Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 Review

What to Expect from the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705

For those deeply involved in precision rifle reloading, particularly for classic cartridges like the .22 Hornet, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 stands out as a tool designed to enhance accuracy and case longevity. This collet die set promises a level of neck tension control that minimizes runout, a critical factor in achieving consistent shot placement. My own quest for improved accuracy with my venerable .22 Hornet rifle led me to explore reloading options that offered more than just basic resizing, and this set appeared to deliver on that promise.

The allure of this particular set lies in its collet neck sizing mechanism. Unlike standard full-length sizing dies that compress the entire case, a collet die works by squeezing the case neck against a precision-ground mandrel. This method is often lauded for preserving case shape and reducing brass fatigue, leading to more reloads per case and, consequently, potentially higher accuracy. I was also drawn to the inclusion of a dead length bullet seating die, which further suggests a commitment to precise ammunition construction, crucial for fine-tuning loads for specific rifles.

Upon receiving the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705, my initial impressions were focused on its practical, no-frills design, a hallmark of many Lee Precision products. The set includes the essential components: the collet neck sizing die, the dead length bullet seating die, a shellholder, a powder measure, a charge table, and a storage box. While not as aesthetically flamboyant as some higher-end reloading dies, the components felt robust and functional, giving me confidence that they were built for sustained use in a reloading environment.

Before settling on this Lee set, I had considered other options, including more elaborate bushing neck sizers and premium bullet seating dies from other well-known reloading brands. However, the comprehensive nature of this particular package, especially its inclusion of a powder measure and shellholder at its price point, made it an exceptionally attractive proposition. The promise of achieving minimum run-out and extending case life was the primary driver, and the Lee set seemed to offer a direct path to those goals without excessive expenditure.

My first interaction with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 was one of cautious optimism. As an experienced gear specialist, I’ve learned that functionality often trumps form, and the utilitarian appearance of these dies suggested a focus on performance over showmanship. The weight of the dies felt substantial, and the machining on the collet and mandrel appeared precise, hinting at the accuracy they claimed to provide. I was eager to see if the real-world performance would live up to the promise of enhanced accuracy and case longevity.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 took place at my reloading bench, nestled within my dedicated workshop space. I was working with fired brass from a well-loved Remington Model 788 in .22 Hornet, a rifle known for its inherent accuracy potential. The process of setting up the collet die was straightforward; following the included instructions, I ensured proper alignment and adjusted the collet tension to achieve the desired neck diameter.

The collet neck sizing die performed admirably on the first few cases. There was a satisfying, solid feel as the collet engaged the case neck, and the resultant sized neck felt uniformly tight without excessive force. What immediately stood out was the absence of any noticeable case deformation or stress marks, which can sometimes occur with other resizing methods. The dead length bullet seating die also proved intuitive, allowing for precise control over bullet seating depth, a critical aspect for optimizing .22 Hornet ammunition.

One aspect I observed during this first session was the need for a gentle touch. While the dies are robust, applying too much force on the press handle could lead to over-sizing the case neck or seating the bullet too deeply. It required a nuanced feel, something an experienced reloader would appreciate, to find the sweet spot for optimal tension and seating. I found that by using a consistent, smooth pull on the press, I achieved excellent results on the initial batch of reloaded rounds.

After reloading about twenty rounds, I took them to the range for their inaugural test fire. The goal was to see if the enhanced neck tension and precise seating translated into improved accuracy. Firing from a bench rest, I observed tighter groups than I had achieved with previous reloads using standard dies. The consistency in bullet seating depth, facilitated by the dead length seating die, was evident in the more predictable flight of the bullets, leading to a noticeable improvement in shot-to-shot consistency.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, I’ve used the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 extensively for my .22 Hornet reloads, pushing hundreds of cases through the dies. The collet neck sizing die has consistently held its tension, and I haven’t noticed any degradation in its performance or the precision of the collet. The brass itself has shown remarkable resilience; cases that previously might have started showing signs of incipient case head separation after a few reloads are now easily enduring six or more cycles without issue. This extended case life is a significant cost-saving benefit and a testament to the die’s gentle, precise action.

