resizing needs BUT the Lee Loader was outstanding for me as I was in the military, and handloading without need for a press was the way to go. For that reason I still only buy Lee Die sets for my Rock Chucker, unless there is a really good deal (OR better availability) on something else.
I got my Lee Loader (.30-'06) in the very early "70's so I could afford to shoot metallic silhouette with my model 70 Winchester deer rifle. Only had one primer go off on the bench and that was my fault. I think he's right, they were about ten bucks. I wouldn't throw it out so it must be around here somewhere. Last seen at least 20-30 years ago. Memory Lane...
I started with a Lee Loader in 9mm for $25 -$30 off Amazon. I figured it was a good way to find out if I would even like reloading before committing to a press. Turns out I like it. I frequently suggest this tool for the same reason to people that ask about reloading. It really helped me to understand what needed to happen in each step. I still use the deprime tools for especially troublesome crimped primers.
I have a Lee Loader for .38/.357 that I purchased in the late 70's as well. They teach the fundamentals of reloading and are a very affordable way to get into reloading. I'm glad they still make them. My Lee Loader came with a different method of seating the new primer, but it otherwise very similar to the one shown here. And I still had some 45 year old primers and bullets as well. Sadly I lost the powder I used back then.
I started with one of those for a Remington 600 in 6mm when I popped my second primer at the kitchen table my mom asked what I could do to be safe I told her a rockchucker press would be the safest way and I got one for Christmas. That was in 1982 and I am still using my rockchucker. I shot many coyotes and deer with loads from the Lee loader and haven’t shot a single factory load since.
Wow! Talk about memory lane. I remember reloading using a lee handloader back in the late 70's. You could buy the boxed kit for $6.95 and it did a nice job as long as you used the reloaded ammo in the gun the brass was fired in. It only neck sized the brass. Ammo was perfect. I loaded mainly 22.250 for coyote and fox hunting in NW Iowa. The ammo always worked perfectly and very accurate
I bought a Lee Loader in 1970 to reload for my new 700ADL in 7mm rem mag. I had 5 boxes of ammo that I reloaded about 5 or 6 times. I, too, never heard of case stretch and wondered why I had to force the bolt closed! What fun, and I’m still alive!
Absolutely still using Lee loader. I love this set-up. Simply and effective. I have 3 Lee Loaders myself. 308, 223/556, and the 6mm rem. I was attempting to buy the 6.5x55 Lee loader but the price skyrocketed and was unsuccessful. So if there's anyone out there that has one and is willing to part with it, I'd love to purchase it. On another note, great video, showing off the Lee loader. Very effective and simplistic tool for reloading.
I have the target version of the Lee Loader in 270 Win. The target version comes with an internal neck reamer. I also have a couple other sets. I use my arbor press instead of a mallet. I also like the Lyman 310 sets. As well as the Lyman Tru Line Jr turret press. The 310 sets are compact and easily portable. You might find the 310 tools interesting, get a set and try it.
Wow! I have been shooting for several years now, and this is the first time I have seen such an inexpensive way to reload! After talking about doing so for all those years, but inhibited by the cost of equipment, it finally seems possible. Thanks so much for posting this informative video!
I started loading 45-70, 44 mag and 45 colt with these. Sence then I have added 45 acp, 223, 308, and 357 to the collection. They work as good as you are patient.
I'm a member of the cave man club . Love my Lee Loaders 270 3030 9mm 44 mag 38 special. Years ago a guy set a 1000yd world record with a Lee Loader . That record stood for 7 years. Watched a video of Me Lee loading with one of these took about 40 seconds. Great video.
Your next video should be titled Caveman Plus+. Cheapest press, cheapest dies, cheapest priming tool, scoop set, cheapest scales, case lube. Wonder what total price will be ??? Should be of interest to first step beginners on a budget.
Old "Cave Man" powder trickle. Use a 308 case with powder and roll between thumb and finger as you begin to pour to drop a few flakes of powder at a time into the scale pan.
I loaded .357 mag with my little Lee loader, never had an accident with it...50 YEARS AGO!! I still have it but when I started reloading again after a 40 year hiatus, this time with an actual press, I found bullets and CCI primers in my 50 year old stash. I seated these primers, I think about 200 of them, and had zero duds. Always had a little anxiety about smacking primers with a hammer....
I started in 1973 loading 25-06 on a RCBS Rock Chucker mounted to a 2x10 that I c-clamped between two kitchen chairs. Nice to see the old ways again. I still have and use that Rock Chucker from 1973.
This video is great, I started in 1967 with Lee's .222 Rem. and the 30-06 Sprgfld. cave man reloading tools. They did did the job for me. Later I got two more of this tools for my 30-30 Win. & 38 spl.
I couldn't resist watching this! I LOVE these sets and recommend every reloader to have one; for the diversion of doing the work in that fashion. I think my last action was with my .22-250 but I have them in: .308; .223 and maybe one other. Like y'all mentioned, they've tried the list of calibers available. I too have had a primer go off while I loaded a .223 round; demonstrating the process to my brother. As it detonated, he said, "What was that?" I told him, casually, "It was a primer being hit too hard!" We had fun reloading twenty rounds.
I began loading in the early 70s on one of these Lee loaders. They work, but a simple set of balance scales helps a lot. For hunting loads, they work fine.
HELL YESSS!! my daddy and I would use his lee loader to reload his .270, man I still have the kit today!! I can also tell you that I have reloaded the same brass for 50 + years!! Not one problem with any of the cartridges!! Also, Hornady bullets are the best for this loading system!! So many good times with my dad, RIP.
I have memories of the lee loader. Neck sizing spares you of the real experience of coating a .44 mag case with paraffin and driving it in and out of the full length sizer. 30 or 40 whacks. A box was an ordeal that not only made you appreciate each and every shot, but started you saving for a press. 20 rounds for your deer gun every year was one thing, bulk reloading was no fun.
Haha arcane hell. This how my dad taught me to load all of our 223 and 243 rounds through the winter!! Love it! What memories!! I can’t imagine keeping up with the volume I shoot now using this.
I have a 38/357 and usually load on a lee ABLP, but have occasionally found uses for my classic loader as a supplement for some of the crazy things I've loaded from time to time.
