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Lee APP tips and tricks (Page 10 of 12)
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Originally Posted By dryflash3: Yes setting the bolt and getting the right adjustment takes some fiddling. It gets easier as you go. Originally Posted By dryflash3: Originally Posted By craig24680: Received my Lee APP press today as I was walking out door for kids sports Got back at 9 and fiddled with it for a few Instructions are kinda junk BUT I was decapping 9mm within 20 minutes Now learn the rest of system and clean brass before decapping Looks like the x-press dies are now only for swagging primer pockets The bolt and misc pieces for case feeding system is pain in ass so far I need to buy that 3d printed version files so it's already set for right height This seems like a great idea  Lee APP - 3D printed case feeder - No more adjusting! |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Originally Posted By craig24680: This seems like a great idea  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs0pk5wGBX0I added a longer bolt to do 30-06 cases and that would negate using the same system of inserts. What they need to do is have a reference height established and print a calibration spacer for setup. It would be the longest case to be used on the press. Not sure why it hasn't been done yet...  I'll keep adjusting the bolt until a better mousetrap is found. I do dislike having to turn the 4 tube assembly around 180 degrees to switch to large diameter cases like 45ACP, etc. That's a bigger hassle than adjusting height. ETA - I agree the idea is good, just needs some refining. |
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Originally Posted By craig24680: This seems like a great idea https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs0pk5wGBX0 |
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Originally Posted By Blowout: That was painful to watch... skipped through most of it so maybe he finally got it figured out in the end. I added a longer bolt to do 30-06 cases and that would negate using the same system of inserts. What they need to do is have a reference height established and print a calibration spacer for setup. It would be the longest case to be used on the press. Not sure why it hasn't been done yet... I'll keep adjusting the bolt until a better mousetrap is found. I do dislike having to turn the 4 tube assembly around 180 degrees to switch to large diameter cases like 45ACP, etc. That's a bigger hassle than adjusting height. ETA - I agree the idea is good, just needs some refining. Originally Posted By Blowout: Originally Posted By craig24680: This seems like a great idea https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs0pk5wGBX0I added a longer bolt to do 30-06 cases and that would negate using the same system of inserts. What they need to do is have a reference height established and print a calibration spacer for setup. It would be the longest case to be used on the press. Not sure why it hasn't been done yet... I'll keep adjusting the bolt until a better mousetrap is found. I do dislike having to turn the 4 tube assembly around 180 degrees to switch to large diameter cases like 45ACP, etc. That's a bigger hassle than adjusting height. ETA - I agree the idea is good, just needs some refining. The video I believe was more or less beta testing. The guy who created the prints took them down off thingiverse (sadly) and I now found them on https://cults3d.com/ Sadly they are not free and charge for single caliber drop tube https://cults3d.com/en/design-collections/a2chrzz/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder If the kinks have been worked out then it's a great idea! I think I'll contact the creator and get some more info |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Originally Posted By craig24680: The video I believe was more or less beta testing. The guy who created the prints took them down off thingiverse (sadly) and I now found them on https://cults3d.com/ Sadly they are not free and charge for single caliber drop tube https://cults3d.com/en/design-collections/a2chrzz/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder If the kinks have been worked out then it's a great idea! I think I'll contact the creator and get some more info If you do get hold of the creator it would be great to find out if make a reference standard for first time height adjustment. I would think setting the height with any of his adapters would calibrate the setup, but the video indicated that's not true. At least in the parts I watched... It looks like the 7x64 Brenneke is the tallest case in his adapters. The press would need a longer bolt than what comes on the press to make that work. I used a ETA - I found the original bolt and it's 3 1/2". I must have switched the APP back to it sometime after decapping the 30-06 cases. |
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I got the basic setup and inserts for several calibers quite a while ago. I set it up to be fed from a powered case feeder (my Hornady LnL feeder). For the few calibers I’ve tried it with, the case feeder works pretty well. One issue involves making sure your feeder drop tube is vertical, as a little tilt can either cause jams before the 3D parts, or can jam the 3D parts, depending on the angle. I haven’t played with it lately, but I got the impression feeding might work best with drop tubes of the same height as Lee’s case feeder tubes. I also waxed the sliding surfaces of the moving parts - I just rubbed candle wax on them then rubbed the parts together. Sure, these materials are “supposed to” slide easily on themselves, but in reality any layer of the materials can be irregular enough to cause problems. Waxing seemed to make the parts move more smoothly. |
