Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 Review

Putting the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 to Work

For any serious handloader, the availability of accurate and reliable dies is paramount to consistent results. The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 aims to fill a specific niche in this market, offering a specialized set for the .220 Swift cartridge. Lee Precision is a name synonymous with providing accessible reloading equipment, and this Pacesetter series die set is designed to deliver core functionality without unnecessary frills. It promises the quality you expect from Lee but at a price point that’s hard to ignore, especially for those looking to reload less common or older calibers.

My journey to this particular die set was driven by a desire to revive a beloved, albeit seldom-used, rifle chambered in .220 Swift. Finding readily available, high-quality dies for this caliber had proven to be a bit of a treasure hunt, with many options leaning towards the higher end of the price spectrum or lacking the specific features I desired. I considered a few other brands, but their price tags and inclusion of features I wouldn’t use, like a factory crimp die for this particular application, made them less appealing. The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 stood out immediately for its straightforward approach and attractive price, promising the essential components for effective reloading without breaking the bank.

Upon receiving the package, my initial impressions were consistent with Lee’s reputation for no-nonsense equipment. The dies themselves felt substantial, crafted from hardened steel, which is a must for longevity and precision. They weren’t adorned with flashy finishes or intricate designs, but rather exuded a sense of functional robustness. The inclusion of a corresponding shellholder was a welcome touch, ensuring immediate compatibility without an additional purchase. This set felt like it was built for purpose, ready to get down to the business of reloading.

My excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of practical skepticism. While Lee often delivers excellent value, I was keen to see if the “limited production” aspect translated into any compromises in performance for this specific caliber. The inclusion of load data, a feature highlighted as priceless for odd or obsolete calibers, was particularly reassuring. It signaled Lee’s understanding of the reloader’s needs, especially when dealing with cartridges that might not have a wealth of easily accessible data.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 to the Test

My testing regimen for the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 focused on its intended purpose: resizing and seating bullets for the .220 Swift cartridge. I set them up on my Dillon progressive press, a platform known for its unforgiving nature when it comes to die alignment and function. The dies mounted up smoothly, with no thread issues or binding, which is always a good sign. The first few rounds processed with ease, the sizing die effectively bringing the brass back to specification and the seating die consistently placing the bullets to the desired depth.

I subjected these dies to a significant workload over several reloading sessions. This involved resizing dozens of cases, some of which had been fired multiple times and were showing signs of normal use and slight elongation. Even with brass that wasn’t in pristine condition, the sizing die performed admirably, restoring case dimensions reliably. The seating die, paired with the included shellholder, ensured that each bullet was seated to the same precise depth, a critical factor for consistent chambering and accuracy.

Over weeks of consistent use, the Pacesetter dies have held up remarkably well. There has been no noticeable degradation in their performance; they continue to size and seat bullets with the same precision as they did on day one. The hardened steel construction appears to be living up to its promise, showing no signs of premature wear or damage, even after processing a substantial quantity of brass. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth after each session and a light application of oil has kept them in excellent working order.

Compared to some of the more budget-oriented die sets I’ve used in the past, these Lee dies offer a discernible step up in terms of build quality and functional consistency. While they may not possess the ultra-premium finishes or advanced adjustments of some top-tier manufacturers, they strike an excellent balance between performance and cost. For the price point, their reliability and the inclusion of crucial data for a caliber like the .220 Swift make them a standout option.

First Use Experience

The initial setup of the Lee Pacesetter dies for the .220 Swift was straightforward, as expected from Lee Precision. I installed the sizing die first, followed by the seating die, ensuring proper alignment with my press and the use of the provided shellholder. The process was intuitive, requiring no complex adjustments or specialized tools beyond what’s standard for any die set. My testing took place on my dedicated reloading bench, under controlled conditions, focusing on the critical tasks of case resizing and bullet seating.

