Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press Review

The Honest Truth About the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press

For those of us who appreciate the satisfaction of crafting our own ammunition, the hunt for reliable and efficient reloading equipment is a continuous journey. The Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press emerged on my radar as a potential solution for streamlining my 16-gauge reloading process. I was specifically looking for a press that offered a good balance of user-friendliness and the capacity to produce consistent shells without requiring a steep learning curve. My previous experiences with more complex single-stage presses had left me with a desire for something more straightforward, especially when dealing with the nuances of shotshell reloading.

My initial foray into the world of shotshell reloading had been through a rather rudimentary setup, which, while functional, was slow and prone to minor inconsistencies. The allure of the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press was its promise of a more integrated approach, handling multiple steps in one compact unit. I’d heard good things about Lee Precision’s dedication to providing accessible reloading tools, and this particular model seemed to hit the sweet spot between affordability and capability. When it arrived, my first impression was of a robust, no-nonsense tool. It possesses a utilitarian design, crafted from what feels like solid cast iron, giving it a reassuring weight and stability. It’s not flashy, but the build quality suggests it’s designed to withstand the rigors of regular use in a workshop or reloading bench.

Compared to other options, such as more automated progressives or even some of the higher-end single-stage shotshell presses, the Load-All 2 stood out for its simplicity and the comprehensive package it offers. While I considered some of the more elaborate turret presses, the advertised ease of use and the included accessories for the Lee model were compelling. My excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism; could something this seemingly simple really deliver consistent, quality reloads? I was cautiously optimistic, eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to its billing as an easy-to-use, high-performance tool.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press took place on my dedicated reloading bench in the garage. This is a space that sees its fair share of dust and the occasional spilled solvent, so I was keen to see how the press would handle less-than-pristine conditions. I decided to start with a batch of standard hunting loads, as this is a common application for 16-gauge ammunition. The setup was remarkably intuitive; I consulted the included manual briefly to orient myself with the various components, but the overall operation felt natural.

The press operated smoothly throughout the initial process, from resizing spent hulls to the final crimp. I experienced no binding or sticking, even as I cycled through the steps repeatedly. A minor surprise was how quickly I was able to achieve a rhythm with the press’s action; the convenient handle made the process feel less like a chore and more like a deliberate, almost meditative, task. After completing my first dozen shells, I examined them closely. The crimps were consistently well-formed, and the overall appearance was indistinguishable from factory-loaded ammunition, which was a significant win.

There were no major issues or quirks during this initial hands-on session. The most notable aspect was the lack of any specialized tools required beyond the press itself and the included components. The press’s design inherently manages the shell throughout the reloading cycle, eliminating the need for separate sizing or trimming steps that can add complexity to other reloading methods. This streamlined approach definitely made the learning curve almost non-existent.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks, I put the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press through its paces, reloading enough 16-gauge shells to outfit me for a few local clay target shoots and some upland bird hunting trips. The press consistently held up to this regular use, maintaining its smooth operation. I never experienced any significant wear and tear, nor did I notice any stiffness developing in the action, which is a testament to its solid construction and the quality of its components.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each reloading session usually suffices to keep dust and debris at bay. Occasionally, a light application of a quality machine oil on the moving parts ensures that everything continues to operate flawlessly. I haven’t had to replace any parts, which speaks volumes about its durability.

Compared to my previous, more basic setup, the Load-All 2 is in a different league. The consistency it provides, especially in the crimping stage, is far superior. While more premium, automated presses might offer higher volumes, for the individual reloader who values quality and simplicity, this Lee press has proven itself to be an incredibly reliable workhorse. Its performance has exceeded my expectations for a press in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press

Specifications

The Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press is a testament to Lee Precision’s focus on delivering functional reloading solutions. Its primary construction material is cast iron, contributing to its robust feel and stable operation on the bench. The press is designed specifically for 16-gauge shotshells, ensuring precise fit and function for this particular gauge.

One of its most significant features is the inclusion of eight shot bushings with various measurements. These bushings are crucial for accurately dispensing the correct amount of shot for your chosen load, allowing for a wide range of load recipes. The press also comes equipped with a steel sizing ring for resizing spent shotshells, which is vital for ensuring they feed reliably into your firearms.

Another notable specification is the presence of both six and eight-point crimp starters. These components are designed to initiate the crimping process cleanly and uniformly, leading to well-finished shells. The unit also includes a primer guide and a wad guide, along with spares for both, ensuring you have everything needed to properly seat primers and guide wads into the shell. The convenient handle is another key feature, making it easier to transport and position the press.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press is to provide a repeatable and efficient method for reloading shotshells, and it excels at this. Its primary job is to guide the reloader through each stage of the process – resizing, priming, powder and shot charging (using the bushings), wad insertion, and crimping – in a linear fashion. The sequencing of operations is logical and easy to follow, even for someone new to shotshell reloading.

