Hi FortuneCookie , I have the Lee Challenger Breech Lock Single Stage Press and I use the Lee Spline Drive Breech Lock Quick Change Bushings. They lock the dies in to where you want them Your set to & you can swap out your dies quickly & they stay set until you want to change them. They work grate & they are color coded too. Ricky
Thankfully, Lee now has the ultimate die lock ring. I rarely have to remove them as I have a separate 4 hole turret for each caliber I load. I just change turrets as needed.
Precision rifle I can see he fuss. I have reloaded thousands upon thousands of pistol rounds with the lee rings and have never had an issue. i actually appreciate their tunabillity more so over stubborn lock types in my pistol rounds. I mark a single line on the top of the bullet seater as an index that allows me to half turn or full turn on some of my rounds and then easily go back based on a change on nose profile. maybe I'll do a video to illustrate the merits of the Lee lock ring.
What a great idea! I had a little time and I loaded 200 rounds of .45 ACP Sunday night. Its never really mattered to me but i want to reload more in the evenings and I'd like to be able to just pop that in knowing that its retained the adjustment.
Love the addition of intro music👍 As someone who wants to start reloading I always enjoy your content and your VAST knowledge. You're always very gracious and a joy to watch thank you. SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED
Thank you FC - I really enjoy your thoughts! I admit - rubber bumpers never impressed me. On the other side, I keep a resized case and a host of whatever bullets I load all in brass, dropped into the die storage box. I have found over the 40 yrs that this allowed me, to quickly get my die zero'd, to my preference. I have 3 models of presses, none are in the same town. While the dies and components travel, none of the presses, have the same set-point. 5 calibers and 9 firearms needing fuel, makes for a peaceful evening at the lake. I don't mind the odd spent primer on the floor there. Other rules at the house! I like to keep her happy. Cheers!
I converted a couple dozen Lee lock rings when I switched to Hornady presses and Hornady L-N-L die bushings.. I made a jig to hold them in my drill press and drilled a hole thru the ring, then tapped it for a set screw. Then on the inside of the ring hole I stuffed a piece of nylon line from a string trimmer, This keeps the set screw off the threads of the die. A bit fussy to set up but works like a charm.
PY - Sounds very workable..!! I have the drill press, but not the taps - a little mosey over to Home Depot would take care of that though. In the meantime, I just did some reloading with the Lee rings reversed so the solid was towards the press...worked fine. If I needed more security, the double ring would have done. Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
One thing to consider is that the rubber washer allows some flexibility for alignment. I'm finding that some rings are good for some things, and other rings are better for others. I'm using Lyman lock rings for some things, and Lee rings for others.
Psyko Klown - As experienced reloaders, we have dealt with all the pros and cons of the various ring systems available. I have never considered the Lee rubber gasket as offering alignment correction. If the case axis and die axis are not coincident, tipping of the die axis cannot correct same - requires axis shift to correct and only Co-Ax or MEC Marksman offers that. Turret press head slop might offer some correction or not. This video was not a recommendation for solution, but rather to offer an alternative consideration or not... Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
A die lock ring, to even be considered for use, has to be split with a cross bolt. The Forster aluminum lock ring is good except for the slot drive screw (hopefully they have changed to allen key drive). I found, years ago, that the Hornady steel die lock ring was the best value for the money. This lock ring uses an allen key drive cross bolt which pinches the split ring into the die body to lock it. They can be had in multi packs at an even greater value. If you absolutely have no choice and have to use the archaic, set screw into the die threads, crap lock ring.......you can place a piece of lead shot between the setscrew and die body to protect the die threads. Where lock ring clearance can be an issue, as on the Lee Classic turret press, I have used Dillon die lock rings (which have a smaller OD) and drilled and tapped them then used a brass setscrew (I know, into the die body threads but the brass is softer than the threads). I then alternated between a die with the modified Dillon and a cross bolt split lock ring around the turret to facilitate easier access to lock the die settings. The Lee Breech Lock with built in split lock ring is the neatest idea since sliced bread. I have a couple Lee presses with this feature. Time will tell if their design is built for the long haul. Thanks for sharing.
It seems Lee listened because now they have their ultimate die lock rings. They still use the oring on the bottom, but they're also a split design so you can clamp them securely to the die to avoid losing your setting. I haven't had any issues with the classic die lock rings, but I use a turret press so they're rarely ever moved or adjusted after being set up. Not even for cleaning as the turret head is a great holder when you're cleaning dies.
If you are doubleing up on the ring… it’s the same as replacing them. Great idea, but where am I supposed to get the top locking ring? Unless I’m robbing from another set of dies…
I’m sure there are reloaders out there who have problems with the Lee dies, I’m sure you could find someone who has some type of problem with any die set on the market. I only use Lee dies and have never had a problem with their lock rings or the o-rings on them. I do think it’s wrong to insinuate (as you have) that everyone who uses Lee dies has a problem with the lock nut. It’s simply not true.
I've never personally had a problem with Lee's rings. I thought about replacing them with Hornady Sure LOC rings after hearing people complain, but after some measurements, it wasn't necessary. My Lee dies with the factory rings are turning out concentric and accurate ammo for 308, 7mm-08, 223, and 6mm Creedmoor. Just ordered another set for a 30-06 hunting rifle I'm inheriting from my great uncle. The most I've had to do was take a crescent wrench and give it a slight snugging up once the ring was turned all the way down.