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Originally Posted By Blowout: Gotcha... thanks for the link! The idea has been around a while, but that link shows more adapters than I've ever seen before. If you do get hold of the creator it would be great to find out if make a reference standard for first time height adjustment. I would think setting the height with any of his adapters would calibrate the setup, but the video indicated that's not true. At least in the parts I watched... It looks like the 7x64 Brenneke is the tallest case in his adapters. The press would need a longer bolt than what comes on the press to make that work. I used a 3 1/2" bolt to decap 30-06, but that might be just what I had laying around. Can't recall what size bolt came with the press, just that there was not enough adjustment length for a 30-06 case to fit. Originally Posted By Blowout: Originally Posted By craig24680: The video I believe was more or less beta testing. The guy who created the prints took them down off thingiverse (sadly) and I now found them on https://cults3d.com/ Sadly they are not free and charge for single caliber drop tube https://cults3d.com/en/design-collections/a2chrzz/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder If the kinks have been worked out then it's a great idea! I think I'll contact the creator and get some more info If you do get hold of the creator it would be great to find out if make a reference standard for first time height adjustment. I would think setting the height with any of his adapters would calibrate the setup, but the video indicated that's not true. At least in the parts I watched... It looks like the 7x64 Brenneke is the tallest case in his adapters. The press would need a longer bolt than what comes on the press to make that work. I used a 3 1/2" bolt to decap 30-06, but that might be just what I had laying around. Can't recall what size bolt came with the press, just that there was not enough adjustment length for a 30-06 case to fit. The factory bolt (in the press and sitting down in plastic holder) is aprox 3.7" from base to top of plastic The video was done some years ago and the creator Digging through comments it seems you adjust any one of the adapters and they all fit Q: How do you adjust this for height to use across multiple calibers? A: Hi, it will work fine when you adjust one caliber. All others will fit automatically. For adjusting leave approximately one Millimeter between the slider and the tube There are many designs out there even some on Etsy that sell it all together https://www.etsy.com/listing/1166645229/universal-case-feeder-set-for-lee-pro?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=lee+app&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&sts=1&content_source=55c7a2278695857142bf6a5acdb521eac8eebf76%253A1166645229&organic_search_click=1&logging_key=cda5f992dcb8991e183e7af77c68dd99a15b5c27%3A1166645229 *note none of the links are mine nor am I making money, just sharing research* |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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I got out my set of inserts and insert holder that holds the feed tubes. Watched the video linked, it was easy to set up. I adjusted it for 9mm, then tried the other inserts without any height adjustment on the threaded rod. These works fine, 357, 45 ACP, 380, 44 (marked 44, worked fine with 44 mag) The one marked 40 was probably meant for 40, but I trimmed some off and it now works for 10mm. The 223 was a little long and, trimmed off about 1/32 to get to work. 357 Sig, don't have one, so trimmed off about 1/2 inch, now works perfect for 300 blk. Didn't try the 38 one. So years later, I can finally put this to use. I even found the Hornady decapping pins that came with the set. Thanks craig24680.  |
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Originally Posted By craig24680: The factory bolt (in the press and sitting down in plastic holder) is aprox 3.7" from base to top of plastic The video was done some years ago and the creator Digging through comments it seems you adjust any one of the adapters and they all fit There are many designs out there even some on Etsy that sell it all together https://www.etsy.com/listing/1166645229/universal-case-feeder-set-for-lee-pro?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=lee+app&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&sts=1&content_source=55c7a2278695857142bf6a5acdb521eac8eebf76%253A1166645229&organic_search_click=1&logging_key=cda5f992dcb8991e183e7af77c68dd99a15b5c27%3A1166645229 *note none of the links are mine nor am I making money, just sharing research* I found the 'Custom Universal Case Feeder' on eBay that charges $40 for the main carousel the 4 tubes attach to. For $77 they include 9 adapters. It also has the calibers I need that the etsy seller doesn't offer. Just sent the ebay guy a message to see how to order 10 adapters along with the main unit. They show 9 adapters as the maximum when filling out the order. This same seller also shows they have modified the jaws that fit on the shuttle. I've always thought the Lee jaws didn't support the case enough to keep it from falling forward as it slides to the x-press shell holder. I constantly have cases flying across the room because of this. I'll order those to try out too. Glad you brought up the 3D printed case feed adapters again. I'd pretty much forgot about these as an option for the APP... |
