The Essential Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge for .270 WSM

For the dedicated handloader, the pursuit of perfection in ammunition is a relentless quest. Every component, every measurement, and every process step contributes to the final result: a cartridge that delivers unwavering precision, consistent velocity, and optimal safety. At the heart of this meticulous endeavor lies brass preparation, and few steps are as critical as maintaining precise case length. This is where the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge for .270 WSM emerges as an indispensable tool, purpose-built to ensure your Short Magnum rifle ammunition achieves its full potential.

Reloaders often ask, "Why is case length so important in handloading?" The answer is multifaceted, touching upon safety, accuracy, and the longevity of your valuable brass. Overly long cases can become a serious safety hazard. When a case is too long, its mouth can crimp into the rifle's chamber throat upon firing, trapping the bullet and causing dangerously high pressures. This not only risks damage to your firearm but, more importantly, poses a significant threat to the shooter. Furthermore, inconsistent case lengths directly translate to inconsistent neck tension on the bullet, variable bullet release, and ultimately, erratic muzzle velocities and wider shot groups. For hunters relying on precise shot placement or competitive shooters striving for sub-MOA accuracy, such inconsistencies are unacceptable. The Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge directly addresses these concerns, providing a straightforward and highly accurate method to ensure every .270 WSM case meets the stringent dimensional requirements necessary for peak performance.

Mastering .270 WSM Reloading: The Role of Case Length Control

The .270 WSM (Winchester Short Magnum) is a high-performance, short-action cartridge celebrated for its flat trajectory, potent energy delivery, and excellent accuracy. It's a popular choice among big-game hunters targeting elk, deer, and antelope, as well as long-range shooting enthusiasts. Given its powerful ballistics and the pressures involved, precision in reloading the .270 WSM is not just a preference; it's a necessity. The Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge is specifically engineered for this caliber, ensuring that your cases are trimmed to the optimal length of 2.080 to 2.100 inches. This narrow tolerance range is vital for maintaining consistent chambering, uniform bullet seating, and reliable pressure curves.

Many handloaders wonder, "How does a simple gauge ensure such precision?" The genius of the Lee Case Length Gauge lies in its elegant simplicity and robust design. Crafted from durable steel with a clean silver finish, this gauge functions by providing a positive stop when used in conjunction with a Lee Cutter and Lock Stud or a Lee Zip Trim. The gauge precisely measures the case length from the head to the mouth. As you trim, the gauge acts as a stop, preventing over-trimming and ensuring that the case mouth is perfectly square to the case body. A square case mouth is paramount for consistent neck tension and proper bullet seating, contributing significantly to accuracy and reliability.

Key Advantages of the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge for .270 WSM

When selecting tools for your reloading bench, reliability, accuracy, and ease of use are paramount. The Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge, available at DEGuns, embodies all these qualities, offering distinct advantages for the .270 WSM reloader:

• Unparalleled Precision: Engineered to hold a tight tolerance, ensuring every .270 WSM case is trimmed to the exact specified length (2.080 to 2.100 inches). This consistency is the bedrock of accurate and safe ammunition.
• Simplified Operation: Designed for intuitive use. Simply thread the gauge onto the cutter, insert the case into the shell holder, and trim. There's no complex setup or calibration required, making it ideal for both novice and experienced reloaders.
• Perfectly Square Case Mouths: Beyond just length, this gauge ensures the case mouth is trimmed square to the case body. A square mouth is critical for uniform bullet seating, preventing tipping, and guaranteeing consistent neck tension, which directly impacts accuracy.
• System Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other essential Lee reloading tools, specifically the Lee Cutter and Lock Stud or the Lee Zip Trim. This compatibility highlights Lee Precision's commitment to creating a cohesive and efficient reloading ecosystem.
• Durability and Longevity: Constructed from high-quality steel, the gauge is built to withstand years of rigorous use on the reloading bench, maintaining its precise dimensions over countless trimming operations.
• Cost-Effective Precision: Lee Precision is renowned for providing high-quality, effective reloading equipment at an accessible price point. This gauge is no exception, offering professional-grade precision without breaking the bank.
• Enhanced Safety: By ensuring cases are never over-length, this gauge plays a crucial role in preventing dangerous pressure spikes in the chamber, safeguarding both your firearm and your well-being.
• Includes Essential Shell Holder: The gauge comes complete with the necessary shell holder, meaning you have everything you need to begin trimming your .270 WSM brass immediately out of the package.

How to Use Your Lee 270 WSM Case Length Gauge (90117) for Optimal Results

Achieving consistently trimmed cases is a straightforward process with the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge. Here’s a step-by-step guide for using it with the Lee Cutter and Lock Stud, a popular combination for precision trimming:

1. Preparation: Ensure your cases are clean and de-primed. Expanding the case mouth slightly can make it easier to seat the bullet later, but the primary goal here is length uniformity.
2. Assemble the Trimmer: Thread the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge onto the threaded shaft of your Lee Cutter. The gauge acts as a positive stop for the cutter.
3. Secure the Case: Insert a .270 WSM case into the included shell holder. The shell holder holds the case securely in place during the trimming operation.
4. Combine and Trim: Place the shell holder (with the case inserted) onto the Lock Stud. The Lock Stud is designed to be chucked into a drill or power driver, providing the rotation needed for the cutter.
5. Begin Trimming: With the shell holder and case firmly on the Lock Stud, bring the rotating cutter (with the gauge attached) to the case mouth. Apply gentle, consistent pressure. The cutter will trim the case mouth until the face of the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge makes contact with the face of the shell holder. This contact signifies that the case has reached its precise trim-to length.
6. Deburr and Chamfer: Once trimmed, the case mouth will have a slight burr both internally and externally. This burr must be removed to prevent scratching the bullet during seating and to ensure smooth chambering. Use a chamfering/deburring tool to clean both the inside and outside edges of the case mouth.
7. Repeat: Continue this process for all your .270 WSM cases, ensuring each one meets the exact specifications set by your Lee Gauge.

