Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads Review

The Honest Truth About the Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

For anyone delving into the rewarding, albeit sometimes intricate, world of reloading cast bullets, precision and consistency are paramount. My personal journey into this hobby was born out of a desire for greater control over my ammunition and a deeper understanding of the mechanics behind projectile accuracy. Over the years, I’ve encountered my fair share of tools, some that became indispensable, and others that quickly relegated themselves to the back of the workbench drawer. It was this pursuit of reliable, accurate cast bullet ammunition that led me to the Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads.

The initial appeal of this kit was its promise of simplifying the often messy process of resizing and lubricating cast bullets. My prior experiences involved separate lubing and sizing steps, which, while effective, were time-consuming and occasionally led to uneven lube application. The integrated design of the Lee offering seemed like a significant step forward, offering a more streamlined approach. I had considered some of the more high-end, multi-stage sizing systems, but for a .311 caliber bullet, the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the Lee kit felt more appropriate for my current needs. Unboxing it, my first impression was one of practical functionality; it felt robust, straightforward, and ready for immediate application. There was an immediate sense of relief, a feeling that a common reloading bottleneck might just be smoothed out.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this lube and sizing kit were my own reloading bench, a space that has seen countless hours dedicated to crafting ammunition across various calibers. I specifically targeted .311 diameter cast bullets, as this is the caliber the kit is designed for, aiming to prepare them for use in a .308 rifle. The process of pushing the cast bullets through the sizing die, nose first as instructed, felt surprisingly smooth.

The integrated lubing mechanism, which applies a coat of lubricant as the bullet passes through the die, was immediately apparent. I could visibly see the lubricant beads being squeezed out, indicating that the die was effectively doing its job. The automatic seating and crimping of gas checks, if applicable to the bullet design, is a particularly ingenious touch, saving an extra step in the process.

There was a slight learning curve in determining the optimal amount of lubricant to use, which is managed by adjusting the fit of the components within the die itself. However, this was more of a fine-tuning exercise than a significant hurdle. After the first few passes, I noticed no mess or fuss, just cleanly sized and lubed bullets captured neatly.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks have since turned into months, and this Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads has become a staple in my reloading routine for this specific caliber. It has been used for batch processing of hundreds of bullets, and despite repeated use, its performance has remained remarkably consistent.

The durability of the cast iron construction feels substantial, and I’ve experienced no signs of cracking, excessive wear, or degradation in the sizing or lubing functions. Even when used in a slightly less-than-pristine workshop environment, where dust and fine metal particles are inevitable, the die has held up admirably. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a rag and occasional application of a light oil keeps it in top condition.

Compared to some of the older, more rudimentary sizing techniques I’ve employed in the past, this kit offers a significant leap in efficiency and consistency. While it doesn’t possess the advanced features of some automated sizing machines, for hand-loader volumes and its specific purpose, it consistently outperforms less integrated solutions.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

Specifications

The Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a thoughtfully designed piece of reloading equipment. The core of the kit is the Bullet Sizing Die, specifically calibrated for a .311 diameter. This die features a built-in crimping base, which is a crucial element for ensuring proper bullet fitment, especially when gas checks are involved.

The standard 7/8″ x 14″ threads are a universal sizing that makes this die compatible with the vast majority of common reloading presses. The kit includes a specialized lubing die that works in conjunction with the sizing die. This unique design means bullets are pushed through the sizing die nose-first, eliminating the need for separate nose punches.

The permanent riveting of the lubricant container to the die shaft is a small but significant detail, preventing accidental loss of lube. This ensures that when you resize, you are also effectively lubricating without the need for extra steps or components. The kit is sold as One Kit, meaning it contains all the necessary components to perform both sizing and lubrication for .311 cast bullets.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this kit is to resize cast bullets to a precise diameter and apply a consistent layer of lubricant. In this regard, the Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads performs exceptionally well. The .311 sizing die consistently produces bullets within the specified diameter, which is critical for accurate chambering and bore engagement.

The lubricating aspect is equally impressive. The visible beads of lube that emerge from the die gaskets provide a clear indication of effective lubrication. This ensures the bullets slide smoothly through the bore, reducing friction and leading.