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Mine was bought on esty, and was in the $25 range IIRC with 9 inserts. About 5 years ago. Hard to believe what folks want for printed parts. There is hardware needed and some assembly for the base. |
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Originally Posted By dryflash3: I got out my set of inserts and insert holder that holds the feed tubes. Watched the video linked, it was easy to set up. I adjusted it for 9mm, then tried the other inserts without any height adjustment on the threaded rod. These works fine, 357, 45 ACP, 380, 44 (marked 44, worked fine with 44 mag) The one marked 40 was probably meant for 40, but I trimmed some off and it now works for 10mm. The 223 was a little long and, trimmed off about 1/32 to get to work. 357 Sig, don't have one, so trimmed off about 1/2 inch, now works perfect for 300 blk. Didn't try the 38 one. So years later, I can finally put this to use. I even found the Hornady decapping pins that came with the set. Thanks craig24680. Thats great! I hope to be up and running soon. Originally Posted By Blowout: Thanks for the etsy link. I found the 'Custom Universal Case Feeder' on eBay that charges $40 for the main carousel the 4 tubes attach to. For $77 they include 9 adapters. It also has the calibers I need that the etsy seller doesn't offer. Just sent the ebay guy a message to see how to order 10 adapters along with the main unit. They show 9 adapters as the maximum when filling out the order. This same seller also shows they have modified the jaws that fit on the shuttle. I've always thought the Lee jaws didn't support the case enough to keep it from falling forward as it slides to the x-press shell holder. I constantly have cases flying across the room because of this. I'll order those to try out too. Glad you brought up the 3D printed case feed adapters again. I'd pretty much forgot about these as an option for the APP... I utterly hate adjusting ANYTHING so if I can buy/build something to prevent it but still have flexibility, I'm all for it. The Etsy link doesn't have as many caliber choices and some are confusing, like 30 cal. 308, 300 win mag, 300blk, 3006, pretty big variation there (the cults link doesn't have 300 win mag just using as example) Originally Posted By dryflash3: Mine was bought on esty, and was in the $25 range IIRC with 9 inserts. About 5 years ago. Hard to believe what folks want for printed parts. There is hardware needed and some assembly for the base. Most people don't have 3d printer like me, but I have friends that print nearly anything I need Also the small parts, getting them JUST right. The "expensive" part to me is the spring loaded pin to control position of the tubes. I think this is the correct one? maybe  
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Ended up ordering from Cults. https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/tool/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder-a2chrzz Got the case feeder system 9mm (main reason to do this) 223 300blk 308 10mm Sending to buddy to print as he has time and with ordering small parts, hoping this time next week to be up and running ETA ran across this build video for the 3d parts (not mine)  Lee APP Press Best Upgrade |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Alrighty Got the 3d printed parts up and running very much trial and error Ended up needed a longer bolt holding the case feeder to press, only 2-3 threads were avilable. So off to Lowes for 1/4x20 4in bolt and good to go now. The case adapters are a bitch and half to get off and on BUT 100% better than adjusting those 2 nuts each time And oddly if the case tube is empty, 9mm shoots out with enough force to end up on it's side. Won't do it if there is a case on top of it Also I broke one of the fingers of the decapping kit so Lee is sending a new one  Got some brass tumbling right now to test it fully and see how it goes but overall I am VERY VERY happy with this press and the 3d printed parts As it sits now Attached File |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Attached File The FW Arms decapping die with the Lee pass through shell holder is working awesome. Easily decap 60 pieces per minute. I can’t outrun the case feeder at half speed. |
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Case shuttle spring hook broke this morning in the middle of decapping a 5 gal bucket of 9mm. Any better options than ordering the factory replacement shuttle? $10 part but $8 shipping. Attached File |
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My last large decapping batch that same catch broke. Saw about 5 years of use. I learned to keep an extra shuttle on hand. Keep the old one is has parts that can be used in a future fix. So order 2 when you order. I get my APP parts from Titan. They give a 3% loyalty discount after several orders. It helps. |
