Understanding the Lee Load All 12 Gauge
Manufacturer and Overview
The crack of a shotgun, the recoil against your shoulder, the satisfying hit of a clay pigeon shattering in the air… it’s a feeling that’s treasured by many hunting and sport shooting enthusiasts. But the cost of enjoying this sport can quickly add up, especially when it comes to buying ammunition. What if there was a way to substantially reduce your expenses, allowing you to spend more time perfecting your aim and less time worrying about your budget? The answer, for many, lies in the fascinating world of reloading. And one of the most accessible and affordable ways to get started is with the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge*. Reloading involves taking spent shotgun shells, disassembling them, and rebuilding them with new components: primer, powder, shot, and wad. This allows you to tailor your ammunition to your specific needs, whether you’re chasing turkeys in the woods or breaking clays at the range. Beyond the cost savings, reloading provides a sense of self-sufficiency and allows you to experiment with different loads, optimizing performance for your specific shotgun and shooting style. Today, we’ll delve into the world of the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge*, a popular and well-regarded reloading press that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced shooters looking for a cost-effective reloading solution. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview, from setup and operation to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring you have all the information needed to start reloading with confidence.
The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is a reloading press manufactured by Lee Precision, a company renowned for its innovative and budget-friendly reloading equipment. Lee Precision has a long history of producing tools that bring the benefits of reloading to a wider audience. Their commitment to simplicity and affordability has made them a favorite among both novice and seasoned reloaders. The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* embodies this philosophy, offering a straightforward design that’s easy to learn and operate. Essentially, the *Lee Load All* is a single-stage reloading press. Unlike more complex progressive presses that reload multiple shells simultaneously, the *Lee Load All* performs each step of the reloading process on a single shell before moving on to the next. While this may seem slower, it also contributes to its simplicity and lower cost. The press is constructed primarily of durable, high-impact polymer, making it lightweight and resistant to corrosion. While the use of polymer might lead some to question its durability, it’s perfectly adequate for the casual or moderate reloader. The clever design utilizes this material to its advantage, making the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* a remarkably affordable option.
Target Audience
The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is designed for reloaders of all experience levels, particularly those seeking a simple and budget-conscious entry point into the world of ammunition reloading. It’s an excellent choice for shooters who want to customize their loads, save money on ammunition costs, and enjoy the satisfaction of handcrafting their own shells. The press allows you to reload various types of 12-gauge shells, including those for target shooting, hunting, and self-defense, provided you adhere to safe loading practices and follow published load data.
Benefits of Choosing the Lee Load All 12 Gauge
One of the most compelling reasons to choose the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is its significant potential for cost savings. The price of factory-loaded shotgun shells has steadily increased over the years. Reloading, on the other hand, allows you to purchase components in bulk – primers, powder, shot, wads, and empty hulls. This bulk purchase strategy allows you to substantially lower the cost per shell compared to buying factory ammunition. The actual cost savings will vary depending on the price of components, but you can typically expect to save a significant amount over time, making reloading a worthwhile investment. Beyond cost, the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* offers exceptional ease of use. The design is simple and intuitive, making it easy to understand and master the reloading process. The press doesn’t require a complicated setup or a steep learning curve, which is a significant advantage for those just starting out. The clear instructions and readily available online resources further contribute to the ease of use. The straightforward design minimizes the likelihood of malfunctions, offering a smoother and less frustrating reloading experience. The compact and portable nature of the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is another notable advantage. Unlike large, heavy progressive presses, the *Lee Load All* is relatively small and lightweight. This makes it easy to store when not in use and convenient to transport if you prefer to reload at a different location. Whether you have limited space or frequently travel to shooting events, the *Lee Load All* is a convenient and practical choice. Reloading with the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* also grants you a high degree of customization. You are not limited to the factory-loaded ammunition. You can tailor your loads to precisely match your shooting needs, whether you prefer a light recoil load for target practice or a heavy load for hunting. You can select specific shot sizes, powder types, and wad combinations to optimize performance and meet your specific requirements. This level of control allows you to fine-tune your ammunition for the best results with your specific shotgun. The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is readily available through various retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. This accessibility makes it easy to purchase the press and any necessary components. The widespread availability also means you can easily find replacement parts if needed. This excellent availability supports the overall ease of ownership and helps ensure a positive reloading experience.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* boasts several advantages, it’s important to acknowledge a few potential drawbacks. Its single-stage operation means that reloading is a more time-consuming process compared to progressive presses. Each step of the reloading process is performed sequentially on a single shell before moving to the next. This is not necessarily a problem if you’re not reloading huge volumes, but it’s something to keep in mind. The speed of reloading is significantly slower than with a progressive press, where multiple steps are performed simultaneously. Although the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is known for its simplicity, there’s still a learning curve involved. Proper reloading techniques, including accurate powder measurement and correct crimping, are crucial for producing safe and effective ammunition. You must invest time in learning the process and understanding the nuances of each step. Safety is paramount, and a solid understanding of reloading fundamentals is essential. The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is primarily constructed of high-impact polymer. This makes the press affordable and lightweight, but it may be less durable than presses made of metal. While the *Lee Load All* is well-built for its intended purpose, it may show wear and tear over time, especially with frequent use. It’s designed for casual to moderate reloaders. Compared to more expensive and feature-rich presses, the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* offers basic functionality. It doesn’t have the automated features found in progressive presses, such as automated priming and powder dispensing. This means that each step of the reloading process requires manual intervention, which might require a little more effort. It is also vital to carefully adhere to published load data when using the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge*. While the press can reload various types of 12-gauge shells, it’s crucial to respect the limitations of the press and only use load data appropriate for your specific components and the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge*. Overloading or using incorrect components can lead to dangerous situations, so precise adherence to load data is critical.