I have the Lee breechlock press, so I just have a bushing on each die that I use that I want a firm setting maintained, such as seating and crimping dies. With the bushings you just drop and twist them to lock into the press. Easy every time.
Hey FC. Another tip to add is that lee dies seem to be a little shorter than some other manufacturer dies which can cause some minor problems on certain machines. On my dillion 550 you have to screw the lee dies so far down that the locking right wont even hit the threads so you have to flip the locking ring over. I also remove the O-ring too. If you keep the dies in the tool head it's no problem, just tighten the nut and it stays but it can be a pain if you don't have extra tool heads and take the dies out.
Hey FC Steve, that is a really good idea, the lock rings from other manufactures are sometimes to big and you don't have room on the Lee head for the rings to screw down. I will try this method :-)
JunkfoodZombie - Trust you have been well, Jim - Yes, and I have a fair number of loose Lee rings in my ring box because of just that reason also. I really do like the cross bolt rings, myself - steel of course. These have been available from Lyman, Hornady and Forster - but not Lee (except for the Breech Lock - but useless if we have other presses). Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
FortuneCookie45LC I wish I could say that all is well. However, if you hop over to my channel and watch my recent video about needing prayer, you will get a brief synopsis of recent events. Things could be worse, but I would prefer them to be much better.
I use mine with my Hornady LNL collars and put the LNL conversion bushing on my Lee and RCBS presses! I use the Lee lock rings and snug them down to the Hornady LNL Bushing. Now they drop in exactly the same every time! Pretty much, never needs adjusting. If it does its usually because of some other reason. (the LNL's never lose adjustment).
Some reloaders will put an O ring under lock nut and even use a shim to set die plumb(or aligned to ram) which helps to prevent runout. Witness marks would work. And whats the big deal to adjust dies each time? I should think it a prudent manner to verify proper die adjustments with accurate case measurements before each sizing operation. Then again you can also get Lee or Hornady bushing system. I've only reloaded one caliber a couple of times. Haven't had the time to get advanced. So what do I know. lol Thanks for the video.
Yes the double Lee rings is a good solution for a single die pistol press. I use a Lee turret press and the o-ring secures the adjusted dies to the turret disc and I never remove them. Some other brand lock rings are too large diameter for the disc. I agree this setup is best for pistol and the Foster Co-ax is the best for non-benchrest rifle cartridges.
I know it's an old video but the solution still seems to be, buy lock rings. Hornady rings are almost identical in price and fix the problem. You can cut down how many sets you'll need by using the replaced rings on a 2nd set but theres a lot of presses that you'll run out thread room for 2
I thought the idea behind the o-ring was to allow the die a little bit of movement to help fix any misalignment, try measuring run-out with, and without the rubber o-ring.
I don’t have a problem with the lee lock rings. Been using them for some years now. I just make sure that I turn the lock ring first when taking the die out. That way it is always set right where I left it. If folks would read lee’ instructions they would find that out as well.
That's a really nice solution Mr Fortune Cookie! I'm not as fussy as some folks are but if I have a set that I want to stay in place that works great..... : )
EA - Top of the Season to ya..!! On my go to die sets, I have switched my Lee rings for cross lock rings from Lyman, Hornady and Forster. When these cross locks are set, we don't want to keep having to loosen and adjust them...if so, the Lee die lock rings work very well. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Isn't this why Lee Precision has quick change bushings? You set your die in the bushings and just leave them in the bushings for next time? My dies fit back into the Lee box with the quick change bushings still installed.
Shaun Fritz - Yes, indeed - as do the Hornady LnL bushings. You will notice that I don't use those - reason is that the bushings are best if only one press is being used. Since I run multiple presses, I like the flexibility of using dies on any of my presses - that leaves out the bushings. Best to ya, FC Steve
Lee dies are unbeatable! I would never change their lock nuts for those with Allen wrenches! Specially when setting those Allen wrench dies on the load master: there’s no room for the tightening!
I did like idea of flipping ring upside down. I found that on my Hornady progressive press Lee dies have barely any threads left to lock the die, but if I flip it it should give me extra 1 or 2.
There are two sides of the view on the Lee lock rings, One group say's they hold the die with enough cushion so that the die minutely moves within the bore of the press causing the brass align better while resizing. The other group says that the die is forever out of adjustment and your brass comes out with different dimensions and headspace settings. I personally don't use Lee rifle dies, they have a lot of features to them, however, I feel that there are other brands Mainly RCBS and Redding that are made to better tolerances, NOT to take away the value from Lee. They do work. That is just a personal preference of mine. Dave
TA777 - Thanks for chiming in, Dave. I never considered the Lee rubber gasket as being of any significance to die alignment . In my reply to Englishman French above, the Lee gaskets cannot provide axis shift that would be required to correct misalignment of case and die (die tippage cannot correct axis misalignment - but that is my supposition only). If that were a benefit, then we would use no rings at all with our sizer dies - just crank the die a bit during use. In my own run out testing, the gains made by use of Co-Ax or MEC Marksman (these have true die / case alignment correction) is in the order of less than .001" from just the press alone. We'd have to be shooting past 600 yards to see any benefits (The Army Marksmanship Unit uses Co-Ax presses, but they have all brands on hand - power of access to tax money). More run out gains are made by use of inline seating dies plus use of Lee Collet neck size dies. This is all fun stuff, of course. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Mike Jones i bought a few hornady, or simplex lock rings for some dies, and this means spare lee rings in soare parts box. They'll be used now. Thanks fortunecokkie. Legend mate.