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Originally Posted By -MainDisconnect-: Case shuttle spring hook broke this morning in the middle of decapping a 5 gal bucket of 9mm. Any better options than ordering the factory replacement shuttle? $10 part but $8 shipping. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/366627/IMG_1166_jpeg-3666727.JPG Try calling Lee or email them to place a warranty part order. I've done this before and they allowed 1 of each part , up to 10 parts. Can't say you want 3 of the same part unless your willing to pay for 2 of them. I've ordered 3 shuttles in the past before finding out about their warranty part replacement policy. I too try to keep a few parts on standby. |
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My Lee App Deluxe should be delivered today. I mainly am interested in swaging .223 and bulge busting 9mm using a 9mm Makarov Lee FCD. I am sure I will find other uses but those are my main interests in this press. I also would set it up to deprime next to my RCBS Rock Chucker setup with a RCBS Cam lock bullet puller when doing large runs of ammo. That way if I have mistakes I catch like upside down primers etc I can easily pull a bullet, pop the primer out, and then redo the round on my 650. How well does the swaging work? When it's time to process .223 I will have two 5 gallon buckets of range pickup .223. Should I expect to break something trying to swage that many rounds? I plan to use my Dillon Case feeder with it. Does using one of the LEE steel mounting plates make a difference like flexing less? It's going to be a while before I actually use the thing so I am trying to figure out what accessories to get. Is the depriming system good or should I just plan to use my Dillon Auto Center depriming die with a Lee Breech Lock Bushing or a normal Lee Depriming die? |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: My Lee App Deluxe should be delivered today. I mainly am interested in swaging .223 and bulge busting 9mm using a 9mm Makarov Lee FCD. I am sure I will find other uses but those are my main interests in this press. I also would set it up to deprime next to my RCBS Rock Chucker setup with a RCBS Cam lock bullet puller when doing large runs of ammo. That way if I have mistakes I catch like upside down primers etc I can easily pull a bullet, pop the primer out, and then redo the round on my 650. How well does the swaging work? When it's time to process .223 I will have two 5 gallon buckets of range pickup .223. Should I expect to break something trying to swage that many rounds? I plan to use my Dillon Case feeder with it. Does using one of the LEE steel mounting plates make a difference like flexing less? It's going to be a while before I actually use the thing so I am trying to figure out what accessories to get. Is the depriming system good or should I just plan to use my Dillon Auto Center depriming die with a Lee Breech Lock Bushing or a normal Lee Depriming die? I've broken many parts on mine, including the frame, and numerous shuttle assemblies. If you are swaging 2 buckets of range brass, you will probably break something, it's just a matter of time and how fast you're going. If you slow down and feel for issues, you can prevent breakage in most situations. I've used both a universal LEE decapping die and the APP decapping setup, both work, both have quarks. You'll need the LEE X-Press pass through shell holder system to use the Dillon auto center setup. My most common breakage are decapping pins from mis alignment and running the press too fast. Perhaps the Dillon will reduce breakage. Swaging works decently well, you'll have to slow down and get a feel for it and know how much pressure it takes. What parts are you getting to attach the casefeed system to it? |
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Originally Posted By -JC-: I've broken many parts on mine, including the frame, and numerous shuttle assemblies. If you are swaging 2 buckets of range brass, you will probably break something, it's just a matter of time and how fast you're going. If you slow down and feel for issues, you can prevent breakage in most situations. I've used both a universal LEE decapping die and the APP decapping setup, both work, both have quarks. You'll need the LEE X-Press pass through shell holder system to use the Dillon auto center setup. My most common breakage are decapping pins from mis alignment and running the press too fast. Perhaps the Dillon will reduce breakage. Swaging works decently well, you'll have to slow down and get a feel for it and know how much pressure it takes. What parts are you getting to attach the casefeed system to it? Originally Posted By -JC-: Originally Posted By SG55xdude: My Lee App Deluxe should be delivered today. I mainly am interested in swaging .223 and bulge busting 9mm using a 9mm Makarov Lee FCD. I am sure I will find other uses but those are my main interests in this press. I also would set it up to deprime next to my RCBS Rock Chucker setup with a RCBS Cam lock bullet puller when doing large runs of ammo. That way if I have mistakes I catch like upside down primers etc I can easily pull a bullet, pop the primer out, and then redo the round on my 650. How well does the swaging work? When it's time to process .223 I will have two 5 gallon buckets of range pickup .223. Should I expect to break something trying to swage that many rounds? I plan to use my Dillon Case feeder with it. Does using one of the LEE steel mounting plates make a difference