LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR Review

One Week with the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of diverse field experience, I’ve learned to appreciate well-designed tools that simplify complex tasks. My workspace is a constant flux of outdoor expeditions, workshop tinkering, meticulous lab work, and demanding field operations, each requiring specific, reliable equipment. Recently, I found myself needing a more efficient way to manage die changes on my reloading press. The existing method, while functional, was time-consuming and prone to minor adjustments losing their precision. I was looking for a solution that offered speed and repeatability, something that would let me switch calibers or dies without losing my painstakingly set depths. After some research, the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR caught my eye, promising to eliminate the fiddly lock rings that had become a persistent, albeit minor, annoyance. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of practical engineering; the design appeared straightforward and focused on its core function. I briefly considered alternative quick-change systems, but Lee’s established reputation in reloading equipment and the apparent simplicity of this specific product swayed me. My first reaction was a sense of cautious optimism, a feeling that a small but significant improvement was within reach.

Real-World Testing: Putting LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR to the Test

My primary testing ground for the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR was my dedicated reloading bench, a space that sees daily use for various calibers. I tested its ability to facilitate rapid die changes between different single-stage presses, a common scenario for those who reload multiple cartridges. The ease of use was immediately apparent; the splined drive surface offered a solid grip for tightening, and loosening the screw allowed the die to spin freely for adjustments. There was a slight learning curve in achieving the “lightly tighten” pressure for a secure lock, but after a few cycles, it became second nature. A pleasant surprise was how consistently the die retained its set position after removal and reinstallation, a critical factor for maintaining precise seating depths.

Over an extended period of continuous use, spanning several reloading sessions for different calibers, the Breech Lock bushings proved their mettle. I subjected them to frequent die swaps, sometimes changing calibers two or three times within a single session. The LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR units held up remarkably well, showing no signs of significant wear or performance degradation. The splined surfaces remained grippy, and the clamping mechanism continued to provide a secure hold without slippage. Cleaning was simple; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth usually sufficed, and occasionally a light spritz of a degreaser was all that was needed to remove any stubborn residue. Compared to the traditional lock ring system, these eliminators offered a substantial time saving and reduced the potential for subtle errors introduced by fiddling with small screws.

First Use Experience

The initial setup of the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR was performed on my Lee Precision Pro 1000 press, a staple on my reloading bench. I installed one bushing into a die for .223 Remington and another into a die for 9mm Luger. The process involved unscrewing the existing lock ring from the die and then screwing the die into the Breech Lock bushing. The new easy-grip splined drive surface made twisting the die into the bushing quite straightforward. My first few die changes were a bit tentative, ensuring I tightened the clamp screw sufficiently, but the audible ‘clunk’ when the split collar engaged provided good feedback.

I tested the repeatability by setting a specific seating depth for .223, removing the die and bushing assembly, and then reinserting it. The bullet seating depth remained remarkably consistent, within a couple of thousandths of an inch, which is acceptable for my needs. I intentionally tested it under conditions of moderate workshop dust, and the splined grip still offered enough purchase, though I made sure to clear any significant debris before tightening. The mechanism felt robust; unlike some finer-threaded components, this seemed designed for quick, firm action. There were no immediate issues or surprises, just a smooth transition from the old method to this new system.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intensive use, the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR units have become an indispensable part of my reloading process. I find myself reaching for them instinctively when setting up for a new caliber or making minor adjustments. The durability of the aluminum construction has been surprisingly good; despite occasional accidental bumps against other tools or the press frame, there are no visible cracks or significant dents. The splined grip, while not showing any sign of wear, still provides excellent tactile feedback, and the clamping screw operates smoothly without any hint of stripping or binding.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of wiping away brass shavings or lubricant residue that might accumulate. I have not needed to apply any lubricants, as the design doesn’t rely on sliding metal-on-metal contact that would necessitate it. When comparing these to the traditional lock ring system, the time saved is the most significant factor. I estimate each die change is now at least 50% faster, and the elimination of lock ring adjustment errors means fewer wasted rounds during initial setup. This speed and reliability have made switching between calibers much less of a chore.

Breaking Down the Features of LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR

Specifications

The LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR is a two-pack of Breech Lock bushings designed to replace traditional lock rings on reloading dies. Each bushing is constructed from aluminum, featuring an easy-grip splined drive surface for secure manual tightening. The core mechanism involves a split collar that is cinched down by a clamp screw, creating a vise-like grip on the die shank. This design allows for dies to be installed and removed quickly and accurately, without losing their previously set position.