Brings back some sweet memories of early '81-'82, living in a basement apartment with my wife and 2 kids and reloading 357's on the floor with my very first "reloading tool"!!! In fact, I still have some of the Green Dot in the original cardboard cannister! Must've loaded over a thousand rounds with that Lee Loader! I later bought a 223 and 9mm loader but I don't remember what I did with them. I'm sure there's a bunch of "seasoned" gentlemen that got their start exactly the same way!!! I think of the Lee Loader as the gateway drug of reloading!!!
I've never used anything but a Lee Loader for my Remington 270 BDL. Started in the mid-70s with it. Works great! Nice to see that I'm not the only one in this world that knows about them.
Absolutely still use them. I buy them as gifts as we’ll perfect way to get people into reloading. I have everything from 9mm to 45/70 perfect for a lazy day after all you’re brass has been totally prepped and ready to go. And you can sit down and load away.
This is how I got into reloading. Started with my 30-06, now I cast bullets for 6 different calibers and am looking to upgrade my single stage press to a turret. The Lee Classic is a gateway to reloading. Prepandemic, I got my 38spl/357mag loads down to 8-11 cents a round. Now I'm still shooting them around 20 cents per round. The Lee Classic was perfect for when my wife and I lived in an apartment with limited space.
Talk about a blast from the past, I started using a Lee loader in 30-40 Krag, in 1970. Never had one fail, other than scaring myself half to death when I popped a primer. I used IMR-3041 powder and loaded 150 to 220 grain bullets. Took a lot of game with it. Thanks for memories, I may get back into it now.
This takes me back to 1970 when a buddy taught me how to load with this die set. We would have a loading party eating fresh grilled deer steak and loading the old 222 Remington. We later moved on to the very fancy hand press which was like having a nice progressive press compared back then. We were so accurate with seating depth and neck sizing was perfect for repeat loads. If we had the money back then for a weighted beam for powder measure it would have been just as perfect as our fancy stuff today. Gee it was so fun back then and cheap! Thanks so much guys!
My family and I recently did a road trip from Northern Washington to Southern Arizona, I took my 9mm Lee loader along with all the fixins. I had a great time doing it. By the end my 7 year old girl was doing with/for me, in so proud of her lol
My first dive into the reloading world was 1973 with a Lee loader in .20 gauge. Since then, thousands of dollars spent on reloading equipment and accessories. I still have one in 45-70. Now I know who to blame for my addiction, Lee Precision Inc. 😂😎✌
I bought a Remington 788, in 22-250 Rem, back 1966 and bought a Lee Loader to reload my rounds. Spent many evenings at the kitchen table talking to my parents while reloading about 20 rounds in half an hour. Still have both of them!
The Lee Loader Kit works great for my old Ruger M-77 in 7x57. Ruger cut the throat on those rifles exceedingly long so factory ammo prints groups the size of a cowboy hat. But with Hornady 175 gr. bullets seated to 3.20" oal over 43 grains of IMR 4350 I'm getting ~2" groups @ 100 yds. With some load tinkering, and glass bedding I bet I can get that group size down.
I recently saw an antique reloading tool from Winchester? It was designed for cowboys of the 1800s to reload in the evening at the fire side. It looked like a pair of pliers and different parts of it will punch out the used primer, size the case, and press a new one in. The last step is to crimp the bullet in. These are great tools for someone that did not shoot much.
I picked up a Lee Loader in 357 Mag in the late 80's at a local sporting goods store for less than $20. I used it to reload several hundred rounds. That encouraged me to pick up a Hornady Projector which I still have. I gave the Lee Loader away to a friend shortly thereafter, to hopefully get him interested in reloading. It was a handy little tool.
I still have my original Lee reloading Classics IN 38/357 and 45 ACP. I have graduated 50 years later to a couple of LEE LOAED MASTERS. I strongly recommend anyone interested in reloading TO first try out using the classic. They learn the basics. In the early 70s I averaged couple boxes of reloading in the afternoon. Today I get up to 500 rounds at the same time I Recently use my 45 ACP, classic reloader to work out a new load in that caliber, its a lot easy than making changes on my machines. I have taught several friends on the classics reloaders. Last time I checked, we were still selling these classic reloaders.
Wow. Haven't seen a Lee Loader for decades. Prepper necessity, some say. Always preferred the 6mm Rem over .243 Win because of the longer case neck which made seating bullets easier. One of the most accurate hunting rifles I have seen was a model 788 Remington in 6mm Rem. Absolutely consistent 1/2 MOA at max velocity. Good journey down memory lane. Thanks. Jess
Bought my first rifle, a Rem 700 ADL in 30-06 about 74. Bought the Lee Loader shortly afterward. Moved up to a RCBS RockChucker. I have about 3 boxes left of Nosler Solid Base bullets left in .270 130 grain. Somebody had a close out on them, as Guy said about 15 years ago.
I started off with these loaders back in the 80's and I still have them. The ones I still have are as follows...243 Winchester, 30-30 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield, and as well as the 303 British. A great little tool for getting into reloading. Happy shooting!
I started this way in high school in the early 70s. Be sure to use only brass fired in the gun you are planning to shoot the ammo again. Otherwise you need a full resizing die.
Thanks Guys, a blast from the past. I too have set off a primer that way. It was on the kitchen table and my wife screamed. Well I guess, but its now 50 years later and she is still here and didn't remember so I guess it finally OK. I don't have any more as it was in 444 marlin and that rifle was lost in a small river when a canoe tipped over.
I bought a Lee Loader in 12 gauge and an MEC(?) Loader in 20 gauge that uses the same principal. The Lee Loader kit has some of the MEC(?) parts, but with the MEC markings ground out. I bought both of mine, NIB, New Old Stock, from Skeet Hill's gunstore as a teen in the 80's. He was the gunsmith's gunsmith for Lee county, MS until he died in the early 90's. Years later, I bought a Lee Loader kit for .45 Colt and .223, naively thinking my reloading could keep up with my young, trigger happy butt. :)
I've got one in 12 Gauge and a few years ago I found one in 20 Gauge at a Gun Show for my Little Brother. The 7mm Mauser is also the Parent Cartridge of the .30-06, .308 Win. and around a dozen other cartridges.
I was given one of the Lee loaders by a friend's widow in 38 special but sadly do not own a 38 special. Now that I know how to use it I need to buy the revolver to go with it.