Mike Jones - Congrats on getting into reloading - it's a personal industry all to itself - and very satisfying in results. Go slow in the beginning, and build in all your safety practices like using the correct powder, double checking the powder charges etc. All the manufacturers sell us their die lock rings in single or multiple packaging. Good reloadin' to ya..!! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
For years I have been buying Lee die sets - I love the dies. I hate the lock-ring - junk and does not work. This is the MOST stupid thing Lee has ever done. I have been replacing the lock ring with any other brand. My favorite brand has been Hornady. This video has a good trick - and I have lots of these useless Lee lock-rings laying around in a drawer. However, my first choice is still to buy Hornady lock-rings as replacements.
They're O=Rings. Anyway, that is a simple solution if you have a free ring. Another would be to use blue loctite on the ring or even red if you aren't going to change the setting. If you have a drill press, you could drill the ring and tap it for a set screw.
Cookie. I'm not sure what the problem is . But never had an issue . Maybe I'm better not knowing , it works fine . You can sent me the knife if not needed. Nice Christmas gift . Merry Christmas to you and all .
Nick L - Thanks, Nick. Not all users of Lee dies hate these rings (but many do). Lee actually went with their Breech Lock system to allow quick interchange of dies. The Lee rings work fine but have to be readjusted with each use since the rings don't lock to the dies. In the past, simple replacement with rings from Lyman, RCBS, Hornady or Forster was done. So here is an alternative not as a recommendation, but as a consideration for any reloader looking for solving this short of replacing the rings. That could have been made more clear in the video. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Get the Lee bushings,lock the rings down and that adjustment is permanent.You can then remove and reinstall the dies without using your adjustment.Why make it so difficult.? KISS!!!!!!!!!! SHOOT SAFE!!!!!!!!!!!
Another informative video. am thinking an injected molded or 3D printed upper nut would look better and could be imprinted with the Caliber. So you could spot your dies by color and caliber text quickly. Since so many revolver dies do multiple cartridges mixing them up is easy. ( ie 38/357, 44SP/44MAG, and now 45LC has shorter cousin.)
Surely this defeats the whole purpose of having the "O" ring in the first place, which is to give the die a certain amount of self aligning movement, if you want the die to be rigid just take off the "O" ring, if you want a locked adjuster with the self aligning facility just drill and tap for a hex grub screw and you have the best of both worlds.
EF - Hail to the Continent..!! Always great hearing from ya...Never considered that the Lee gaskets gave that movement - must have missed that in the instruction sheets or manuals somewhere. And that hasn't been brought out in any videos that I have seen. As I consider this, misalignment means the axis of the case is not in axis with the die. Tipping of the die axis will not correct the misalignment. Only axis shift can do that, a la Co-Ax or MEC Marksman. Reason the vertical slop in the turret presses may not really be doing any misalignment correction. However, this is all mental supposition on my part...I suppose a machinist can answer these questions best. In my own testing, the run out gain from using the Co-Ax or MEC Marksman is miniscule at best - would require shooting out past 600 yards to realize any accuracy benefits. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Steve: I have always been sceptical about the reason for any "slop" being identified" as "alignment" correction facility as per the Co Ax press description , any modern made press must surely be machined taking into consideration the axis of the die/ram, this is a very easily achieved goal with any machine tool and I cannot see any reason why the axis should be anything but perfect given that the die is accurately ground and everything is symmetrical and on a common axis, the only thing that could cause misalignment would be the press spine bending, or maybe excess slop in the ram bearing, but their would have to be a massive clearance in the bearing to cause any concern, as you correctly identify, the only "wobble" would give clearance outside of the die axis, which would only be beneficial if the press spine was bent, then it would be time for a new press I think ! Enjoy your Christmas ! Chris B.
I agree with this reasoning. If the die and the brass "disagree" I would prefer to make the brass conform to the dimensions of the die. In pistols, glocked brass is very common. The die should not deflect to match the bulge. As for the set screw thing, I think you can do the jamb nut thing without flipping dies. Lee rings are available for about a buck each in a multipack. At least they have wrench flats.
@@FortuneCookie45LC I have compared axial bullet to case runout from seating on my Lee Classic Turret Press to seating on my Forster Co-ax Press and have found no appreciable difference. Used same cases and bullets, same seating depth. The Lee press is as accurate as I need.
thanks for your videos at least yours are professionally done now please make a video of the lee classic turret press loading 9mm that isn't more than 5 minutes long
Lee has breach lock for single stage, best route is to buy extras and lock it tight using RCBS die wrench which is a must have and works on tight turret spaces too. Than you can switch dies by removing breach lock - quick and easy. www.midwayusa.com/product/221930/rcbs-die-locking-ring-wrench |||| www.midwayusa.com/product/971565/lee-breech-lock-quick-change-bushings-pack-of-2
Dima Prok - Always great to hear from ya -- The Lee Breech Lock System is great if we only use one press. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
True, but if you move it to a different press then previous setting would not apply and you would have to re setup die anyway. I like Lee turret system, the aluminum 4 hole turret disk you setup once all your dies and it takes 5 seconds to swap to a different caliber.
Just buy a 6 pack or two of Hornady lock rings. Crank the hex lock screw after you have them set. $18 bucks for 6 lock rings that will last forever is worth it. Hornady engineered the die lock ring correctly. Attempting any sort of bullet loading precision with a squishy polymer O-Ring is fiddely nonsense.