What works exceptionally well is the single mandrel system and the absence of the need for special shell sizing before crimping. This design significantly streamlines the process, as advertised, and eliminates the time-consuming step of trimming hulls to ensure a uniform crimp. The primer guide is effective at presenting primers correctly, and the included wad guide ensures that wads are seated properly without damage. The steel sizing ring does a good job of bringing slightly expanded hulls back to their original dimensions.

A minor area for improvement, though not a significant flaw, is the tactile feedback during the crimp process. While the crimp starters do a great job of initiating the fold, achieving a truly perfect crimp on every shell sometimes requires a slight adjustment in pressure or technique, especially when working with older or slightly varied hull types. However, for most purposes, the crimps produced are excellent and fully functional, meeting all expectations for a tool in its class and price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press leans heavily towards functionality over aesthetics. Its cast iron construction gives it a satisfying heft, ensuring it remains stable on the bench even under pressure. The overall layout is straightforward, with clearly defined stations for each stage of the reloading process.

The convenient handle is well-placed and provides good leverage, making the entire operation feel less strenuous than it might on a less thoughtfully designed press. The easy-to-carry nature of the press is a bonus for those with limited bench space or who need to store their equipment between uses. The controls, such as the primer insertion mechanism and the shot bushings, are simple to operate and adjust.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the feel of each station, particularly the crimping process, but it’s minimal. The press’s intuitive design means that most users will be up and running effectively within their first reloading session. The inclusion of both right and left-handed sizers is a thoughtful ergonomic touch, catering to a broader range of users.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is clearly a strong suit for the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press. The solid cast iron construction suggests it’s built to last for decades, assuming basic care. I haven’t encountered any signs of weakness or potential failure points in my testing period.

Maintenance is exceptionally easy. As mentioned, a quick wipe-down keeps it clean, and occasional lubrication of the moving parts ensures smooth operation. The press doesn’t have many small, intricate parts that are prone to damage or loss. The included spare wad guide, pin, and spring are a great addition, offering peace of mind for long-term ownership.

The real-world expectation for a tool like this is longevity, and the Load-All 2 appears poised to deliver just that. There are no inherent design flaws that suggest premature wear. It’s a mechanically simple device, which is often the key to enduring reliability in the world of reloading tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press comes with a comprehensive set of accessories that make it ready to use right out of the box. Key among these are the eight shot bushings, which allow for precise measurement of shot charges. The inclusion of a steel sizing ring is essential for preparing spent hulls, and the wad guide and primer guide are critical for correct assembly.

Furthermore, the press includes both six and eight-point crimp starters, offering versatility for different hull types and desired crimp styles. The provision of spare parts like a spare primer guide, wad guide, pin, and spring is a significant value-add, ensuring that minor wear or accidental loss doesn’t halt your reloading efforts.

While the press itself is a complete system for basic shotshell reloading, the customization options primarily lie in the reloading recipes you choose to employ. The ability to swap shot bushings allows for fine-tuning loads to specific performance requirements. There isn’t extensive hardware customization of the press itself, but its design accommodates a wide variety of hull types and components within the 16-gauge world.

Pros and Cons of Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press

Who Should Buy Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press?

The Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press is an excellent choice for anyone who reloads 16-gauge shotshells and prioritizes ease of use, consistency, and value. This includes:

• Beginner shotshell reloaders: Its intuitive design and integrated process remove much of the complexity often associated with starting out.
• Experienced reloaders who primarily load 16-gauge and want a reliable, efficient, no-frills press for moderate volumes.
• Hunters and clay target shooters who go through a moderate amount of 16-gauge ammunition and wish to save money by reloading.
• Anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting reloading tool that doesn’t require extensive maintenance.

However, this press might not be the best fit for:

• Reloaders who need to process very high volumes of shotshells quickly (progressives would be a better choice).
• Those who exclusively reload multiple gauges and prefer a single machine to handle everything.
• Individuals seeking the absolute most aesthetically refined crimp possible, as more specialized (and expensive) equipment might offer marginal improvements here.

For those who purchase this press, ensuring you have a reliable powder and shot measure, along with a good selection of hull, primer, and powder components, will make the experience even smoother.

Conclusion on Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press

The Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press is a remarkably effective tool that lives up to its promise of making shotshell reloading accessible and efficient, particularly for the 16-gauge enthusiast. Its robust cast iron build, coupled with its user-friendly design, ensures both durability and ease of operation. The inclusion of a comprehensive suite of accessories means you can start producing quality reloads almost immediately upon unboxing, making it an exceptional value for its price point.

For anyone invested in the 16-gauge community, whether for hunting, sport shooting, or simply the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition, this press represents a smart investment. It provides consistent, reliable results without the steep learning curve or high cost associated with more complex reloading systems. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lee Load-All 2 16 Ga Shotshell Reloading Press to anyone looking for a dependable and straightforward way to reload their 16-gauge shells. It’s a testament to Lee Precision’s commitment to providing shooters with quality, affordable reloading equipment that truly works.