Reloading your own 12 gauge ammunition can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings, customized loads tailored to your specific needs, and a deeper understanding of your firearm. Lee Precision is a popular choice for reloaders, offering a range of affordable and effective equipment. This comprehensive guide explores Lee 12 gauge reloading presses and the process, helping you decide if it's the right path for you.
Why Choose Lee for 12 Gauge Reloading?
Lee Precision has built a reputation on providing high-quality reloading equipment at competitive prices. Their offerings, particularly their single-stage presses, are frequently chosen by beginners due to their simplicity and ease of use. While they also offer progressive presses for higher-volume reloading, the single-stage presses remain a cornerstone of their product line and a great entry point for 12 gauge reloading.
Advantages of Lee Reloading Presses:
- Affordability: Lee presses are consistently among the most budget-friendly options on the market, making them accessible to a broader range of shooters.
- Simplicity: Their single-stage designs are straightforward and easy to learn, perfect for newcomers to reloading.
- Durability: Despite their lower price point, Lee presses are known for their robust construction and longevity.
- Comprehensive System: Lee offers a complete ecosystem of reloading tools and accessories, ensuring compatibility and ease of use across their product line.
Considerations Before Choosing Lee:
- Speed: Single-stage presses are slower than progressive presses. If you plan on reloading large quantities of ammunition, a progressive press might be a more efficient investment.
- Learning Curve: While simple to use, understanding proper reloading techniques and safety procedures is crucial regardless of the press used.
The Lee 12 Gauge Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The following steps outline the basic process of reloading 12 gauge shells using a Lee single-stage press. Always consult your specific Lee press manual and relevant reloading manuals for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
1. Preparing Your Components:
- Shotgun Shells: Choose new, once-fired, or properly prepared used hulls. The type of hull significantly impacts the final result.
- Powder: Select a suitable powder for your desired load. Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safety and consistent performance. Use a scale to weigh your powder charges meticulously.
- Wads: Choose wads compatible with your chosen hull and powder.
- Shot: Select the shot size and type for your intended purpose (e.g., birdshot, buckshot).
- Primers: Use primers specifically designed for shotgun shells.
2. Sizing the Hulls:
If using once-fired or used hulls, you'll need to resize them to ensure consistent dimensions and proper functioning. Lee offers shell resizing tools designed for this purpose.
3. The Reloading Process on a Lee Single-Stage Press:
This involves a series of steps performed one at a time on the press, including:
- Depriming: Removing the spent primer from the hull.
- Resizing: Ensuring the hull is properly sized.
- Charging: Accurately measuring and adding the powder charge.
- Seating the Wad: Positioning the wad correctly.
- Charging Shot: Adding the shot to the shell.
- Crimping: Crimping the shell to secure the shot and wad.
4. Quality Control:
Inspect each completed round for any defects, ensuring proper crimping, wad seating, and powder charge.
Safety First: Crucial Considerations for 12 Gauge Reloading
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Always prioritize safety:
- Read and understand all manuals: Thoroughly review the instructions for your Lee press, powder, and other components.
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Eye protection and hearing protection are essential.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Powder fumes can be hazardous.
- Proper storage: Store your reloading components securely and separately from ammunition.
- Double-check your work: Carefully inspect each round before loading it into your firearm.
Conclusion: Lee Loaders and Your 12 Gauge Reloading Journey
Lee Precision offers a viable and affordable entry point for those interested in 12 gauge reloading. Their single-stage presses are user-friendly and reliable, perfect for beginners learning the craft. Remember that reloading requires patience, attention to detail, and a steadfast commitment to safety. By following proper procedures and investing in quality components, you can safely and successfully reload your own 12 gauge ammunition, enjoying the benefits of cost savings and customized loads.
