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9/12/2026 6:21:22 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited]
I started with one of their single stage presses ages ago.  I added two turret presses.  I use their load all 2 for shotgun.  I have a hand press for low volume stuff, etc.  I have their pro-1000 progressive.

A part wore out on one of their turret presses.  It has been completely changed and they will do a 50% off on another press.  I don't think I'll bother.

My pro-1000 uses their load three hole die holder.
I do my decamping/resizing on one of the turrets and a hand primer.  Over the years I have had issue with mil type crimped primers, it lets me check brass, etc.

My pro-1000 runs like a Swiss watch.  I fill the case feeding tubes with primed cases, they get powder, expanded, next station I seat, next station crimp, and out they come.  

To switch from 9mm to 40 I change the die holder.  In a second, like nothing.  I use the handle on the left.  Easy to see powder and put bullet on with the right.

So, I decided I wanted another to do 357, and could just swap the holder and do 38.  

It has arrived.  It is shorter at the base.  The bolt pattern is different.   You can't just drop a set of dies on it.  You have to change each die separately.  Half the reason I got one.  Just twist pull out my 357 set up, and put in my 38 die set up.  Also, the cases don't feed from the front anymore.

They first die is no longer at 6 o'clock like the old one and the turrets.

How the hell do you plastic man reach around with the case feeder in the way and see powder and put a bullet on to seat?  They have destroyed the versatility of the press, pissed on decades of die and die holder compatibility, and ruined the easy die holder quick swap out.  Plus there is the weird long throw of the lever.  Its bottom end is way lower than in the previous.

They have also replaced the powder dispenser.

The total abortion next to its predecessor.





What possible reason do they think people want to change out individual dies, desired to twist away orientation from first station at 6 o'clock, essentially have to buy a stand to bench mount, etc.

I'm sending it back.  I'm not taking them up on the 50% off on a new press.  If I was smart I would look for a lightly used old one, but I'm too pissed off.

I'll make a changeover to a whole new brand.  



NOTICE TO ALL;  THIS IS A LEE THREAD.

IF YOU WISH TO DISCUSS OTHER BRANDS OF PRESSES, START YOUR OWN THREAD.

NEXT POST I HAVE TO EDIT WILL NOT LIKE WHAT HAPPENS.

Not your fault OP, you don't deserve the dogpile of another brand of press.

dryflash3


9/12/2026 6:48:41 PM EDT
[#1]
Shit, fucked that up going prehistoric.

I've got 3 pro1000s.

First one I got back in mid 80s I got three turrets with universal decapper in #1 & #3 put dillon size/trim dies for 223, 6x45(mod'd 223 die) & 308w (for my ar's & sav99) so all I do is swap turrets, rt1200 & shell plate (#4 & #2) so I got a progressive decapper, full length sizer & trimmer.

Need to get a size/trim die for 06' so I can run my garand cases through it.

My bolt rifles cases are neck sized.


Other two pro1k I just swap turrets, One I load 38 & 357m on, the other 9mm & 40s&w.

My other pistol calibers load on the 550.
9/12/2026 7:12:15 PM EDT
[#2]
I know.  I do 9mm/40 on one with just a quick change of the die holders.
That one has the same bolt pattern as my turret presses of their’s.

I bought this one to do 38/357.  I swear to God I watch a YouTube video of the “new” one, and it still took the three hole die holders.  It showed up, I removed a turret press, and it has a different bolt hole pattern, and it seems very iffy that I could get it mounted to the bench and work directly without buying a stand.

I sometimes adjust the case feeder on mine, put on a new die set, do 5.56, then swap die holder, and do a run of 300 BO.  I was going to get a third Pro 1000 for that.

But this is like loving your Toyota Tacoma, going to get a new one, and it’s a Hyundai Santa Cruz that says Toyota Tacoma on it.  

I have dies and holders with full die sets and powder dispensers, either for 4 hole turrets or 3, etc. in 300 Win Mag, 30-06, .308. 30-30, .303, 8mm Mauser, 12.7x44R, 7.62x54R, 5.56, 300BO, 9mm, .40S&W, 10mm, 38, 357, 45 Colt, 44 Magnum, 45 ACP, etc.

This screws decades of compatibility for me.  Guess I’ll be looking at Dillon, Frankford, RCBS.

Their 4000 and six pack pro use the same damn swap out each individual die.

I never would have bought another 1000 if it wasn’t really a 1000.  



