Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 Review

Uncovering the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658: Real Review

For anyone deeply involved in reloading, efficiency is not just a convenience; it’s a pathway to greater productivity and enjoyment. The Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 emerges as a compelling solution designed to streamline the often time-consuming process of case feeding on the Lee Pro 1000 press. This accessory promises to accelerate your reloading sessions by automating a crucial step.

My journey to finding this particular case feeder stemmed from a desire to significantly reduce the manual labor involved in my reloading workflow. While I appreciated the precision and cost-effectiveness of my Lee Pro 1000 press, the constant need to manually feed cases into the shell plate became a bottleneck, especially during longer reloading sessions. I was looking for a way to maintain the press’s established reliability while introducing a higher level of automation.

Upon receiving the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658, my initial impressions were positive. The components felt robust, and the design appeared straightforward, hinting at an easy integration with my existing Pro 1000 setup. I had briefly considered other automated feeding solutions, but their complexity and higher price points steered me back to the simplicity and affordability that Lee products often represent.

The anticipation of smoother, faster reloading sessions was palpable. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; would this accessory truly deliver on its promise of improved efficiency, or would it introduce new complications? The straightforward design and the manufacturer’s reputation for producing functional, cost-effective equipment gave me confidence, but only real-world testing would tell the full story.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 took place in my dedicated reloading room, a space equipped for consistent production. I set it up on my Lee Pro 1000 press, a task that was remarkably uncomplicated thanks to its intuitive design. The feeder attached securely, and within minutes, I was ready to load my first batch of .38 Special brass.

The performance during that first session was a revelation. The feeder consistently dropped cases onto the shell plate, eliminating the need for manual placement. I experienced a noticeable increase in cycling speed, and the process felt far less repetitive and more engaging.

One minor quirk I observed was the importance of ensuring cases were dropped into the feeder’s tube correctly. While the feeder itself operated flawlessly, a slightly misaligned case could occasionally cause a minor hesitation. This was easily rectified by a quick adjustment to how I loaded the brass, highlighting the value of user technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, reloading various calibers including .44 Special and .357 Magnum, the case feeder has proven its worth. It has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup, significantly speeding up my production without compromising accuracy or reliability. The press and feeder now work in tandem, a well-oiled machine churning out ammunition efficiently.

Durability has been impressive. Despite the constant motion and repeated cycling, there are no visible signs of wear or tear on the feeder components. The plastic parts remain sturdy, and the mechanical action feels as smooth as it did on day one. I’ve also noted that it handles different brass types within its caliber range without issue, from polished range brass to newly tumbled empties.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient to keep it free of dust and debris. I haven’t encountered any stiffness or performance degradation, which speaks volumes about the quality of its construction and the simplicity of its design. It holds up remarkably well compared to some more complex, mechanically sensitive feeders I’ve encountered in other reloading setups.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658

Specifications

The Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 is designed specifically for the Lee Pro 1000 reloading press and comes in various configurations to suit different ammunition types. This particular model, the Large Case Feeder, is engineered to handle larger diameter pistol cases. Its primary function is to automatically feed these cases onto the press’s shell plate, a task it performs with remarkable consistency.

The specifications for this model clearly indicate its intended use: it’s a “Large” size feeder, compatible with calibers such as .41 Remington Magnum, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .44 Special. The manufacturer, Lee, has kept the design focused and effective. The inclusion of Case Feeder functionality is its defining characteristic, distinguishing it from manual feeding methods.

These specifications are crucial because they directly translate to the feeder’s efficiency. By being calibers-specific, it ensures a smooth, reliable drop of each case onto the shell plate, minimizing jams or misfeeds. The focus on larger pistol calibers means it’s not trying to be a universal solution but excels at its intended purpose, which is a hallmark of Lee‘s pragmatic approach to reloading equipment.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 is to deliver cases to the Pro 1000 press, and it does this exceptionally well. Its functionality is straightforward: cases are loaded into a tube, and a mechanism on the press arm guides them onto the shell plate during its rotation. This automation drastically increases reloading speed and reduces user fatigue during extended sessions.

A significant strength of this case feeder is its reliability and consistency when loaded correctly. It works flawlessly with the specified calibers, ensuring each case is presented perfectly for the next stage of the reloading process. However, a minor weakness is its dependence on proper case orientation when loading the feed tube; while not a flaw of the feeder itself, user error here can cause a brief hiccup.