like flexing less? It's going to be a while before I actually use the thing so I am trying to figure out what accessories to get. Is the depriming system good or should I just plan to use my Dillon Auto Center depriming die with a Lee Breech Lock Bushing or a normal Lee Depriming die? I've broken many parts on mine, including the frame, and numerous shuttle assemblies. If you are swaging 2 buckets of range brass, you will probably break something, it's just a matter of time and how fast you're going. If you slow down and feel for issues, you can prevent breakage in most situations. I've used both a universal LEE decapping die and the APP decapping setup, both work, both have quarks. You'll need the LEE X-Press pass through shell holder system to use the Dillon auto center setup. My most common breakage are decapping pins from mis alignment and running the press too fast. Perhaps the Dillon will reduce breakage. Swaging works decently well, you'll have to slow down and get a feel for it and know how much pressure it takes. What parts are you getting to attach the casefeed system to it? Good info. Steady is the key to the fast speeds on the APP. I run the Lee mounting plate only because I'm too cheap to get the plate for my Inline Fab system. If you plan on ever doing multiple calibers on the APP a 3d printed solution is needed as you can swap between doing 10mm, 223, 308 with simple spout change rather than undoing bolts, measuring, and hope you get it right. Up on this page (10) I linked what I used and LOVE it. Bought the files I needed and had buddy print Not my file nor do I make money off it. https://cults3d.com/en/design-collections/a2chrzz/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder I bought the Squirrel Daddy decapping pins and they seem a little more stout than factory. |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Originally Posted By -JC-: What parts are you getting to attach the casefeed system to it? IDK yet I just have looked at this on ebay so far [/url]https://www.ebay.com/itm/185094494828?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D777008%26algo%3DPERSONAL.TOPIC%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20250506202230%26meid%3D4a47884d3cc545c59f130a5d8202bda3%26pid%3D102751%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D8%26mehot%3Dpp%26itm%3D185094494828%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D4375194%26algv%3DRecentlyViewedItemsV2SignedOut%26tu%3D01KBZBQCPRQYGAD3X25JRP6KP6[/url] |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: My Lee App Deluxe should be delivered today. I mainly am interested in swaging .223 and bulge busting 9mm using a 9mm Makarov Lee FCD. I am sure I will find other uses but those are my main interests in this press. I also would set it up to deprime next to my RCBS Rock Chucker setup with a RCBS Cam lock bullet puller when doing large runs of ammo. That way if I have mistakes I catch like upside down primers etc I can easily pull a bullet, pop the primer out, and then redo the round on my 650. How well does the swaging work? When it's time to process .223 I will have two 5 gallon buckets of range pickup .223. Should I expect to break something trying to swage that many rounds? I plan to use my Dillon Case feeder with it. Does using one of the LEE steel mounting plates make a difference like flexing less? It's going to be a while before I actually use the thing so I am trying to figure out what accessories to get. Is the depriming system good or should I just plan to use my Dillon Auto Center depriming die with a Lee Breech Lock Bushing or a normal Lee Depriming die? Absolutely use the Dillon decapping die. I haven’t broken a pin yet. I have swaged gallons of 9mm and 556 and haven’t had any problems with the Lee set up. |
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Originally Posted By -MainDisconnect-: Absolutely use the Dillon decapping die. I haven’t broken a pin yet. I have swaged gallons of 9mm and 556 and haven’t had any problems with the Lee set up. I love the Dillon decapping die. The only thing I found I don't like is when removing upside down primers that "pop" launches them such that the anvil comes out. For general use it's the best decapper I've owned. I may try to turn down the screw that controls that "pop" to see if I can use it for upside down primers. Upside down primers aren't like a huge issue for me but when I do batches 5k plus Im bound to have a few. |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: My Lee App Deluxe should be delivered today. I mainly am interested in swaging .223 and bulge busting 9mm using a 9mm Makarov Lee FCD. I am sure I will find other uses but those are my main interests in this press. I also would set it up to deprime next to my RCBS Rock Chucker setup with a RCBS Cam lock bullet puller when doing large runs of ammo. That way if I have mistakes I catch like upside down primers etc I can easily pull a bullet, pop the primer out, and then redo the round on my 650. How well does the swaging work? When it's time to process .223 I will have two 5 gallon buckets of range pickup .223. Should I expect to break something trying to swage that many rounds? I plan to use my Dillon Case feeder with it. Does using one of the LEE steel mounting plates make a difference like flexing less? It's going to be a while before I actually use the thing so I am trying to figure out what accessories to get. Is the depriming system good or should I just plan to use my Dillon Auto Center depriming die with a Lee Breech Lock Bushing or a normal Lee Depriming die? I use the LEE mounting plate on several presses. Again, the APP is a lightweight device and won take a lot of abuse. The Lee plate mount works good for the intended purpose. Decapping primers is fast. I put a Squirrel Daddy decapping pin in a Lee universal decapping die for this purpose. It punches through just about anything. The latest APP is supposed to feed cases though the press w/o using any Xpress shellholders. I've got an early model APP and I have no hands on experience with the latest style APP . Maybe someone else can chime in... |