9/12/2026 8:06:35 PM EDT
[#3]
I remember when they "redesigned" their hand priming tool from the round tray to their new square ones.
That change was very unpopular and folks still talk about it.

I remember when someone there decided to unilaterally shorten the collet die in order to leave the mouth flared.
They said it was because some folks shooting cast bullets asked for it.
That screwed the other 99.9% of folks who didn't want it or expect it.

I really hope they pay attention to customer feedback. They have survived a long time and have their niche.

In case it helps, I have found these guys to be very helpful with spare parts and turret press parts.
https://www.titanreloading.com/

9/12/2026 8:15:23 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#4]
Son, I've got one word for you - Dillon.


This is the word I have for you, THIS IS A LEE THREAD.

OP did not ask for a comparison of press brands.

So keep your Dillon comments out of this LEE thread.

dryflash3

9/12/2026 8:21:51 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Ndenway1twicetimes][Edited] [#5]
New pro1k is like three steps backwards making it a paininass to change dies quick.


eta: looked at site with them, it's got the quick change bushings.

Which is better than screwing dies in/out everytime to change, Just got to buy enough bushing sets for however many die sets you use.

Still like the old pro1k with turret since I keep specific caliber dies & old safetydisk powder hopper on it's own turret so only time hopper comes off is if I'm changing powder used and/or grain weight and got to swap disk.

Should have bought several more since complete hopper set was like $20 and works great with unique & reddot I use in my 38,357,9m & 40 lead bullet ammo
9/12/2026 8:45:42 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#6]
Removed..................

this is a Lee thread. dryflash3

9/12/2026 10:22:20 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#7]
Comment removed. dryflash3
9/12/2026 10:44:05 PM EDT
[#8]
You guys have it easy. I used a single stage for all of my reloading at first. All of the pistol and rifle. I have a couple of the older 1000 presses now. I also have 3 of the 4000 presses. I tend to just leave them setup they way they are. The twist lock holders is not that big of a deal to swap out. But, thats how it is nowadays with everyone pissing and moaning about something.

If it really makes you mad you have to change out the dies, then just buy another press and leave it setup the way you like. The new versions are WAY better than the old ones. You like having to unbolt the press just to clean out the primers? Why are you not complaining about that? Lee should never have done something like that to catch a primer according to your idea how Lee does things.

But, hey, who am I to complain?
9/12/2026 11:07:37 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#9]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Trollslayer:
Snip.......dryflash3
View Quote


Yes, it takes the are quick change twist lock bushings.  Lee calls them breech lock bushings.

These......
“If liberty means anything at all it means the right to tell people what they do not want to hear.”
George Orwell, Animal Farm
9/12/2026 11:15:05 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#10]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Trollslayer:
Snip....
View Quote


This is a Lee thread, keep other press brands to yourself.

dryflash3


9/13/2026 10:10:56 AM EDT
[Last Edit: dryflash3][Edited] [#11]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Trollslayer:
Snip...... dryflash3


Aren't those quick-change twist lock die holders.  You set the die depth just once.  Thereafter, it comes out and goes back with a small twist.  Am I mistaken?
View Quote


Theoretically.  One of the points in their response to my-
"If you discontinued the Pro 1000 just make that clear.  This is not a Pro 1000.  Call it the Pro 1100.  Or the 1010, 1020, 1030, whatever depending on how many updates from the original.  You took a versatile press and turned it into a limited one and destroyed legacy bolt patterns, die orientation/position, and quick change die sets"

'Well, this way people can store their dies in the original boxes and quick change each one. "
And noted your point.

But it doesn't really work well that way when your die set is all perfectly set up with the powder device on one, etc.
It was fantastic to just do a small twist and change out the entire die set up.
9/13/2026 10:40:14 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote History
Originally Posted By tommee-boy-72:
You guys have it easy. I used a single stage for all of my reloading at first. All of the pistol and rifle. I have a couple of the older 1000 presses now. I also have 3 of the 4000 presses. I tend to just leave them setup they way they are. The twist lock holders is not that big of a deal to swap out. But, thats how it is nowadays with everyone pissing and moaning about something.

If it really makes you mad you have to change out the dies, then just buy another press and leave it setup the way you like. The new versions are WAY better than the old ones. You like having to unbolt the press just to clean out the primers? Why are you not complaining about that? Lee should never have done something like that to catch a primer according to your idea how Lee does things.

