Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads Review

The Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads: Review from Real Use

For any serious handloader, the efficiency and accuracy of cast bullet processing are paramount. The Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads emerged as a solution to a bottleneck in my reloading workflow. I was consistently processing a significant volume of cast bullets for my .357 Magnum handloads, and my existing methods, while functional, were becoming time-consuming. The promise of a streamlined, all-in-one process for both sizing and lubricating cast bullets was incredibly appealing.

My current setup involved separate steps for resizing and then applying lubricant, which added considerable time and manual effort to each batch. I’d been looking for a more integrated system that could handle both functions simultaneously. I briefly considered a more complex, multi-stage press-mounted system from another manufacturer, but the price point and complexity seemed excessive for my needs. The Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit offered a more straightforward, purpose-built approach. Upon first receiving the kit, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The die itself felt substantial, and the accompanying components, while simple, appeared robust. This was a product designed for function, and that was immediately evident.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads to the Test

My testing primarily took place on my dedicated reloading bench in a climate-controlled workshop. The primary focus was on processing .357-caliber cast bullets, specifically those destined for medium to high-volume .357 Magnum and .38 Special loads. I aimed to simulate consistent, real-world usage over an extended period.

First Use Experience

The initial setup on my standard reloading press was remarkably straightforward. The die screwed in with the expected 7/8″ x 14″ threads and seated firmly. Loading the cast bullets nose-first into the die’s opening was simple, and the press stroke initiated the sizing and lubrication process almost immediately.

The press action felt smooth, and there was no noticeable grit or binding, even on the first few bullets. The integrated lubrication system deposited a consistent film of lube without any over-application or mess, which was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t need to consult the manual extensively, as the operation was intuitive, aligning with Lee’s reputation for user-friendly reloading equipment. The only minor surprise was the efficient capture of the sized and lubed bullets in the provided container; it worked far better than I had anticipated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After processing approximately 10,000+ cast bullets through this sizing kit, its performance has remained consistently excellent. The flow of bullets through the die is still as smooth as it was on day one. I’ve run various alloy hardnesses through it, and the 0.357-inch sizing diameter has been spot-on, producing consistently dimensioned bullets ready for seating.

There are no discernible signs of wear on the die itself, nor has the lubrication system shown any signs of clogging or diminished performance. The internal mechanism for seating gas checks, when used, has also been flawless, consistently crimping them into place with each stroke. Cleaning is minimal; a quick wipe-down of the die and occasional replenishment of the lubricant in the reservoir is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous separate sizing and lubing process, this integrated kit is vastly superior in both speed and convenience. Budget sizing kits I’ve used in the past often struggled with consistent lube application or required more frequent cleaning, but this particular Lee offering has held up exceptionally well.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

The Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is designed to simplify and expedite the critical steps of bullet sizing and lubrication for cast bullets. It’s a compact, all-in-one unit that integrates seamlessly into most reloading presses.

Specifications

This kit features a robust sizing die with the standard 7/8″ x 14″ threads, ensuring compatibility with virtually any common reloading press. The die is precisely machined to a .357-inch sizing diameter, which is a critical dimension for many .357 Magnum and .38 Special applications. The internal mechanism is designed to automatically seat and crimp gas checks, a feature that significantly speeds up the process for bullets so equipped.

The integrated lubricant reservoir is designed to hold a generous amount of bullet lubricant, minimizing the need for frequent refilling. Bullets are fed nose-first through the die, and a specialized internal system ensures that even the delicate nose of the bullet is not damaged during sizing. Finally, the kit includes a capture container that neatly collects the sized and lubricated bullets, preventing them from rolling away.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this kit is to accurately size and lubricate cast bullets. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The 0.357-inch sizing is consistently achieved, ensuring that bullets will chamber and engage the rifling properly.

The lubrication system is efficient and applies a uniform coating of lube, which is crucial for preventing leading in the bore. Bullets processed through this kit are noticeably cleaner and more uniformly coated than those from manual lubrication methods. The automatic seating and crimping of gas checks are a particularly strong point, saving a significant amount of time and effort. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a product in this price range, offering a high level of functionality for its cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit is fundamentally utilitarian, prioritizing function over form. The main die body is constructed from durable, blued steel, giving it a solid feel and good resistance to corrosion.

The internal workings, while not visible, operate smoothly and efficiently, suggesting precise machining and quality components. Ergonomically, the process is as simple as operating a standard sizing die. The ease of feeding bullets nose-first and operating the press lever makes it comfortable for extended reloading sessions. There’s virtually no learning curve for anyone familiar with basic reloading press operation.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, this Lee Lube & Sizing Kit appears to be built for longevity. The steel construction suggests it will resist wear and damage from normal reloading bench operations.

Maintenance is minimal; the primary task is replenishing the lubricant reservoir periodically. A quick wipe-down of the die after a long session is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I have experienced no failures or issues with the internal mechanisms over thousands of cycles. Potential failure points are few, likely limited to the seal for the lubricant reservoir or the internal resizing/lubricating elements over extreme use, but this is speculative given its current robust performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” included with the Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit is the integrated lubricant reservoir and the bullet collection container. This container fits neatly under the die to catch the finished bullets.

While the kit itself is designed as a complete unit for its intended purpose, the 7/8″ x 14″ threads mean it can be used with any press that accepts standard die sizes. The primary customization comes in the choice of bullet lubricant used in the reservoir; Lee offers various specialized lubricants, or users can opt for their preferred brand of cast bullet lube. No other external accessories are typically required for its core function.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

Who Should Buy Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads?

This kit is ideal for handloaders who regularly process cast bullets for calibers like .357 Magnum, .38 Special, or similar .357-inch diameter cartridges. If you cast your own bullets or purchase them in significant quantities and find the separate steps of sizing and lubing to be a bottleneck, this kit is a fantastic upgrade. It’s perfect for those who appreciate efficiency and want to maximize their reloading throughput without sacrificing accuracy.

Those who need multiple sizing diameters for different firearms or bullet types might find this specific kit limiting, as it’s a dedicated .357-inch sizing die. Someone only processing a handful of bullets occasionally might not see the immediate benefit. For optimal use, a sturdy reloading press is essential, and ensuring your chosen lubricant is compatible with the reservoir system is also important.

Conclusion on Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads

The Lee 90047 Lube & Sizing Kit One Kit .357 Standard 7/8″ X 14″ Threads is a triumph of practical engineering for the handloading community. It effectively merges two crucial bullet preparation steps into a single, fluid motion on the reloading press. The consistent sizing, efficient lubrication, and automatic gas check seating contribute to a significant increase in processing speed and a reduction in overall effort.

For its price point, the value offered by this kit is exceptional. It performs its intended function with precision and reliability, making it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about casting and reloading .357-caliber bullets. I would wholeheartedly recommend this kit to any reloader looking to streamline their cast bullet workflow and achieve consistent, high-quality results. It’s a product that simplifies a tedious task and delivers tangible benefits to the reloading bench.