Yes yes yes!!! New to reloading and I have one, also the Lee hand press and also the Sinclair Arbor hand press. Reloading .308 for both a savage scout and Howa APC 1500. I like the old school way and .308 is all that I reload.
Lee loaders are awesome. Easy to stuff into a pack and the neck only resizing leads to some very accurate reloads and longer brass life. I try to keep one for each caliber tucked away, just in case I ever want to reload while on the move or out in the field. I just wish they would make the one for 12 Gauge again.
Started with one of these in .222 about 1967. Few years later, Lee came out with a target version. Still have both, just missing a couple of pieces. Worked well.
I don't know why you two make light of this system. It started many people reloading. Is fast to learn, and the case cannot be overcharged. For bolt action and single shot users, this is an inexpensive way - still - to get into reloading. The silliness is a slap in the face to Richard Lee and his system.
I have yet to reload a single round, but have recently bought three Lee Loaders chambered in 45 Colt, 45 ACP, and 45-70 Government. I have been buying up all the tools to go with them, such as a Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph Premium Kit, rubber mallet, Hornady G3 1500 digital powder scale, Husky digital caliper, kinetic bullet puller, set of Lee auto prime hand priming tool shell holders, Frankford Arsenal perfect seat hand primer tool, Lee resizing lube, Lyman brass smith powder trickler, Lee powder dipper set, a dedicated Satern Custom 45 cal “No Static” powder funnel, and several hand case cleaning/prep tools. And yes I read the instructions that came with the Lee reloader tools just to be on the safe side. I also have gotten Richard Lee's Modern Reloading First and Second Edition manuals , Lyman' s reloading handbook 48th edition, Western Powders Handloading Guide edition 8.0, Western Powders Handloading Guide edition 7.0, and Winchester's 15th Edition Reloader’s Manual to help gain knowledge of the reloading process as well. Plus I have acquired a plethora of Powder Manufacture's manuals, yet among all these publications there is not one load data offering specific for the Lehigh Defense .452 220 grain Xtreme Defender bullets for the 45 Colt chambering [not even on Lehigh Defense's web-site] that I wish to load. Oy Vey! But not to be deterred, I have went right ahead on and bought a box of 50 Lehigh Defense .452 220 grain Xtreme Defender bullets. And all I got left to get are the Winchester Large Pistol Primers #7 or Winchester USA Ready Large Pistol Primers, and some good old Aliant No.5 powder, plus a pair of safety glasses. I plan on using Lehigh Defense's load data for their subsonic 45 Colt .452 250GR. XTREME PENETRATOR being it is safe to substitute a lighter bullet in the place of a heavier bullet with its load data. Both the reloading manuals and Lehigh Defense have said that this is safe so long as I start low and work my way up in .1 increments, being sure to keep a lookout for over pressure signs. I am gonna shoot 'em out a Judge Magnum with a 3" cylinder so the C.O.L. will not matter one way or the other. I had been happy with buying all my rounds from Underwood Ammo (45 COLT 250GR. XTREME PENETRATOR and the 45 COLT 220GR. MAXIMUM EXPANSION rounds), but they, nor anyone else, assemble this one specific round that I really really want, as well, so I am going to make it myself (even if it kills me! [pun intended]). Kind of a good scary feeling has come over me as its getting close to hammer time (literally speaking). Oh, and I have made me a home made combination Reloading Guide and Log Book specific for this round, to help smooth out the process and keep notes within throughout the process. If I live through all this I will share the Reloading Guide and Log Book with data notes included, in case any other caveman with a pioneering spirit wishes to tread down this path less traveled. Anywho, I think I have it all figured out, but if y'all can think of anything I'm missing please let me know.
I have this in 45-70, 30-06, 44 mag, 308, and 45 Colt. They work. Of course I have presses but I still enjoy this especially in my 45-70 Single shot. It is much easier to load the big 535 grain Postel bullets with this than my press. They also allow me to reload at my cabin while my presses are back home. They work and even though a hammer is involved, I find it very peaceful.
Yes 45 Colt, 45 ACP, 44 Mag / Specials, 357 Mag / Special. Now I use a little Lyman digital scale and load 6 or 12 rounds just to work loads at the range. For my rifle I use a regular set of dies along with a Lee hand press to do the same thing work loads at the range. I use the Lee Lee Dippers to get the powder charge close and then a powder trickler to get it exact. For rifle this works very well because it gives your Barrel time cool between 5 shots test groups.
I love hearing stories of how people learned reloading lessons the hard way. I learned some myself. It seems every loader pays their dues that way. When you pass the knowledge on you share those lessons.
Studying a Lyman 45 by gaslight at my hunting camp and giving it a shot. No mentor just doing it. Lee got quite a few of us started with reasonably priced gear. I still load on Lee stuff and get rounds just as good as from my Lyman or RCBS if I take my time.
Used for 40 years with 257 Roberts. Very accurate loads with addition of a scale. Just bought one for 30/06. Great for light loads for harvesting livestock or varmints.
I bought Lee loaders for .223 Remington, .303 British and 9mm Luger to have as backups to my presses. I have never yet set off a primer despite occasionally deliberately trying to do so (with all protective gear in place, naturally). I wish they still made the shotshell reloaders.
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This brings back memories, 1977, I was a senior in college reloading my 6mm Rem, for my M700 ADL, with my Lee Loader, in my dorm room…that wouldn’t fly nowadays!
Yeah, I use to keep my 22 pistol in my dorm room in a locked drawer for pistol club. There was never a hassle and in those days, and it was the early 90s.
I go to a large public university and we still have riflery and shotgun classes/clubs. Some great kids and instructors
You just gotta hide in the closet. Things have turned 180°.
You’d be surprised, graduated from Eastern Oregon University in 2020 and every dorm had an arms room
I was born in the wrong time then
I have several of these. Started reloading with 8mm Mauser. Lots of 50 rounds. They actually work great. My wife thought I was going to blow myself up. Such fun !!!
Say what you will, but this is the brilliance of Richard Lee & Lee Precision.
I started with the Lee Loader in 1971.
An interesting fact is that several bench rest records were shot using ammunition loaded on a Lee!