Not joking I sent you that package. I posted several comments asking if you received it. You are going to love that little sharpener. Its small but works great ! Happy Holidays. Nice trick from Kaiyler ! will use it.
VE - Thanks, Jeff - those are quality items you sent - I'm much in appreciation...!! Opening the package was joyful...Google did not post your follow up comments in my inbox for me to see...Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Uncle Jay - Yes - numerous viewers have reported doing this with good results. Reversing the rings works well though and the double rings if possible are very secure. Best to ya, FC Steve
Once I have my dies set? I mark all points of adjustment with a simple truth mark with a sharpie. Then I always have a reference point for adjustment, if ever needed. Which it never needs, other than bullet seating depth. Then I still have a poor mans reference point.
Gary - Great hearing from you..!! You are not amongst the Lee Die Lock Ring detractors out there. This video was to offer, not a recommendation, but a consideration for an alternative to replacing the Lee rings with those of other manufacturers. Neither was this video to discuss the different ring systems available. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, Gary -- FC Steve
First I must thank you for your many interesting and insightful videos. I have learned a lot from this channel on my rocky road to reloading:-) I do use the 1 inch dies for the Martini Henry and I am wondering if there is any company out there that make die rings with set screw that I could use on this die set?
Love watching your videos, but why an alternate solution for an easy fix? Just use anyone else's locking rings. Of course I'm only using these Lee dies in pistol type calibers and they are permanently installed in a shell plate for a turret press so it's not really a bother to me. Take care.
Absolutely! The only way to go if you are serious about locking down you dies. No set screw to chew on your die threads. ALL my dies are outfitted with the Hornady lock rings.
boatbuilder1 - One reason for not going with that fine Breech Lock idea (or LNL on Hornady) is I have four single stage presses, and being able to use dies in all four is good.... Great 2018 to ya, FC Steve
AH Gotcha! That makes sense. By the way I enjoy your videos and very useful information. You are very well informed and knowledgeable. Have a great 2018 Dale in Michigan
Ronald Valdez I have no problem with that. There is supposed to be a small piece of lead shot underneath the grub screw so that it locks down without the grub screw actually contacting the threads. Works fine for me. Although, I prefer some other lock rings where the grub screw goes sideways through the lock ring and squeezes the die.
Ronald Valdez - The rings we prefer are the cross bolt rings that clamp the rings to the die threads without marring the threads. But the problem is that when we tighten those, it also freezes the die against press requiring a wrench to loosen for removal. The set screw type doesn't do that to anywhere the degree the cross bolts do, but thread marring is the problem with those. Lee got around all of that with their 0 ring design, but reloaders disliked the cheapness. However, we all appreciate the price point of Lee dies. Steel rings could easily add significant cost to a 4 die set. This video was not to bring all that out, but just to offer an alternative that reloaders can consider... Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
JunkfoodZombie - Great hearing from ya...since you are an experienced reloader, you know the issues with the various die lock ring systems...This video was not to be a recommendation, but rather an alternative to replaceing the Lee rings with more expensive ring systems. The reason I have so many loose Lee rings in that ring box is because I have replaced many of my Lee rings with Lymans, Forsters and Hornadys with the cross bolts. The Lee rings do work though if a reloader doesn't mind readjusting the dies with every use. The Lee Breech Lock system was a solution that only required a ring change to do the same. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Excellent video. Very helpful. Thanks!
Hi
FortuneCookie , I have the Lee Challenger Breech Lock Single Stage Press and I use the Lee Spline Drive Breech Lock Quick Change Bushings. They lock the dies in to where you want them Your set to & you can swap out your dies quickly & they stay set until you want to change them. They work grate & they are color coded too. Ricky
Damn this problem has been on my mind for quite awhile. Thank you for the video!
Thankfully, Lee now has the ultimate die lock ring. I rarely have to remove them as I have a separate 4 hole turret for each caliber I load. I just change turrets as needed.
Precision rifle I can see he fuss. I have reloaded thousands upon thousands of pistol rounds with the lee rings and have never had an issue. i actually appreciate their tunabillity more so over stubborn lock types in my pistol rounds. I mark a single line on the top of the bullet seater as an index that allows me to half turn or full turn on some of my rounds and then easily go back based on a change on nose profile. maybe I'll do a video to illustrate the merits of the Lee lock ring.
What a great idea! I had a little time and I loaded 200 rounds of .45 ACP Sunday night. Its never really mattered to me but i want to reload more in the evenings and I'd like to be able to just pop that in knowing that its retained the adjustment.
Love the addition of intro music👍
As someone who wants to start reloading I always enjoy your content and your VAST knowledge. You're always very gracious and a joy to watch thank you.
SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED
Thank you FC - I really enjoy your thoughts!
I admit - rubber bumpers never impressed me. On the other side, I keep a resized case and a host of whatever bullets I load all in brass, dropped into the die storage box. I have found over the 40 yrs that this allowed me, to quickly get my die zero'd, to my preference. I have 3 models of presses, none are in the same town. While the dies and components travel, none of the presses, have the same set-point. 5 calibers and 9 firearms needing fuel, makes for a peaceful evening at the lake. I don't mind the odd spent primer on the floor there. Other rules at the house! I like to keep her happy. Cheers!