Overall, the feeder not only meets but often exceeds expectations for its price point. It transforms the reloading experience by removing a tedious manual step, allowing reloaders to focus on other critical aspects of ammunition production. The efficiency gained is substantial, especially for those who reload in volume.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 is a testament to functional simplicity. Constructed from durable, lightweight plastic, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the Lee Pro 1000 press without adding unnecessary bulk or weight. The finish is practical and utilitarian, prioritizing function over aesthetics.

Ergonomically, the feeder is a win for efficiency. While it doesn’t have traditional “ergonomic grips,” its design ensures that once installed, it requires virtually no direct interaction from the user during operation. The ease of loading the feed tube is straightforward, and the feeding mechanism is entirely automated by the press’s cycle.

Practical design details include the transparent feed tube, allowing users to quickly gauge how many cases are remaining. This simple feature prevents unexpected halts in production. The overall feel is one of robust practicality, built for consistent, long-term use in a reloading environment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 appears built to last. Made from what feels like sturdy, impact-resistant plastic, it can withstand the rigors of a reloading bench and the occasional bump. I have not observed any cracks, warping, or stiffness developing over my testing period, suggesting excellent long-term durability.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe with a cloth to remove brass dust is usually all that’s needed. There are no complex moving parts that require lubrication or intricate cleaning procedures. This low-maintenance profile is a significant advantage for busy reloaders.

While I haven’t encountered any failure points, it’s worth noting that like any plastic component, extreme impact or prolonged exposure to harsh solvents could potentially cause damage. However, under normal operating conditions for its intended purpose, its longevity seems assured.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 itself is an accessory that enhances the Lee Pro 1000 press. It doesn’t come with additional significant accessories, but it is part of a broader system of enhancements for the Pro 1000. Lee offers optional extra case feeder tubes, which are invaluable for pre-loading different calibers or simply having spares on hand.

Furthermore, Lee also offers a case collator that is highly recommended to be used in conjunction with this feeder. The user feedback specifically mentions that it “works best if you add the optional case collator.” This accessory ensures that cases are oriented correctly before entering the feeder tube, further improving feeding consistency.

While the case feeder itself isn’t “customizable” in the traditional sense, its compatibility with the optional case collator and the availability of extra case feeder tubes provide practical ways to optimize its use. These additions help maximize efficiency and minimize potential feeding issues.

Pros and Cons of Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658

Who Should Buy Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658?

This case feeder is an absolute must-have for any reloader who owns a Lee Pro 1000 press and reloads in moderate to high volumes. If you find yourself spending too much time manually placing each case onto the shell plate, this accessory will be a game-changer, dramatically improving your productivity. It’s ideal for those who appreciate Lee‘s focus on functional, affordable equipment.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals who do not own a Lee Pro 1000 press or those who only reload very small quantities of ammunition infrequently. It is also not for someone looking for a universal case feeder that can adapt to numerous press models, as its design is specific to the Pro 1000. If you are not willing to invest in the optional case collator, you might find its performance less than ideal.

For those looking to maximize its utility, I highly recommend purchasing the optional case collator from Lee simultaneously. This pairing ensures the smoothest operation and greatest efficiency. Additionally, stocking up on extra case feeder tubes is a wise move if you plan to reload multiple calibers regularly, allowing for quicker caliber changes.

Conclusion on Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658

The Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 is a highly effective and affordably priced accessory that significantly enhances the functionality of the Lee Pro 1000 press. Its straightforward design, durable construction, and reliable performance make it an easy recommendation for anyone looking to streamline their reloading process. The boost in speed and reduction in manual effort are immediately noticeable and welcome.

Considering its price point of $31.99, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. It delivers a substantial improvement in reloading efficiency that far outweighs its cost. While it functions best when paired with the optional case collator, even without it, the feeder provides a noticeable advantage over manual case feeding.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lee Pro 1000 Case Feeder 90658 to any owner of a Lee Pro 1000 press. If you’re looking to spend less time on tedious tasks and more time enjoying your handloads, this feeder is a smart, practical investment that pays dividends in time saved and increased reloading satisfaction.