The Lee Loader was my gateway into reloading last spring. It was enough to help me get over the mental blocks and related challenges associated with starting out. I was able to load my first set of OCW loads, and start testing and shooting my own ammo, all during the Covid ammo drought. Bought a press kit a couple months later, when I knew this was something I was actually interested in...no regrets. 30-06
Let's not forget about the Lee Hand press. Perfect for loading for a semi auto, can be used anywhere, perfect for a bug out bag or range bag and it's cheap.
I love mine!
Why would you carry that in a bug out bag? It makes more sense to just carry more ammo.. you need all the components to put the cartridge together. Less bulky and less weight(no press or dies) to just. Carry ammo… or more tools that could actually help you survive. Avoiding conflict is the best way to survive.
@@roryemms7484 in a shtf situation, spent brass is going to be easier to come by than factory rounds but hey... To each his own.
The Lee Hand press is a fantastic tool!
Also good for doing some simple case prep while you watch tv with the kids.
@@roryemms7484 when this came out many reloaders may have only had a box or two of rifle brass, or one box of pistol brass. In those times it made more sense to pack around a set up like this.
You guy's just crack me up. I have a Lee Loader I also bought in 1974 at 17 years old. I was shooting in the NRA Postal Matches and I inherited a M700 Remington in 30/06. I remember seeing the loader in a shop and minutes later I was headed out the door with it, 100 CCI primers, a pound of IMR4350 and 100 Sierra 220gr. round nose bullets. Those rounds accounted for 3 deer in as many years and attested to the strength of the Remington action. That rifle kicked like a mule and I found out the reason why, the cartridges were severely overloaded. I should have been using 150's instead of 220's and they were being seated to deep too, oops. I lucked out, finally bought a RCBS Master Kit and the rest is history. It's been almost 50 years now and I still have the rifle, Lee Loader and the RCBS kit along with a MEC and a few Dillon progressives, you know how it goes. FYI I also dug up some CCI primers of the same vintage, Speer bullets (30 cal. 150's), some IMR 3031 powder in the red can ($1.65/lb) and 100 357 Magnum cases with the S&W headstamp. The shelves are pretty deep under my bench and the primers and powder still worked fine.
When the lights go out this kit will make a comeback
Possibly, but to be honest, it's often harder to find consistent reloading components than it is completed ammo in many regards. At least in common calibers, and if the lights do go out, no one is going to be worrying about using their boutique caliber. Either way, you need to have stuff stacked deep, and if you're stacking reloading components deep, then you aren't going to just have one of these kits, you have a full reloading setup.
Unless you have stocked up on primers this kit isn’t gonna be much use. Primers have gotten so expensive lately you’re honestly better carrying at least 4 handguns one in 38 one in 380 one in 9mm and one in 45 acp, then an ar7 rifle with a silencerco sparrow, 12 gauge tac 14 and Springfield Saint Victor ar pistol 556 7.5’ barrel. Whatever won’t got into a bag will go in a Sears shopping cart.
With this setup you can use up to nine different types of ammo that you’d find. I would also look into getting a hammer xt slingshot with both ball bearing and arrow configuration. Scavenging will always be fruitful. You’d be surprised how many rounds of different types ofof ammo you will find throughout the wasteland even decades after the collapse.
@@JimYeats If you had to "bug out" the Classic Lee Loader fits in the bug out bag a lot better than a Dillon Super 1050
@@Hjerte_Verke For sure. But if you had to “bug out”, you likely aren’t going to take that, because in addition to the 1-2 lbs Classic Lee loader box, you’ll need to bring the components, including non compressed powder. Meaning awkward jugs of powder taking up precious space in your pack.
I’m just saying, as someone who has a Classic Lee Loader and reloads, that I would never “bug out” and take my reloader. There are far too many things more important, and secondly, it’s easier to just bring ammo, which you’ll have if you’re someone who has a full compliment of reloading supplies and components ready to go.
To make 200 rounds of 223 let’s say, you would need to bring basically a small backpack worth of stuff, reloader kit, rubber hammer, 1lb jug of powder, 200 cases, primers, bullets, etc. And it’s going to take you about half a day to make those.
Way easier to just stack ammo deep for a time like that to bring with you, and then if you do need to move, move to a location that has reloading components, or just more ammo.
You can still get Lee loaders in most of the popular calibers. Inexpensive way to find out if you want to get into loading your own ammunition. They’re around $40 now, still a bargain.
Do you know what calibers it comes in? This is awesome.
@@adamsowers8957you can find them all over the place, they make them for everything from 9mm, .45 acp, .45 colt, .38 short/long/spl, .357 mag, .44 mag, .223, 5.56, .30-30, .30-06, .308, .303 and on and on.
@@adamsowers8957 google knows probably....try it....
@@adamsowers8957 there’s a list on Lee’s website
It's also a fantastic way to test different loads if you only want to do one or two of different loads.
G'day from Australia. I have a Lithgow "LA102" in .243. I re-load all my ammunition because I like to. I also have and I highly recommend a "Lee Loader" for everyone. I believe you should not re-load on a press with all the fancy doodads until you have mastered how to re-load with a "lee Loader", for the pure and simple reason of "knowing what you are doing" and the steps involved. Might only take one or two goes, but at least you will know "how and why". The use of a impact "bullet puller" is also recommended, I call it "character building".
Dude, I love this video. This is where it all started for me 35 years ago with 30-06.....
My first reloading experience was with my dad and his Lee Loader for 30-06. It produced an accurate load. We loaded everything from groundhog loads to deer cartridges.
I still have dad’s and several more including shotgun gauges too. I use them now and then. I do own several presses. But there’s something about nostalgia reloading sometimes.
Used one to load for my Rem 700 in 30-06 when I was in the Marines in the 2000's. I had no room for a press or any were to mount one so this worked for me fine.
The Lee Classic Reloader in 308 was used to teach Army Special Forces Snipers(in SOTIC) to reload, some students used the 300 WM version also. They stopped teaching reloading in the course in 2008.
Too bad, I think if more people specifically young people learn more about fire arms then they would have more respect and they would show that they can take responsibility off guns and there will be less gun violence
@@knallis.hjemmelading most children aren't enlisted into the army special forces.
It needs to be taught in schools but they stopped mentioning guns in school in 2005-2006
It's interesting, it appears to be a good kit to have in the field.
