Content Menu
● Introduction to Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
● Understanding Carbide Die Sets for 38 Special
>> Components of a Lee 38 Special Carbide Die Set
● The Advantages of Lee Precision 38 Special Dies
>> 1. Carbide Construction
>> 2. Versatility
>> 3. Precision and Consistency
>> 4. User-Friendly Design
● The Lee Carbide Factory Crimp Die: A Game-Changer
● Setting Up Your Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
>> 1. Sizing Die Setup
>> 2. Expanding Die Setup
>> 3. Bullet Seating Die Setup
>> 4. Factory Crimp Die Setup (if applicable)
● Reloading Process with Lee 38 Special Carbide Dies
● Maintenance and Care of Your Lee 38 Special Dies
● Advanced Techniques with Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
>> 1. Bullet Casting
>> 2. Powder Coating
>> 3. Precision Adjustments
● Expanding Your Reloading Setup
● Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Reloading with Lee 38 Special Carbide Dies
● Frequently Asked Questions
>> Q1: Can I use Lee 38 Special carbide dies for reloading 357 Magnum ammunition?
>> Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using Lee carbide dies?
>> Q3: What's the difference between a 3-die set and a 4-die set for 38 Special reloading?
>> Q4: How often should I replace my Lee 38 Special carbide dies?
>> Q5: Can I use the Lee 38 Special dies for reloading other pistol calibers?
Introduction to Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
For handgun enthusiasts and avid shooters, the world of ammunition reloading opens up a realm of possibilities. Among the most popular calibers for reloading is the versatile .38 Special, and when it comes to reloading equipment, Lee Precision stands out as a trusted name in the industry. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of Lee 38 Special carbide dies, exploring their features, benefits, and how they can enhance your reloading experience.
Understanding Carbide Die Sets for 38 Special
Carbide die sets are the cornerstone of any serious reloader's toolkit. The Lee carbide die set for 38 Special is renowned for its durability, precision, and ease of use. These dies are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent reloading sessions while maintaining exceptional accuracy and consistency in your handloaded ammunition.
Components of a Lee 38 Special Carbide Die Set
A typical Lee 38 Special carbide die set includes several key components:
1. Carbide Sizing Die: This die resizes the brass case to proper dimensions and removes the spent primer.
2. Powder Through Expanding Die: Expands the case mouth to the correct diameter for bullet seating and can be used with a powder measure for efficient charging.
3. Bullet Seating Die: Seats the bullet to the proper depth and applies a light crimp.
4. Carbide Factory Crimp Die: An optional fourth die that provides a consistent crimp for improved feeding and performance.
The Advantages of Lee Precision 38 Special Dies
Lee Precision has built a reputation for producing high-quality reloading equipment at competitive prices. Their 38 Special dies offer several advantages:
1. Carbide Construction
The use of carbide in the sizing die eliminates the need for case lubrication, saving time and reducing the mess associated with traditional steel dies. This feature alone makes Lee carbide dies a favorite among reloaders.
2. Versatility
Lee 38 Special reloading dies are not limited to just one cartridge. They can also be used for reloading .357 Magnum and even .357 Maximum cartridges with minor adjustments, offering excellent value for money.
3. Precision and Consistency
Each die is manufactured to tight tolerances, ensuring that your reloaded ammunition meets or exceeds factory specifications. This precision translates to improved accuracy and reliability in your handgun.
4. User-Friendly Design
Lee dies are known for their ease of use, with clear instructions and simple adjustment mechanisms. This makes them ideal for both novice reloaders and experienced handloaders alike.
The Lee Carbide Factory Crimp Die: A Game-Changer
One of the standout features in Lee's lineup is the Carbide Factory Crimp Die. This innovative die addresses common issues in reloaded ammunition:
- Ensures proper bullet seating and crimping in a single step
- Eliminates the bulge often found in reloaded pistol cartridges
- Improves feeding reliability in semi-automatic pistols
- Provides consistent crimp pressure for uniform bullet pull and improved accuracy
Setting Up Your Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
Proper setup of your Lee 38 Special carbide dies is crucial for achieving optimal results. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Sizing Die Setup
- Screw the sizing die into your reloading press until it touches the shell holder at the press's highest point.
- Lower the ram and give the die an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn for proper sizing.
- Adjust the decapping pin to ensure it fully removes the spent primer.
2. Expanding Die Setup
- Install the expanding die, ensuring it doesn't contact the shell holder at the top of the stroke.
- Adjust the expanding plug to achieve the desired case mouth flare for easy bullet seating.
3. Bullet Seating Die Setup
- Start with the seating stem backed out and the die body touching the shell holder at the top of the stroke.
- Gradually adjust the seating stem to achieve the correct overall length for your chosen bullet.