I converted a couple dozen Lee lock rings when I switched to Hornady presses and Hornady L-N-L die bushings.. I made a jig to hold them in my drill press and drilled a hole thru the ring, then tapped it for a set screw. Then on the inside of the ring hole I stuffed a piece of nylon line from a string trimmer, This keeps the set screw off the threads of the die. A bit fussy to set up but works like a charm.
PY - Sounds very workable..!! I have the drill press, but not the taps - a little mosey over to Home Depot would take care of that though. In the meantime, I just did some reloading with the Lee rings reversed so the solid was towards the press...worked fine. If I needed more security, the double ring would have done. Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
I have the LEE breach lock challenger press and with the LEE dies I have had no problems at all. I love the LEE dies
Another good idea from Fortune Cookie! I was replacing them with steel lock screw rings. Using the cast offs as jamb nuts makes total sense. Tnx!
Arturo Erickson - Thanks for posting, Arturo - and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
The new Lee lock rings are great.
One thing to consider is that the rubber washer allows some flexibility for alignment. I'm finding that some rings are good for some things, and other rings are better for others. I'm using Lyman lock rings for some things, and Lee rings for others.
Psyko Klown - As experienced reloaders, we have dealt with all the pros and cons of the various ring systems available. I have never considered the Lee rubber gasket as offering alignment correction. If the case axis and die axis are not coincident, tipping of the die axis cannot correct same - requires axis shift to correct and only Co-Ax or MEC Marksman offers that. Turret press head slop might offer some correction or not. This video was not a recommendation for solution, but rather to offer an alternative consideration or not... Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Lee now makes a set-screw locking ring that looks like a direct replacement for the hex rings.
Thank You Both! I have a number of Lee Dies. and that is a nifty solution for a problem I have had.
A die lock ring, to even be considered for use, has to be split with a cross bolt. The Forster aluminum lock ring is good except for the slot drive screw (hopefully they have changed to allen key drive). I found, years ago, that the Hornady steel die lock ring was the best value for the money. This lock ring uses an allen key drive cross bolt which pinches the split ring into the die body to lock it.
They can be had in multi packs at an even greater value. If you absolutely have no choice and have to use the archaic, set screw into the die threads, crap lock ring.......you can place a piece of lead shot between the setscrew and die body to protect the die threads.
Where lock ring clearance can be an issue, as on the Lee Classic turret press, I have used Dillon die lock rings (which have a smaller OD) and drilled and tapped them then used a brass setscrew (I know, into the die body threads but the brass is softer than the threads). I then alternated between a die with the modified Dillon and a cross bolt split lock ring around the turret to facilitate easier access to lock the die settings. The Lee Breech Lock with built in split lock ring is the neatest idea since sliced bread. I have a couple Lee presses with this feature. Time will tell if their design is built for the long haul.
Thanks for sharing.
It seems Lee listened because now they have their ultimate die lock rings. They still use the oring on the bottom, but they're also a split design so you can clamp them securely to the die to avoid losing your setting. I haven't had any issues with the classic die lock rings, but I use a turret press so they're rarely ever moved or adjusted after being set up. Not even for cleaning as the turret head is a great holder when you're cleaning dies.
If you are doubleing up on the ring… it’s the same as replacing them. Great idea, but where am I supposed to get the top locking ring? Unless I’m robbing from another set of dies…
I’m sure there are reloaders out there who have problems with the Lee dies, I’m sure you could find someone who has some type of problem with any die set on the market. I only use Lee dies and have never had a problem with their lock rings or the o-rings on them. I do think it’s wrong to insinuate (as you have) that everyone who uses Lee dies has a problem with the lock nut. It’s simply not true.
I've never personally had a problem with Lee's rings. I thought about replacing them with Hornady Sure LOC rings after hearing people complain, but after some measurements, it wasn't necessary. My Lee dies with the factory rings are turning out concentric and accurate ammo for 308, 7mm-08, 223, and 6mm Creedmoor. Just ordered another set for a 30-06 hunting rifle I'm inheriting from my great uncle. The most I've had to do was take a crescent wrench and give it a slight snugging up once the ring was turned all the way down.
I have the Lee breechlock press, so I just have a bushing on each die that I use that I want a firm setting maintained, such as seating and crimping dies. With the bushings you just drop and twist them to lock into the press. Easy every time.
Hey FC. Another tip to add is that lee dies seem to be a little shorter than some other manufacturer dies which can cause some minor problems on certain machines. On my dillion 550 you have to screw the lee dies so far down that the locking right wont even hit the threads so you have to flip the locking ring over. I also remove the O-ring too. If you keep the dies in the tool head it's no problem, just tighten the nut and it stays but it can be a pain if you don't have extra tool heads and take the dies out.
Hey FC Steve, that is a really good idea, the lock rings from other manufactures are sometimes to big and you don't have room on the Lee head for the rings to screw down. I will try this method :-)
I just buy a separate set of locking rings that lock with a grub screw. Preferably a split ring that squeezes the die.
JunkfoodZombie - Trust you have been well, Jim - Yes, and I have a fair number of loose Lee rings in my ring box because of just that reason also. I really do like the cross bolt rings, myself - steel of course. These have been available from Lyman, Hornady and Forster - but not Lee (except for the Breech Lock - but useless if we have other presses). Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
FortuneCookie45LC I wish I could say that all is well. However, if you hop over to my channel and watch my recent video about needing prayer, you will get a brief synopsis of recent events. Things could be worse, but I would prefer them to be much better.