But, hey, who am I to complain?
View Quote


I started with a single stage as well.
I have more than one 1000, turret presses, etc.
Under one turret I just swap out the 5.55/300 BO set, the others has die sets, etc.
Under them is a hole with a funnel that catches primers.

Let’s chalk my extreme discontent up to expectations.  If what had arrived was actually a Lee Pro 1000 and not some entirely new model that is called a Lee Pro 1000-
I pull the turrent press with the broken part they can’t replace, bolt my new 1000 directly into the holes, put a die disc on there, and start reloading.

Now I’m looking at new holes, reversing the handle with the new curve pattern - shit, with the new cruces it’s not really reversible, the throw is way lower, the new die angle has issues, it will kind of want to drop loaded ammo off the front of the bench?

If one of your older 1000s broke, you would be happy to get the new version instead of just straight swap?
9/13/2026 12:24:52 PM EDT
[#13]
Meh, I still do everything thing on a single stage Lee. After 20 years something broke on it so my wife replaced it and im still plodding along with it after 10 years.
Do Good
Be Dangerous
Live Free
9/13/2026 12:32:15 PM EDT
[#14]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ScottyPotty:


Yes, it takes the are quick change twist lock bushings.  Lee calls them breech lock bushings.

These......
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/BW_MEDIAX_AVIF_MEASUREMENT_1306696-T1/images/I/41q-1KP+a1L._AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_FMwebp_.jpg
View Quote

Their answer to the Hornady LNL.  I would still use a Pro 1000 if I had one, it worked well enough but can't remember why I sold it.
9/13/2026 12:46:06 PM EDT
[Last Edit: lazyengineer][Edited] [#15]
I get the annoyance.  But I'm tangentially curious, is thr new design better?

Lee can go either way, their handprimer was the best  out there, and they screwed that up.

But sometimes they can surprise.  Their new micrometer dies are actually pretty great, for dirt cheap.

Curious the thought o. Their latest press designs.  Which they foolishly give the same model number to as before, that's nuts.  But I'm still curious.
9/13/2026 2:05:47 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Colt653][Edited] [#16]
REMOVED, THIS POST IS OFF TOPIC IN A LEE THREAD.

dryflash3

9/13/2026 7:01:43 PM EDT
[Last Edit: ramairthree][Edited] [#17]
Quote History
Originally Posted By lazyengineer:
I get the annoyance.  But I'm tangentially curious, is thr new design better?

Lee can go either way, their primers was ther best  out there, and they screwed that up.

But sometimes they can surprise.  Their new micrometer dies are actually pretty great, for dirt cheap.

Curious the thought o. Their latest press designs.  Which they foolishly give the same model number to as before, that's nuts.  But I'm still curious.
View Quote


From a purely objective perspective-
It used to be based on the strong, cast base of their classic turret press.
Now it uses a thin, non raised plate of aluminum as the base.
If you were interested in weight savings I guess that’s better.
I suspect it’s because it’s a much cheaper base.

It’s less suitable for mounting direct to a bench.  But I guess does that make it better for mounting to a mount?

New priming system is going to be better.  But I’m a hand primer.  I find split cases, there are not infrequently issue with priming on the press with brass with crimped primer pockets, etc.  As has been noted, they made their hand priming tools worse.  They went away from solid round trays to solid square trays to flimsy, bendy semi clear plastic.

The roller hand is nice, but it has a lot of bends and curves and isn’t completely reversible.
It’s looks like the new linkage mechanics will give more power on the strokes, but you either need it mounted high or orangutan arms.

Some companies use quick, single die change systems.
Others use a die holding plate or disc you change out.  That is my preference.



Looking back, they changed the base years ago.  But it still had the compatible top.
I had just watched a review of the “new” upgraded one before I ordered.  It had the top I expected.  The top change to single die is just new as of this year.  As is the crazy bends in the new handle, etc.
I didn’t catch the base change watching that.

So…
In my opinion - it’s on me that I wanted and expected another 2009 Lexus GX460.
And a 2023 showed up and I didn’t want car play, the new screen, captain’s chairs, etc. But - I still got a 460.
In this case, I did not get a GX.  I got a Lexus TX with a GX label on it.
Is a Lexus GX or a TX better?
People do choose a TX over a GX.
But…if you were expecting a GX you would be pissed.
If a GX550 had showed up…

9/13/2026 8:13:09 PM EDT
[#18]
I agree with OP that Lee should have called it a 1000+ or something.  The random model updates make it hard to keep up.  I have a Six Pack Pro that uses the quick change bushings.  They might make more sense on a six-station press where the cost of a removable die plate would add up.