During this first use, I noticed the satisfyingly solid feel of the dies as they engaged the brass. The sizing die had a smooth, decisive action, reforming the .220 Swift cases without any indication of sticking or excessive force required. The seating die also performed admirably, with the seating stem precisely guiding the bullet into the case mouth and crimping it firmly once adjusted to the desired depth. There were no unexpected hiccups or surprises; it performed exactly as one would hope for a new set of reloading dies.

After processing the first batch of cases, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the consistency. Each resized case measured within expected tolerances, and the seated bullets exhibited minimal runout. This immediate performance suggested that these dies were well-manufactured and designed for accuracy, even for a somewhat specialized caliber. The absence of any fuss or need for extensive tweaking was a significant bonus.

Extended Use & Reliability

With several months of reloading sessions under my belt, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 has proven its mettle. I’ve used it to load ammunition for target shooting, varmint hunting, and general plinking with my .220 Swift rifle, and it has performed flawlessly every time. The dies continue to deliver consistent results, ensuring that my handloads are both accurate and reliable, round after round.

Durability has been excellent; I haven’t encountered any signs of wear, such as cracking, stiffness, or degradation in performance. The hardened steel construction seems robust enough to handle the rigors of repeated reloading cycles without issue. The threads remain clean and functional, and the dies retain their precise adjustments, which is crucial for maintaining consistency in bullet seating depth.

Maintenance for this die set is refreshingly simple. After each reloading session, I simply wipe down the dies with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residual powder or lubricant. A light application of a quality gun oil on the threads keeps them smooth and prevents rust. There are no complex internal parts to clean or special procedures to follow, making it an easy addition to any reloading routine.

In direct comparison to some other die sets I’ve used, these Lee Pacesetter dies offer a level of quality that far exceeds their price point. They provide the essential functionality of more expensive sets without compromising on the critical aspects of case resizing and bullet seating. For anyone reloading the .220 Swift, these offer a robust and reliable solution that won’t require frequent replacement.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 is a set of Pacesetter dies specifically designed for the .220 Swift rifle cartridge. This set includes a full-length resizing die and a neck-seating die, along with the corresponding Lee shellholder. It’s important to note that, as a Pacesetter series set, it does not include a factory crimp die, which is a deliberate choice by Lee to keep the cost down and cater to reloaders who may not require this specific feature for their intended use. The dies are crafted from hardened steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the quality and consistency of the ammunition you reload. The full-length resizing die is essential for bringing spent brass back to factory specifications, ensuring reliable chambering in your firearm. The neck-seating die allows for precise control over bullet seating depth, a critical factor for optimizing accuracy and ensuring consistent overall cartridge length. The inclusion of a dedicated shellholder simplifies the process by providing a perfectly matched component, eliminating the need for a separate purchase and ensuring proper case support during resizing. This focus on core functionality is what makes Lee’s Pacesetter line so popular among budget-conscious reloaders.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lee
• Caliber: .220 Swift
• Die Type: Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies
• Included Components: Full-length resizing die, neck-seating die, shellholder for .220 Swift.
• Material: Hardened Steel

These specifications are the foundation of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542. The caliber designation is self-explanatory, meaning these dies are precisely machined for the unique dimensions of the .220 Swift. The “Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies” indicates Lee’s quality line for rifle cartridges, designed for durability and consistent performance. The decision to omit the factory crimp die is a cost-saving measure, and for cartridges like the .220 Swift, where case neck tension is often sufficient without it, this is a sensible omission. The hardened steel construction ensures these dies can withstand thousands of resizing operations without showing premature wear.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 is to accurately resize and seat bullets for the .220 Swift. In this regard, these dies perform exceptionally well. The full-length resizing die consistently brings brass back to dimension, facilitating smooth chambering in my rifle. The neck-seating die allows for precise control over bullet depth, which directly translates to consistent velocities and improved accuracy downrange.