I bought a Ruger Blackhawk 41 mag. Couldn't find any ammo. Every store told me no such thing and recited the scale from 22 on up the line to 44 mag like I was an idiot so then I showed them the spent brass from the box I got with my 41 mag and walked. So I ordered my Lee Loader kit and a powder charge measure kit. I loaded them for years till I made the worst gun mistake ever by trading it in at a very eager to trade gun shop for the 44 mag Blackhawk to match my 44 mag Ruger carbine
The 41 was the best firing single action 6 I ever fired. The Lee Loader was slow but I loaded A 100 at a time and cast my own bullets in a double cavity Lee mold. They worked fine. That was in 73 and I was 25. Now I'm just Old but still in the mountains. Dandahermit
Handloader Magazine states in a recent article that the Lee Loader produces accurate rounds because it keeps the case necks centered and concentric. Better than many reloading presses.
The Lee classic loader is how I got started reloading. I still believe it’s the best way to start out. Doing anything bye hand really gives you a great understanding about reloading. I’d love to see you do a video where you reload using the classic loader vs modern reloading presses then check the size of your groups.
Agreed. It is a great way to start reloading. It's how I got started as well. Reloading with a hammer. Yeah baby!
I purchased one clear back in the mid-seventies when I was in High school. A .410 3" set and I loaded many Winchester=Super X shoo shells. I shot many rabbits, doves and even ducks with it when we could shoot lead shot.
My two boys when then got old enough also shot those reloads. After High school I got a Texan Shotshell reloader but I still have my old Lee Hand loader press. I will never get rid of it and its been a great tool to have in the loading room. Its good to go back from time to time. Thanks guys!
When I decided to start handloading last year all I could find in stock were the lee loaders, started reloading 45ACP with some very old stock primers I found for sale that surprisingly all fired. I use it regularly and have since acquired more.
I have a number of Lee Loaders and just picked up a couple more. They’re very handy for small tasks and small batches because they require no setup. An arbor press eliminates the hammering, and also probably the chance of priming whoopsies. My late brother once bounced the priming rod off the ceiling while seating primers in a .45 ACP cases. The Lee tool also crimps by reversing the die over the loaded round and tapping it until the desired crimp is achieved.
Lee also made a very precise Target Loader that inside-reamed cases and the set included a thumb-operated priming tool. I used a pair of those to load .223 and 7x57, long ago and far away…..
Off the ceiling! 🤣 Reloading .410 I was actually removing a good shotshell magnum primer from a hull and after breaking down a couple the magnum primed hull went off and my depriming rod is probly in orbit still to thios day,,,,!
deod
I was considering an arbor press for my Lee Loaders but went with the hand press instead so I could use my existing dies. I will, however, ask which arbor press you chose.
To achieve the best powder charger consistency you want to “dip” the lee powder dippers bottom first and let the powder flow into in the the dipper.👍
I've only used one kit for my .44mag but I make a point to get one for every caliber I own "just in case". I love the simplicity in it.
I have done likewise
Loved it. My son is just beginning his reloading journey and I bought him a Lee Loader for his 30-06.
I've been using a Lee Loader since about 1961. I've never ponied up for bigger and faster. 30-30, 7mm, 30-06, and 12 gauge.
At age 15 in 1979 I bought my first rifle a Remington 700 BDL in .222 Rem, factory new brass, and the rest of the components and the LEE Target Model Zero Error Loader. It is similar to the one you review but with a finely adjustable die, neck reamer, case trimmer, and squeeze type priming tool. My paperwork is marked 1975. I made several hundred rounds of exceptionally accurate rounds with it over the next several years. I never shot factory ammo in that rifle. Still have the gun and loading tools but haven’t loaded for it in years. I now have a couple of Dillon presses and reload other calibers but I wouldn’t hesitate to use the old LEE tools if I wanted to shoot the .222 again. Very fond memories of sitting in my bedroom meticulously loading with those tools for targets and prairie dogs and most of the deer I shot in my teens and twenties.
I saw a reloader from the 1800s at the Marquis De More’s house in Medora, ND. I visit there every few years as I learn a little more about life in those days. Medora was also a town Teddy Roosevelt visited regularly when he lived at his ranch near there. Well worth a visit if you’re near Western North Dakota.
I paused the video just 37 seconds in to say WOW. This brings back some awesome memories. This is how I reloaded shells for my Model 94, my Springfield 30-06 and my 300 H&H Mag. Level scoop was good. Want a little more knock down power? Just slightly mound the scoop of powder. Was taking big chances back then and just didn't know it. "If I only knew then what I know now".
I’ve got a bunch of those. Learned how to use them, how to hand load, from my grandpappy in the 60s. Thanks for the video.
I did the same thing, bought my Rem 700 in 1982 in 25-06, and bought the Lee Loader for the same. Love the ease of reloading and as it is a rifle for hunting big game, brass does not get recycled often for full resizing needs BUT the Lee Loader was outstanding for me as I was in the military, and handloading without need for a press was the way to go. For that reason I still only buy Lee Die sets for my Rock Chucker, unless there is a really good deal (OR better availability) on something else.
The Lee Loader is ideal for working up accurate loads while at the range. It is capable of great accuracy with proper component choice.
As I am a Proud Knuckledragger, I appreciate all things caveman. Cool presentation!
I got my Lee Loader (.30-'06) in the very early "70's so I could afford to shoot metallic silhouette with my model 70 Winchester deer rifle. Only had one primer go off on the bench and that
was my fault. I think he's right, they were about ten bucks. I wouldn't throw it out so it must be around here somewhere. Last seen at least 20-30 years ago. Memory Lane...
I started with a Lee Loader in 9mm for $25 -$30 off Amazon. I figured it was a good way to find out if I would even like reloading before committing to a press. Turns out I like it. I frequently suggest this tool for the same reason to people that ask about reloading. It really helped me to understand what needed to happen in each step. I still use the deprime tools for especially troublesome crimped primers.
I have a Lee Loader for .38/.357 that I purchased in the late 70's as well. They teach the fundamentals of reloading and are a very affordable way to get into reloading. I'm glad they still make them. My Lee Loader came with a different method of seating the new primer, but it otherwise very similar to the one shown here. And I still had some 45 year old primers and bullets as well. Sadly I lost the powder I used back then.