Honestly, for how hard it is to make stuff in the US right now, I am floored by Lee's pricing. They can't be making a lot of money on this stuff.  Some of these design choices may have been necessary just to stay in business.
9/13/2026 10:10:15 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote History
Originally Posted By PlaysWithAtoms:
I agree with OP that Lee should have called it a 1000+ or something.  The random model updates make it hard to keep up.  I have a Six Pack Pro that uses the quick change bushings.  They might make more sense on a six-station press where the cost of a removable die plate would add up.

Honestly, for how hard it is to make stuff in the US right now, I am floored by Lee's pricing. They can't be making a lot of money on this stuff.  Some of these design choices may have been necessary just to stay in business.
View Quote


Obviously, I have decades of use with Lee and have liked them.
Their stuff is like a U.S. 5th Gen Hi-Lux/2nd Gen 4Runner , or a Gen 2 Glock 19.
And I’m fine with their progression if it was a Gen 5 G19 or 8th gen hi-lux/Toyota Fortuner 2nd gen.

But this press is more of a Hyundai Santa Cruz/Tucson / S&W Sigma/SD/SD9VE
9/13/2026 10:21:19 PM EDT
[#20]
Wait, none of their turret or progressive presses use, well, turrets anymore?!?

@03RN - you gotta at least get a turret press for handgun/semi-auto rifle!
9/13/2026 11:16:05 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote History
Originally Posted By funnelcake:
Wait, none of their turret or progressive presses use, well, turrets anymore?!?

@03RN - you gotta at least get a turret press for handgun/semi-auto rifle!
View Quote


He’s a Marine.
He’ll run, ruck, shoot, and kick ass.
But it will have to be the hard way.
No turrets or progressives for him.  
9/14/2026 12:03:01 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Ndenway1twicetimes][Edited] [#22]
Knew everything cost more nowadays.

But was a bit surprised when I looked online at midway & seen they're $267 now (titan's @$235, the other lee progressives decent priced too), that's still pretty decent compaired to other progressive prices.

Been awhile since bought my third pro1k, iirc it was $150+s&h
9/14/2026 6:30:49 AM EDT
[#23]
My experience with Lee is very much negative

Lee is the Snake Oil sales  of the reloading world.   Every thing they make is supposedly the bestest, most wonderfulest stuff ever made!  It's always plastic, aluminum, or crap pot metal whenever possible, because it's cheaper to buy and faster to make.   It's never steel or anything else with greater longevity.

Half their stuff barely functions, but with shit repeatability.  And half the shit they make is pure fantasy that never works.  Best case is their stupid little case trimmer.   It's a rod that indexes on the inside of the case head flash hole to set the trimmer depth.   I suppose that "might" work if all the flash holes were precision drilled ( but if you're loading Lapua cases, I doubt your using Lee).  As for all the other cases, the typical burr on the inside of the flash hole means it physically impossible to get a consistent case length trim.  It's indexing on a burr, of inconsistent size.

I've got ONE use for Lee: if I need dies to reload something obscure, and it's gonna be one box every couple years for my next door neighbour's .32 Win Spl, Lee will function good enough. Barely.

Buy any brand you want.  But Lee sucks.
9/14/2026 6:57:12 AM EDT
[#24]
I’ve got an OG Lee progressive in the basement at mom’s.  I’ve debated getting it back out again just for 38…..
"He had the right hand of the devil strapped tightly to his side."-The Last Cowboy
9/14/2026 9:59:02 AM EDT
[Last Edit: lazyengineer][Edited] [#25]
Quote History
Originally Posted By frozenny:
My experience with Lee is very much negative

Lee is the Snake Oil sales  of the reloading world.   Every thing they make is supposedly the bestest, most wonderfulest stuff ever made!  It's always plastic, aluminum, or crap pot metal whenever possible, because it's cheaper to buy and faster to make.   It's never steel or anything else with greater longevity.