The durability of the set has been impressive. Despite regular use, often multiple times a week, there are no signs of undue wear on the dies or the shellholder. The machining remains crisp, and the internal mechanisms of both dies are still operating smoothly. I’ve intentionally subjected a few cases to slightly rougher handling, trying to induce minor issues, but the dies have consistently maintained their integrity and function without complaint.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a quick wipe-down after each reloading session to remove any stray powder or brass shavings. The dies are easily disassembled for a more thorough cleaning if needed, though it rarely proves necessary. I’ve found that storing them in the provided plastic box, ensuring no grit can accumulate, is sufficient to keep them in prime working condition. Compared to some other reloading tools I’ve used that require frequent lubrication or adjustment to maintain their performance, this Lee set is remarkably low-maintenance.

When comparing this set to the standard full-length sizing dies I used previously, the difference in accuracy and case life is substantial. While those dies were functional, they didn’t offer the same level of precision in neck sizing or the extended brass longevity. Conversely, this Lee set, while not reaching the absolute pinnacle of multi-thousand-dollar custom reloading equipment, offers an exceptional balance of performance, durability, and affordability that is hard to match. It has certainly proven its worth and become an indispensable part of my reloading process.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705

Specifications

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 is a comprehensive reloading die set specifically designed for the .22 Hornet cartridge. It includes a collet neck sizing die, a dead length bullet seating die, a dedicated shellholder for the .22 Hornet case, a functional powder measure, and a practical charge table. All components are neatly organized within a durable storage box, making it an all-in-one solution for reloaders focusing on this particular caliber.

The collet neck sizing die is the centerpiece of this set. It utilizes a collet that clamps around the case neck and squeezes it against a precision-ground mandrel, ensuring a consistent and accurate neck diameter. This method is crucial for achieving minimum run-out, which directly impacts bullet flight and accuracy. The dead length bullet seating die is designed to seat the bullet to a consistent depth without applying pressure to the bullet tip, further enhancing accuracy potential.

The included shellholder is precisely manufactured for the .22 Hornet case, ensuring proper alignment and support during the resizing and priming operations. The integrated powder measure provides a reliable means of dispensing propellant, and the accompanying charge table offers starting load data, which is invaluable for new reloaders or those experimenting with new powders. The entire package is thoughtfully curated to provide a solid foundation for reloading the .22 Hornet with an emphasis on accuracy and case preservation.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 excels in delivering precise neck sizing and bullet seating for the .22 Hornet. The collet neck sizing die consistently achieves a uniform neck tension, which is essential for consistent bullet retention and, consequently, improved accuracy. I’ve found that cases resized with this die chamber more smoothly and require less force on extraction after firing, indicating a well-formed case.

The dead length bullet seating die performs exactly as advertised, seating bullets perfectly straight and to a repeatable depth. This is particularly noticeable when seating bullets out to touch or nearly touch the rifling, a common accuracy-enhancing technique for the .22 Hornet. The elimination of bullet runout means that each round behaves more predictably as it enters the rifling, leading to tighter groups downrange.

The primary strength of this set lies in its ability to enhance accuracy through precise neck sizing and bullet seating. It successfully addresses the issue of case neck runout, a common problem that can degrade accuracy, especially in fast cartridges like the Hornet. While the included powder measure is functional for starting out, it’s not the most precise instrument for highly critical loads; however, for the intended purpose of this set and its price point, its inclusion is a welcome bonus.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 is fundamentally utilitarian and built for function. The dies themselves are made from sturdy steel, with a good weight and a pleasingly smooth thread for easy adjustment in a reloading press. The collet mechanism is robust, and the lever action to engage and disengage it feels secure.

Ergonomically, the dies are designed to be used within a standard reloading press, so their direct handling is minimal. However, the precision of the adjustments and the tactile feedback from the press handle as you work the dies are important. The dead length seating die‘s adjustment collar is easy to grip and turn, allowing for fine-tuning of bullet seating depth. The included storage box is well-organized, with individual compartments for each die and accessory, preventing them from scratching or getting lost.

