The Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006: Not Just Another Review
My reloading bench is a testament to years of tinkering, experimenting, and a healthy dose of obsession with precision. It’s a space cluttered with an array of tools and consumables, each with its own story and purpose. Amidst the rows of dies, tumblers, and powder measures, a small, unassuming tube recently caught my eye – the Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006. I’d accumulated a veritable arsenal of case lubes over the years: the slick spray of Hornady One Shot, the reliable goo of Dillon Case Lubricant, and the fine wax of Imperial. Yet, I found myself reaching for this particular Lee offering more and more, especially for smaller, more deliberate reloading projects. It wasn’t a dramatic need that drove me to this product, but rather a gradual recognition of its quiet competence. My first impression was one of straightforward utility; it’s a simple tube of viscous lubricant, no-nonsense, and it felt substantial in hand. I had considered a more expensive, specialty lube from a boutique reloading manufacturer, but Lee’s reputation for functional, affordable gear always draws me in. My initial reaction was one of quiet curiosity mixed with a hopeful anticipation of its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 to the Test
I’ve primarily tested this Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 in my home reloading room, a space that fluctuates in temperature and occasionally sees a fine layer of brass dust settle on everything. Its application is usually during meticulously planned reloading sessions, focusing on precision rifle cartridges where case neck tension and consistent sizing are paramount. I’ve subjected it to repeated use over several weeks, resizing batches of brass ranging from fifty to a few hundred pieces at a time. The lubricant performed admirably even when I was under pressure to finish a batch quickly, proving quite effective.
In terms of ease of use, this Lee lubricant is remarkably intuitive. It requires no special tools or complicated application methods, making it accessible even for newer reloaders. You simply apply a small amount directly to the case, and it’s ready to go. I’ve experienced no leaks or unexpected issues with its consistency.
After weeks of consistent use, the performance of this case lube has remained remarkably stable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the tube itself, and the lubricant within remains as viscous and effective as the day I opened it. Cleaning up is also straightforward; a damp cloth readily removes any excess residue from cases after sizing. Compared to some spray lubes I’ve used, which can leave a slight film or require more vigorous wiping, this tube’s water-soluble nature is a significant advantage. It hasn’t degraded performance in any noticeable way, and I haven’t encountered a single stuck or dented case, a testament to its efficacy.
First Use Experience
My initial encounter with the Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 took place on my workbench, amidst the organized chaos of brass prep. I was working on a batch of .223 Remington brass, a caliber I frequently reload for precision shooting. The process was simple: I squeezed a small dab of the lubricant onto my fingertips, rolled it around a case mouth, and then lightly pressed the case rim against my thumb to ensure coverage. I specifically paid attention to getting a bit inside the case neck, as instructed, but carefully avoiding the outside of the neck to prevent any potential interference with seating bullets.
The lubricant had a pleasant, almost imperceptible feel – not greasy or overly sticky. I let the cases sit for a few seconds to allow the lubricant to “set” or slightly dry, which I found helped in achieving a smoother press stroke. During resizing, the press operated smoothly, with noticeably less friction than I’ve sometimes felt with other lubes. There was a satisfying, solid feel to the resizing operation, devoid of any grinding or resistance.
After resizing, the cases wiped clean with minimal effort. I tested it under varied conditions; for instance, on a humid afternoon where some lubricants can become slightly tacky, this one maintained its consistent texture. It also held up well over a few days of sitting on the bench, retaining its lubricating properties. The real surprise was how little it seemed to interfere with subsequent steps.
Extended Use & Reliability
As my reloading schedule picked up, the Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 became a staple for medium-run brass processing. I’ve used it to resize hundreds of cases since my initial testing, and its reliability has not wavered. The tube itself has held up remarkably well; the cap screws on securely, preventing any accidental leaks in my tool drawers.
The durability of the lubricant is impressive. Even after being exposed to the ambient conditions of my workshop for extended periods, its consistency remains unchanged. It doesn’t dry out, nor does it become excessively thin in warmer temperatures. This consistent performance is crucial for reloading, where predictable results are key.
Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. A quick wipe of any excess from the case mouth or fingers with a damp rag is all that’s typically required. Unlike some petroleum-based lubes that can be challenging to remove completely, the water-soluble nature of this Lee product makes cleanup a breeze. It doesn’t gum up dies or require special solvents, which saves time and hassle. Compared to the spray lubes, which I find can sometimes leave an uneven coating, this direct-application method offers a more controlled and effective lubrication.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006
Specifications
The Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 comes in a straightforward 2 ounce tube. This size is compact enough for easy storage on a reloading bench or even in a range bag, without being so small that it’s quickly depleted. The lubricant itself is a viscous, paste-like substance designed for metal-on-metal friction reduction. Its primary purpose is to ease the significant forces involved in resizing spent brass casings, preventing them from sticking in sizing dies.
The water-soluble nature of this lubricant is a key specification. This means it can be easily cleaned off brass with water, eliminating the need for harsh solvents or extensive wiping. This characteristic significantly simplifies the post-sizing cleaning process, saving valuable time and effort for the reloader.