Half their stuff barely functions, but with shit repeatability.  And half the shit they make is pure fantasy that never works.  Best case is their stupid little case trimmer.   It's a rod that indexes on the inside of the case head flash hole to set the trimmer depth.   I suppose that "might" work if all the flash holes were precision drilled ( but if you're loading Lapua cases, I doubt your using Lee).  As for all the other cases, the typical burr on the inside of the flash hole means it physically impossible to get a consistent case length trim.  It's indexing on a burr, of inconsistent size.

I've got ONE use for Lee: if I need dies to reload something obscure, and it's gonna be one box every couple years for my next door neighbour's .32 Win Spl, Lee will function good enough. Barely.

Buy any brand you want.  But Lee sucks.
View Quote

Lee has its place.  Though I don't quite understand the brand loyalty,  as they are the TEMU of reloading.  They are highly cost effective, and at times the right choice.   Their FCD'S are excellent,  both rifle and the completly different pistol units; and I have and use such for almost all my ammo

Their hand primer was the best.

Their new microseater die sets are the best deal out there.  Good dies,  and with a sliding sleeve bullet seater.  For dirt cheap.  And include the shell holder (seriously. Wtf, why is that not standard for everyone else??)

Historically their turret presses are held in high regard.  Their progressives and other presses... much more mixed reviews.  A friend had one of their progressives for .45.  It was pretty rattly and cheap -
But worked i guess..

Their case trimmer is the cheapest route.   Not a great call for large production,  but if you want the ability to occasionally trim if you need to, and aren't ready for a Giraud, they work - for basically free.

Their customer service, isn't- but that is an understood part of the deal.

Their reloading manual kind of sums up Lee - they just copied and compiled everyone else' data.

I don't hate Lee. But only cherry pick them for a few items that they excel at.  That said, not everyone can afford a Dillon 650 - that was kind of a Porche' strut in a Hyundai thread, but OK.
9/14/2026 10:49:13 AM EDT
[Last Edit: SteelonSteel][Edited] [#26]
I cannot argue with the thought that yes pick what you like from a company.  

From Lee I have their
-powder scoops which were handy way back in my infancy
-universal depriming die, I had to crank really hard on the center spindle or it slips, I have the same issue with Hornady die zip spindles
- several of their Factory Crimp Dies
- universal expander die to which I have added my own custom turned expanders, It’s a darned simple and flexible system that I like



9/14/2026 11:20:52 AM EDT
[#27]
Basically, if I was going to reload one or two pistol and one or two rifle calibers,
I’d probably have a pair of high end progressives and be done.

The beauty of Lee is to get a new reloader in the game on a budget.

The utility of Lee-
You can have a press that does 9mm and 40 and 10mm just swap the heads and go.
Another press that does 5.56 and 300BO with a quick swap and go.
And one for 44 mag and 45 colt- again just change the head.
And a turret for lower volume stuff like 300 win mag, 30-06, and 308- again, just swap the head and go.
And a cheap loader for bird shot for trap/skeet/3gun/sass.

I’m not by any means saying they are for everyone or the best.

But I’d rather have a handful of presses that work and require a single change to swap calibers vs a high end one with much more work to swap.

Friday night I decided to do a steel challenge match at the last minute vs a cowboy action match.
(Two surgeries in the past 12 months and not quite ready to run and squat around cover, barrels, go,prone, etc.)
You just stand and reload in SC where I go.  SASS is basically shoot, take a step or two, shoot, take a step or two.

Anyway,-
I walked up to my oldest Pro 1000, pulled the 9mm head, put on the 40 head-
Poured in some powder, and cranked out a bunch of 40.
As simple as can be.  

Same with another press when I swap between 44 mag and 45 colt.

This press was going to be for my 38/357 swap.  

You guys that do single die swaps, maybe it works great.
But it was not at all what I was expecting.

I’m a big boy and fine with the heat.

It’s just opinion/preferences.
9/14/2026 6:28:01 PM EDT
[#28]
Lee uses their quick change bushings now. I am not a fan I just screw one in with loctite and leave it in the press and twist in the dies manually for my single stage presses, but yes I see what you mean by the change. I would just do the 50% off and sell it recoup your money, maybe try someone else who doesn't want to constantly change desings on people. I think they are trying  to copy the Hornady design, but most Hornady owners do the same thing I do not want to buy the damn bushings, I mean you end with $100 in bushings for every few dies, then they won't work on anything else.
9/14/2026 7:33:13 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Colt653][Edited] [#29]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Colt653:
REMOVED, THIS POST IS OFF TOPIC IN A LEE THREAD.

dryflash3

View Quote



@dryflash3


Just trying to help.

