Behind the Box: Testing the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE
For anyone deep into reloading, the hunt for efficiency and consistency is relentless. My own reloading bench, a meticulously organized chaos born from over a decade of practical application across various environments, is no exception. The drive for faster caliber changes and a streamlined workflow on my Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro progressive press led me to seek out specific components. This particular shell plate, the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE, was a necessary acquisition to expand the versatility of my press. It promised to unlock support for a range of popular pistol calibers that I frequently work with.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense utility. The shell plate felt robust, with clean machining and a reassuring heft. It’s a component that lives within a machine, so its primary requirement is functional precision, and this one certainly looked the part. I had considered universal shell plates in the past, but the inherent compromises in fit and retention often make them less than ideal for high-volume or precision work. This model, however, is clearly designed for a specific press and a specific set of cartridges, which usually bodes well for accuracy and reliability. My first thought was simply, “Let’s get this on the press and see how it runs.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE to the Test
First Use Experience
The testing ground for this shell plate was my dedicated reloading room, a space that mimics a light workshop environment. My primary goal was to integrate it seamlessly into my existing Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro setup, particularly for my frequent reloading sessions involving .40 S&W and 9mm Luger. The shell plate swapped out with my previous one easily enough, a testament to the Breech Lock system’s design. I was able to mount it and have it ready for operation within minutes, without needing to consult a manual.
My initial experience was surprisingly smooth. The auto-indexing feature of the press worked flawlessly with the new shell plate, ensuring each station was perfectly aligned for primer insertion, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping. I ran through several hundred rounds of .40 S&W and a similar batch of 9mm Luger without a single hitch. The cases were held securely, and there was no noticeable wobble or play that could affect the precise alignment required for consistent crimps and bullet seating depths.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and well over a thousand rounds reloaded across the supported calibers, this shell plate has proven to be a reliable workhorse. The fit and finish have held up remarkably well; there are no visible signs of wear, such as deep scratches or deformities, despite regular handling and exposure to brass shavings and resizing lubricant residue. Its robust construction means that it doesn’t flex or warp under the pressure of seating bullets or crimping, which is crucial for consistent ammunition.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a degreaser and a soft cloth is usually all it takes to keep it looking and functioning like new. I haven’t noticed any stiffness developing in the detents or seating mechanism, which can sometimes be an issue with metal components that see frequent use. Compared to some generic shell plates I’ve used in the past that could sometimes hang up or require minor adjustments, this Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE has been a significant upgrade in terms of plug-and-play reliability. It’s held its own against my previous dedicated shell plates for other calibers, which is high praise indeed.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE
Specifications
The Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE is designed to fit the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Progressive Press. Its primary function is to securely hold and precisely index cartridges for the reloading process across multiple stations. This particular model is engineered to accommodate a specific range of calibers: .40 S&W, 10mm Auto, 9mm Luger, .38 Super, .38 Auto, and .41 AE. Each pocket is machined to exact tolerances, ensuring a snug fit for cases of these dimensions.
The manufacturer, Lee, is known for producing accessible and functional reloading equipment, and this shell plate adheres to that philosophy. It is supplied as a single unit, meaning you purchase one shell plate per caliber or family of related calibers. The robust construction, likely a hardened steel or a very durable polymer, contributes to its longevity and the precision required for consistent reloading. The precise fit of the case mouths into the individual pockets is paramount, as it directly influences the alignment of the case at each stage of the reloading process, from priming to bullet seating.
Performance & Functionality
In its core task, the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE performs admirably. It reliably holds cases from .40 S&W, 10mm Auto, and 9mm Luger, with the .38 Super and .38 Auto also fitting well within their designated pockets. The auto-indexing mechanism of the press engages positively with the shell plate, ensuring that the case is perfectly positioned under each die without any slop or hesitation. This precision is vital for maintaining consistent bullet seating depth and crimp diameter, which directly impacts the accuracy and reliability of the final ammunition.
Its strengths lie in its direct compatibility with the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro and the broad caliber support for a single plate. The pockets are deep enough to securely hold shorter cases like the 9mm without them sitting too high, while still accommodating longer cartridges like the 10mm comfortably. A minor area for potential improvement, though not a significant functional flaw, is that the pockets are quite snug. While this is excellent for retention, very slightly out-of-spec brass might require a bit more effort to insert or remove, especially if it has a slightly thicker rim. However, for standard factory or well-formed handloads, it’s a non-issue. It meets expectations for its intended use, providing a reliable platform for high-volume progressive reloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this shell plate is purely functional, reflecting its role within a larger, automated system. It’s a flat, circular disc with precisely machined pockets to accommodate the base of the cartridge cases. The material feels solid and durable, suggesting it can withstand the repetitive stresses of the reloading cycle. There are no extraneous features; its form is dictated by function, ensuring it interfaces perfectly with the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro press’s indexing system.
