The Lee Load-All II 12 gauge reloading press is a popular choice for budget-conscious shotgun reloaders. Its simplicity and affordability make it an attractive entry point into the world of reloading, but understanding its capabilities and limitations is crucial before you get started. This comprehensive guide will delve into the specifics of the Lee Load-All II, addressing its pros, cons, and best practices for safe and effective 12 gauge shell loading.
Understanding the Lee Load-All II
The Lee Load-All II is a single-stage, hand-operated reloading press designed for simplicity. Unlike progressive presses, it performs one step at a time, requiring the user to manually complete each stage of the reloading process. While this may seem slower than progressive presses, it offers several advantages, particularly for beginners.
Advantages of the Lee Load-All II:
- Affordability: It's significantly cheaper than other reloading presses, making it accessible to those on a budget.
- Simplicity: Its straightforward design makes it easy to learn and use, ideal for beginners.
- Compactness: It takes up minimal space, perfect for smaller reloading areas.
- Versatility: While primarily used for 12 gauge, it can often be adapted for other gauges with the right dies (though this requires additional research and potentially modification).
Disadvantages of the Lee Load-All II:
- Speed: The single-stage operation is significantly slower than progressive presses.
- Manual Operation: Requires more physical effort than automated presses.
- Potential for Inconsistent Loads: Requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure consistent shell loading. Improper use can lead to unsafe ammunition.
- Limited Adjustability: Some features lack the fine-tuning capabilities of more expensive presses.
Safe and Effective Reloading with the Lee Load-All II
Safety should always be your top priority when reloading ammunition. Here's a step-by-step guide to safe and effective 12 gauge shell loading with the Lee Load-All II:
Essential Equipment and Supplies:
- Lee Load-All II 12 Gauge Reloading Press: The core of your reloading setup.
- 12 Gauge Shells: Choose high-quality hulls for best results.
- Shot: Select appropriate shot size and quantity for your intended purpose.
- Powder: Use only shotgun powder specifically recommended for your intended application. Never substitute or experiment with powder types.
- Wads: Use wads designed for your specific shot size and hull type.
- Primers: Use only primers designed for shotgun shells. Incorrect primers can lead to catastrophic failure.
- Scale: A precise powder scale is crucial for consistent and safe loads. Always double-check your powder charges.
- Loading Block: A loading block helps to maintain the integrity of the hulls while loading.
- Case Lube (Optional): While not strictly required, case lube can make the loading process smoother.
Step-by-Step Reloading Process:
- Prepare your components: Organize all your components: hulls, shot, powder, wads, and primers.
- Decap and Resize (if necessary): Depending on your hulls, you may need to decapsulate spent primers and resize the hulls.
- Prime the Hulls: Carefully prime each hull with a correctly seated primer.
- Charge the Powder: Accurately measure your powder charge using your powder scale.
- Add the Wad: Carefully seat the wad over the powder.
- Add the Shot: Carefully add the shot charge.
- Crimp the Shell: Use the crimp die to securely crimp the shell.
- Inspect the Finished Round: Visually inspect each completed shell for any imperfections. Discard any shells that appear damaged or improperly loaded.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Inconsistent Crimp: Ensure your crimp die is properly adjusted and that you're applying even pressure.
- Powder Charges are Inconsistent: This could be due to a faulty powder scale or inaccurate measuring.
- Wad Seated Improperly: Ensure you're using the correct wads for your hull and shot.
- Damaged Hulls: Avoid using damaged or deformed hulls.
Conclusion
The Lee Load-All II is an excellent entry-level reloading press for those interested in reloading 12-gauge shells. While it requires more manual effort than other presses, its affordability and simplicity make it a viable option for learning the basics of shotgun shell reloading. However, remember that reloading ammunition requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to safety. Always follow recommended loading data and never compromise on safety procedures. Improperly loaded ammunition can be extremely dangerous. If you are unsure about any aspect of the reloading process, consult experienced reloaders or refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
