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1/19/2009 11:13:28 AM EDT
I want to reload a couple of boxes of .45 ACP a week to make my weekly trips to the range a little cheaper.  I saw the Lee Classic Loader Kit in a catalog (around $20.00) and I'm wondering if I can really do the whole job with this kit.  Is this a good way to get started or just a waste of $20.00?  Thanks.
1/19/2009 11:37:48 AM EDT
[#1]
They do work and are ok for small amounts of loading

But if you want to do 500 rounds a pop dont bother.

See ya
1/19/2009 11:43:26 AM EDT
[#2]
Definately not good for very much volume. These are somewhat primative, but they work well. I used one for a lot of years to load 7mm mag. It works great and gives excellent accuracy. I wouldn't waste my time on the pistol kits (yes in a shtf situation), but good for bolt action rifle calibers.
1/19/2009 11:44:22 AM EDT
[#3]
I pounded together thousands of .32 ACP on one when I had lots of time and no money. For even production as low as 100 a week, I believe you would be much better served with a bench mounted press and carbide dies. If a dedicated space is a problem, a chunk of 2x4 and some C clamps make your set portable. Lee sells some very inexpensive starter sets. Consider those carefully before you go with the Classic Loader.
1/19/2009 12:00:06 PM EDT
[#4]
I'd look at a single stage press kit from Lee if I were you.  You'll be much happier and it's going to be your fastest ROI.

Hardwarz
1/19/2009 3:11:50 PM EDT
[#5]
With single stage presses so cheap, I wouldn't mess with the Lee Loader kit unless SHTF. A Lee single stage Anniversary kit would serve you much better and would include a scale and other handy tools.
1/19/2009 4:40:26 PM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
With single stage presses so cheap, I wouldn't mess with the Lee Loader kit unless SHTF. A Lee single stage Anniversary kit would serve you much better and would include a scale and other handy tools.


Agreed. I found my receipt, I bought my Aniversary kit to add to my Rockchucker, etc. for $64 from Midway.

1/19/2009 6:33:31 PM EDT
[#7]
I use the Lee hand press but i also have the Classic lee loader for .308
Fun little tool
1/19/2009 7:03:35 PM EDT
[#8]
FYI, to load on the cheap (the cheapest way, Classic LEE Loader)...............

http://www.leeprecision.com/cgi/catalog/browse.cgi?1221065471.1584=/html/catalog/cleeloader.html

How is it done?

www.beartoothbullets.com/tech_notes/archive_tech_notes.htm/51  

For a single caliber and/or IF you're not looking for "production amounts," it might be OK.

Personally.........I don't recommend it as a starter.

IF $ was that tight, I'd rather start with a cheap "C" press or a USED press (I did). Then, add: dies, scale, etc......   Mostly cause I know I'd be expanding to other calibers sooner or later.

HTH.

Aloha, Mark

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