Ergonomically, the “in-hand” experience is minimal, as it’s designed to be installed and left on the press for a given caliber range. The pockets are chamfered slightly to aid in case insertion, which is a thoughtful detail. The surface finish is smooth, preventing brass from sticking, and the overall construction feels robust enough that you don’t worry about damaging it during installation or removal. It’s the kind of component that works in the background, and its good design means you rarely have to think about it once it’s in place.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on its construction and the experience with similar Lee components, this shell plate is built for long-term durability. Under normal use within its specified caliber range, it should easily last for tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of cycles. The primary wear points would be the edges of the pockets and the indexing detents, but these are typically made from hardened materials in components like this.
Maintenance is minimal. After a reloading session, a quick wipe-down to remove brass shavings, dust, or lubricant residue is sufficient. I’ve found that a small brush can help dislodge any stubborn particles from the pockets. There are no lubrication requirements, and its simple design means there are no complex parts to break or maintain. The main concern would be dropping it on a hard surface, which could potentially chip or deform a pocket, but its inherent sturdiness makes this unlikely without a significant impact.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific product, the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE, is a standalone component and does not come with any accessories. It is designed to be an integral part of the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro press itself, not to be customized in the traditional sense.
However, its value comes from its role within a system that allows for other forms of customization. The Lee Auto Breech Lock system is built around the quick-change Breech Lock bushings, which allow you to pre-set dies and then quickly swap them in and out. This shell plate works in conjunction with that system, allowing you to dedicate shell plates to specific caliber families and then swap the entire press head (including the shell plate and dies) quickly. While the plate itself isn’t customizable, it enables a more customized and efficient reloading workflow for users who transition between different cartridge types.
Pros and Cons of Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE
Pros
- Broad Caliber Support: Accommodates a versatile range of popular pistol cartridges on a single shell plate, reducing the need for multiple specialized plates for closely related calibers.
- Precise Case Retention: Machined pockets hold cases securely, ensuring accurate alignment at each station of the progressive press.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust materials, it’s built to withstand thousands of reloading cycles without showing significant wear.
- Seamless Integration: Designed specifically for the Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro press, it fits perfectly and works flawlessly with the auto-indexing system.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Offers significant value by covering multiple calibers, making it a more economical choice than buying separate plates for each individual cartridge.
Cons
- Snug Pockets: Cases, particularly those slightly out of spec or with thicker rims, can sometimes require a bit more effort to insert and remove.
- Single Caliber Family Focus: While it covers several calibers, it’s still specific to this group; users with widely different cartridges (e.g., .223 Remington) will still need additional shell plates.
Who Should Buy Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE?
This shell plate is an ideal purchase for any reloader who owns a Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro progressive press and frequently loads ammunition for .40 S&W, 10mm Auto, 9mm Luger, .38 Super, .38 Auto, or .41 AE. If you find yourself switching between these calibers often and appreciate the efficiency of the Breech Lock system, this component will significantly streamline your reloading process. It’s perfect for those who reload for competition, personal defense, or general target shooting with these pistol cartridges and value precision and speed.
Individuals who should probably skip this shell plate are those who only reload for calibers not listed here, or those who use a different brand of progressive press entirely. If your reloading needs are limited to just one or two of these specific calibers and you don’t anticipate expanding, a dedicated shell plate for just that single caliber might suffice, though the convenience of this multi-caliber option is hard to beat. For users of the Auto Breech Lock Pro, the primary accessory that complements this shell plate is simply having a set of dies for each of the calibers you intend to load, ideally set up in Breech Lock bushings for rapid caliber changes.
Conclusion on Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE
The Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate #19 For .40 S&W/10mm Auto/9mm Luger/.38 Super/.38 Auto/.41 AE is a straightforward, highly effective component that delivers on its promise of versatility and reliability. Its robust construction ensures long-term use, and the precise machining guarantees accurate case alignment, which is critical for producing quality ammunition. The ability to handle such a broad range of popular pistol calibers on a single plate represents excellent value, especially considering its modest price point of $17.33.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this shell plate to any reloader with a Lee Auto Breech Lock Pro press who works with these calibers. It’s a small investment that yields significant gains in reloading efficiency and consistency. If you’re looking to expand the capabilities of your Lee press without breaking the bank, this is an essential addition to your reloading toolkit.