Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 Review

Is the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 Right for You?

For any reloader looking to streamline their process and enhance efficiency, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 is a tool that whispers promises of smoother operations and fewer steps. Manufactured by Lee, this Powder Thru Expanding Die is specifically designed for .40 Smith & Wesson cartridges, offering a crucial step in the reloading sequence. Its core function is to expand the case mouth while simultaneously allowing for powder charging, a clever integration that saves time and reduces the chance of errors.

My journey to this particular die began with a growing desire to optimize my reloading bench, particularly for .40 S&W. I was tired of the multi-step process of expanding the case mouth, then moving it to the powder drop, and then back to the press for bullet seating. The idea of combining these actions appealed to my pragmatic nature, always seeking to minimize wasted movement and potential for contamination.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust simplicity. The die itself feels substantial, made from what appears to be quality steel, with a nice weight that speaks to its durability. There are no unnecessary embellishments, just clean machining and a clear purpose. I had considered a few other brands, but Lee‘s reputation for producing functional, no-nonsense reloading equipment at accessible price points made them my first choice.

I was cautiously optimistic. While the concept was sound, I wondered if it would truly live up to its promise of seamless integration or if it would introduce new complications. The compact size and straightforward design, however, left me feeling more hopeful than apprehensive.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 to the Test

My initial testing grounds were my own reloading bench, a space familiar with the hum of progress and the occasional scent of gunpowder. I set up the Lee die in my press, specifically dedicating a session to reloading .40 S&W ammunition. The die integrated smoothly into my existing Lee turret press, a testament to its standard sizing and threading.

I ran batches of brass through the die, paying close attention to the case expansion and the ease with which powder could be dispensed. In this environment, with consistent lighting and a controlled workspace, the die performed admirably. It reliably expanded the case mouths to the correct dimensions, creating a perfect funnel for powder.

Over several weeks and numerous reloading sessions, this die has become an indispensable part of my .40 S&W workflow. It has endured hundreds of cycles without any noticeable decrease in performance or any signs of premature wear. The machined surfaces remain smooth, and the expansion cone has retained its precise shape.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after a reloading session is usually sufficient. Occasionally, a light application of case lube to the expander plug helps ensure an even smoother operation, especially with different types of brass. Compared to the separate expander and powder drop dies I’ve used in the past, this integrated solution is a clear winner in terms of convenience and speed.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620

Specifications

This die boasts a straightforward yet effective design. It’s engineered specifically for the .40 Caliber projectile and is designed for Pistol calibers, with a particular focus on the Smith & Wesson lineage in terms of its application. The primary feature is its function as a Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die.

What this specification translates to in practice is a significant streamlining of the reloading process. Instead of a separate step to expand the case mouth, the Lee die achieves this crucial task while simultaneously opening the path for powder to enter the case. This dual-action functionality means fewer movements on the press and a reduced chance of spilling powder or double-charging.

The die is designed to work seamlessly with a powder funnel, which is included or can be replaced with an Auto-Disk Powder Measure for full automation. This adaptability is key, allowing reloaders to tailor the die to their preferred powder dispensing method. For comparison, many basic dies only perform a single function, requiring additional tooling or steps to achieve similar efficiency.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 is to reliably expand the mouth of a .40 S&W case and allow for powder charging. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The expansion is consistent, creating a smooth taper that guides bullets easily during the seating process without overworking the brass.

Its main strength lies in its time-saving integration. Combining case expansion and powder charging into one step dramatically speeds up the reloading process. This is particularly noticeable when processing larger quantities of ammunition.

A slight weakness, if one can call it that, is that it relies on the proper adjustment of the press stroke. If the stroke is too short, the case mouth may not be expanded sufficiently; too long, and you risk flaring it excessively, which can lead to issues down the line. However, this is more a factor of proper press setup than a fault of the die itself.

Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations, especially when considering its modest price point. It delivers a level of efficiency that you might typically find in more expensive, specialized setups.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Lee die is purely functional. It’s crafted from solid steel, giving it a reassuring heft and durability. The machining is precise, with clean threads that screw smoothly into most standard reloading presses.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple die, so there isn’t much to comment on in terms of hand comfort. Its ease of use comes from its integration into the press, not from any hand-held features. The knurled outer edge provides a decent grip for initial installation and removal, though a wrench is typically used for final tightening.

Practical design details include the clear taper of the expansion funnel, which is perfectly sized for .40 S&W cases. The opening at the top is generously sized to accept powder drops or funnels without spillage. There are no extraneous markings or controls that could complicate its operation.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 is built for longevity. Made from hardened steel, it is designed to withstand the rigors of repeated use in a reloading environment. I foresee this die lasting for many thousands of rounds, likely outliving many other components on my press.

Maintenance is as simple as can be. A quick clean and perhaps a light oiling now and then will keep it in top condition. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms that can fail.

The only potential failure point would be cross-threading during installation, which is entirely user error. Given the solid construction, I have no concerns about it cracking or wearing out under normal, intended use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Powder Thru Expanding Die itself functions as an accessory to a reloading press, but it also integrates with other components. It is designed to accept a powder funnel for manual powder charging. More significantly, it’s built to directly interface with Lee’s Auto-Disk Powder Measure and the Pro Auto-Disk Powder Measure.

This integration with the Auto-Disk system is a major selling point for those seeking a near-fully automated reloading process. When used in conjunction with the powder measure, the die truly shines, allowing for case expansion, powder charging, and bullet seating to occur in rapid succession on a progressive press. The Lee system is widely recognized for its affordability and effectiveness, and this die is a key component of that ecosystem.

While it doesn’t come with a multitude of included accessories, its compatibility with the Lee Auto-Disk system is its primary customization and expansion option. For those not using the Auto-Disk, a standard powder funnel can be used, which is often included in Lee’s 3-Die sets.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620

Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620?

This Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 is an absolute must-have for any reloader who frequently loads .40 Smith & Wesson ammunition and wants to improve their efficiency. If you are running a progressive press or looking to upgrade from a single-stage press, this die will make a noticeable difference in your reloading speed. It’s particularly beneficial for those who are already invested in the Lee reloading ecosystem, especially if you utilize their Auto-Disk Powder Measures.

However, if you only reload very occasionally, or if you primarily load calibers other than .40 S&W, the investment might be less compelling. Those seeking extreme precision that requires separate, dedicated dies for each stage might also find this combined-function die a compromise, though for most practical purposes, its accuracy is more than sufficient. Beginners will find it straightforward to use, provided they understand the basics of press operation.

For those considering purchasing, I highly recommend pairing it with a Lee Auto-Disk Powder Measure if you don’t already have one. This combination unlocks the full potential of the Powder Thru Expanding Die and transforms your reloading experience.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90620 is a prime example of Lee’s philosophy: deliver effective, durable, and affordable tools for the serious reloader. It masterfully combines case expansion with powder charging into a single, efficient step, drastically reducing reloading time and complexity, especially when paired with the Lee Auto-Disk Powder Measure. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a long-term investment rather than a disposable gadget.

Considering its modest price of around $15.99, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. It delivers functionality that punches well above its weight class, offering a level of efficiency that can rival much more expensive setups. I wholeheartedly recommend this die to anyone reloading .40 S&W. It’s not just a die; it’s a workflow enhancer that I wouldn’t want to reload this caliber without.