OP says he's "...disgusted with LEE..."

I'm providing good info to this forum, as always

maybe you should try decaf, or lighten up a bit.
9/14/2026 11:19:18 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Colt653:



@dryflash3


Just trying to help.

OP says he's "...disgusted with LEE..."

I'm providing good info to this forum, as always

maybe you should try decaf, or lighten up a bit.
View Quote
He was complaining about Lee, not asking about another brand of equipment.

Your post would have been fine in a "which brand is better" type of thread.

Not the case here, you were off topic..

I just want the guys that use Lee equipment not to get the blue wave when they post here.

Your advice on my moderation is noted.


Selling agent for Algores carbon credit scam.

Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
9/15/2026 7:43:10 AM EDT
[#31]
My experience with Lee reloading equipment was meh.

There are some good items, the classic cast turret was pretty good, and I like the factory crimp dies.

The Lee Pro 1000?   Yeah, I wouldn’t give that pos to an enemy.



9/15/2026 8:37:47 AM EDT
[#32]
I've been using my Lee Loadmaster for about 10 years and have loaded tens of thousands of 9mm and at least another 10k of .223.  Yes, there are periodic adjustments that need to be made and some of the plastic parts occasionally wear out.  I just make the adjustments and carry on.  My biggest problem has been bulged 9mm brass, but once I figured it out, I just keep reloading.  

If it weren't for threads like this, I wouldn't know it was supposed to suck.
9/15/2026 8:46:59 AM EDT
[#33]
ive used a Lee 4 hole press at least 20 years, loaded thousands of rounds.  the priming mechanism was the only thing that would get on my nerves.  this was back when I was younger, dumber and still had more patience than Job running it.  It did what it was supposed to do.  The case feeder was genius in my view and very cost effective.  
Still have lots of Lee dies and parts for the press, long since sold it when I got old and cranky.
9/15/2026 9:30:31 AM EDT
[#34]
Quote History
Originally Posted By mannyCA:
ive used a Lee 4 hole press at least 20 years, loaded thousands of rounds.  the priming mechanism was the only thing that would get on my nerves.  this was back when I was younger, dumber and still had more patience than Job running it.  It did what it was supposed to do.  The case feeder was genius in my view and very cost effective.  
Still have lots of Lee dies and parts for the press, long since sold it when I got old and cranky.
View Quote

I see what you did there.
"Some of the greatest dads I've ever seen weren't so much perfect as they were willing to work hard to overcome their failings. Does that make sense?"

Yes. Yes it does.
9/15/2026 9:54:45 AM EDT
[#35]
Started reloading 308w, 38/357 & 45acp with a lee challenger load package/308kit, dippers & 2 pistol dies packs & hodgdon powder/load book in 86', iirc $140 bucks, which was a lot of funds since I was in hs & had 40hr/job to pay bills.

I added gear through the years as I needed & had funds to buy.

I've got plenty of lee, rcbs & dillion presses on my bench.

Dies are lee, rcbs, redding & dillion.

Lots of lee, rcbs, dillion, hornady, lyman etc reloading gear that works fine loading the ammo I use.

Doesn't matter what brand of gear, if it works I keep and use it, if it don't  I trade it off to someone that wants it.



9/15/2026 12:59:40 PM EDT
[#36]
Do what I did. Give it away for free to a new reloader. I won't say anymore as to what I did to remedy not having a Lee Precision press, but I did a thing and couldn't be happier.
9/15/2026 7:53:50 PM EDT
[Last Edit: RogueSpear2023][Edited] [#37]
I see your point but at the same time he is kind of asking what he should do about the situation. There are plenty of fine Brands out there.
9/15/2026 11:00:32 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Trollslayer][Edited] [#38]
If I were to buy a LEE press, I think it would be something simple such as a Classic Cast or a bench-mount Breech Lock press.


Their dies, while not the most refined seem to work reasonably well, but I've only tried them for pistol cartridges.

I vaguely recall when their "micrometer" seater first came out, while looking like a micrometer, did not have an anti-backlash feature.  Can anyone confirm or refute that?  Do they now have that feature?

They have all sorts of tools to help the reloader, really quite a lot.

My final thoughts on LEE comes from you guys.  

The LEE Perfect Powder Measure is supposedly very good (as in the best or nearly so) for large-grained extruded powders, despite its low price and plastic bits.

