Content Menu
● Introduction to Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
● Understanding the Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Die Set
>> The Advantages of Carbide Dies
● Setting Up Your Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
>> 1. Full Length Sizing Die
>> 2. Powder Through Expanding Die
>> 3. Bullet Seating Die
>> 4. Factory Crimp Die (if included)
● Reloading Process with Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies
● Tips for Success with Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
● Maintenance of Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
● Comparing Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies to Other Brands
● Advanced Techniques with Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies
● Conclusion
● Frequently Asked Questions
>> Q1: Can I use Lee 45-70 carbide dies with other brands of presses?
>> Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using Lee 45-70 carbide dies?
>> Q3: How often should I replace my Lee 45-70 carbide dies?
>> Q4: Can I use Lee 45-70 carbide dies for loading subsonic ammunition?
>> Q5: Are Lee 45-70 carbide dies suitable for reloading Hornady LEVERevolution ammunition?
Introduction to Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
For rifle enthusiasts and reloaders, the Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies represent a pinnacle of precision and efficiency in ammunition reloading. These dies are specifically designed for the powerful and versatile .45-70 Government cartridge, a round with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Today, we'll delve deep into the world of Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies, exploring their features, benefits, and how they can enhance your reloading experience.
Understanding the Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Die Set
The Lee 45-70 carbide reloading die set typically includes several key components:
1. Full Length Sizing Die
2. Bullet Seating Die
3. Powder Through Expanding Die
4. Factory Crimp Die (in some sets)
5. Universal Shell Holder
6. Powder Dipper
7. Instructions and Load Data
Each of these components plays a crucial role in the reloading process, ensuring that your handloaded ammunition meets the highest standards of quality and consistency.
The Advantages of Carbide Dies
Lee's carbide reloading dies offer several advantages over traditional steel dies:
1. Reduced friction during sizing
2. No need for case lubrication in most instances
3. Longer die life due to carbide's hardness
4. Consistent case sizing for improved accuracy
These benefits make Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies a popular choice among both novice and experienced reloaders.
Setting Up Your Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
Proper setup of your Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies is crucial for achieving optimal results. Let's walk through the process step-by-step:
1. Full Length Sizing Die
The full length sizing die is responsible for returning fired brass to its original dimensions. To set it up:
- Raise the ram to its highest point
- Screw the die in until it touches the shell holder
- Lower the ram and turn the die an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn
- Lock the die in place with the lock ring
2. Powder Through Expanding Die
This die expands the case mouth to accept a new bullet. To set it up:
- Adjust the powder measure to drop the desired charge
- Screw the die into the press until it touches a sized case at the press's highest point
- Back the die out 1/4 turn and lock it in place
3. Bullet Seating Die
The bullet seating die sets the bullet to the correct depth in the case. To set it up:
- Start with the seating stem backed out
- Insert a sized and primed case with powder into the shell holder
- Place a bullet on top of the case
- Screw the die down until it touches the case mouth
- Adjust the seating stem to achieve the desired overall length
4. Factory Crimp Die (if included)
The factory crimp die ensures a consistent crimp on your loaded rounds. To set it up:
- Start with the die backed out
- Insert a loaded round into the shell holder
- Screw the die down until it touches the case mouth
- Adjust for the desired amount of crimp
Reloading Process with Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies
Now that we've set up our dies, let's walk through the reloading process:
1. Inspect and clean your brass
2. Full length size and deprime the cases
3. Prime the cases
4. Charge the cases with powder
5. Seat the bullets
6. Apply a crimp (if using a separate crimp die)
Here's a video tutorial demonstrating the reloading process using Lee dies:
Tips for Success with Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
To get the most out of your Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies, consider these tips:
1. Always follow load data from reputable sources
2. Start with minimum loads and work up gradually
3. Keep your dies clean and lightly oiled
4. Check your dies periodically for signs of wear
5. Use a case gauge to ensure proper sizing
6. Consider using a bullet comparator for consistent seating depths
Maintenance of Lee 45-70 Carbide Reloading Dies
Proper maintenance of your Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies will ensure their longevity and consistent performance:
1. Clean the dies after each use with a soft cloth
2. Apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust
3. Store the dies in their original case or a die box
4. Periodically check and tighten lock rings
5. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly
Comparing Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies to Other Brands
While Lee produces excellent carbide dies for the 45-70, it's worth comparing them to other brands:
1. RCBS: Known for their durability and precision
2. Hornady: Offers innovative features like the Lock-N-Load system
3. Redding: Popular for their high-end competition dies
4. ZHONGBO CEMENTED CARBIDE: Provides good value for money
Each brand has its strengths, but Lee 45-70 carbide dies offer an excellent balance of quality, performance, and affordability.
Advanced Techniques with Lee 45-70 Carbide Dies
As you become more experienced with your Lee 45-70 carbide dies, you might want to explore some advanced techniques:
1. Neck sizing for improved accuracy in bolt-action rifles
2. Using custom seating stems for specific bullet profiles
3. Experimenting with different crimp styles for various bullet types
4. Adjusting the full length sizing die for a custom fit to your chamber
Conclusion
Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies offer an excellent solution for reloaders looking to produce high-quality ammunition for their .45-70 Government firearms. With their durability, ease of use, and precision, these dies can help you achieve consistent and accurate loads. Whether you're a novice reloader or a seasoned expert, investing in a set of Lee 45-70 carbide reloading dies can significantly enhance your reloading experience and ultimately improve your shooting performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use Lee 45-70 carbide dies with other brands of presses?
Answer: Yes, Lee 45-70 carbide dies are compatible with most standard 7/8"-14 thread presses, including those from RCBS, Hornady, and others.
Q2: Do I need to lubricate cases when using Lee 45-70 carbide dies?
Answer: Generally, you don't need to lubricate straight-walled cases when using carbide dies. However, for bottleneck cases like the 45-70, a light lubricant is still recommended to prevent case sticking.
Q3: How often should I replace my Lee 45-70 carbide dies?
Answer: With proper care and maintenance, Lee 45-70 carbide dies can last for many thousands of reloads. Replace them if you notice any signs of wear or inconsistency in your loaded ammunition.
Q4: Can I use Lee 45-70 carbide dies for loading subsonic ammunition?
Answer: Yes, you can use Lee 45-70 carbide dies for loading subsonic ammunition. Just be sure to follow appropriate load data for subsonic velocities and use suitable bullets.
Q5: Are Lee 45-70 carbide dies suitable for reloading Hornady LEVERevolution ammunition?
Answer: Lee offers a specific 45-70 LEVERevolution die set for reloading Hornady LEVERevolution ammunition. The standard 45-70 die set is not compatible with the LEVERevolution cases due to their unique shape.