The major strength of this kit lies in its integrated design, which significantly streamlines the reloading process. It addresses two key steps in one pass, saving valuable time and reducing the potential for errors. While it might not offer the ultra-fine adjustments of some high-end systems, for its intended purpose and price point, its functionality is hard to beat. A minor point of consideration is ensuring the correct lubricant is used for optimal performance, but this is standard for any lubing process.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Lee kit is fundamentally about practical application in a reloading environment. The use of cast iron for the die construction imparts a sense of ruggedness and durability, which is ideal for tools that will see repeated use. The finish is utilitarian, prioritizing function over aesthetic appeal, which is perfectly acceptable for this type of equipment.

The ergonomics are dictated by the reloading press it’s mounted on; the user’s interaction is primarily with the press handle and the smooth action of pushing bullets through the die. The nose-first sizing method, while unusual, feels intuitive once you’ve done it a few times. The permanently attached lube reservoir is a clever ergonomic touch, preventing fumbling with separate lube reservoirs during operation.

There is a slight learning curve associated with understanding how the lube quantity is controlled by the die’s internal setup, but this is quickly mastered. The standard 7/8″ x 14″ threads are ergonomically friendly as they engage smoothly with press die-holding mechanisms. The overall feel is one of a solid, dependable tool designed for efficiency.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust cast iron construction, the Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is built for longevity. Under normal reloading conditions, which involve repeated passage of lead bullets, this die should last for many years, if not decades. The inherent nature of cast iron means it’s resistant to deformation and wear from the relatively soft lead alloy.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a significant advantage for busy reloaders. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth after use to remove any residual lubricant or lead dust is usually sufficient. Periodically, applying a light coat of gun oil or a similar lubricant to the threads and the internal passages can help maintain smooth operation and prevent corrosion.

The only potential point of concern might be the long-term integrity of the permanently riveted lube reservoir. However, the rivets appear substantial, and I’ve experienced no issues with this component thus far. It’s designed to be a workhorse, and it certainly feels like one.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is designed as a self-contained solution, meaning it doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. Its core functionality is its primary selling point. However, it is designed to work with common reloading press accessories.

The kit’s main “customization” or compatibility lies in the use of different lubricants. The user can select their preferred bullet lubricant, whether it’s a traditional wax-based lube or a modern synthetic formulation, to fill the die’s reservoir. This allows for tailoring the lubrication to specific bullet alloys and shooting conditions.

If gas checks are to be used with the bullets, then purchasing a compatible size of gas checks would be a necessary complementary item. The die itself is not designed for interchangeable sizing rings; it is a fixed .311 diameter. Therefore, if you need a different size, a separate sizing die would be required.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

Who Should Buy Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?

This kit is an ideal choice for reloaders who primarily work with .311 diameter cast bullets and are looking for an efficient way to resize and lubricate them. It is particularly well-suited for those who load for calibers like .30-30 Winchester, .308 Winchester, 7.62x54R, or other firearms that commonly use this bullet diameter for cast bullet applications. The DIY enthusiast and hobbyist reloader will appreciate the balance of performance and affordability.

Those who require ultra-fine adjustments or the ability to resize to multiple diameters with a single die might want to consider more advanced, multi-stage sizing systems. Furthermore, individuals who are solely focused on jacketed bullets will not find a use for this specific kit. For anyone looking to improve the consistency and performance of their cast bullet ammunition without breaking the bank, this tool is a strong contender. Complementary items like a good quality bullet lubricant and, if applicable, gas checks are essential to get the most out of this kit.

Conclusion on Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

The Lee 90039 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .311 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads stands out as a remarkably effective and efficient tool for the cast bullet reloader. It successfully integrates two critical steps of bullet preparation into a single, smooth operation. The robust construction ensures it will be a reliable fixture on the reloading bench for years to come, while the thoughtful design minimizes complexity and maximizes output.

Considering its functionality, durability, and the significant time savings it offers, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. For anyone dedicated to casting and reloading for calibers utilizing .311 diameter bullets, this kit is a highly recommended investment. It simplifies a common reloading bottleneck, leading to more consistent and accurate ammunition, making it a standout product for its intended audience.