Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W Review

Why I Chose the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14: A Hands-On Review

As a long-time reloading enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that can streamline my process and improve consistency. I’ve spent years refining my loads for everything from cowboy action shooting to hunting dangerous game, and a reliable shell plate is crucial for efficient reloading. The Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 caught my eye because of its compatibility with a wide range of popular cartridges, promising versatility and convenience.

For years, I struggled with switching between shell plates for different calibers, a tedious process that ate into valuable reloading time. I needed a shell plate that could handle the various large-bore cartridges I enjoy shooting, without compromising on precision. The Lee shell plate’s ability to accommodate the .38-40 Winchester, .44-40 Winchester, .45 Colt, and even the potent .460 S&W Magnum was incredibly appealing.

Upon unboxing, the shell plate felt solid and well-made. The steel construction immediately inspired confidence, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of frequent use. My initial impression was that this was a no-nonsense piece of equipment designed for durability and functionality.

I considered shell plates from RCBS and Hornady, but Lee‘s reputation for value and the broad caliber compatibility of this specific plate ultimately swayed my decision. I was looking for a workhorse, not a showpiece, and the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 seemed to fit the bill perfectly. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its potential.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my reloading room, where I regularly load ammunition for various shooting disciplines. I started with .45 Colt, a favorite of mine for cowboy action shooting. Installation on my Lee Breech Lock Pro press was simple and straightforward.

The plate performed admirably, indexing smoothly and securely holding the cases. I ran several hundred rounds, and the plate maintained consistent performance. There were no hiccups or misalignments, even when working at a brisk pace.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 has proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading setup. I have since loaded thousands of rounds across the supported calibers. There are no signs of significant wear.

The steel construction seems to be holding up well, resisting deformation and maintaining its precise dimensions. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s usually required. Compared to some of the aluminum shell plates I’ve used in the past, this Lee plate offers a noticeable improvement in durability and consistency.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14

Specifications

The Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 is specifically designed for use with the Lee Breech Lock Pro progressive press. It is crafted from durable steel for long-lasting performance. Its primary function is to securely hold cartridge cases during the reloading process.

This plate is compatible with a range of calibers, including .38-40 Winchester, .44-40 Winchester, .45 Colt, and .460 S&W Magnum. The versatility of this plate significantly reduces the need to purchase multiple shell plates for different calibers. This makes it a cost-effective option for reloaders who work with a variety of cartridges.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 performs its primary function flawlessly, consistently indexing and securely holding cases. Its reliability is a major selling point. The precise machining ensures smooth operation and reduces the likelihood of jams or misalignments.

However, its sole purpose is case retention and advancement, it does this better than many other plates I’ve used. While not directly affecting accuracy of loaded ammunition, consistent case handling contributes indirectly to achieving consistent results. The smooth operation minimizes powder spillage and bullet seating errors.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee shell plate features a simple, functional design. Its steel construction gives it a robust feel, suggesting a long service life. The weight is appropriate for its size.

The shell plate is designed to be user-friendly. It requires no special tools or skills to install and use. There is virtually no learning curve associated with this shell plate.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its steel construction, the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 should last for many years with proper care. Its resistance to wear and tear makes it a worthwhile investment. Maintenance is straightforward.

A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient to keep it in good working order. I’ve found that occasional lubrication of the indexing pin helps maintain smooth operation. More involved maintenance should not be required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 is not designed to accept additional accessories. Its primary function is to interface with the Lee Breech Lock Pro press and hold cartridge cases. There are no customization options available for this shell plate, but it’s not needed.

It is designed to work seamlessly with other Lee reloading components. Its compatibility with the specified calibers makes it a versatile addition to any reloader’s toolkit. It does exactly what it is designed to do.

Pros and Cons of Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14

Who Should Buy Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14?

This shell plate is perfect for reloaders who own a Lee Breech Lock Pro press and load any of the supported calibers. It’s particularly well-suited for cowboy action shooters, hunters who use large-bore cartridges, and anyone seeking to simplify their reloading process. The versatility of this plate also makes it a great choice for reloaders who work with a variety of cartridges.

Those who use reloading presses from other manufacturers should skip this product, as it is specifically designed for Lee presses. If you only load one or two calibers, a dedicated shell plate for each caliber might be a more focused solution, though less economical.

There are no must-have accessories or modifications for this shell plate, as it is designed to work perfectly out of the box. However, ensuring your press is properly calibrated and maintained will help maximize the shell plate’s performance.

Conclusion on Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14

In summary, the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 is a reliable, durable, and versatile addition to any reloader’s toolkit, provided they own a compatible Lee press. The price is absolutely justified. It delivers consistent performance and long-lasting value.

I personally recommend this shell plate to anyone looking to streamline their reloading process and load multiple calibers with ease. If you are a Lee Breech Lock Pro press owner who works with any of the specified cartridges, this shell plate is a no-brainer. Invest in the Lee 90802 Breech Lock Pro Shell Plate 38-40 Win/44-40 Win/45 Colt/460 S&W #14 and experience the convenience and reliability it offers.