Lee Collet neck sizing dies have earned a reputation among reloaders for their exceptional accuracy and ability to produce consistently sized cartridges. This detailed guide explores the benefits, applications, and nuances of using a Lee Collet neck sizing die, helping you decide if it's the right tool for your reloading bench.
Understanding the Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die
Unlike traditional neck sizing dies that rely on expanding the neck to fit the case, the Lee Collet die uses a precisely machined collet to size only the neck of the cartridge. This collet is a hardened steel ring with a precisely sized internal diameter. The process gently sizes the neck, minimizing case deformation and maintaining the case body's original dimensions.
Key Advantages of Using a Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die:
- Exceptional Accuracy: The collet's precise sizing ensures consistent neck tension, leading to improved accuracy and reduced bullet runout.
- Minimal Case Work Hardening: Because the body of the case remains untouched, case life is significantly extended. This means fewer cases need to be replaced, saving you money in the long run.
- Reduced Case Neck Tension: The controlled sizing minimizes the risk of over-worked brass, leading to less neck splitting and improved longevity.
- Ideal for Multiple Reloads: The preservation of case integrity makes these dies perfect for reloading brass multiple times.
- Simplicity of Use: While requiring some initial setup, the overall process is straightforward once properly adjusted.
When to Use a Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die:
- High-Precision Reloading: This die is a must-have for competitive shooters who demand the highest accuracy.
- Extending Brass Life: If you are focused on maximizing the lifespan of your brass, a collet die is an excellent investment.
- Maintaining Case Body Dimensions: The non-sizing of the case body helps maintain the cartridge's original dimensions which benefits accuracy and consistency.
- Specific Cartridge Types: They are particularly beneficial for bottleneck cartridges where maintaining case neck tension is crucial.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Requires Precise Setup: Achieving optimal results needs careful adjustment and attention to detail. An improperly adjusted die can lead to under-sized necks or damage to the collet.
- Not Suitable for All Reloading Situations: It's not the ideal choice for cases requiring full-length resizing, as it only addresses the neck.
- Initial Investment Cost: The cost of a Lee Collet die is often slightly higher than that of a standard neck sizing die.
Setting Up Your Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die:
Proper setup is critical for optimal performance. Lee provides detailed instructions with their dies; however, it’s worth emphasizing the importance of:
- Lubrication: Thoroughly lubricate the case necks before sizing to prevent damage to the collet and ensure smooth operation.
- Correct Adjustment: Pay close attention to the die's adjustment to ensure the neck is sized correctly without creating excessive tension. Use a case gauge to verify the sizing.
- Collet Care: Keep the collet clean and free from debris to maintain its accuracy and precision.
Conclusion: Is a Lee Collet Neck Sizing Die Right for You?
The Lee Collet neck sizing die represents a significant advancement in precision reloading. If you value accuracy, extended brass life, and consistent neck tension, investing in a Lee Collet die is a worthwhile consideration. However, understanding its limitations and requiring a careful setup process are essential factors to consider. By understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks outlined above, you can determine if the Lee Collet neck sizing die is the perfect addition to your reloading setup.
