Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 Review

Is the Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 Right for You?

For those of us who tinker with firearms, the quest for precise ammunition loading is a constant companion. The Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 is one such tool that promises to simplify this process for a rather specific, yet cherished, caliber. This set, crafted by the well-regarded Lee brand, brings together essential components for reloaders: a full-length sizing and decapping die, a seating die with a roll crimp, and crucially, a dedicated shellholder. Its appeal lies in its focused design for the .338-06 A-Square, a cartridge that demands attention to detail.

My own journey to this particular die set wasn’t a sudden whim, but rather a calculated step to finally standardize the reloading process for a rifle chambered in .338-06. I had been experiencing some frustrating inconsistencies with previously acquired components, leading to unpredictable results downrange. The promise of a dedicated, purpose-built die set from a manufacturer known for its value and innovation sparked my interest immediately.

Upon receiving the package, the initial impression was one of utilitarian efficiency. The dies themselves felt substantial, exhibiting the classic Lee build quality – solid, functional, and devoid of unnecessary ornamentation. The included shellholder, a small but vital piece, felt robust and precisely machined. While other manufacturers might offer more elaborate sets, the straightforward nature of this Lee offering was exactly what I was hoping for, focusing on the core tools needed for effective cartridge resizing and bullet seating.

I had briefly considered more expensive, multi-die sets from other brands, but the specific caliber requirement and the limited production nature of this particular Lee set steered me towards it. The thought of acquiring tools that might be difficult to find later was also a factor in my decision. My initial reaction was a blend of eagerness and quiet satisfaction; this felt like a tool that was made for a specific job and, judging by its initial feel, would perform it well.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this die set took place on my reloading bench, bathed in the clean light of my workshop. I was preparing to reload a batch of spent .338-06 brass that had seen service across several hunting trips. The first step was sizing and decapping, and the die moved smoothly through the brass with moderate effort, efficiently reforming the fired cases and removing spent primers.

The seating die proved equally straightforward; aligning the bullet and driving it home with consistent seating depths was remarkably easy. I tested it across a range of pre-measured powder charges, and the seating die consistently placed bullets with minimal runout. The integrated roll crimp then provided a secure hold, crucial for cartridges destined for hunting scenarios where recoil and vibration can be significant factors.

There were no immediate issues or surprises, which, in the world of reloading equipment, is a sign of a well-made product. The set performed exactly as advertised, offering a predictable and repeatable experience from the very first cartridge. It was immediately clear that this was not a set that would require a steep learning curve.

Extended Use & Reliability

As weeks turned into months, this particular die set became a regular fixture on my bench, seeing regular use as I prepared ammunition for various shooting disciplines. It has handled dozens of cases without any noticeable degradation in performance, from resizing slightly misshapen brass to seating bullets with consistent depth. The roll crimp remains secure and effective, preventing any issues with bullet “walking” during recoil.

In terms of durability, the Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 has shown remarkable resilience. Despite repeated cycles of use, exposure to workshop dust, and the occasional light application of lubricant, there are no signs of rust, stiffness, or performance degradation. The precision of the machining seems to hold up exceptionally well.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use, and an occasional light application of a quality lubricant to the die threads, is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Compared to some older, more finicky dies I’ve used in the past, this set is a dream to maintain. It performs on par with, and in some aspects exceeds, the reliability I’ve come to expect from higher-priced, specialized die sets.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987

Specifications

This limited production set includes two essential rifle dies: a full-length sizing and decapping die, and a seating die with a roll crimp. Crucially, it also comes with a dedicated shellholder specifically designed for the .338-06 A-Square cartridge. The dies are manufactured from hardened steel, a standard for robust reloading tools, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear.

The full-length sizing die is critical for bringing fired brass back to proper dimensions, ensuring it will chamber reliably in your firearm. The integrated decapping unit removes spent primers efficiently, preparing the case for resizing. The seating die allows for precise control over bullet depth, which directly impacts overall cartridge length and, consequently, performance. The inclusion of a roll crimp feature is a significant advantage for cartridges like the .338-06, helping to secure the bullet firmly within the case, especially under recoil.

The shellholder is the unsung hero of the reloading process, providing the necessary support for the cartridge case as it’s worked by the dies. Having the correct one included ensures immediate usability without the need for an extra purchase. While there isn’t a specific numerical capacity or volume to discuss for dies in the same way as, say, a syringe, their precise dimensions and tolerances are paramount for accurate reloading.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 is to produce consistent, chamberable ammunition, and it excels at this task. The resizing die works fired brass back to full dimensions with minimal effort, and primers are ejected cleanly. The seating die allows for very precise adjustment, leading to consistent bullet seating depths from one round to the next, which is essential for accuracy.