This brings back memories I still have one in 357 magnum I have had since I was a teenager and I'm 66
I started with one of those for a Remington 600 in 6mm when I popped my second primer at the kitchen table my mom asked what I could do to be safe I told her a rockchucker press would be the safest way and I got one for Christmas. That was in 1982 and I am still using my rockchucker. I shot many coyotes and deer with loads from the Lee loader and haven’t shot a single factory load since.
Wow! Talk about memory lane. I remember reloading using a lee handloader back in the late 70's. You could buy the boxed kit for $6.95 and it did a nice job as long as you used the reloaded ammo in the gun the brass was fired in. It only neck sized the brass. Ammo was perfect. I loaded mainly 22.250 for coyote and fox hunting in NW Iowa. The ammo always worked perfectly and very accurate
I bought a Lee Loader in 1970 to reload for my new 700ADL in 7mm rem mag. I had 5 boxes of ammo that I reloaded about 5 or 6 times. I, too, never heard of case stretch and wondered why I had to force the bolt closed! What fun, and I’m still alive!
Absolutely still using Lee loader. I love this set-up. Simply and effective. I have 3 Lee Loaders myself. 308, 223/556, and the 6mm rem. I was attempting to buy the 6.5x55 Lee loader but the price skyrocketed and was unsuccessful. So if there's anyone out there that has one and is willing to part with it, I'd love to purchase it. On another note, great video, showing off the Lee loader. Very effective and simplistic tool for reloading.
I have the target version of the Lee Loader in 270 Win. The target version comes with an internal neck reamer. I also have a couple other sets.
I use my arbor press instead of a mallet.
I also like the Lyman 310 sets. As well as the Lyman Tru Line Jr turret press. The 310 sets are compact and easily portable.
You might find the 310 tools interesting, get a set and try it.
Bought a RCBS JR. in 1976 with some friends. Still use it. One operator has won state championship with it.
you two need to keep making videos together... Its like Bob Ross Reloading. just perfection.
Wow! I have been shooting for several years now, and this is the first time I have seen such an inexpensive way to reload! After talking about doing so for all those years, but inhibited by the cost of equipment, it finally seems possible. Thanks so much for posting this informative video!
I started loading 45-70, 44 mag and 45 colt with these. Sence then I have added 45 acp, 223, 308, and 357 to the collection. They work as good as you are patient.
Do you know if it comes in 5.56 or 7.62x39?
I'm a member of the cave man club . Love my Lee Loaders 270 3030 9mm 44 mag 38 special. Years ago a guy set a 1000yd world record with a Lee Loader . That record stood for 7 years. Watched a video of Me Lee loading with one of these took about 40 seconds. Great video.
Still reload some 38 SPC's with the lee loader.. Fun to do from time to time..
Your next video should be titled Caveman Plus+. Cheapest press, cheapest dies, cheapest priming tool, scoop set, cheapest scales, case lube. Wonder what total price will be ??? Should be of interest to first step beginners on a budget.
That is a great idea! I like it!
My guess we will see the lee hand press soon. What is crazy is Lee had updated it with quick change die bushings. Look up Breech Lock Hand Press.
Excellent idea. What about it Gavin?
Old "Cave Man" powder trickle. Use a 308 case with powder and roll between thumb and finger as you begin to pour to drop a few flakes of powder at a time into the scale pan.
I loaded .357 mag with my little Lee loader, never had an accident with it...50 YEARS AGO!! I still have it but when I started reloading again after a 40 year hiatus, this time with an actual press, I found bullets and CCI primers in my 50 year old stash. I seated these primers, I think about 200 of them, and had zero duds. Always had a little anxiety about smacking primers with a hammer....
I started in 1973 loading 25-06 on a RCBS Rock Chucker mounted to a 2x10 that I c-clamped between two kitchen chairs. Nice to see the old ways again. I still have and use that Rock Chucker from 1973.
This video is great, I started in 1967 with Lee's .222 Rem. and the 30-06 Sprgfld. cave man reloading tools. They did did the job for me. Later I got two more of this tools for my 30-30 Win. & 38 spl.
I couldn't resist watching this! I LOVE these sets and recommend every reloader to have one; for the diversion of doing the work in that fashion. I think my last action was with my .22-250 but I have them in: .308; .223 and maybe one other. Like y'all mentioned, they've tried the list of calibers available. I too have had a primer go off while I loaded a .223 round; demonstrating the process to my brother. As it detonated, he said, "What was that?" I told him, casually, "It was a primer being hit too hard!" We had fun reloading twenty rounds.
Yup..I had three of those. 357 Mag, 30-06, and .410. Had a couple primers go bang to!
Thanks for sharing!🎚🙏🇲🇾🇲🇾🇲🇾
I began loading in the early 70s on one of these Lee loaders. They work, but a simple set of balance scales helps a lot. For hunting loads, they work fine.
The Lee Hand Loader. That's what I started with in the 70's and 80's 22-250 and 7mm Magnum. It was great at that time.
HELL YESSS!! my daddy and I would use his lee loader to reload his .270, man I still have the kit today!! I can also tell you that I have reloaded the same brass for 50 + years!! Not one problem with any of the cartridges!! Also, Hornady bullets are the best for this loading system!! So many good times with my dad, RIP.
I got my first Lee Loader for my 7x57 Mauser in 1974. Great to start with. Still have it
I have memories of the lee loader. Neck sizing spares you of the real experience of coating a .44 mag case with paraffin and driving it in and out of the full length sizer. 30 or 40 whacks. A box was an ordeal that not only made you appreciate each and every shot, but started you saving for a press. 20 rounds for your deer gun every year was one thing, bulk reloading was no fun.
Haha arcane hell. This how my dad taught me to load all of our 223 and 243 rounds through the winter!! Love it! What memories!! I can’t imagine keeping up with the volume I shoot now using this.
I have a 38/357 and usually load on a lee ABLP, but have occasionally found uses for my classic loader as a supplement for some of the crazy things I've loaded from time to time.
Brings back some sweet memories of early '81-'82, living in a basement apartment with my wife and 2 kids and reloading 357's on the floor with my very first "reloading tool"!!! In fact, I still have some of the Green Dot in the original cardboard cannister! Must've loaded over a thousand rounds with that Lee Loader! I later bought a 223 and 9mm loader but I don't remember what I did with them. I'm sure there's a bunch of "seasoned" gentlemen that got their start exactly the same way!!! I think of the Lee Loader as the gateway drug of reloading!!!
