As the title suggests... Recently I bought a Lee Loader for my old 303. I've used one before so know the benefits and limitations. I've also bought a set of scales to be able to work up loads etc and make everything more versatile. I've also had a full press and reloading set up many years ago.
Well.... I also have a 223 and 308 and have just bought a Lee Loader for each for them. Now that probably sounds stupid because I could buy a Lee press for the nearly same price as the 2 Lee Loaders ($148 freight included).
My reasoning.... Ammo and reloading components are in short supply and I can't see that changing for a quite some time, and to be honest; I enjoyed handloading. I can't get my ammo choice for the 223 (Buffalo with the 55gr Gameking) but I now have 100 of those projectiles and will try to score another box. After settling on a load I'll sight in and just try to use just that load. The 223 is the rifle that keeps the freezer full.
I only hunt, so don't go through heaps of ammo. But I used to find it satisfying to put meat in the freezer with ammo I'd loaded myself. Plus; for the amount of loading I'll do I don't need a heavy bench with a press attached taking up space and sitting there doing nothing.
I find it quite cool to be able to take a small package out of a drawer, the scales (or dipper) and a hammer, and put a bullet together. I'm going to use H4895, which should suit all 3 calibres as a way of simplifying things even more. I have the powder, so it will keep me going a while.
One of my aims is to do a video for my YT channel where I load and test ammo, sight in, shoot a deer/goat/pig with the handloaded ammo, and then video every meal I get from it. I'm not one of those types that goes down a never ending gear rabbit hole; I'm a big KISS believer... This may sound silly; but I think the Lee Loaders will be a cheap, fun option instead of a full blown reloading bench and gear?
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