How to Use a Lee Bullet Sizing Die

Reloading ammunition requires a press and a set of reloading dies, including a sizing die. After a round is fired, the brass expands slightly due to explosive gases and pressure. A sizing die re-shapes the case to the proper size to hold a bullet and fit in the weapon's chamber. When using a Lee reloading press, the sizing die sizes the case and also de-caps the case's spent primer cap. A few steps are involved in using a Lee sizing die.

Things You'll Need

  • Brass cases
  • Case lubrication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Apply case lubrication to the outside of the brass cases. If working with multiple cases, spread the cases out on a table and spray the lubrication onto the cases then roll them around with your hands. Only a couple of sprays of lubrication are necessary.

    • 2

      Screw the sizing die into the collet on top of the reloading press. The collet is the large screw-hole device that holds the die in position. Screw the die in just until it touches the top of the shell-holder.

    • 3

      Lower the loading ram arm. Screw the die in another 1/4- to 1/3-turn.

    • 4

      Raise the loading ram arm. Tighten the center lock ring to just finger-tight.

    • 5

      Place a brass case into the shell holder. Lower the loading ram arm. This action will raise the shell holder up, inserting the case into the sizing die.

    • 6

      Raise the ram arm and remove the case from the shell holder. Inspect the case to ensure that the primer cap has been removed. Measure the case to verify that it meets the required measurements.