How to Use the Lee Cutter & Lock Stud

The Cutter and Lock Stud kit produced by Lee Precision, Inc., is used by handloading enthusiasts to trim metallic cartridges to the proper length. Case trimming is an important part of the reloading process; firing a cartridge which exceeds factory specified length can result in gas blowback that will damage a firearm and potentially cause serious injury to the shooter. You can use the Lee Cutter and Lock Stud kit to trim cartridges either by hand or with the aid of a power drill.

Things You'll Need

  • Lee shell holder
  • Lee case length gauge
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Screw the shell holder for your cartridge onto the lock stud. Lee shell holders are specific to each caliber of cartridge. Shell holders are not included in the cutter and lock stud kit; you must obtain them separately.

    • 2

      Insert the case length gauge into the cutter until it engages the screw threads in the bottom of the tool. Turn the gauge clockwise until finger-tight to secure it in the cutter. As with the shell holder, case length gauges are specific to a particular cartridge type. They are not included in the cutter and lock stud kit.

    • 3

      Turn the lock stud one-quarter turn counterclockwise to open the shell holder. Insert the base of a cartridge into the shell holder. Secure it in place by turning the lock stud clockwise until it closes.

    • 4

      Hold the lock stud in one hand and the cutter in the other. Slide the case length gauge into the case mouth. Press the cutter down against the case mouth until it stops.

    • 5

      Rotate the lock stud back and forth several times to trim the case. The case length gauge will hit the inside base of the cartridge and prevent you from trimming away too much metal.