Lyman Carbide 3-Die Set Review

Is the Hype Real? Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set Reviewed

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set for .327 Federal Magnum promises reloaders a seamless and efficient experience, eliminating the need for case lubrication and ensuring consistent ammunition. Designed by Lyman, a trusted name in reloading equipment, this die set aims to provide accurate and reliable results for shooters who prefer the .327 Federal Magnum cartridge. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, including extensive experience handloading ammunition for various calibers, I was eager to see if this set lived up to the claims.

I was particularly drawn to this die set because I’ve been experimenting with the .327 Federal Magnum for a lightweight backpacking revolver. Accurate and consistent handloads are paramount for reliable performance in such scenarios. The promise of carbide sizing without the hassle of lubrication was a major selling point, as it streamlines the reloading process and reduces mess.

Upon unboxing the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the dies. They appeared well-machined and the included plastic storage case was a welcome addition for organization. Compared to my older steel die sets from other manufacturers that required lubrication, the carbide sizing ring was noticeably smoother to the touch. I chose this set over alternatives from RCBS and Hornady primarily due to the Lyman’s reputation for quality and the positive reviews specifically mentioning the ease of use with carbide dies.

My initial impression was positive. The dies seemed robust and well-engineered, sparking a sense of excitement to begin crafting some custom .327 Federal Magnum loads. This set held the potential to significantly speed up my reloading process and deliver consistently accurate ammunition, which is crucial for the demands of backcountry carry and potential survival scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set in my well-organized reloading room, using a sturdy single-stage press. My objective was to produce 100 rounds of .327 Federal Magnum ammunition, varying powder charges to determine the optimal load for my Ruger LCR.

The dies performed admirably under normal reloading conditions. The carbide sizing die smoothly resized the cases without the slightest hint of binding or excessive force. Decapping was equally straightforward, with the spent primers ejecting cleanly. The expander die flared the case mouths just enough to seat the bullets without deforming them, and the bullet seating die produced consistent seating depths.

There were no issues or surprises during the initial use. The dies were incredibly intuitive, and the absence of case lube significantly accelerated the process. I quickly developed a rhythm and loaded the initial batch of ammunition with ease, which meant I could get to the range and test my new loads sooner than expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, having reloaded over 500 rounds with the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set, it continues to perform as reliably as it did on the first day. There is no sign of wear on the carbide sizing ring, and all the dies remain smooth and precise in their operation.

Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of wiping the dies clean with a dry cloth after each reloading session. The dies are incredibly durable. Compared to using steel dies which required constant lubrication and cleaning, the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set significantly reduced the time and effort involved in reloading. This experience far outperforms my previous experience with non-carbide dies and provides a superior loading experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set

Specifications

• Caliber: .327 Federal Magnum. This die set is specifically designed for reloading this high-pressure, small-bore magnum cartridge, ensuring proper case dimensions and bullet seating.
• Quantity: 3 Dies. The set includes a full-length sizing die, a 2-step expander die, and a bullet seating die, covering all the essential steps in reloading.
• Material: Steel with Carbide Sizing Ring. This combination offers both strength and durability, along with the smooth, low-friction resizing of carbide.
• Gun Type: Rifle. This suggests the die set is engineered to produce ammunition suitable for rifles chambered in .327 Federal Magnum, which are less common but do exist.

The carbide sizing ring is a significant advantage, reducing the effort needed to resize cases and eliminating the need for messy case lubrication. The 2-step expander die is designed to prevent bullet deformation during seating, contributing to improved accuracy and consistency in the finished rounds. The steel construction ensures the dies can withstand the pressures of reloading, and the set is built to last.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set excels at its primary function: producing consistent and reliable ammunition. The carbide sizing die effortlessly resizes cases, ensuring proper chambering in firearms.

The bullet seating die allows for precise control over seating depth, contributing to accuracy. The set meets expectations for quality reloading.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set features a solid steel construction and a well-thought-out design. The dies are easy to handle and install in a reloading press.

The inclusion of a plastic storage case is a nice touch, keeping the dies organized and protected when not in use. The user-friendly design reduces the learning curve, making it accessible even for novice reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction and carbide sizing ring of the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set suggest a long lifespan with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the threads should keep the dies functioning optimally for years.

The set is easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is generally sufficient to prevent the buildup of residue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set comes with the essential dies needed for reloading .327 Federal Magnum ammunition. While the set itself doesn’t offer customization options, reloaders can fine-tune their loads by experimenting with different bullets, powders, and primers.

The dies are compatible with most standard reloading presses, expanding the potential combinations. You are able to use different brand presses with the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set

Who Should Buy Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set?

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set is perfect for reloaders who want to produce high-quality .327 Federal Magnum ammunition without the hassle of case lubrication. It is also ideal for individuals who want to use a carbide sizer.

This set is particularly beneficial for shooters who frequently reload large quantities of ammunition. Those who are meticulous and would like more adjustability should skip this product.
If you need other accessories, you need to get them separately.

Conclusion on Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set

The Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set is a reliable and efficient tool for reloading .327 Federal Magnum ammunition. The carbide sizing ring is a game-changer.

The price of $93.99 is justified by the quality and convenience this die set provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to reload the .327 Federal Magnum cartridge. Invest in the Lyman Carbide 3 Die Set today and experience the joy of creating custom ammunition with ease and precision!