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Originally Posted By Blowout: I haven't tried swaging with the APP, but I've bulge busted several thousand 9mm with it. Make sure to full length size first before running them through the MAK die. I lube 9mm cases and FL size on the APP, then run them through the APP again with the Mak FCD. The APP won't take a lot of abuse so FL sizing first will make your APP last longer. I use the LEE mounting plate on several presses. Again, the APP is a lightweight device and won take a lot of abuse. The Lee plate mount works good for the intended purpose. Decapping primers is fast. I put a Squirrel Daddy decapping pin in a Lee universal decapping die for this purpose. It punches through just about anything. The latest APP is supposed to feed cases though the press w/o using any Xpress shellholders. I've got an early model APP and I have no hands on experience with the latest style APP . Maybe someone else can chime in... I use a Lee Unsersize 9mm die in my Dillon 650 to size all cases. I have an open bolt full auto smg that bulges some cases. When I inspect brass I set those aside. My plan is to size those first on my 650, bulge bust them on the APP, then add them back to my big batch of cases I am about to load. I have zero experience but it looks like you don't need a shell holder for some stuff: "For most automated functions (decapping, swaging, bullet sizing), the press uses an included, self-centering, spring-loaded system that does not require traditional shellholders. Cases are automatically fed, and the system centers them below the die. For other functions, such as full-length case sizing or expanding cases with a specific powder-through die, you must use X-Press shellholders. The X-Press shellholders are designed to allow the case to pass through after the operation is performed, a key feature for the press's pass-through design." My guess is using a different decapper I would need an xpress shellholder. |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: I use a Lee Unsersize 9mm die in my Dillon 650 to size all cases. I have an open bolt full auto smg that bulges some cases. When I inspect brass I set those aside. My plan is to size those first on my 650, bulge bust them on the APP, then add them back to my big batch of cases I am about to load. I'd bet sizing 9mm on the APP will be a lot faster than on the 650. Keep the lube on the cases after sizing and run them back through the APP to bulge bust them. I don't even bother sorting cases any more because these 2 processes on the APP are so quick... I use an xpress shell holder during the sizing and BB process |
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Originally Posted By Blowout: I think we might have posted on this before... I'd bet sizing 9mm on the APP will be a lot faster than on the 650. Keep the lube on the cases after sizing and run them back through the APP to bulge bust them. I don't even bother sorting cases any more because these 2 processes on the APP are so quick... I use an xpress shell holder during the sizing and BB process Its a 10 page thread so Im sure stuff has been repeated. Im not going to be bulge busting a ton of rds. I also would prefer to leave my sizing die in my toolhead. Lastly it seems like sizing on the app from what ive read is hard on it. |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: Its a 10 page thread so Im sure stuff has been repeated. Im not going to be bulge busting a ton of rds. I also would prefer to leave my sizing die in my toolhead. Lastly it seems like sizing on the app from what ive read is hard on it.  Personally I use a sizing die dedicated to the APP. I keep those dies stored with the quick release collars on them that sets the die height. Sizing on the APP hasn't done any noticeable long term damage to mine that I know of. I've easily run over 50k cases through it sizing 223, 40sw, 9mm, 45acp and 38/357. These are range fodder cases not intended for precision loads. Precision intended cases are sized on a RC. Bulge busting w/o sizing first would really be hard on the press and can't imagine it lasting very long doing that. Sizing goes so fast I have to remind myself to slow down to make sure it's getting a full stroke and completely bottom out on the shell holder. This is mostly when FL sizing with 223 cases since it's the only time they get FL sized in my reloading process. 223 also gets bulge busted in another pass through the APP. Pistol get sized one more time when loading on the SDB. The vertical guide have loosened over time and had to loktite them in place. No problem after that. Lubricate all the moving parts frequently (I use triflow). |
