Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM Review

Getting My Hands on the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM

For those of us who reload, finding reliable and reasonably priced dies can sometimes feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. My own journey led me to seek out a set for the somewhat niche, yet increasingly popular, .22 TCM caliber. The Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM quickly became my primary candidate due to its manufacturer’s reputation for delivering functional equipment at an accessible price point. The scarcity of options for this particular caliber made this Lee offering a standout choice, especially considering it included the essential shell holder, a thoughtful inclusion that streamlines the initial setup.

My need for this specific die set stemmed from a growing interest in the .22 TCM cartridge, particularly for its potential in AR platforms. As my collection of .22 TCM brass expanded, I found myself at a standstill, unable to process it for reloading without the proper tooling. This gap in my reloading arsenal was becoming a frustration, limiting my ability to experiment with different loads and enjoy the full spectrum of shooting this caliber. The lack of readily available dies for .22 TCM meant I couldn’t simply walk into a local shop and pick something up, necessitating a targeted online search.

Upon arrival, my initial impression of the Lee 90803 Pacesetter set was positive. The dies felt solid, with a satisfying heft that suggested durability. The inclusion of a universal shell holder, a common practice for Lee, was a welcome sight, as it eliminated the need for a separate purchase. The set comes neatly organized in a plastic case, a practical touch that aids in storage and transport, keeping everything in one place. While I had considered other manufacturers, their absence in the .22 TCM market left Lee as the clear frontrunner. My first reaction was one of anticipation, a sense of relief that I finally had the tools to begin my reloading endeavors for this intriguing caliber.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM took place on my dedicated reloading bench, a space that has seen countless hours of component preparation and ammunition assembly. I coupled these dies with my trusty single-stage press, eager to see how they would perform on a variety of .22 TCM brass, some previously fired and others new. The process was straightforward; the full-length sizing die effectively reformed the cases, preparing them for the next stage.

The bullet seating die also performed admirably, consistently placing bullets to the desired depth without any noticeable runout. I experienced no unexpected issues or quirks during this initial setup and first run of cases. The instructions provided were clear and concise, and even for someone new to reloading this caliber, the process felt intuitive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, processing a significant amount of .22 TCM brass, this two-die set has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it to reload for both pistol and rifle applications of the .22 TCM, and the performance has remained consistently reliable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the die bodies or internal components, such as cracks, stiffness, or any discernible drop in performance.

Maintenance and care have been minimal, primarily involving a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use and a light application of case lube during the sizing process. Storing the dies in their original case keeps them protected and organized, preventing any accidental damage. Compared to some budget die sets I’ve used in the past for other calibers, which often exhibited early signs of wear or required constant adjustment, these Lee dies have certainly exceeded my expectations for their price point. They offer a level of durability and consistent performance that rivals more expensive alternatives I’ve encountered.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM

Specifications

The Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM is a fundamental reloading kit designed for the .22 TCM cartridge. This limited production set includes two primary dies: a Full Length Sizing Die and a Bullet Seating Die. Crucially, it also comes bundled with a Universal Shell Holder, which is compatible with most standard reloading presses.

The manufacturer, Lee, is known for its value-oriented approach to reloading equipment, and this set is no exception. The dies are constructed from a durable steel alloy, promising longevity for countless reloading sessions. While this set does not include load data, it’s designed to work seamlessly with most reloading presses, making it a versatile option for many reloaders.

The Full Length Sizing Die is responsible for reforming spent .22 TCM brass back to its original dimensions, ensuring proper case neck tension and overall case integrity for reliable ignition and extraction. The Bullet Seating Die is precisely machined to seat projectiles to a consistent depth, which is critical for maintaining accurate overall cartridge length and ensuring proper feeding in semi-automatic firearms. The inclusion of the Universal Shell Holder means you don’t need to purchase a specific one for this caliber, adding to the overall value. For those looking to integrate this set with Lee’s popular powder measures, such as the Auto-Disk Pro, Auto-Disk, or Auto-Drum, a separate short charging die (Item LEE90668) will be necessary.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job, the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM performs exceptionally well. The full-length sizing die effectively brings fired cases back to spec, preparing them for resizing without excessive force. The internal dimensions of the die are precise, ensuring consistent neck tension crucial for accurate bullet seating.