I ALSO STARTED WITH THIS LEE HAND LOADER, IT WORKS SLOW BUT IT GETS THE JOB DONE,AND THEY DO SELL THEM TODAY, FUN TO SEE IT AGAIN.
I've never used anything but a Lee Loader for my Remington 270 BDL. Started in the mid-70s with it. Works great! Nice to see that I'm not the only one in this world that knows about them.
Absolutely still use them. I buy them as gifts as we’ll perfect way to get people into reloading. I have everything from 9mm to 45/70 perfect for a lazy day after all you’re brass has been totally prepped and ready to go. And you can sit down and load away.
This is how I got into reloading. Started with my 30-06, now I cast bullets for 6 different calibers and am looking to upgrade my single stage press to a turret. The Lee Classic is a gateway to reloading. Prepandemic, I got my 38spl/357mag loads down to 8-11 cents a round. Now I'm still shooting them around 20 cents per round.
The Lee Classic was perfect for when my wife and I lived in an apartment with limited space.
Talk about a blast from the past, I started using a Lee loader in 30-40 Krag, in 1970. Never had one fail, other than scaring myself half to death when I popped a primer. I used IMR-3041 powder and loaded 150 to 220 grain bullets. Took a lot of game with it. Thanks for memories, I may get back into it now.
This takes me back to 1970 when a buddy taught me how to load with this die set. We would have a loading party eating fresh grilled deer steak and loading the old 222 Remington. We later moved on to the very fancy hand press which was like having a nice progressive press compared back then. We were so accurate with seating depth and neck sizing was perfect for repeat loads. If we had the money back then for a weighted beam for powder measure it would have been just as perfect as our fancy stuff today. Gee it was so fun back then and cheap! Thanks so much guys!
My family and I recently did a road trip from Northern Washington to Southern Arizona, I took my 9mm Lee loader along with all the fixins. I had a great time doing it. By the end my 7 year old girl was doing with/for me, in so proud of her lol
What a time travel! I reloaded lots of 357s in early 1980. My first upgrade was a lee priming tool! No more bang! Hahaha. Thankyou for posting.
My first dive into the reloading world was 1973 with a Lee loader in .20 gauge. Since then, thousands of dollars spent on reloading equipment and accessories. I still have one in 45-70. Now I know who to blame for my addiction, Lee Precision Inc. 😂😎✌
I still have mine that I used to do my first 45ACP reloads in the 80’s for my Springfield 1911.
I bought a Remington 788, in 22-250 Rem, back 1966 and bought a Lee Loader to reload my rounds. Spent many evenings at the kitchen table talking to my parents while reloading about 20 rounds in half an hour. Still have both of them!
I started reloading using these tools, .243 Win, and 7mm Remington Mag... back in the late 60s.
The Lee Loader Kit works great for my old Ruger M-77 in 7x57. Ruger cut the throat on those rifles exceedingly long so factory ammo prints groups the size of a cowboy hat. But with Hornady 175 gr. bullets seated to 3.20" oal over 43 grains of IMR 4350 I'm getting ~2" groups @ 100 yds. With some load tinkering, and glass bedding I bet I can get that group size down.
I recently saw an antique reloading tool from Winchester? It was designed for cowboys of the 1800s to reload in the evening at the fire side. It looked like a pair of pliers and different parts of it will punch out the used primer, size the case, and press a new one in. The last step is to crimp the bullet in. These are great tools for someone that did not shoot much.
I picked up a Lee Loader in 357 Mag in the late 80's at a local sporting goods store for less than $20. I used it to reload several hundred rounds. That encouraged me to pick up a Hornady Projector which I still have. I gave the Lee Loader away to a friend shortly thereafter, to hopefully get him interested in reloading. It was a handy little tool.
I still have my original Lee reloading Classics IN 38/357 and 45 ACP. I have graduated 50 years later to a couple of LEE LOAED MASTERS. I strongly recommend anyone interested in reloading TO first try out using the classic. They learn the basics. In the early 70s I averaged couple boxes of reloading in the afternoon. Today I get up to 500 rounds at the same time I Recently use my 45 ACP, classic reloader to work out a new load in that caliber, its a lot easy than making changes on my machines. I have taught several friends on the classics reloaders. Last time I checked, we were still selling these classic reloaders.
Wow. Haven't seen a Lee Loader for decades. Prepper necessity, some say. Always preferred the 6mm Rem over .243 Win because of the longer case neck which made seating bullets easier. One of the most accurate hunting rifles I have seen was a model 788 Remington in 6mm Rem. Absolutely consistent 1/2 MOA at max velocity. Good journey down memory lane. Thanks. Jess
Bought my first rifle, a Rem 700 ADL in 30-06 about 74. Bought the Lee Loader shortly afterward. Moved up to a RCBS RockChucker. I have about 3 boxes left of Nosler Solid Base bullets left in .270 130 grain. Somebody had a close out on them, as Guy said about 15 years ago.
I started off with these loaders back in the 80's and I still have them. The ones I still have are as follows...243 Winchester, 30-30 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield, and as well as the 303 British. A great little tool for getting into reloading. Happy shooting!
I started this way in high school in the early 70s. Be sure to use only brass fired in the gun you are planning to shoot the ammo again. Otherwise you need a full resizing die.
This is a MUST for my bug out gear. What a revelation. Sometimes the simplest is the best. Nice!
Thanks Guys, a blast from the past. I too have set off a primer that way. It was on the kitchen table and my wife screamed. Well I guess, but its now 50 years later and she is still here and didn't remember so I guess it finally OK. I don't have any more as it was in 444 marlin and that rifle was lost in a small river when a canoe tipped over.
I bought a Lee Loader in 12 gauge and an MEC(?) Loader in 20 gauge that uses the same principal. The Lee Loader kit has some of the MEC(?) parts, but with the MEC markings ground out. I bought both of mine, NIB, New Old Stock, from Skeet Hill's gunstore as a teen in the 80's. He was the gunsmith's gunsmith for Lee county, MS until he died in the early 90's. Years later, I bought a Lee Loader kit for .45 Colt and .223, naively thinking my reloading could keep up with my young, trigger happy butt. :)
I've got one in 12 Gauge and a few years ago I found one in 20 Gauge at a Gun Show for my Little Brother. The 7mm Mauser is also the Parent Cartridge of the .30-06, .308 Win. and around a dozen other cartridges.
