Comparison: lee loader vs press

[Morgan321]

I had asked some questions a few months ago when I started reloading rifle ammo for the purpose of better accuracy. I started with a lee loader just to try out the load development process. When I fessed up in my thread about the lee loader of course everybody jumped on that as the cause of every issue. I got dies and started using a press and didn't see much change.

5 rounds each target. Top is press loaded, bottom is lee loader. I get it's completely different loads, I guess the point is the lee loader isn't all that bad. Neglect the flyer due to a dented case and the lee loader is well under 1 moa in a factory 700 adl cheapie.

Lee loader on bottom, press on top. I have a few dozen rounds of supplies left from the lower( lee loader) batch and am going to load them with the press and direct compare the results. Any bets on what difference there will be? I suspect I may not be able to see a difference....

 

[MarinePMI]

Not surprising. Lee Loaders produce some really good ammo (just takes more time than a press), and many years ago many a BR shooter used them to work up loads at the range. When you consider they operate on the same principle as a Wilson press/dies, it's not that surprising.

 

[roggom]

MPI stated pretty much my thoughts. The only other thing to consider is the Lee Classic loaders neck size only. So if you have brass that was shot in another rifle, it may be difficult to chamber. I like the portability of the Lee Loader and for a hunting rifle, they will get the job done.


Not sure if you are measuring your shoulder bump, but if full length sizing with the press, the amount you are pushing the shoulder back can effect accuracy. Now your image says LC once fired, so you can full length size and load them in the press, then on the next round load them with the classic. You "may" have better results as the brass will have been fireformed to your chamber, and the classic will just size the neck to seat a new bullet.

In the end, verify your loads and have fun.

 

[Ring]

with the cost of a lee single stage around 40$ , not sure why you would use the "loader"..

 

[BuzzBoss915]

Maybe because it's more portable? As with Wilson dies and an arbor press, you can drive to South Dakota with 100 cases and 1,000 bullets and shoot all week. It's a bit more refined, is all.

Full disclosure, I started with a Lee Loader for about two years, beginning in 1968, but you really can't go too far with that rig, reloading 270Winchester. It kinda forces you toward more sophisticated gear. BB

 

[Limedust]

I like the Lee Loader as well. After purchasing a new rifle, though, I found myself having to decide between buying all new brass or getting a press and some dies. Went with the Lee hand press and some RCBS dies. Whole shebang still fits in my tool box.

No significant difference in accuracy as far as I can tell, though I do like the seating process a little better.