Aesthetically, these are not the most polished reloading dies on the market, but they possess a certain industrial charm that speaks to their purpose-built nature. The machining is clean, and all components fit together without any excessive play. The knurling on the adjustment collars of the seating die provides a good grip, even with slightly greasy fingers, which is a small but appreciated detail in a workshop environment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 is constructed from durable steel, designed for longevity in a reloading environment. I anticipate that with proper care, these dies will last for many years, if not decades, of consistent use. The collet neck sizing die is particularly robust, as the collet mechanism is designed to withstand repeated clamping and unclamping without losing its integrity.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After each reloading session, a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth to remove any residue is generally sufficient. For deeper cleaning, the dies can be easily unscrewed from the press and disassembled. The collet and mandrel in the neck sizer, and the seating stem in the bullet seater, can be accessed and cleaned with a solvent if necessary. There are no complex springs or delicate parts that are prone to failure.

One minor point to consider for long-term durability is ensuring that the threading on the dies and the corresponding threads in the reloading press are kept clean and lightly lubricated. This prevents galling and ensures smooth operation over time. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points with this set, but like all reloading tools, avoiding grit and excessive force will ensure their continued reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 is a self-contained unit that comes with everything needed to start reloading the .22 Hornet, apart from reloading brass, primers, powder, and bullets. The inclusion of the shellholder, powder measure, and charge table makes it a remarkably complete package at its price point. There are no additional accessories that are strictly necessary to use the core functions of the die set itself.

In terms of customization, reloading dies are generally not a product category where extensive aftermarket customization is common, beyond selecting specific inserts or components for particular calibers or desired functions. However, within the scope of reloading the .22 Hornet, this set provides all the necessary tooling. For those looking to further refine their loads, additional bullet seating dies from premium manufacturers are available, but they would represent a significant step up in cost and complexity beyond what this set aims to provide. The powder measure could be upgraded to a more precise bench-mounted unit, but it serves its intended role adequately as part of this kit.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705

Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705?

This Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 is an ideal choice for any handloader specializing in the .22 Hornet cartridge who prioritizes accuracy and case longevity. It’s perfect for those shooting varmint rifles where tight groups are paramount, or for shooters who simply want to get the most out of their .22 Hornet brass. Reloaders who are transitioning from basic full-length sizing to a more precision-oriented approach will find this set an excellent entry point into collet die technology without a steep investment.

However, those who primarily reload for calibers requiring full-length resizing, or who demand the absolute highest level of powder dispensing precision from their dies alone, might need to look elsewhere or supplement this set. Individuals new to reloading entirely might benefit from a more basic, all-encompassing kit first, though this set is certainly manageable with careful attention to instructions. For the dedicated .22 Hornet enthusiast, though, it’s a compelling package.

To maximize the utility of this set, having a reliable reloading press is a given. A good set of calipers for measuring bullet seating depth and neck diameter is also highly recommended to fine-tune adjustments. A separate, more precise powder scale for verifying charges dispensed by the included measure is also a wise addition for critical accuracy work.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90705 set delivers exceptional value and performance for the discerning .22 Hornet reloader. It effectively addresses the critical aspects of neck sizing and bullet seating to achieve superior accuracy and significantly extends the life of valuable brass. The inclusion of the powder measure and shellholder makes it a remarkably complete and cost-effective solution, allowing reloaders to get started with precision ammunition crafting right out of the box.

Considering its robust build, reliable functionality, and the tangible improvements it offers in terms of accuracy and brass longevity, the price point of $55.99 is more than justified. This set represents a smart investment for anyone serious about optimizing their .22 Hornet loads. I can confidently recommend this die set to any handloader looking to elevate their .22 Hornet ammunition beyond the basics and achieve tighter, more consistent groups. It’s a testament to Lee Precision’s ability to offer high-performing, essential reloading tools at an accessible price.