The strengths of these dies lie in their straightforward functionality and accuracy. They do exactly what they are designed to do without any fuss. Their main weakness, if one could call it that, is the absence of a factory crimp die. While not essential for all .220 Swift loads, some reloaders might prefer to have that option. However, considering the price point and the inclusion of load data, this is a minor trade-off. They meet and often exceed expectations for a die set in this price category, especially for a caliber like the .220 Swift.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Pacesetter dies is purely functional, eschewing aesthetic embellishments for practical robustness. The hardened steel bodies are well-machined, with clean, sharp threads that allow for smooth adjustment in the reloading press. They have a substantial feel, conveying a sense of durability and reliability.

Ergonomically, they are designed for use within a reloading press, so direct hand ergonomics are less of a factor. The knurled portion of the dies provides sufficient grip for making adjustments. The seating die’s adjustment mechanism is intuitive and allows for fine-tuning of bullet seating depth. Markings on the dies are clear and easy to read, aiding in quick identification and setup.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the reputation of Lee Precision dies, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 is built for longevity. Under normal reloading conditions, these dies should last for many years, if not decades, of service. The hardened steel construction is inherently resistant to wear and tear from repeated brass resizing.

Maintenance is minimal and straightforward. A simple wipe-down after each reloading session with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris is usually sufficient. For longer-term storage or if you live in a humid environment, a light application of gun oil on the threads and working surfaces will prevent any possibility of rust. There are no known failure points beyond those typically associated with any reloading die, such as thread damage from improper handling or overtightening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 comes as a complete set for the primary reloading steps. It includes the full-length resizing die, the neck-seating die, and the essential Lee shellholder specific to the .220 Swift cartridge. While no additional accessories are included, the dies are designed to work with standard 7/8″-14 thread reloading presses.

The primary customization option for this die set would involve purchasing aftermarket bullet seating stems if specific bullet ogives require a different profile. However, the included seating stem generally works well with a variety of common .220 Swift projectiles. For those who might want a crimp, Lee offers their Factory Crimp Die as a separate purchase, which can be added to this set if desired. The inclusion of load data within the packaging is itself a valuable resource, offering starting points and guidance for developing safe and accurate loads.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542

Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542?

This die set is an ideal choice for reloaders who specifically own a .220 Swift rifle and are looking for an economical yet reliable way to handload ammunition. It’s perfect for the budget-conscious reloader who prioritizes essential functionality over premium features. Anyone who appreciates Lee Precision’s commitment to providing quality equipment at accessible prices will find this set a great addition to their workbench.

Conversely, this die set might not be the best fit for reloaders who absolutely require a factory crimp die as part of their standard process, or those who are looking for highly specialized dies with extensive adjustability for extremely fine-tuning. Users who are new to reloading might find the absence of a factory crimp die slightly confusing, though the included load data should mitigate this. For those seeking a more premium feel or specific advanced features, looking at higher-tier Lee sets or other manufacturers would be more appropriate.

A highly recommended accessory to pair with this set would be a quality micrometer or caliper for accurately measuring bullet seating depth and resized case dimensions. A case neck expander could also be beneficial if you intend to reload brass that has been significantly worked or if you’re using very hard bullets.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90542 Pacesetter die set for the .220 Swift is a testament to Lee Precision’s philosophy of providing effective reloading tools without an exorbitant price tag. It delivers on its promise of core functionality with impressive accuracy and consistency, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to reload this classic cartridge. The inclusion of vital load data for the .220 Swift elevates its value proposition considerably, particularly for those who might struggle to find comprehensive reloading information elsewhere.

The value this set offers is undeniable. For the price, you receive a robust, durable set of dies that will perform reliably for years, along with the necessary shellholder and crucial data. It’s a smart investment for any .220 Swift owner who enjoys the satisfaction and savings of handloading. I would readily recommend this die set to any reloader seeking a straightforward, effective, and economical solution for their .220 Swift ammunition needs. It’s a workhorse that gets the job done, and for that, it earns a solid endorsement.