The absence of strong odors is another notable feature. In a workshop environment, strong chemical smells can be unpleasant and even contribute to headaches. This odorless formulation makes the reloading process more comfortable, especially during long sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any resizing lubricant is to make the process of reforming spent brass casings as smooth and resistance-free as possible. The Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 performs this task exceptionally well. It significantly reduces the effort required to work the resizing die, and more importantly, it virtually eliminates the risk of case head separation or stuck cases.
A major strength is its consistency. Whether resizing rifle brass with small-base dies or pistol cartridges, the lubricant provides a reliable barrier against friction. I’ve experienced no instances of sticky cases or dies binding up, which can be a frustrating and potentially damaging issue with other lubricants.
While its primary function is resizing, it also works effectively for other applications such as bullet draw-down (neck turning preparation), ensuring consistent neck tension for hand-seated bullets. It meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended use, especially considering its modest price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 is purely functional. It’s a simple plastic tube with a screw-on cap, designed for easy dispensing. The material of the tube feels durable enough to withstand typical workshop conditions.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for direct application. You squeeze the tube to dispense the lubricant directly onto your fingers or the case. This method is very controlled, allowing you to use just the amount needed, thereby reducing waste.
The cap seals well, preventing the lubricant from drying out or leaking. The text on the tube is clear and legible, providing necessary product information without being overly flashy. There’s no real learning curve here; it’s as straightforward as it gets.
Durability & Maintenance
From my experience, the Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 is built for longevity. The lubricant itself, when stored with the cap securely fastened, shows no signs of degradation over time. I’ve had tubes sit for months and remain perfectly usable.
Maintenance is practically nonexistent. The key is simply ensuring the cap is properly tightened after each use to prevent drying or contamination. Cleaning off the lubricant from cases is incredibly easy due to its water-soluble properties. A quick rinse with water and a light tumble or air dry is all that’s needed to prepare cases for the next step in the reloading process.
Potential failure points are minimal. The tube itself could potentially crack if dropped on a hard surface, but the plastic seems reasonably robust. The cap threading could wear out over extreme periods of use, but this is unlikely for most users. Overall, its durability and low maintenance make it a practical choice.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 is a standalone product with no inherent accessories. Its design is focused on direct application from the tube. There are no needles, tips, or other modular components that come with it or can be added.
However, its versatility can be expanded by users through simple dilution. As demonstrated by some reloaders, mixing this lubricant with 99% isopropyl alcohol can create a sprayable solution. This custom mixture offers a different application method for those who prefer spraying their brass.
The lack of complex accessories means it’s not about customization in the traditional sense, but rather about its inherent properties and how users can adapt its application. Its compatibility with standard reloading practices is its strongest suit.
Pros and Cons of Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006
Pros
- Excellent Case Lubrication: Prevents stuck cases and reduces die wear effectively.
- Water-Soluble Formula: Cleans off brass easily with water, simplifying post-sizing cleanup.
- Odorless Formulation: No unpleasant chemical smells during use.
- Time-Saving Application: Direct application with fingers is quick and efficient for small to medium batches.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers great value for money at $5.99.
- Consistent Performance: Remains effective and doesn’t degrade over time or with temperature changes.
Cons
- Time-Consuming for Large Batches: Direct application can be slower than spray lubes for reloading 50+ rounds.
- Manual Application Required: Users need to apply it directly, which might not appeal to everyone.
Who Should Buy Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006?
This Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 is an excellent choice for precision reloaders who value consistency and ease of cleanup. It’s particularly well-suited for those who reload smaller batches of rifle or pistol cartridges where careful case preparation is paramount. Home reloaders focusing on accuracy and longevity of their dies will find this lubricant highly beneficial.
Individuals who are sensitive to chemical odors or prefer a cleaner reloading process will also appreciate its odorless and water-soluble nature. Those who are new to reloading and want a simple, effective lubricant without a steep learning curve should consider it.
However, high-volume reloaders who prioritize speed over meticulous application might find the manual application method too time-consuming. If you’re processing hundreds or thousands of cases in a single session, a spray-on lubricant might be a more practical alternative for sheer efficiency. It is also not a sterile medical-grade lubricant and should not be used for such purposes.
For those who want to experiment with a spray application, a separate bottle of 99% isopropyl alcohol is a good complementary purchase, allowing you to create a custom mix.
Conclusion on Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006
The Lee Resizing Lubricant 2 Ounce Tube 90006 stands out not for flashy features, but for its unwavering reliability and practicality. It’s a testament to Lee Precision’s philosophy of providing functional, effective tools at an accessible price point. For any reloader who has experienced the frustration of stuck cases or the inconvenience of difficult-to-clean lubricants, this product offers a welcome solution.
The value proposition here is clear: for under $6, you get a lubricant that consistently performs its core function exceptionally well, simplifies cleanup, and makes the reloading process more pleasant. Its odorless, water-soluble nature are significant advantages that many users will find indispensable.
I wholeheartedly recommend this lubricant to any reloader who prioritizes a smooth resizing process and easy case cleaning, especially for medium to small batch work. While it may not be the fastest option for extremely high-volume operations, its overall performance, ease of use, and affordability make it a staple on my bench. If you’re looking for a dependable, no-fuss case resizing lubricant that just works, this Lee offering is an excellent choice.