I loaded many on these fine little presses, manly 38 spcl and 45 long colt never had any issues . Definitely a must have.
Loaded 270 Win that way in the 70's. 150 sierra bthp, IMR 4895 .Played powder scoops and a borrowed scale. Ended up shooting 5/8"at 100 yds
I was given one of the Lee loaders by a friend's widow in 38 special but sadly do not own a 38 special. Now that I know how to use it I need to buy the revolver to go with it.
I have a 1964 Remington 600, in 6 mm Remington. Wonderful firearm to this day.
Yes yes yes!!! New to reloading and I have one, also the Lee hand press and also the Sinclair Arbor hand press. Reloading .308 for both a savage scout and Howa APC 1500. I like the old school way and .308 is all that I reload.
Lee loaders are awesome. Easy to stuff into a pack and the neck only resizing leads to some very accurate reloads and longer brass life. I try to keep one for each caliber tucked away, just in case I ever want to reload while on the move or out in the field. I just wish they would make the one for 12 Gauge again.
Someone else makes it but the shotshell loader is still available online
The .410 Lee Loader is a really sought after kit, pretty dang expensive if you can fine one. I was lucky to get a 12ga. and a .410 bore.
Started with one of these in .222 about 1967. Few years later, Lee came out with a target version. Still have both, just missing a couple of pieces. Worked well.
I don't know why you two make light of this system. It started many people reloading. Is fast to learn, and the case cannot be overcharged. For bolt action and single shot users, this is an inexpensive way - still - to get into reloading. The silliness is a slap in the face to Richard Lee and his system.
I have yet to reload a single round, but have recently bought three Lee Loaders chambered in 45 Colt, 45 ACP, and 45-70 Government.
I have been buying up all the tools to go with them, such as a Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph Premium Kit, rubber mallet, Hornady G3 1500 digital powder scale, Husky digital caliper, kinetic bullet puller, set of Lee auto prime hand priming tool shell holders, Frankford Arsenal perfect seat hand primer tool, Lee resizing lube, Lyman brass smith powder trickler, Lee powder dipper set, a dedicated Satern Custom 45 cal “No Static” powder funnel, and several hand case cleaning/prep tools.
And yes I read the instructions that came with the Lee reloader tools just to be on the safe side. I also have gotten Richard Lee's Modern Reloading First and Second Edition manuals , Lyman' s reloading handbook 48th edition, Western Powders Handloading Guide edition 8.0, Western Powders Handloading Guide edition 7.0, and Winchester's 15th Edition Reloader’s Manual to help gain knowledge of the reloading process as well. Plus I have acquired a plethora of Powder Manufacture's manuals, yet among all these publications there is not one load data offering specific for the Lehigh Defense .452 220 grain Xtreme Defender bullets for the 45 Colt chambering [not even on Lehigh Defense's web-site] that I wish to load. Oy Vey!
But not to be deterred, I have went right ahead on and bought a box of 50 Lehigh Defense .452 220 grain Xtreme Defender bullets. And all I got left to get are the Winchester Large Pistol Primers #7 or Winchester USA Ready Large Pistol Primers, and some good old Aliant No.5 powder, plus a pair of safety glasses. I plan on using Lehigh Defense's load data for their subsonic 45 Colt .452 250GR. XTREME PENETRATOR being it is safe to substitute a lighter bullet in the place of a heavier bullet with its load data. Both the reloading manuals and Lehigh Defense have said that this is safe so long as I start low and work my way up in .1 increments, being sure to keep a lookout for over pressure signs. I am gonna shoot 'em out a Judge Magnum with a 3" cylinder so the C.O.L. will not matter one way or the other.
I had been happy with buying all my rounds from Underwood Ammo (45 COLT 250GR. XTREME PENETRATOR and the 45 COLT 220GR. MAXIMUM EXPANSION rounds), but they, nor anyone else, assemble this one specific round that I really really want, as well, so I am going to make it myself (even if it kills me! [pun intended]). Kind of a good scary feeling has come over me as its getting close to hammer time (literally speaking).
Oh, and I have made me a home made combination Reloading Guide and Log Book specific for this round, to help smooth out the process and keep notes within throughout the process. If I live through all this I will share the Reloading Guide and Log Book with data notes included, in case any other caveman with a pioneering spirit wishes to tread down this path less traveled.
Anywho, I think I have it all figured out, but if y'all can think of anything I'm missing please let me know.
I have this in 45-70, 30-06, 44 mag, 308, and 45 Colt. They work. Of course I have presses but I still enjoy this especially in my 45-70 Single shot. It is much easier to load the big 535 grain Postel bullets with this than my press. They also allow me to reload at my cabin while my presses are back home. They work and even though a hammer is involved, I find it very peaceful.
Yes 45 Colt, 45 ACP, 44 Mag / Specials, 357 Mag / Special.
Now I use a little Lyman digital scale and load 6 or 12 rounds just to work loads at the range.
For my rifle I use a regular set of dies along with a Lee hand press to do the same thing work loads at the range.
I use the Lee Lee Dippers to get the powder charge close and then a powder trickler to get it exact.
For rifle this works very well because it gives your Barrel time cool between 5 shots test groups.
Just looked in the Richard Lee book Modern Reloading. The Lee Loader was introduced in 1958 for $9.95.
I love hearing stories of how people learned reloading lessons the hard way. I learned some myself. It seems every loader pays their dues that way. When you pass the knowledge on you share those lessons.
Studying a Lyman 45 by gaslight at my hunting camp and giving it a shot. No mentor just doing it. Lee got quite a few of us started with reasonably priced gear. I still load on Lee stuff and get rounds just as good as from my Lyman or RCBS if I take my time.
Just curious, what lesson did you learn?
I learned the hard way that you have to lube rifle cases when with pistol cases you don't.@@joshua511
Used for 40 years with 257 Roberts. Very accurate loads with addition of a scale.
Just bought one for 30/06. Great for light loads for harvesting livestock or varmints.
I bought Lee loaders for .223 Remington, .303 British and 9mm Luger to have as backups to my presses. I have never yet set off a primer despite occasionally deliberately trying to do so (with all protective gear in place, naturally). I wish they still made the shotshell reloaders.
This brought back a lot of memories. I think I'll dig my old Lee Loader out and have some "historical" fun.