The Lee Ultimate Turret Press has earned a reputation as a solid workhorse in the reloading world, particularly appealing to those seeking a balance between affordability and capability. This in-depth review will explore its features, pros, cons, and ultimately, whether it's the right press for you.
What Makes the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Unique?
Unlike progressive presses that automate much of the reloading process, the Lee Ultimate Turret Press is a turret press. This means it uses a rotating turret to hold multiple dies, allowing for quicker transitions between steps in the reloading process compared to single-stage presses. This efficiency makes it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced reloaders who prioritize speed and convenience without the complexity of a progressive press.
Its unique design incorporates several key features:
- Easy-to-Use Turret System: The turret rotates smoothly, allowing for quick changes between sizing, powder dispensing, bullet seating, and crimping.
- Robust Construction: While not as heavy-duty as some higher-priced presses, the Lee Ultimate Turret Press is built to withstand consistent use.
- Affordable Price Point: This is a major selling point. The press offers significant capabilities at a fraction of the cost of comparable presses.
- Wide Range of Accessories: Lee Precision offers a broad range of accessories specifically designed for this press, expanding its versatility and capabilities.
Lee Ultimate Turret Press: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Speed and Efficiency: The turret system significantly reduces the time spent changing dies compared to single-stage presses.
- Cost-Effectiveness: It provides excellent value for money, especially for beginners or those on a budget.
- Easy to Learn: The straightforward design and operation make it relatively easy to learn, even for novice reloaders.
- Versatile: The press can handle a variety of cartridges and reloading tasks with the right dies and accessories.
- Durable: Though not the most robust press on the market, it's surprisingly durable for its price point.
Cons:
- Limited Capacity: The turret only holds a limited number of dies. This might necessitate changes if reloading multiple calibers or significantly altering your reloading process.
- Manual Operation: Unlike progressive presses, each reloading step still requires manual operation.
- Potential for Binding: Improper die setup can lead to binding issues, so careful attention to detail is essential.
- Not Ideal for High-Volume Reloading: While faster than a single-stage press, it's still not as efficient as a progressive press for large-scale reloading projects.
Is the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Right for You?
The Lee Ultimate Turret Press is an excellent option for several types of reloaders:
- Beginners: It's a great entry point into the world of reloading, offering a balance between affordability, ease of use, and functionality.
- Reloaders on a Budget: It's a cost-effective alternative to more expensive presses without sacrificing significant features.
- Reloaders with Moderate Volume Needs: It's ideal for those who reload regularly but don't need the high-volume capabilities of a progressive press.
- Reloaders of Multiple Calibers: Its ability to quickly swap between dies makes it suitable for those who reload more than one type of ammunition.
However, it might not be the best choice for:
- High-Volume Production: Progressive presses are better suited for large-scale reloading projects.
- Professional Reloaders: Professional reloaders often prefer more robust and feature-rich presses.
Conclusion: A Solid Workhorse for Many
The Lee Ultimate Turret Press holds its own against its competitors, especially considering its price point. Its ease of use, versatility, and solid performance make it a compelling choice for a wide range of reloaders. While it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, it remains a popular and reliable option for many, offering a satisfying experience without breaking the bank. Careful consideration of your reloading needs and volume will help you determine if the Lee Ultimate Turret Press is the right press for your reloading journey.