The APP press is well regarded, no?
9/15/2026 11:36:28 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Trollslayer:
If I were to buy a LEE press, I think it would be something simple such as a Classic Cast or a bench-mount Breech Lock press.


Their dies, while not the most refined seem to work reasonably well, but I've only tried them for pistol cartridges.

I vaguely recall when their "micrometer" seater first came out, while looking like a micrometer, did not have an anti-backlash feature.  Can anyone confirm or refute that?  Do they now have that feature?

They have all sorts of tools to help the reloader, really quite a lot.

My final thoughts on LEE comes from you guys.  

The LEE Perfect Powder Measure is supposedly very good (as in the best or nearly so) for large-grained extruded powders, despite its low price and plastic bits.

The APP press is well regarding, no?
View Quote


The PPM was my first powder measure, and I keep it around for use with IMR 3031 because my other measures don't like it.
9/15/2026 11:52:53 PM EDT
[Last Edit: wildearp][Edited] [#40]
I had a Lee Load All for about a box of shells. Frustrating trash. Some life lessons you learn from experience.

I do like their FCD and have a die set or two.

Many of us know about their auto-presses and what to expect from them.
Preferred pronoun: MARINE
9/16/2026 2:32:34 PM EDT
[#41]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Trollslayer:

I vaguely recall when their "micrometer" seater first came out, while looking like a micrometer, did not have an anti-backlash feature.  Can anyone confirm or refute that?  Do they now have that feature?
View Quote

Relies on o-ring for backlash control. Works well enough for pistol cartridges and have not had issues with the thimble moving (have loaded over 5k rounds of 9mm, 38spl, 357, and 44mag). Can't speak on how well it works with rifle cartridges though.
9/17/2026 4:57:54 PM EDT
[#42]
Quote History
Originally Posted By wildearp:
I had a Lee Load All for about a box of shells. Frustrating trash. Some life lessons you learn from experience.

I do like their FCD and have a die set or two.

Many of us know about their auto-presses and what to expect from them.
View Quote


To be fair the metal base one was fine for cranking out some 12 gauge of your choice.  
The current plastic base one is pretty bad.
9/17/2026 10:54:13 PM EDT
[#43]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ramairthree:


To be fair the metal base one was fine for cranking out some 12 gauge of your choice.  
The current plastic base one is pretty bad.
View Quote
OP, question.

Was the point of your thread to blow off some of your frustration?

Or was it searching for a replacement from another brand of press?
Selling agent for Algores carbon credit scam.

Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
9/18/2026 9:44:00 PM EDT
[#44]
My point was frustration with companies completely changing a product but still calling it the same thing.
Making the product worse, etc.

Gun wise it happened with a big ammo box manufacturer a while ago.  I had half a dozen of their ammo boxes.  Ordered another half dozen a couple of years later.  Same product code and name.  But completely different.
Their response- but we made them better!
Ok, change the damn sku.  I want the same box to stack. Not a new one that won’t.

Some is venting, some is a warning to others.


9/18/2026 10:38:56 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ramairthree:
My point was frustration with companies completely changing a product but still calling it the same thing.
Making the product worse, etc.

Gun wise it happened with a big ammo box manufacturer a while ago.  I had half a dozen of their ammo boxes.  Ordered another half dozen a couple of years later.  Same product code and name.  But completely different.
Their response- but we made them better!
Ok, change the damn sku.  I want the same box to stack. Not a new one that won't.

Some is venting, some is a warning to others.


View Quote
Ok, so you aren't  looking to change press brands then. Thanks.
Selling agent for Algores carbon credit scam.

Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
9/20/2026 9:24:31 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote History
Originally Posted By dryflash3:
Ok, so you aren't  looking to change press brands then. Thanks.
View Quote


No, I’m a birthday or two from 60, started with a Lee single stage in the 90s, and a 3 hole turret soon after, a 4 hole auto index soon after that, converted the 3 hole to 4 hole auto index, then a Pro 1000, snagged a used another Pro 1000 after that, have a RockChucker for brass 12 gauge shells, never got around to also getting 50 BMG dies for it, a classic current gen turret press, bought the new pro 1000 I posted about- I am going to mess with it more I decided-
And, a kick ass forum member just sent me their old pro 1000-
It’s perfect- I’m going to shift my 5.56 and 300 blackout to that I was doing on my old turret press that wore out.  -The cross pin in the arm linkage wore the circle holes into ovals-

The guy that taught me to reload in the mid 90s was a Dillon guy for 45 ACP progressive ammo loading, nut single stage for their national match stuff.  Many a time over the years I have considered some new stuff/a changeover-

But when all is said and done for a guy that deprimes/sizes then hand primes, -
The Pro 1000 cranks out powder, seat, crimp very well.

