The .38 Special cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history in law enforcement and self-defense, remains a popular choice for hand-gun enthusiasts. For those who reload their own ammunition, selecting the right dies is crucial for consistent, accurate, and safe results. Lee Precision, known for its affordable and reliable reloading equipment, offers a range of dies specifically designed for the .38 Special. This guide will explore the features, benefits, and considerations when choosing Lee dies for your .38 Special reloading.
Understanding Lee Precision's .38 Special Die Sets
Lee Precision offers several .38 Special die sets, catering to different reloading needs and budgets. These typically include:
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Lee 3-Die Set: This is the most common and often the most economical option. It includes the sizing die, powder measure die, and bullet seating die. This set provides everything necessary for the basic reloading process.
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Lee 4-Die Set: This set adds a crimping die to the 3-die set, offering improved control over case mouth crimping for enhanced bullet retention and overall cartridge integrity.
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Lee Carbide 3-Die Set: This set utilizes carbide sizing dies, which are significantly easier to resize cases, particularly those that have been fired multiple times. Carbide dies reduce the amount of force required for resizing and extend the lifespan of the dies.
Key Features of Lee Dies:
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Affordability: Lee dies are consistently praised for their value, offering a high-quality product at a competitive price point. This makes them an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned reloaders.
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Durability: While known for their affordability, Lee dies are designed for durability and can withstand significant use with proper care and maintenance.
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Simplicity: Lee's designs often prioritize ease of use, making them a popular choice for reloaders of all skill levels. Their instructions are generally clear and straightforward.
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Available Accessories: Lee offers a wide range of complementary accessories, such as their powder through expander, case lube, and various shell holders, to enhance the reloading experience.
Choosing the Right Lee .38 Special Dies: Factors to Consider
Several factors should be considered when selecting Lee .38 Special dies:
1. Your Reloading Experience:
Beginners may find the basic 3-die set sufficient to learn the fundamentals of reloading. As experience grows and the reloader becomes more confident, upgrading to a 4-die set with a dedicated crimping die can improve accuracy and consistency.
2. Your Reloading Volume:
If you anticipate reloading a high volume of .38 Special ammunition, a carbide die set might be a worthwhile investment. The reduced friction from the carbide dies translates to less effort and faster reloading.
3. Your Budget:
Lee dies offer an excellent balance of quality and affordability. However, the cost difference between the 3-die and 4-die sets, or between standard and carbide dies, should be factored into your purchasing decision.
4. Case Hardness:
If you're working with particularly hard cases, a carbide sizing die is strongly recommended to make the resizing process smoother and less strenuous on your equipment and yourself.
Maintaining Your Lee .38 Special Dies
Proper maintenance of your Lee dies will prolong their lifespan and ensure accurate reloading:
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Regular Cleaning: Clean your dies after each reloading session to remove any residual powder, brass shavings, or lubricant.
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Lubrication: Use a suitable case lube to minimize friction during resizing. Over-lubrication should be avoided.
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Storage: Store your dies in a clean, dry place to prevent rust or corrosion.
Conclusion:
Lee Precision offers a robust and affordable range of .38 Special dies perfect for reloaders of all skill levels. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can choose the ideal Lee die set to meet your specific reloading needs and enjoy the benefits of crafting your own .38 Special ammunition. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult reputable reloading manuals for detailed instructions and best practices.