The roll crimp function is particularly well-executed. It provides a firm, even crimp that securely holds the bullet in place, preventing any movement during handling or firing, which is crucial for consistent headspace and powder burn. The overall performance exceeds expectations for a set at this price point, delivering the accuracy and reliability needed for serious handloaders.

One of its greatest strengths is its simplicity and effectiveness. The design is straightforward, focusing on the essential functions without unnecessary complications. A minor point for consideration might be that the roll crimp is integral to the seating die; some may prefer separate crimping dies for finer control, but for its intended purpose, this integrated approach works very well.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these Lee dies is a testament to functional engineering. They are constructed from what appears to be hardened steel, providing a reassuring weight and a durable finish. The knurling on the dies provides sufficient grip, even with slightly greasy hands, making adjustments and threading them into a press straightforward.

Ergonomically, they fit well into the hand during setup and adjustment. The smooth operation of the dies in a press is a significant plus, reducing fatigue during longer reloading sessions. The clear markings on the dies, though minimal, are sufficient for identification.

The shellholder is also well-designed, with a precise fit for the .338-06 case head, ensuring proper support and alignment during the resizing and seating processes. The overall build quality feels robust and capable of handling the pressures associated with reloading rifle cartridges.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their construction from hardened steel, these Lee dies are built for the long haul. Under normal reloading practices for this caliber, I anticipate them lasting for thousands of rounds. There’s no indication of premature wear, and the threads remain clean and precise.

Maintenance is exceptionally low. Beyond a basic cleaning and occasional lubrication of the threads, these dies require very little attention. They are resistant to corrosion and the machining is precise enough that dirt and debris are less likely to cause operational issues.

The primary maintenance concern for any reloading die set is ensuring the threads remain clean and lubricated to prevent galling. With regular care, the Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 should remain a reliable tool for many years. There are no apparent weak points or common failure modes to worry about with this set.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular set is designed as a core component, so it doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. However, the inclusion of the dedicated shellholder is a crucial element that makes it a complete package for immediate use. The primary “accessory” is, of course, the ammunition you will load with it.

Customization options for die sets are generally limited to their intended caliber and function. However, Lee is known for its modularity, and while this set is specific, it fits within the broader Lee reloading system. For users looking to refine their loads further, separate dies for neck sizing or specialized crimping could be added from Lee or other manufacturers, but these two dies and the shellholder provide the fundamental capability.

Pros and Cons of Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987

Who Should Buy Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987?

This Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 is an excellent choice for handloaders who specifically reload for the .338-06 A-Square cartridge. It’s ideal for the hobbyist or experienced reloader who appreciates a focused tool that performs its intended task exceptionally well without unnecessary frills. If you’ve recently acquired a rifle in this caliber and need to start producing your own ammunition, this set is a fantastic entry point or a solid upgrade.

Those who prioritize precision and reliability in their reloaded ammunition will find this set highly beneficial, particularly for hunting or target shooting where consistency is key. It’s also perfect for anyone who values the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Lee reloading products and understands the appeal of a specialized, limited-production tool.

However, those who are looking for a universal die set that can handle multiple calibers, or who require highly advanced features like micrometer-adjustable seating dies, might need to consider other options. Beginners in reloading might also benefit from a comprehensive guide on proper die adjustment and usage, which this set itself does not provide. For an optimal experience, I highly recommend pairing this die set with a good quality case lube and a tumbler to ensure clean brass before resizing.

Conclusion on Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987

The Lee Limited 2 Die Rifle Set W/Shellholder For 338-06 90987 is a prime example of Lee Precision’s commitment to providing effective, reliable reloading tools at an accessible price. For the reloader dedicated to the .338-06 A-Square cartridge, this set delivers exactly what is needed: precise resizing, accurate bullet seating, and a secure crimp, all supported by the included shellholder. Its construction is solid, its performance is consistent, and its value proposition is undeniable, especially considering its limited production status.

While it may not boast the elaborate features of more expensive, multi-die sets, it fulfills its primary function with remarkable effectiveness. It streamlines the reloading process for this specific caliber, allowing for the creation of consistent and dependable ammunition, which is paramount for any shooter.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this die set to anyone actively reloading the .338-06. It’s a no-nonsense, highly functional tool that punches above its weight in performance and value. If you’re in the market for .338-06 dies and can get your hands on this limited run, you will not be disappointed; it’s a smart investment for any serious handloader.