Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super Review

The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super: Not Just Another Review

My journey into handloading ammunition began out of a desire for both precision and economy. The cost of factory ammunition, especially for specialized calibers, can become a significant drain on any shooter’s budget. I was particularly interested in the .38 Super for its impressive ballistic performance, but consistent range time was becoming an expensive luxury. I needed a reliable and straightforward reloading setup that could handle this caliber without a steep learning curve, ideally one that minimized wasted components. After poring over options, the Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super stood out for its promise of automated operation and beginner-friendliness. It was a significant step up from my previous single-stage press, and the thought of processing multiple rounds with each lever pull was compelling. My initial impression upon unboxing was of a solid, no-nonsense piece of equipment; the cast iron construction felt robust and reassuring. I had briefly considered a few other progressive presses, but the Pro 1000’s reputation for simplicity and its integrated design made it the frontrunner. A quiet sense of anticipation settled in – I was ready to streamline my reloading process.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on a sturdy workbench in my home reloading room, a space accustomed to the scent of case lube and the glint of brass. I specifically chose to load a batch of .38 Super ammunition destined for my pistol range days, aiming for consistent performance and minimal setup time. The kit’s automated primer feeding and powder dispensing system proved to be exceptionally smooth, even on the very first cartridge. I was particularly impressed with how the primer feed only engaged when a case was present, eliminating the common worry of spilled primers.

Operating the lever felt substantial, and the sequential stages of the reloading process clicked into place with satisfying precision. There was a brief learning curve in coordinating the case insertion and lever pull, but within about twenty rounds, it felt intuitive. The only minor surprise was the slight learning curve in seating the primer correctly on the initial few attempts, a common initial hiccup for any progressive reloader, but easily overcome with a bit of attention.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks and countless reloaded rounds, this Lee Pro 1000 reloading kit has become an indispensable part of my reloading bench. It consistently churns out finished cartridges, allowing me to replenish my .38 Super supply with remarkable efficiency. I’ve run hundreds of cases through it, and the cast iron frame shows no signs of stress or flex.

Durability is clearly a strong suit; there are no apparent cracks, no stiffness in the lever action, and the powder dispenser remains remarkably consistent. Maintenance has been straightforward: a light wipe-down with a cleaning cloth after each session and occasional checks of the primer feed tube are all it requires. Compared to my old single-stage press, the speed and ease of use are night and day, and it significantly outperforms more complex, multi-stage machines I’ve tried in the past that often required more tinkering.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super

Specifications

The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super is built around a rugged cast iron frame, providing a solid foundation for its automated reloading process. This press features a three-station turret design, which allows for sequential operations without manual die changes between stations. Its core functionality lies in its automatic primer feed and powder dispensing system, ensuring that primers and powder are only delivered when a case is properly seated.

This automated sequence is key to its efficiency, minimizing wasted components. The lever action is designed to advance the case and index the turret with each pull, completing multiple steps in a single cycle. The kit is specifically configured for the .38 Super cartridge, meaning the included dies and shell plate are calibrated for this caliber.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this reloading kit is to produce finished ammunition with each pull of the lever, and it excels at this task. The Pro 1000 consistently produces well-formed cases with accurate powder charges and securely seated primers. Its performance is particularly impressive for its price point, offering a level of automation typically found in much more expensive machines.

A significant strength is the automatic primer feed, which drastically reduces the risk of dropped primers and speeds up the process considerably. The weakest area, if one had to pinpoint it, might be the initial adjustment period for absolute precision on very sensitive loads, but this is a minor point for most users. Overall, it not only meets but often exceeds expectations for a kit of this nature, especially for those looking to increase their reloading output.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Pro 1000 is utilitarian and robust, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The cast iron construction gives it a substantial feel, reducing movement and vibration during operation. Its relatively compact footprint for a progressive press also makes it a good fit for most reloading benches.

Ergonomically, the lever is positioned for a comfortable reach, and the operation is smooth once you become accustomed to the rhythm. The three-station turret is a smart design choice, allowing for die changes without removing the entire turret assembly, which is a boon for those who reload multiple calibers. The integrated primer feed system is well-conceived, though it requires careful attention during setup to ensure optimal performance.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with cast iron, this reloading kit is engineered for longevity. Under normal use for reloading ammunition, it’s designed to last for many years, if not decades. The robust construction suggests it can handle the stresses of repeated cycling without issue.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple, primarily involving keeping the moving parts clean and lightly lubricated. The primer feed mechanism is the most critical component to keep clean to ensure reliable operation. I haven’t encountered any significant failure points, though regular inspection of the primer punch and seating components is always good practice for any reloading tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

This kit comes configured for 38 Super, which typically includes the necessary dies: a sizing die, an expander die, a bullet seating die, and a crimp die. It also includes the correct shell plate for the specified caliber. The integrated automatic primer feed is a key feature included with the kit.

While this specific model is set up for one caliber, the beauty of Lee presses often lies in their compatibility with aftermarket upgrades and caliber conversions. Optional die sets for other calibers can be purchased separately, and the turret system allows for quick changes if you decide to switch calibers regularly. There aren’t many other “accessories” in the traditional sense, as the focus is on the core reloading functionality.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super

Who Should Buy Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super?

This reloading kit is an ideal choice for hobbyist reloaders who are looking to significantly increase their output of .38 Super ammunition. It’s perfect for shooters who spend a lot of time at the range and want to offset the cost of factory ammunition. The Lee Pro 1000 is particularly well-suited for those new to progressive reloading, offering an automated process that simplifies many steps.

However, individuals who only reload a handful of rounds per year or require extremely fine-tuning for benchrest precision might find simpler, single-stage presses more appropriate. Those needing to reload a wide variety of calibers frequently might also find the turret system, while convenient, less efficient than a turret press with multiple pre-set turrets for each caliber. For enhanced safety and consistency, ensuring you have high-quality reloading data and components is always paramount.

Conclusion on Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super

The Lee 90035 Cast Iron Pro 1000 Reloading Kit For 38 Super offers a compelling blend of automation, durability, and affordability. Its cast iron build provides a solid foundation for consistent reloading, while the automatic primer feed and three-station turret design streamline the entire process. For anyone looking to reload .38 Super efficiently and economically, this kit represents excellent value.

The price point for the features offered is incredibly competitive, making it a smart investment for the serious shooter. I would readily recommend this kit to anyone looking to step up their reloading game from a single-stage press, especially those focusing on calibers like the .38 Super. It’s a workhorse that delivers on its promises, providing a reliable path to increased ammunition production without unnecessary complexity.