The Lee Auto Bench Primer is a popular choice among reloaders, known for its affordability and surprisingly robust performance. But is it the right primer for you? This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, drawbacks, and ultimately help you decide if the Lee Auto Bench Primer deserves a spot in your reloading bench setup.
What is the Lee Auto Bench Primer?
The Lee Auto Bench Primer is a hand-held, mechanical primer. Unlike electric or automated systems, this tool requires manual operation, making it a budget-friendly option for reloaders of all experience levels. It's designed for use with small rifle and pistol primers, offering a reliable and consistent method for priming cases. Its simplicity and ease of use contribute to its enduring popularity.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Affordability: This is arguably its biggest draw. The Lee Auto Bench Primer is significantly cheaper than electric or automated priming systems, making it accessible to reloaders on a tighter budget.
- Simplicity and Ease of Use: Its mechanical design is straightforward, minimizing the learning curve. Even beginners can quickly master its operation.
- Durability: Despite its low price, the Lee Auto Bench Primer is surprisingly durable. With proper care and maintenance, it can withstand years of consistent use.
- Portability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easily portable, allowing you to prime cases wherever you have a suitable workspace.
- Consistent Priming: While manual, the design ensures consistent and reliable primer seating depth, minimizing the risk of misfires or primer damage.
Drawbacks and Considerations:
- Manual Operation: This is both a benefit and a drawback. While simple, manual priming can be slower than automated systems, especially for high-volume reloading.
- Potential for Fatigue: Extended priming sessions can lead to hand fatigue, particularly for those with arthritis or other hand conditions.
- Primer Type Limitations: The Lee Auto Bench Primer is specifically designed for small rifle and pistol primers. It's not compatible with large rifle primers.
Lee Auto Bench Primer vs. Other Priming Systems:
Compared to electric or automated priming systems, the Lee Auto Bench Primer offers significant cost savings. However, it sacrifices speed and automation. For high-volume reloaders, an electric system might be a more efficient investment despite the higher upfront cost. However, for casual reloaders or those prioritizing budget, the manual operation of the Lee Auto Bench Primer is a perfectly acceptable trade-off.
Maintenance and Care:
Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your Lee Auto Bench Primer. Regularly clean the tool, removing any primer residue or debris. Lubrication of moving parts can also improve its performance and longevity.
Conclusion:
The Lee Auto Bench Primer provides a reliable and affordable solution for priming cases. Its simplicity, durability, and low cost make it an excellent choice for beginners or reloaders on a budget. While manual operation might not be ideal for high-volume reloading, its ease of use and consistent performance outweigh the drawbacks for many users. Consider your reloading volume and budget when deciding if the Lee Auto Bench Primer is the right fit for your reloading needs. It's a workhorse that deserves consideration in any reloader's arsenal.