I use mine with my Hornady LNL collars and put the LNL conversion bushing on my Lee and RCBS presses! I use the Lee lock rings and snug them down to the Hornady LNL Bushing. Now they drop in exactly the same every time! Pretty much, never needs adjusting. If it does its usually because of some other reason. (the LNL's never lose adjustment).
I remove the O ring and jam a plain 7/8-14 bulkhead nut against it, quick/cheap fix
Some reloaders will put an O ring under lock nut and even use a shim to set die plumb(or aligned to ram) which helps to prevent runout. Witness marks would work. And whats the big deal to adjust dies each time? I should think it a prudent manner to verify proper die adjustments with accurate case measurements before each sizing operation. Then again you can also get Lee or Hornady bushing system. I've only reloaded one caliber a couple of times. Haven't had the time to get advanced. So what do I know. lol Thanks for the video.
Yes the double Lee rings is a good solution for a single die pistol press. I use a Lee turret press and the o-ring secures the adjusted dies to the turret disc and I never remove them. Some other brand lock rings are too large diameter for the disc. I agree this setup is best for pistol and the Foster Co-ax is the best for non-benchrest rifle cartridges.
I know it's an old video but the solution still seems to be, buy lock rings. Hornady rings are almost identical in price and fix the problem. You can cut down how many sets you'll need by using the replaced rings on a 2nd set but theres a lot of presses that you'll run out thread room for 2
I thought the idea behind the o-ring was to allow the die a little bit of movement to help fix any misalignment, try measuring run-out with, and without the rubber o-ring.
Or you could drill and tap the the ring with a grub screw fitted it would hold with out moving
Leo Ceh - That is for sure - but then we would still be taking care not to strip the aluminum by overtightening... Best to ya, Steve
Just drill and tap the lock ring and fit a grub screw
I don’t have a problem with the lee lock rings. Been using them for some years now. I just make sure that I turn the lock ring first when taking the die out. That way it is always set right where I left it. If folks would read lee’ instructions they would find that out as well.
Cool hack. Ive just switched to Horady sure lok s with a setscrew .
That's a really nice solution Mr Fortune Cookie! I'm not as fussy as some folks are but if I have a set that I want to stay in place that works great..... : )
EA - Top of the Season to ya..!! On my go to die sets, I have switched my Lee rings for cross lock rings from Lyman, Hornady and Forster. When these cross locks are set, we don't want to keep having to loosen and adjust them...if so, the Lee die lock rings work very well. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Isn't this why Lee Precision has quick change bushings? You set your die in the bushings and just leave them in the bushings for next time? My dies fit back into the Lee box with the quick change bushings still installed.
Shaun Fritz - Yes, indeed - as do the Hornady LnL bushings. You will notice that I don't use those - reason is that the bushings are best if only one press is being used. Since I run multiple presses, I like the flexibility of using dies on any of my presses - that leaves out the bushings. Best to ya, FC Steve
I think the hornady rings are the best designed. Lee doesn't intend for you to remove the dies from the press, they expect you to use turret plates.
GunGun ZS - The Hornady rings are indeed nice...and they work in the Co-Ax very well also...Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
If only they had the sense to put wrench flats on them. Knurling does little good with a recalcitrant tool.
Lee dies are unbeatable! I would never change their lock nuts for those with Allen wrenches! Specially when setting those Allen wrench dies on the load master: there’s no room for the tightening!
Huh, I never found the locks rings to be a problem.
I did like idea of flipping ring upside down. I found that on my Hornady progressive press Lee dies have barely any threads left to lock the die, but if I flip it it should give me extra 1 or 2.
Dima Prok - Absolutely so...experienced reloaders have come to understand the various die lock ring systems...Have a great Season...FC Steve
Why not just drill and tap for a set screw? Worked for me.
There are two sides of the view on the Lee lock rings, One group say's they hold the die with enough cushion so that the die minutely moves within the bore of the press causing the brass align better while resizing. The other group says that the die is forever out of adjustment and your brass comes out with different dimensions and headspace settings. I personally don't use Lee rifle dies, they have a lot of features to them, however, I feel that there are other brands Mainly RCBS and Redding that are made to better tolerances, NOT to take away the value from Lee. They do work. That is just a personal preference of mine. Dave
TA777 - Thanks for chiming in, Dave. I never considered the Lee rubber gasket as being of any significance to die alignment . In my reply to Englishman French above, the Lee gaskets cannot provide axis shift that would be required to correct misalignment of case and die (die tippage cannot correct axis misalignment - but that is my supposition only). If that were a benefit, then we would use no rings at all with our sizer dies - just crank the die a bit during use. In my own run out testing, the gains made by use of Co-Ax or MEC Marksman (these have true die / case alignment correction) is in the order of less than .001" from just the press alone. We'd have to be shooting past 600 yards to see any benefits (The Army Marksmanship Unit uses Co-Ax presses, but they have all brands on hand - power of access to tax money). More run out gains are made by use of inline seating dies plus use of Lee Collet neck size dies. This is all fun stuff, of course. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
I thread a smal 3mm insex screw into all of my Lee dialog rings and turn it upside down whitout the o-ring.
My solution was to throw the Lee ring in the trash and buy an RCBS ring with a set screw. $3.99, and the Lee is $2.99.
Lmmfao!
I did something similar but I used Hornady lock ring nut on top of my Lee lock ring nut
Mike Sandoval - Sounds good, Mike - Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
I'm new too reloading, but you can buy extra nuts .