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Originally Posted By Blowout: Sorry, I was referring to another thread. Wasn't trying to be a dik. Personally I use a sizing die dedicated to the APP. I keep those dies stored with the quick release collars on them that sets the die height. Sizing on the APP hasn't done any noticeable long term damage to mine that I know of. I've easily run over 50k cases through it sizing 223, 40sw, 9mm, 45acp and 38/357. These are range fodder cases not intended for precision loads. Precision intended cases are sized on a RC. Bulge busting w/o sizing first would really be hard on the press and can't imagine it lasting very long doing that. Sizing goes so fast I have to remind myself to slow down to make sure it's getting a full stroke and completely bottom out on the shell holder. This is mostly when FL sizing with 223 cases since it's the only time they get FL sized in my reloading process. 223 also gets bulge busted in another pass through the APP. Pistol get sized one more time when loading on the SDB. The vertical guide have loosened over time and had to loktite them in place. No problem after that. Lubricate all the moving parts frequently (I use triflow). I don't always come across as i intend online. just got my deluxe but I plan to buy several other things for it and get my dillon case feeder setup. My main goal is swaging 5.56 primer pockets. Bulge busting is a distant 2nd. It will probably be a while before I set anything up. As I use it what I plan to use it for may evolve and maybe I will size some. I just really don't know what to expect. The reviews are so mixed online but I'm optimistic about the swaging. |
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I've got the LEE deluxe APP, bulge buster kit, 9mm makarov factory crimp die for bulge busting 9mm, the swaging kit, the whole set of x-press shell holders, Lee breech lock bushings, a Lee universal decapper and a Dillon Autocenter Decapper. Everything I have purchased has been with capital one rewards and today from a visa gift card I got at work. I think all I have left is a Dillon Case feeder adapter setup off of ebay. Anything else I should be considering? Main goal in order of importance to me is swaging, bulge busting, and decapping. |
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: I've got the LEE deluxe APP, bulge buster kit, 9mm makarov factory crimp die for bulge busting 9mm, the swaging kit, the whole set of x-press shell holders, Lee breech lock bushings, a Lee universal decapper and a Dillon Autocenter Decapper. Everything I have purchased has been with capital one rewards and today from a visa gift card I got at work. I think all I have left is a Dillon Case feeder adapter setup off of ebay. Anything else I should be considering? Main goal in order of importance to me is swaging, bulge busting, and decapping.  |
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Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
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Originally Posted By dryflash3: You didn't mention bullet sizing. Do you cast? https://i.imgur.com/66fsrVKh.jpg Not right now. I bought a crapload of coated 240gr swc years back. Maybe when that runs out and I get a .357 mag Ill be motivated to start. |
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Originally Posted By craig24680: Alrighty Got the 3d printed parts up and running very much trial and error Ended up needed a longer bolt holding the case feeder to press, only 2-3 threads were avilable. So off to Lowes for 1/4x20 4in bolt and good to go now. The case adapters are a bitch and half to get off and on BUT 100% better than adjusting those 2 nuts each time And oddly if the case tube is empty, 9mm shoots out with enough force to end up on it's side. Won't do it if there is a case on top of it Also I broke one of the fingers of the decapping kit so Lee is sending a new one Got some brass tumbling right now to test it fully and see how it goes but overall I am VERY VERY happy with this press and the 3d printed parts As it sits now https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/80967/1000008901_jpg-3474721.JPG @craig24680 Can you pm me the site where you got your 3d parts for it? Also what is the total height from the very top? I would like to get the inline fabrication QD mount and the matching part for it to swap this press and my rock chucker on my reloading bench. They offer 3 different heights (no height, 4" and 7.5"). I need the total height of yours to take into account for the right size. Thanks! |
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Originally Posted By Mav3rick: @craig24680 Can you pm me the site where you got your 3d parts for it? Also what is the total height from the very top? I would like to get the inline fabrication QD mount and the matching part for it to swap this press and my rock chucker on my reloading bench. They offer 3 different heights (no height, 4" and 7.5"). I need the total height of yours to take into account for the right size. Thanks! Originally Posted By Mav3rick: Originally Posted By craig24680: Alrighty Got the 3d printed parts up and running very much trial and error Ended up needed a longer bolt holding the case feeder to press, only 2-3 threads were avilable. So off to Lowes for 1/4x20 4in bolt and good to go now. The case adapters are a bitch and half to get off and on BUT 100% better than adjusting those 2 nuts each time And oddly if the