For high-volume reloaders, the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge can also be used with the Lee Zip Trim. The Zip Trim is a hand-powered case trimmer that offers a quick and easy way to trim cases, especially when an electric drill isn't preferred or available. The principle remains the same: the gauge dictates the precise length, and the Zip Trim provides the cutting action.

Beyond the Trim: The Ripple Effect of Case Consistency

The benefits of using the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge extend far beyond merely trimming brass to spec. Its consistent application contributes to a cascade of improvements in your handloaded ammunition:

• Optimized Case Capacity: A consistent case length ensures that the internal volume of each case is uniform. This directly impacts the powder charge, leading to more consistent pressures and, consequently, more predictable velocities.
• Improved Neck Tension: When a case mouth is trimmed squarely and to the correct length, it provides optimal and uniform neck tension on the seated bullet. This consistency in grip is vital for preventing bullet setback or pull-out and for achieving uniform bullet release upon firing, a key factor in accuracy.
• Enhanced Bullet Seating: A properly trimmed and deburred case mouth allows the bullet to be seated smoothly and concentrically. This prevents bullet deformation during seating and ensures that the bullet is aligned perfectly with the bore, reducing flyer shots.
• Extended Brass Lifespan: Regular trimming prevents over-length cases that can stretch and crack prematurely. By maintaining proper dimensions, you extend the usable life of your valuable brass, saving money and reducing the frequency of case replacement.
• Greater Accuracy and Consistency: Ultimately, the cumulative effect of these factors is superior ammunition. Reloaders who diligently control case length report tighter groups, reduced standard deviation in muzzle velocity, and an overall more consistent shooting experience. For a demanding caliber like the .270 WSM, where precision matters for both ethical hunting and competitive shooting, this is invaluable.

Addressing Common Reloader Inquiries Regarding Case Length

"How often should I trim my .270 WSM rifle brass?"

The frequency of trimming depends on several factors, including the specific cartridge, the chamber dimensions of your rifle, and the pressures generated. For high-pressure rifle cartridges like the .270 WSM, brass will stretch with each firing. A good rule of thumb is to check case length every time you size your cases. If a case exceeds the maximum specified length (often listed as 'Max. OAL' or similar in reloading manuals, but for the .270 WSM, the trim-to length is 2.080-2.100 inches), it needs to be trimmed. Many reloaders trim after every 1-3 firings for precision rifle rounds to maintain absolute consistency.

"What are the dangers of not trimming over-length cases?"

The primary danger is a significant and potentially catastrophic increase in chamber pressure. If a case is too long, its mouth can get crimped into the rifle's chamber throat or rifling when the bolt is closed. Upon firing, the bullet's initial movement is restricted, which can lead to dangerously high pressure spikes. This can result in ruptured cases, blown primers, damaged firearms, and serious injury to the shooter. Additionally, over-length cases can make chambering difficult or cause issues with extraction.

"Does trimming affect bullet seating depth?"

Directly, no. Seating depth is measured from the base of the cartridge to the tip of the bullet. However, a consistent case length and a properly deburred/chamfered case mouth are crucial for consistent and concentric bullet seating. If the case mouth is uneven or burred, the bullet may seat crookedly or experience varying amounts of resistance, indirectly affecting the final overall length (OAL) and potentially leading to accuracy issues, even if your seating die is set correctly.

Why Trust Lee Precision and Shop at DEGuns?

Lee Precision has been a cornerstone of the reloading community for decades, earning a reputation for innovative, high-quality, and affordable reloading equipment. Their commitment to producing tools that are both effective and accessible has made them a favorite among handloaders worldwide. The Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge is a testament to this philosophy, offering a vital component for precision reloading without unnecessary complexity or exorbitant cost.

When you choose Lee Precision products, you're investing in tools designed with the reloader in mind, built to perform reliably for years. And when you purchase from DEGuns, you're not just getting a product; you're gaining access to a trusted source for all your shooting sports and reloading needs. DEGuns is committed to providing a comprehensive selection of top-tier products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service, ensuring that your reloading journey is both successful and rewarding. The Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge for .270 WSM, along with other essential Lee Precision reloading tools, is readily available at DEGuns, making it easy to acquire the best equipment for your precision handloading endeavors.

In conclusion, for any reloader dedicated to maximizing the performance and safety of their .270 WSM ammunition, the Lee 90117 Case Length Gauge is not merely an accessory; it is a fundamental requirement. Its precision, ease of use, and compatibility within the Lee reloading system make it an unparalleled choice for maintaining consistent case lengths, ensuring square case mouths, and ultimately, producing superior handloads. Invest in this essential tool, and experience the tangible benefits of true reloading precision for your .270 WSM rifle.

Product Specifications and Details

Feature	Detail	Compatibility
Brand	Lee Precision	Universal Lee System
Model	Case Length Gauge	Lee Cutter & Lock Stud, Zip Trim
Caliber	.270 WSM (Winchester Short Magnum)	Specific to .270 WSM Brass
Function	Measures & Controls Case Length	Ensures 2.080 - 2.100 inch trim length
Material	Durable Steel	Long-lasting performance
Finish	Silver	Corrosion resistant
Includes	Shell Holder	Ready to use out of the box
Weight	0.07 lbs	Lightweight and portable
MPN	90117	Manufacturer Part Number
UPC	734307901172	Universal Product Code
SKU	40915	Stock Keeping Unit (DEGuns)