Thread: lee collet die issues

Lee Collet dies are about as simple as an amoeba. 3 parts not counting the die body and cap.

Instructions for use are vague about applying a certain press force. IIRC is also says don't cam over. My method, set to just cam over.
Don't overdue the force. I did and expanded the cone section to the point it stuck inside the die body.
Size and rotate case thru 3 positions.
Don't operate the press handle without a case in the die, the petals will collapse and will need levering apart.
As already stated spring back is the main issue and hard brass will appear to have not sized enough.
Lightly grease the tapered cone section that squeezes the collet, that's all that's needed.
If you heavily neck turn you may find the necks won't size. I say may, as I haven't measured to confirm this.

With good consistant brass (I anneal after every firing) I get very consistant neck inside diameter, confirmed with pin gauges. Translates to a very consistant seating feel on the press handle. And results downrange.

It's important to note some Lee stuff is not the ultimate in precision. For my 308 Collet die I ordered 2 additional shafts. All 3 shafts mic up different. No much, but different. I currently use the smallest diameter one which just gives me correct neck tension. However, I run light neck tension so another reloader may find it necessary to reduce the shaft diameter slightly.