Disassembly and Setup
Before you begin, ensure you have a stable workbench or surface to mount the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge*. A secure mounting is crucial for proper operation and safety. A sturdy bench is best, but a heavy table can work. Also, make sure you have a good source of bright lighting to see what you are doing. The press comes with a comprehensive manual, so start by carefully reading it. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with all the components and understand their functions. The basic setup involves attaching the press to your work surface. The press usually includes a mounting plate that is bolted or clamped to your bench. Make sure to secure the press tightly so it won’t move during operation. Once the press is mounted, you’ll need to install the appropriate dies. These dies perform the different steps of the reloading process. The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* comes with dies for sizing, priming, powder charging, shot charging, and crimping.
Sizing Die
This die resizes the brass or plastic hull to ensure a proper fit in your shotgun chamber. Insert the spent shell into the sizing die and operate the handle.
Priming System
Load the primers into the priming system, which seats a new primer into the base of the shell.
Powder and Shot Bushings
These metering devices control the amount of powder and shot dispensed into the shell. Select the correct bushing according to the load data for the specific powder and shot you are using.
Crimping Station
This die closes the end of the shell, securing the components and ensuring a proper seal. Adjust the crimp height according to the load data.
Always double-check your setup and measurements before proceeding to load live ammunition.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Safety is paramount. Always wear eye protection and work in a well-ventilated area. Keep powder and primers away from heat sources and open flames. Never smoke while reloading. Always follow the load data precisely.
Sizing and Decapping
Begin by placing a spent 12-gauge hull into the sizing die. Operate the handle to size the shell and remove the spent primer. This prepares the hull for the reloading process. Make sure to check for any case defects during this step.
Priming
Place a new primer into the priming system. This system is usually integral to the *Lee Load All* design, making it simple to position the primer. Operate the handle, seating the new primer into the primer pocket. Ensure the primer is seated flush or slightly below the base of the hull.
Powder Charging
Select the appropriate powder bushing based on your load data. Insert the powder bushing into the press. Place an empty hull under the powder drop tube and actuate the handle to dispense the powder. The *Lee Load All* is simple to measure the powder, but it is always a good idea to double-check with a scale.
Shot Charging
Select the appropriate shot bushing and insert it into the press. Position the hull under the shot drop tube and operate the handle.
Wadding
Place the wad on top of the powder, then press it down using a wad rammer. The wad provides a seal for the powder gases and helps to keep the shot together.
Crimping
Place the loaded shell into the crimping station. Operate the handle to crimp the shell. The crimp holds all the components in place and is critical for reliable performance.
Inspection
Carefully inspect the finished round. Check the crimp for uniformity, verify that the shot is seated properly, and confirm that the overall length meets the specifications in your load data.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Reloading can sometimes present challenges, but many problems are easily solved. Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
Primer Problems
Difficulty seating the primer correctly can be caused by debris in the primer pocket, damage to the primer pocket, or the wrong primer size. The solution is to carefully clean the primer pocket, inspect for damage, and use the correct primer.
Powder and Shot Issues
Inconsistent powder drops can be caused by using the wrong powder bushing or the wrong powder. Shot spillage can be caused by a worn or damaged shot bushing or by overloading the shell. The solution is to double-check your bushing choice and your measurements. Clean your bushings regularly.
Crimping Issues
Poor crimps can result in inconsistent ballistics and potentially dangerous situations. Ensure your crimp die is adjusted correctly. Over-crimping can damage the shell, while under-crimping can lead to the powder spilling out.
Sticking Shells
If a hull sticks in the sizing die, it could be caused by an oversized hull. Check the hull size and try cleaning the die. Lubricating the hull can also sometimes help.
Useful Tips and Tricks
To make your reloading experience more enjoyable and successful, consider these helpful tips.
Maintenance is Key
Regularly clean and maintain your *Lee Load All*. Keep it free of powder residue and lubricate moving parts as needed.
Load Data Resources
Always consult reputable reloading manuals and online sources for load data. Never exceed the recommended powder charges or shot weights.
Additional Accessories
While the *Lee Load All* is a complete reloading system, you can enhance it with accessories like a powder scale for precise measurements and a case trimmer for uniform case lengths.
Safe Storage
Store loaded ammunition and reloading components in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Clearly label ammunition with the load data used.
Final Thoughts: Is the Lee Load All 12 Gauge the Right Choice for You?
The *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* is an excellent choice for shooters who want an affordable and easy-to-use reloading press. Its simplicity, reliability, and low cost make it a fantastic starting point for those new to reloading. The *Lee Load All* provides a gateway to savings, customization, and the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition. While its single-stage operation might not be ideal for high-volume reloaders, the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* offers exceptional value and performance for the casual to moderate shooter. For shooters who value affordability, simplicity, and the ability to tailor their loads, the *Lee Load All* is a strong recommendation. If you’re ready to embark on your reloading journey, the *Lee Load All 12 Gauge* provides an excellent and accessible starting point. With careful attention to safety, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to following published load data, you can enjoy the benefits of reloading and experience the satisfaction of handcrafting your own 12-gauge shells. Consider purchasing one today!