Mike Jones i bought a few hornady, or simplex lock rings for some dies, and this means spare lee rings in soare parts box. They'll be used now. Thanks fortunecokkie. Legend mate.
Mike Jones - Congrats on getting into reloading - it's a personal industry all to itself - and very satisfying in results. Go slow in the beginning, and build in all your safety practices like using the correct powder, double checking the powder charges etc. All the manufacturers sell us their die lock rings in single or multiple packaging. Good reloadin' to ya..!! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
...the new breech lock system obviates that problem...
For years I have been buying Lee die sets - I love the dies. I hate the lock-ring - junk and does not work. This is the MOST stupid thing Lee has ever done. I have been replacing the lock ring with any other brand. My favorite brand has been Hornady. This video has a good trick - and I have lots of these useless Lee lock-rings laying around in a drawer. However, my first choice is still to buy Hornady lock-rings as replacements.
They're O=Rings. Anyway, that is a simple solution if you have a free ring. Another would be to use blue loctite on the ring or even red if you aren't going to change the setting. If you have a drill press, you could drill the ring and tap it for a set screw.
I have the LNL press so i like these die lock rings since they seem to be nice and snug on the die bushings
Cookie. I'm not sure what the problem is . But never had an issue . Maybe I'm better not knowing , it works fine . You can sent me the knife if not needed. Nice Christmas gift . Merry Christmas to you and all .
Nick L - Thanks, Nick. Not all users of Lee dies hate these rings (but many do). Lee actually went with their Breech Lock system to allow quick interchange of dies. The Lee rings work fine but have to be readjusted with each use since the rings don't lock to the dies. In the past, simple replacement with rings from Lyman, RCBS, Hornady or Forster was done. So here is an alternative not as a recommendation, but as a consideration for any reloader looking for solving this short of replacing the rings. That could have been made more clear in the video. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Great idea Steve!! I like it...
the hornandy american rifle dies are the same with the stupid "O" rings. i just add a 2nd nut.
Get the Lee bushings,lock the rings down and that adjustment is permanent.You can then remove and reinstall the dies without using your adjustment.Why make it so difficult.? KISS!!!!!!!!!! SHOOT SAFE!!!!!!!!!!!
Another informative video.
am thinking an injected molded or 3D printed upper nut would look better and could be imprinted with the Caliber. So you could spot your dies by color and caliber text quickly. Since so many revolver dies do multiple cartridges mixing them up is easy. ( ie 38/357, 44SP/44MAG, and now 45LC has shorter cousin.)
Surely this defeats the whole purpose of having the "O" ring in the first place, which is to give the die a certain amount of self aligning movement, if you want the die to be rigid just take off the "O" ring, if you want a locked adjuster with the self aligning facility just drill and tap for a hex grub screw and you have the best of both worlds.
EF - Hail to the Continent..!! Always great hearing from ya...Never considered that the Lee gaskets gave that movement - must have missed that in the instruction sheets or manuals somewhere. And that hasn't been brought out in any videos that I have seen. As I consider this, misalignment means the axis of the case is not in axis with the die. Tipping of the die axis will not correct the misalignment. Only axis shift can do that, a la Co-Ax or MEC Marksman. Reason the vertical slop in the turret presses may not really be doing any misalignment correction. However, this is all mental supposition on my part...I suppose a machinist can answer these questions best. In my own testing, the run out gain from using the Co-Ax or MEC Marksman is miniscule at best - would require shooting out past 600 yards to realize any accuracy benefits. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Steve: I have always been sceptical about the reason for any "slop" being identified" as "alignment" correction facility as per the Co Ax press description , any modern made press must surely be machined taking into consideration the axis of the die/ram, this is a very easily achieved goal with any machine tool and I cannot see any reason why the axis should be anything but perfect given that the die is accurately ground and everything is symmetrical and on a common axis, the only thing that could cause misalignment would be the press spine bending, or maybe excess slop in the ram bearing, but their would have to be a massive clearance in the bearing to cause any concern, as you correctly identify, the only "wobble" would give clearance outside of the die axis, which would only be beneficial if the press spine was bent, then it would be time for a new press I think ! Enjoy your Christmas ! Chris B.
I agree with this reasoning. If the die and the brass "disagree" I would prefer to make the brass conform to the dimensions of the die. In pistols, glocked brass is very common. The die should not deflect to match the bulge. As for the set screw thing, I think you can do the jamb nut thing without flipping dies. Lee rings are available for about a buck each in a multipack. At least they have wrench flats.
@@FortuneCookie45LC I have compared axial bullet to case runout from seating on my Lee Classic Turret Press to seating on my Forster Co-ax Press and have found no appreciable difference. Used same cases and bullets, same seating depth. The Lee press is as accurate as I need.
thanks for your videos at least yours are professionally done
now please make a video of the lee classic turret press loading 9mm that isn't more than 5 minutes long
I like this no frills solution, amazon wants $16.50 for six hornady lock rings.
Lee has breach lock for single stage, best route is to buy extras and lock it tight using RCBS die wrench which is a must have and works on tight turret spaces too. Than you can switch dies by removing breach lock - quick and easy.
www.midwayusa.com/product/221930/rcbs-die-locking-ring-wrench |||| www.midwayusa.com/product/971565/lee-breech-lock-quick-change-bushings-pack-of-2
Dima Prok - Always great to hear from ya -- The Lee Breech Lock System is great if we only use one press. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
True, but if you move it to a different press then previous setting would not apply and you would have to re setup die anyway. I like Lee turret system, the aluminum 4 hole turret disk you setup once all your dies and it takes 5 seconds to swap to a different caliber.