case tube is empty, 9mm shoots out with enough force to end up on it's side. Won't do it if there is a case on top of it Also I broke one of the fingers of the decapping kit so Lee is sending a new one Got some brass tumbling right now to test it fully and see how it goes but overall I am VERY VERY happy with this press and the 3d printed parts As it sits now https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/80967/1000008901_jpg-3474721.JPG @craig24680 Can you pm me the site where you got your 3d parts for it? Also what is the total height from the very top? I would like to get the inline fabrication QD mount and the matching part for it to swap this press and my rock chucker on my reloading bench. They offer 3 different heights (no height, 4" and 7.5"). I need the total height of yours to take into account for the right size. Thanks! @Mav3rick as mine sites with the 3d printed case collater, 22.5 in from top to table top WITH the lee QD system https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/tool/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder-a2chrzz Bought from this guy, not mine and I don't get money/kickback - It's a game changer for sure, set the pilot for one length and GTG I would recommend getting a longer 1/4x20 bolt, say 4in to ensure you have plenty of room as factory one is VERY tight |
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Adam Calhoun: "You can’t hurt my feelings, I was born in the 80's"
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Originally Posted By craig24680: @Mav3rick as mine sites with the 3d printed case collater, 22.5 in from top to table top WITH the lee QD system https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/tool/lee-app-acp-universal-case-feeder-a2chrzz Bought from this guy, not mine and I don't get money/kickback - It's a game changer for sure, set the pilot for one length and GTG I would recommend getting a longer 1/4x20 bolt, say 4in to ensure you have plenty of room as factory one is VERY tight @craig24680 Thanks! Appreciate your help! |
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My case feeder is adapter is supposed to be here Saturday. This pic is from the ebay ad that I cropped. They have their app and case feeder mounted to a metal plate as seen in this Pic. Ive read someone else saying mounting the app to a metal plate will help it be more rigid. Is there really any benefit to this? My reloading bench is very solid with brackets attaching it to the wall studs. Is it really going to matter whether its bolted directly to the wood bench vs adding a plate. Im not sure in my head how the plate would matter much. Im just trying to decide if I want to buy anything else for it for mounting purposes or not. 
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Originally Posted By SG55xdude: My case feeder is adapter is supposed to be here Saturday. This pic is from the ebay ad that I cropped. They have their app and case feeder mounted to a metal plate as seen in this Pic. Ive read someone else saying mounting the app to a metal plate will help it be more rigid. Is there really any benefit to this? My reloading bench is very solid with brackets attaching it to the wall studs. Is it really going to matter whether its bolted directly to the wood bench vs adding a plate. Im not sure in my head how the plate would matter much. Im just trying to decide if I want to buy anything else for it for mounting purposes or not. https://i.postimg.cc/rmP8NchT/s-l1200.jpg If your bench is properly constructed the plate will not help much. There shouldn’t be much flex if you only decap or sewage. |
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I can't imagine a metal plate adding anything if the bench and top are rigid. That example picture has a very thin bench top so maybe the metal plate helps. I use 2 pieces of 3/4" plywood glued together for the bench top along with a Lee Bench Plate mounting system so it's easy/fast to switch out the press being used. It adds a little bit of flex because of the mount design, but not enough to be a problem using the APP or any other press I have. Having Dillon case feeder swaying back and forth would probably cause a problem. You just need to make sure the mounting rod is securely mounted. I can't imagine why a large metal mounting plate would be necessary unless you want a system for swapping out the press easily. |
| I got my dillon case feeder adapter today so I mounted the press. I have been running around so im resting and looking at the instructions at everything. I gotta say the instructions suck. I think i can figure everything out but they didn't put much effort in the manual. Mainly i plan to get the case feeder hooked up and working right today. |
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I just made it where I didn't have to trim the spring or stretch it out. If I find it has problems ill shorten the dowel, tube, and spring. I may just trim the tube and dowel at some point I just wanted to throw it together to see how it works. |
I got bored. The spring by itself is longer than the dillon feed tube with adapters on my 650 so I cut the app tube basically as short as possible and cut the dowel. Probably good less lever forces on that 3d printed case feeder holder.
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Lee APP tips and tricks (Page 10 of 12)
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