The Lee Loader is a legendary piece of reloading equipment, particularly popular among those new to the hobby or seeking a budget-friendly option for reloading .38 Special ammunition. This review delves into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various reloading needs. We'll explore its ease of use, the quality of components, and whether it's the right choice for you.
What is the Lee Loader?
The Lee Loader is a single-stage reloading press, meaning it performs one operation at a time. Unlike progressive presses that automate multiple steps, the Lee Loader requires manual operation for each case, making it a slower but simpler process. This simplicity is its greatest appeal for beginners. It's a hand-held tool, compact and portable, making it ideal for those with limited space. The .38 Special Lee Loader specifically handles the resizing, priming, powder charging, and bullet seating for this popular cartridge.
Advantages of the Lee Loader 38 Special
- Affordability: The most significant advantage is its incredibly low price point. It's a great entry point for those wanting to explore reloading without a significant upfront investment.
- Simplicity: Its single-stage design makes it very easy to learn. The straightforward process minimizes the learning curve and reduces the risk of errors common with more complex equipment.
- Portability: The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for reloading in various locations, without needing a dedicated reloading bench.
- Durability: While it's a simple tool, the Lee Loader is known for its robust construction and ability to handle a fair volume of reloading.
Disadvantages of the Lee Loader 38 Special
- Speed: The single-stage, manual operation significantly slows down the reloading process compared to progressive presses. High-volume reloaders will find this frustrating.
- Limited Versatility: It's designed for a single caliber (.38 Special in this case). Switching to another caliber requires purchasing a completely new Lee Loader.
- Manual Effort: The process is entirely manual, requiring considerable physical effort, especially during resizing.
- Potential for Inconsistency: While capable of producing accurate loads, achieving perfect consistency across a large batch requires meticulous attention to detail and technique.
Is the Lee Loader 38 Special Right for You?
The Lee Loader 38 Special is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners: Its simplicity and affordability make it an ideal starting point for those new to reloading.
- Low-volume reloaders: If you only reload a small number of rounds occasionally, the speed limitations won't be a significant issue.
- Those with limited space: Its compact design is perfect for individuals with limited space for a dedicated reloading bench.
- Budget-conscious reloaders: It's the most economical option available for reloading .38 Special.
However, the Lee Loader is not the best option for:
- High-volume reloaders: The slow speed will become a major bottleneck for those who reload hundreds or thousands of rounds regularly.
- Those seeking high-speed automation: Its manual operation will frustrate anyone accustomed to faster reloading methods.
- Those wanting versatility: Switching calibers requires a completely new Lee Loader.
Conclusion
The Lee Loader 38 Special represents a fantastic entry point into the world of reloading. Its simplicity, affordability, and durability make it an attractive option for specific users. However, understanding its limitations regarding speed and versatility is crucial before making a purchase. If you're a beginner with modest reloading needs and a tight budget, the Lee Loader 38 Special is a worthy consideration. If you anticipate high-volume reloading or need versatility, a more advanced press is recommended.
