Hello, I have been handed down a rifle and some reloading equipment. What I have is Lee loader for 7x57, Lee auto primer, lee scale, 20 once fired Norma brass. That's it. Do I need a case cleaning machine? Or is there another method? Any tips on this method of reloading would be great.
Advice?
- Thread starter madronash
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.. I'm assuming the Rifle is 7x57 ? if so, you're good to go, BUT make sure you use the Correct Powder ! ( Rifle type ). As to cleaning, if you want, Brasso and cloth, plus a bit of time, will clean the cases up nicely ! ... David K
You do not need case cleaning equipment. If the brass is really dirty, soak an old cloth in lighter fluid, roll it around the cases and shake for a while. Tumblers and such are neat, but not essential.
The Lee Loader is capable of turning out excellent ammo. The only problem is that it takes more work and makes more noise than a more complex system.
The 7 x 57mm is a fine round, capable of taking almost anything in North America at any distance the average hunter can hit it at.
There should be an instruction sheet with it. If not, Lee will provide a duplicate if asked.
The Lee Loader is capable of turning out excellent ammo. The only problem is that it takes more work and makes more noise than a more complex system.
The 7 x 57mm is a fine round, capable of taking almost anything in North America at any distance the average hunter can hit it at.
There should be an instruction sheet with it. If not, Lee will provide a duplicate if asked.
Since the Lee Loader only neck sizes, lube is not required. However, you may find you have trouble if you pick up range brass. All brass not previously fired in your chamber may not have the same dimensions as your chamber and will require full resizing. As long as you are using new or fire-formed brass from your rifle, your Lee Loader will make wonderful ammunition. And it will last forever. Good luck and welcome to the hobby....LOL!
Lube dealt with. If you feel you must get some, I would recommend Imperial Die Wax, a little shoe-polish can item you just wipe on with your fingers. Much less messy. But, as noted, you won't really need it.
As to bullets, each rifle has its own tastes. You're going to have to experiment with different bullets and different loads to see what yours likes.
As to bullets, each rifle has its own tastes. You're going to have to experiment with different bullets and different loads to see what yours likes.
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As long as you do not plan on making tons of ammo at one time the Lee Loader makes very accurate ammo. I have the Lee Loader in a few calibers and have made excellent ammo with it. As mentioned, there is no need for lube, and you will need fire formed brass which will eventually need to be full length sized.
I find using a hard nylon tipped hammer works the best with the Lee Loader.
You should also invest in a caliper, which usually comes on sale for around $15 at Can. Tire and other places, and a loading block which you could make your own if you wanted. Also a funnel to pour your powder into the Loader.
I find using a hard nylon tipped hammer works the best with the Lee Loader.
You should also invest in a caliper, which usually comes on sale for around $15 at Can. Tire and other places, and a loading block which you could make your own if you wanted. Also a funnel to pour your powder into the Loader.
Up to you. I generally do five in 0.2 gr graduations, but you are limited by having only 20 casings. When you find one that seems good, you start focusing on bullet seating depth, etc.
And you don't increase until the book max! You increase (not above book max) until you start seeing signs of excess pressure, then back off a touch. Your manual will tell you about signs of high pressure.
And you don't increase until the book max! You increase (not above book max) until you start seeing signs of excess pressure, then back off a touch. Your manual will tell you about signs of high pressure.
