The Lee Turret Classic press is a popular choice among reloaders for its versatility, affordability, and ease of use. This comprehensive guide delves into the Lee Turret Classic press kit, exploring its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you decide if it's the right reloading press for you. We'll cover everything from setting it up to advanced techniques, ensuring you have the knowledge to get the most out of your Lee Turret Classic.
What's Included in the Lee Turret Classic Press Kit?
The Lee Turret Classic press kit typically includes the following components:
- The Press: The heart of the system, a sturdy cast-iron press capable of handling various reloading tasks.
- Turret Head: This rotating head holds the dies, allowing for quick transitions between steps in the reloading process.
- Dies: The kit usually comes with a set of dies for a specific cartridge caliber. (Note: you'll need to purchase additional dies for different calibers.)
- Powder Measure: Lee's powder measure is known for its simplicity and accuracy, though some reloaders prefer more advanced options.
- Case Feeder (Optional): Some kits include a case feeder; this accessory significantly speeds up the reloading process. If not, this is a highly recommended upgrade.
- Manual: The Lee manual provides detailed instructions, diagrams, and safety precautions.
Key Features and Benefits of the Lee Turret Classic Press
- Affordability: The Lee Turret Classic is significantly cheaper than many other turret presses. This makes it an excellent entry-level option for beginners.
- Simplicity: The design is straightforward, easy to learn and use, minimizing the learning curve.
- Versatility: While not as fast as progressive presses, the Turret Classic offers excellent versatility, capable of handling various cartridge calibers with simple die changes.
- Durability: Constructed from cast iron, the press is built to last, withstanding years of use with proper care and maintenance.
- Compact Design: This saves valuable bench space, ideal for those with limited workspace.
Setting Up Your Lee Turret Classic Press
The setup process involves several steps. This is crucial for the accuracy and safety of your reloading. Refer to the Lee manual for precise instructions specific to your chosen caliber and the dies you are using.
- Mount the Press: Securely attach the press to a sturdy workbench using appropriate clamps.
- Install the Turret Head: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to correctly install the turret head.
- Install and Adjust Dies: This is the most crucial step. Incorrectly adjusted dies can lead to dangerous misfires or damage to equipment. Proper die adjustment involves careful sizing and ensuring bullet seating depth.
- Primer System Setup: The primer system needs to be correctly aligned to prevent misfires.
- Powder Measure Calibration: Calibrate the powder measure meticulously for accurate powder charges. Inaccurate powder charges are dangerous and illegal. Use a scale to measure charge weights.
Important Safety Note: Always follow safety guidelines when reloading ammunition. Improperly loaded ammunition can cause serious injury or death. Never attempt to reload ammunition without thoroughly understanding the process and safety precautions.
Lee Turret Classic vs. Other Reloading Presses
The Lee Turret Classic often gets compared to other reloading presses, particularly single-stage presses and progressive presses. Here's a comparison table:
| Feature | Lee Turret Classic | Single-Stage Press | Progressive Press |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Moderate | Slow | Very Fast |
| Cost | Low | Low | High |
| Complexity | Moderate | Low | High |
| Versatility | High | High | Moderate |
| Ideal for | Beginners, moderate volume | Beginners, small batches | High-volume reloaders |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are a few common issues experienced with the Lee Turret Classic and their solutions:
- Dies not seating correctly: Check for proper die alignment and ensure the turret head is securely fastened.
- Inconsistent powder charges: Recalibrate the powder measure and ensure consistent powder flow. Again, use a scale.
- Cases not feeding properly (if using a case feeder): Make sure the case feeder is properly aligned and that cases are consistently fed.
- Primer issues: Inspect the primer system for proper alignment and ensure primers are not damaged or bent.
Conclusion: Is the Lee Turret Classic Right for You?
The Lee Turret Classic press is a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable, versatile, and easy-to-use reloading press. Its simplicity makes it ideal for beginners, while its durability and versatility cater to more experienced reloaders who need a moderate-speed system for moderate-volume reloading. However, if you anticipate reloading very large quantities of ammunition, a progressive press might be a better investment. Ultimately, the best press for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. Always prioritize safety and accuracy when reloading ammunition.