The bullet seating die is equally impressive, offering smooth operation and repeatable seating depths. I experienced no issues with bullet runout or inconsistent seating, which are common problems with lower-quality dies. This level of precision directly translates to more accurate ammunition, a critical factor for any reloader aiming for optimal performance. The set consistently meets expectations, and in many aspects, exceeds them for its price point, offering a reliable and accurate solution for .22 TCM reloading.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM is classic and functional, reflecting Lee‘s commitment to practical reloading tools. The dies are made from hardened steel, giving them a substantial feel and perceived sturdiness. The finish is typical of Lee dies, utilitarian and robust rather than highly polished, which is perfectly suited for a workbench environment.

Ergonomically, the dies are designed to be easily gripped and turned in a standard reloading press. The knurled exterior provides sufficient purchase, even with slightly lubricated hands. There’s no significant learning curve associated with these dies; their operation is entirely intuitive for anyone familiar with basic reloading procedures. The markings on the dies are clear, indicating their function and caliber.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their construction and my extended use, the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM appears built for longevity. Under normal reloading use, these dies should easily last for many years, if not decades, before any significant wear might be noticed. They are not consumable items; rather, they are precision tools designed for repeated cycles.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down after each reloading session prevents the accumulation of dirt and debris. Occasional light lubrication of the case mouth during sizing is recommended, which also helps keep the sizing die functioning smoothly. I have encountered no specific failure points with these dies, and given their solid construction, potential concerns are minimal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM is a foundational set, and its primary included “accessory” is the Universal Shell Holder. This component is essential for holding the case in place during the resizing and seating operations. As previously mentioned, if you plan on using a Lee Auto-Disk, Pro Auto-Disk, or Auto-Drum Powder Measure with this die set, you will need to procure the short charging die (Item LEE90668) separately.

While the dies themselves are not typically customized in the way firearms might be, their utility can be enhanced. The true “customization” comes from the ammunition you produce. For those seeking to fine-tune their .22 TCM loads, compatible components like various bullet weights and types, different powder charges, and primers are where the customization truly lies. The dies provide the essential framework for consistently assembling these custom loads.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM

Who Should Buy Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM?

This Lee die set is ideally suited for the handloader who is looking to get into reloading for the .22 TCM cartridge, particularly those who own firearms chambered in this caliber and wish to reduce their ammunition costs or experiment with custom loads. It is perfect for the budget-conscious reloader who values functionality and reliability over premium aesthetics or unnecessary bells and whistles. If you are primarily a rifle or pistol shooter who enjoys the process of reloading and wants a straightforward, no-nonsense tool to assemble .22 TCM ammunition, this set is a solid choice.

Conversely, this set might not be the best fit for someone who requires highly specialized dies for extreme precision competitive shooting that might demand micro-adjustments or proprietary features. Those who exclusively use powder dispensers that require a specific charging die and aren’t interested in acquiring a separate one might also want to look at alternative setups, though the universal applicability of the dies themselves remains strong. For anyone focused on ultra-high volume, high-speed progressive press reloading, this two-die set might be considered basic, though it still forms the core of any reloading operation.

If you plan on using this set, consider having a reliable reloading manual or online resource handy for load data specific to the .22 TCM. A good quality case lubricant will also enhance the ease of use of the sizing die. Ensuring your reloading press is properly aligned and stable will maximize the consistency of the seating die.

Conclusion on Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM

The Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM is a highly capable and cost-effective solution for any reloader looking to produce ammunition for this increasingly popular cartridge. It delivers solid performance in both case resizing and bullet seating, making it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to reload .22 TCM. The inclusion of the universal shell holder is a thoughtful touch that enhances its immediate usability right out of the box.

For its price point, the value proposition is undeniable. You receive durable, reliable dies that perform their functions with precision, all within a practical storage case. While the lack of included load data and the potential need for an additional charging die are minor drawbacks, they do little to detract from the overall excellence of this set.

I would personally recommend the Lee 90803 Pacesetter 2-Die Set 22 TCM without hesitation to any reloader who owns a .22 TCM firearm and wants to start making their own ammunition. It’s a straightforward, honest piece of equipment that does exactly what it’s designed to do, efficiently and effectively. If you’re in the market for .22 TCM dies, this limited production set from Lee is a wise investment that will serve you well for many reloading projects to come.