Lee 90702 Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment Review

How the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 Changed My Routine

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is a collet die set designed for reloading the .220 Swift cartridge. Marketed by Lee, this kit promises improved accuracy and extended case life for reloaders. It aims to provide a precision reloading experience at an accessible price point.

As someone who reloads primarily for accuracy in my varmint rifles, I was constantly battling neck tension consistency and case runout issues. I had heard whispers about the benefits of collet neck sizing and was intrigued. Was it marketing hype or a legitimate solution to my reloading woes?

When I unboxed the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702, my first impression was one of simplicity. The set includes the collet neck sizing die, a dead length bullet seating die, a shell holder, a powder measure charge table, and a storage box. Everything felt solid and well-machined, albeit with Lee’s utilitarian aesthetic.

I had been using a standard two-die set from another manufacturer, which included a full-length sizing die and a standard seating die. I also considered a more premium collet die set from Redding, but the Lee kit’s price made it a more attractive entry point into collet neck sizing. The price point was the biggest factor in my decision, I needed to see if collet sizing was a good fit for my reloading process.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could such an affordable set truly deliver on its promises of improved accuracy and extended case life? Only time and testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 at my reloading bench, prepping brass for my custom .220 Swift rifle. I focused on meticulous case preparation, paying close attention to primer pocket uniformity and flash hole deburring. The collet die required a bit of familiarization to get the hang of the adjustment, but once I did it was straightforward.

The .220 Swift can be finicky in hotter weather. I loaded batches with different powder charges to test for optimal performance. The collet die seemed to deliver consistent neck tension.

After a few adjustments to my powder charge my rifle performed as expected. I had no issues getting sub MOA groups.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 has proven to be a reliable component of my reloading process. The dies still function smoothly, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. The finish has held up well, even with frequent handling.

Maintaining the set is quite simple. I ensure the dies are clean and lightly oiled after each reloading session. I’ve noticed a significant increase in the consistency of my reloads, and my cases are indeed lasting longer, showing no signs of neck splitting even after multiple firings.

Previously, I had been struggling with inconsistent neck tension and short case life with my standard sizing dies. The Lee collet die setup is far superior.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702

Specifications

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is specifically designed for reloading the .220 Swift cartridge. The kit includes a collet neck sizing die, which uses a mandrel to size the case neck internally, ensuring consistent neck tension. It also features a dead length bullet seating die, designed to minimize bullet runout during seating.

The shell holder included is specifically for the .220 Swift case head. The kit comes with a powder measure charge table to assist in powder selection. It does not contain any powder.

The Lee collet neck sizing die uses a unique collet design to squeeze the case neck against a precision mandrel. This is critical for achieving consistent neck tension and promoting accuracy. The dead length bullet seating die is designed to seat bullets straight and true, minimizing runout.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 performs its intended function admirably. It delivers consistent neck tension, which translates to improved accuracy on the range. The dead length bullet seating die ensures minimal bullet runout, further enhancing precision.

The collet sizing die is a standout feature. The sizing operation is smooth and consistent. However, it does not resize the entire case body.

The Lee collet die set has met my expectations for accuracy improvement. My rounds are now more consistent and accurate.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 features a simple and functional design. The dies are made from steel and have a durable finish. The set is lightweight and easy to handle.

The collet die requires a bit of initial setup and adjustment, but once dialed in, it is straightforward to use. The dead length bullet seating die is very user-friendly. It provides consistent seating depth with minimal effort.

Lee products are always simple in design and the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is no exception. Simplicity improves ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is constructed from durable materials. It is designed to last through many reloading sessions. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The dies are easy to disassemble for cleaning. A light coat of oil after cleaning will prevent rust and corrosion. The Lee dies are built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 includes the necessary shell holder for the .220 Swift cartridge. While the set is designed to be used as is, reloaders can customize their setup with various accessories. These can include different bullet seating stems or aftermarket die storage solutions.

Lee offers a wide range of reloading accessories. These can be used in conjunction with the 90702 die set. The kit is compatible with most standard reloading presses.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702

Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702?

This die set is perfect for reloaders seeking improved accuracy and extended case life for their .220 Swift rifles. It’s a good option for precision shooters and varmint hunters who prioritize consistent neck tension. It’s also a great choice for those on a budget who want to experiment with collet neck sizing.

Those who require full-length resizing or prefer the simplicity of a standard two-die set may want to skip this product. If you are not reloading for optimal accuracy, you may not notice the benefits. Additionally, if you do not take the time to set the dies up correctly, you will not receive their full benefit.

A good quality reloading press and accurate powder scale are must-have accessories to use with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 is a solid performer that delivers on its promises of improved accuracy and extended case life. The affordable price point makes it an excellent value for reloaders looking to explore the benefits of collet neck sizing. While it may require a bit of initial setup and doesn’t offer full-length resizing, its advantages in terms of consistency and precision are undeniable.

The price is absolutely justified. The accuracy gains are noticeable.

I would definitely recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90702 to anyone reloading for the .220 Swift who is seeking better accuracy and longer case life without breaking the bank. Take the plunge and experience the difference! You will not be disappointed.