These specifications are crucial because they directly translate to the product’s primary function: rapid and repeatable die changes. The aluminum construction ensures a lightweight yet durable component, suitable for frequent handling. The splined drive surface is a key ergonomic feature, offering superior grip compared to smooth cylindrical surfaces, especially when hands might be slightly oily or dusty. The split collar and clamp screw system is the heart of the “lock ring eliminator” concept, providing a positive locking action without the need for fine-tuning small lock rings.

Performance & Functionality

The main job of the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR is to allow for swift and precise die swaps on a reloading press, and it performs this exceptionally well. The dies lock into place with a satisfying firmness, and more importantly, they retain their set depth when removed and reinserted. This repeatability is critical for maintaining consistent ammunition quality, as it eliminates the need for extensive re-zeroing after each change. The system’s functionality is straightforward and effective, allowing users to transition between calibers or even different die sets within the same caliber with minimal fuss.

The primary strength of this system is its speed and accuracy of die setting. The ease with which one can lock down a die, and then unlock it to swap for another, is a significant improvement over traditional lock rings. A minor weakness, however, is that the effectiveness of the “vise lock” relies on the clamp screw being adequately tightened. While the splined surface helps, there’s a slight potential for over-tightening or under-tightening if one isn’t paying attention, though this is a minor learning curve rather than a fundamental flaw. It generally meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR is utilitarian and focused on function. Constructed from aluminum, the bushings feel solid in hand, with a slightly anodized finish that adds a touch of durability. The splined drive surface is the standout ergonomic feature; its aggressive pattern ensures a firm, positive grip, making it easy to apply the necessary torque without slippage. The clamp screw is easily accessible and operates smoothly, and its design allows for quick engagement and disengagement.

Usability is high, and the learning curve is minimal. Once you understand the principle of tightening the clamp screw to engage the split collar, operating these units becomes second nature. There are no small, easily lost parts beyond the clamp screw itself, which is retained within the bushing. The overall feel is one of robust simplicity, designed to withstand repeated use in a demanding environment like a reloading bench. The markings are minimal, but the intuitive design means they aren’t really necessary.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR appears to be quite durable for its intended use. Aluminum is susceptible to scratching and denting if dropped or subjected to heavy impacts, but the anodized finish offers some protection against minor abrasions. The clamping mechanism, being a simple screw and split collar, is unlikely to fail under normal operating loads. For a set of re-usable reloading accessories, these are designed to last for many years of consistent use.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. A quick wipe down with a cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean and free of debris that could impede their function. Unlike components that require lubrication, these units are essentially maintenance-free. The primary concern for longevity would be the clamp screw itself; ensuring it’s not cross-threaded or damaged through excessive force would be wise. However, the construction seems robust enough to handle regular use without issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR comes as a 2-pack, with no additional accessories included. These bushings are designed to work with standard reloading dies that have a 7/8″-14 thread, which is the industry standard. There are no significant customization options for the bushings themselves; they are a fixed design intended to provide a universal solution for die retention. Their primary compatibility lies with reloading presses that accept this thread standard.

While not an accessory for the bushings, it’s worth noting that other Lee Breech Lock products, such as their Breech Lock Challenger press, are designed to integrate seamlessly with these bushings. This allows for an even faster die-changing workflow. The value here is in the two-pack offering, allowing users to equip multiple dies for immediate swap-out or to outfit two different presses.

Pros and Cons of LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR

Who Should Buy LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR?

The LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR is an excellent choice for any reloader who frequently changes dies or calibers on their single-stage or turret press. This includes individuals who reload for multiple firearms, switch between different bullet seating depths for various bullet types, or simply want to streamline their reloading process. It is particularly beneficial for those who find traditional lock rings fiddly and time-consuming.

Conversely, users who only reload a single caliber and rarely, if ever, change dies might not see the same dramatic benefit, although the ease of initial setup is still an advantage. Shooters who prioritize absolute, tool-less adjustability at all times might prefer a press with an integrated quick-change system, though these bushings are a significant improvement over standard lock rings. For those looking to enhance their reloading efficiency and accuracy, considering a set of these bushings is highly recommended. A useful complementary item would be a dedicated die caddy to keep your dies and bushings organized for even faster swaps.

Conclusion on LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR

The LEE 90063 LOCK RING ELIMNATOR delivers on its promise to simplify and speed up the reloading die-change process. Its splined drive surface and split collar clamping mechanism provide a secure and repeatable way to manage dies, significantly reducing setup time and the potential for errors. While the aluminum construction might not feel as substantial as older steel versions to some users, it offers a good balance of durability and weight. For its price point of $18.99 for a 2-pack, the value proposition is exceptionally strong, offering a tangible improvement to the reloading bench experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend these Breech Lock bushings to any reloader looking to optimize their workflow and achieve greater consistency in their ammunition. They represent a smart upgrade that pays for itself in saved time and reduced frustration.