Fortune cookie I need your help loading 12 guage #4 I'm super confused on reloading it.
Or as you have done, replace the Lee lock ring with a Hornady lock ring that actually locks.
Just buy a 6 pack or two of Hornady lock rings. Crank the hex lock screw after you have them set. $18 bucks for 6 lock rings that will last forever is worth it. Hornady engineered the die lock ring correctly. Attempting any sort of bullet loading precision with a squishy polymer O-Ring is fiddely nonsense.
U don’t have a clue what your talking about! And u have no understanding on the purpose of the o ring do you?
Not joking I sent you that package. I posted several comments asking if you received it. You are going to love that little sharpener. Its small but works great ! Happy Holidays. Nice trick from Kaiyler ! will use it.
VE - Thanks, Jeff - those are quality items you sent - I'm much in appreciation...!! Opening the package was joyful...Google did not post your follow up comments in my inbox for me to see...Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
Has anyone considered simply drilling a hole and tapping (threading) it for a small set screw?
Uncle Jay - Yes - numerous viewers have reported doing this with good results. Reversing the rings works well though and the double rings if possible are very secure. Best to ya, FC Steve
Hornady lock rings are inexpensive on Amazon ... about $3 each.
bushed274 - Thanks for the tip...$3 is a good price on those... I like to buy 'em in the multipacks... Best to ya, FC Steve
Once I have my dies set? I mark all points of adjustment with a simple truth mark with a sharpie. Then I always have a reference point for adjustment, if ever needed. Which it never needs, other than bullet seating depth. Then I still have a poor mans reference point.
I use RCBS lock rings on all my lee dies.
Andreas191280 - I have used those as well as Hornadys, Forsters, and Lymans. The cross lock type are the best. Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
Interesting....I never had a issue....
Gary - Great hearing from you..!! You are not amongst the Lee Die Lock Ring detractors out there. This video was to offer, not a recommendation, but a consideration for an alternative to replacing the Lee rings with those of other manufacturers. Neither was this video to discuss the different ring systems available. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, Gary -- FC Steve
Oh, that's handy & easy.
shananagans 5 - Thanks for dropping in, Shaz..!! Gives me a great chance to say -- Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
That’s a good suggestion for use on a single stag press but the rubber rings work very well and keep their setting when using a Terret press.
First I must thank you for your many interesting and insightful videos.
I have learned a lot from this channel on my rocky road to reloading:-)
I do use the 1 inch dies for the Martini Henry and I am wondering if there is any company out there that make die rings with set screw that I could use on this die set?
Love watching your videos, but why an alternate solution for an easy fix? Just use anyone else's locking rings. Of course I'm only using these Lee dies in pistol type calibers and they are permanently installed in a shell plate for a turret press so it's not really a bother to me. Take care.
Buy some hornady lock rings
Awesome idea!!!
Replace them with the Hornady die locking rings, cheap fix. Lee locking rings throw away.
Absolutely! The only way to go if you are serious about locking down you dies. No set screw to chew on your die threads. ALL my dies are outfitted with the Hornady lock rings.
Breech Lok!
boatbuilder1 - One reason for not going with that fine Breech Lock idea (or LNL on Hornady) is I have four single stage presses, and being able to use dies in all four is good.... Great 2018 to ya, FC Steve
AH Gotcha! That makes sense. By the way I enjoy your videos and very useful information. You are very well informed and knowledgeable.
Have a great 2018
Dale in Michigan
boatbuilder1 - And thanks for your comments, Dale...please put in more as you have the opportunity... Best Regards, FC Steve
There better then Rcbs bone head ideas of a set screw that locks against the threads
Ronald Valdez I have no problem with that. There is supposed to be a small piece of lead shot underneath the grub screw so that it locks down without the grub screw actually contacting the threads. Works fine for me. Although, I prefer some other lock rings where the grub screw goes sideways through the lock ring and squeezes the die.
Ronald Valdez - The rings we prefer are the cross bolt rings that clamp the rings to the die threads without marring the threads. But the problem is that when we tighten those, it also freezes the die against press requiring a wrench to loosen for removal. The set screw type doesn't do that to anywhere the degree the cross bolts do, but thread marring is the problem with those. Lee got around all of that with their 0 ring design, but reloaders disliked the cheapness. However, we all appreciate the price point of Lee dies. Steel rings could easily add significant cost to a 4 die set. This video was not to bring all that out, but just to offer an alternative that reloaders can consider... Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
JunkfoodZombie - Great hearing from ya...since you are an experienced reloader, you know the issues with the various die lock ring systems...This video was not to be a recommendation, but rather an alternative to replaceing the Lee rings with more expensive ring systems. The reason I have so many loose Lee rings in that ring box is because I have replaced many of my Lee rings with Lymans, Forsters and Hornadys with the cross bolts. The Lee rings do work though if a reloader doesn't mind readjusting the dies with every use. The Lee Breech Lock system was a solution that only required a ring change to do the same. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve
FortuneCookie45LC And a happy holidays to you too, my friend. Always a pleasure to converse with you!
This sound good ... but don't. The rubber oring is there for a reason... It allows the die to float a bit.
🤣 lol this is dumb af
:-)