The Lee Ultimate Turret Press is a popular choice among reloaders, known for its affordability and versatility. But is it truly the ultimate press? This in-depth review will explore the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit, examining its features, benefits, drawbacks, and overall value proposition for both beginners and experienced reloaders.
What's Included in the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit?
The Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit typically includes the following components:
- Lee Ultimate Turret Press: The heart of the kit, this robust press offers a unique turret system for efficient reloading.
- Powder Measure: A crucial component for consistent powder charges. The specific model included may vary.
- Dies: Usually, the kit includes a set of dies for a specific cartridge caliber. Check the kit's specifications to confirm.
- Shell Holders: These are essential for holding the cartridge cases during the reloading process. The number and calibers included depend on the kit.
- Case Lube: Some kits include a case lube to facilitate easier sizing.
- Manual: Lee provides comprehensive instructions to guide users through the setup and operation of the press.
Advantages of the Lee Ultimate Turret Press
The Lee Ultimate Turret Press boasts several key advantages that make it a compelling option:
Affordability:
Compared to other turret presses and progressive presses on the market, the Lee Ultimate Turret Press offers excellent value for its price. This makes it an attractive entry point for new reloaders.
Simplicity and Ease of Use:
The turret system simplifies the reloading process. Each station is dedicated to a specific step, minimizing the need to change dies frequently, thereby increasing efficiency. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for beginners.
Versatility:
While designed for turret reloading, with some modifications, it can be adapted to perform other reloading tasks. The availability of various Lee accessories enhances its versatility.
Durability:
Lee presses are generally known for their robustness and durability. The Ultimate Turret Press is built to withstand years of use with proper maintenance.
Compact Design:
The press has a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for reloaders with limited bench space.
Potential Drawbacks of the Lee Ultimate Turret Press
While offering numerous advantages, the Lee Ultimate Turret Press also has some limitations:
Speed Limitations:
Compared to progressive presses, the turret press is slower. This is a trade-off for its simplicity and ease of use. High-volume reloaders might find this limiting.
Capacity Limitations:
The turret system has a limited number of stations, restricting the number of operations that can be performed simultaneously. This might necessitate manual steps between stages for certain cartridge types.
Potential for Binding:
Improper die setup or insufficient lubrication can lead to binding issues. Careful attention to detail is essential to avoid this problem.
Who is the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit Ideal For?
The Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit is a great choice for:
- Beginner Reloaders: Its simplicity and affordability make it an excellent starting point for those new to reloading.
- Hobbyist Reloaders: Those who reload for personal use and don't need the high-speed capacity of a progressive press will find it perfectly suitable.
- Reloaders with Limited Space: Its compact design is ideal for those with limited bench space.
Conclusion: Is it the Ultimate?
The term "ultimate" is subjective. While the Lee Ultimate Turret Press may not be the fastest or most feature-rich press on the market, it excels in affordability, ease of use, and reliability. For many reloaders, particularly beginners and those focused on efficiency rather than sheer speed, the Lee Ultimate Turret Press Kit offers exceptional value and a satisfying reloading experience. Consider your reloading needs and budget carefully before making a purchase decision. This review aims to provide valuable information to help you make an informed choice.