I would like to do deprime/prime from a time and efficiency perspective with the other steps-
And it does seem to work great when I am using new brass-
But over the years using fired brass I get sick of stoppages/bad round from slit or cracked brass, primer James from crimped primer brass, etc.
9/20/2026 2:15:27 PM EDT
[#47]
It is a hobby, right?

Fabricate some metal parts to replace the lower life plastic bits.  A drill, some hand files,... use the plastic piece as a pattern.
9/20/2026 2:38:33 PM EDT
[#48]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ramairthree:


No, I'm a birthday or two from 60, started with a Lee single stage in the 90s, and a 3 hole turret soon after, a 4 hole auto index soon after that, converted the 3 hole to 4 hole auto index, then a Pro 1000, snagged a used another Pro 1000 after that, have a RockChucker for brass 12 gauge shells, never got around to also getting 50 BMG dies for it, a classic current gen turret press, bought the new pro 1000 I posted about- I am going to mess with it more I decided-
And, a kick ass forum member just sent me their old pro 1000-
It's perfect- I'm going to shift my 5.56 and 300 blackout to that I was doing on my old turret press that wore out.  -The cross pin in the arm linkage wore the circle holes into ovals-

The guy that taught me to reload in the mid 90s was a Dillon guy for 45 ACP progressive ammo loading, nut single stage for their national match stuff.  Many a time over the years I have considered some new stuff/a changeover-

But when all is said and done for a guy that deprimes/sizes then hand primes, -
The Pro 1000 cranks out powder, seat, crimp very well.

I would like to do deprime/prime from a time and efficiency perspective with the other steps-
And it does seem to work great when I am using new brass-
But over the years using fired brass I get sick of stoppages/bad round from slit or cracked brass, primer James from crimped primer brass, etc.
View Quote
Well if you want a more efficient decapping process, Lee make a great press for that.

Called the APP. Automatic processing press.



My APP in action.

Case feeder tube, when empty, you rotate to the next one.

Top of feeder tubes is a round hopper.

Dump handful of cases in shake hopper and cases drop base down into the tubes. Slick.

Every pull on the press handle drops a decapped case into bin.

Last week I decapped 1k of 10mm and 500 44 mag cases in less than 2 hours.

That includes bolting press to bench, changing over from bullet sizing to decapping.

Setting up press for 10mm, then changing over to 44 mag.

When finished unbolting press and placing it in storage for next time.

I use a Lee Universal decapper as I always decap before wet tumbling.
Selling agent for Algores carbon credit scam.

Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.
9/20/2026 9:58:11 PM EDT
[#49]
Quote History
Originally Posted By dryflash3:
Well if you want a more efficient decapping process, Lee make a great press for that.

Called the APP. Automatic processing press.

https://i.imgur.com/PJzdlZyh.jpg

My APP in action.

Case feeder tube, when empty, you rotate to the next one.

Top of feeder tubes is a round hopper.

Dump handful of cases in shake hopper and cases drop base down into the tubes. Slick.

Every pull on the press handle drops a decapped case into bin.

Last week I decapped 1k of 10mm and 500 44 mag cases in less than 2 hours.

That includes bolting press to bench, changing over from bullet sizing to decapping.

Setting up press for 10mm, then changing over to 44 mag.

When finished unbolting press and placing it in storage for next time.

I use a Lee Universal decapper as I always decap before wet tumbling.
View Quote


That’s pretty cool.  I have never looked into it.

I have turrets with 4 different depriming/sizing dies in them.
I pull the auto index rod.

Then run a container through.
I catch most casing with issues.
Then I hand prime the cases at some point.  I’ll get rid of a few more cases with issues-
And catch some more with priming issues.

Doing it on a press with a case feeder would certainly save some time.
I don’t know where I would squeeze it in.  

9/20/2026 11:17:59 PM EDT
[#50]
That's why mine is bolted down to some nut on the bottom of my bench.

Takes 1 minute to mount it or take it off to store.
Selling agent for Algores carbon credit scam.

Shooting and Reloading, one hobby feeds the other.

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