4. Factory Crimp Die Setup (if applicable)
- Install the Factory Crimp Die so it touches the shell holder at the top of the stroke.
- Adjust the die to apply the desired amount of crimp, typically just enough to remove the case mouth flare.
Reloading Process with Lee 38 Special Carbide Dies
Once your dies are properly set up, the reloading process becomes a smooth and efficient operation. Here's a brief overview of the steps involved:
1. Inspect and clean your brass cases.
2. Run the cases through the sizing die to resize and deprime.
3. Prime the cases using your preferred priming tool.
4. Expand the case mouths using the expanding die.
5. Charge the cases with the appropriate powder charge.
6. Seat the bullets using the seating die.
7. Apply the final crimp with the Factory Crimp Die (if using).
Maintenance and Care of Your Lee 38 Special Dies
Proper maintenance of your Lee carbide dies will ensure their longevity and consistent performance:
- Clean the dies regularly with a solvent to remove buildup of carbon and brass shavings.
- Lightly oil the exterior of the dies to prevent rust.
- Store the dies in their original packaging or a die box to protect them from damage.
- Periodically check and replace O-rings and other wear items as needed.
Advanced Techniques with Lee 38 Special Reloading Dies
As you become more proficient with your Lee 38 Special carbide dies, you may want to explore advanced reloading techniques:
1. Bullet Casting
Many reloaders choose to cast their own bullets for 38 Special. Lee offers molds and other equipment to support this cost-effective practice.
2. Powder Coating
Powder coating cast bullets has gained popularity for its ability to reduce leading and improve accuracy. Lee dies work well with powder-coated bullets, requiring minimal adjustments.
3. Precision Adjustments
Fine-tuning your die settings can lead to improved accuracy. Experiment with different seating depths and crimp levels to find what works best in your firearm.
Expanding Your Reloading Setup
While the basic Lee 38 Special carbide die set is sufficient for most reloaders, there are additional tools and accessories that can enhance your reloading experience:
- Lee Auto-Disk Powder Measure for faster, more consistent powder charging
- Lee Safety Prime for efficient and safe priming
- Case trimmers and chamfer tools for case preparation
- Digital calipers for precise measurements
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Reloading with Lee 38 Special Carbide Dies
Lee 38 Special carbide dies represent a perfect blend of quality, affordability, and precision in the world of handgun ammunition reloading. Whether you're a novice reloader or a seasoned handloader, these dies offer the versatility and performance needed to create custom ammunition tailored to your specific needs.
By understanding the intricacies of each die in the set, properly setting up your reloading station, and following best practices in the reloading process, you can achieve outstanding results with your 38 Special loads. The satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition, coupled with the potential for improved accuracy and cost savings, makes reloading with Lee carbide dies a rewarding endeavor for any firearms enthusiast.
Remember, reloading is both a science and an art. As you gain experience with your Lee 38 Special carbide dies, you'll develop a deeper appreciation for the nuances of handloading and the impact it can have on your shooting performance. So, load up, stay safe, and enjoy the precision and consistency that Lee reloading dies bring to your 38 Special ammunition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use Lee 38 Special carbide dies for reloading 357 Magnum ammunition?
A1: Yes, Lee 38 Special carbide dies can be used for reloading both 38 Special and 357 Magnum ammunition. The dies are designed to accommodate the longer 357 Magnum cases with minor adjustments to the die settings.
Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using Lee carbide dies?
A2: One of the main advantages of carbide dies is that they eliminate the need for case lubrication in most situations. This saves time and reduces mess in the reloading process. However, if you're working with exceptionally dirty or corroded brass, a light lubricant may still be beneficial.
Q3: What's the difference between a 3-die set and a 4-die set for 38 Special reloading?
A3: The main difference is the inclusion of the Lee Carbide Factory Crimp Die in the 4-die set. This additional die provides a more consistent crimp and can improve feeding reliability, especially in semi-automatic pistols. The 3-die set is sufficient for basic reloading, while the 4-die set offers enhanced performance and versatility.
Q4: How often should I replace my Lee 38 Special carbide dies?
A4: With proper care and maintenance, Lee carbide dies can last for many thousands of reloads. There's no set lifespan, as it depends on usage and maintenance. Inspect your dies regularly for signs of wear or damage, and replace them if you notice any degradation in the quality of your reloaded ammunition.
Q5: Can I use the Lee 38 Special dies for reloading other pistol calibers?
A5: While the Lee 38 Special dies are specifically designed for 38 Special, 357 Magnum, and 357 Maximum cartridges, they cannot be used for other pistol calibers. Each caliber requires its own specific die set due to differences in case dimensions and bullet diameters.
