Mastering Cast Bullet Performance: A Deep Dive into the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit for Reloaders

For passionate reloaders, particularly those who embrace the cost-efficiency and performance potential of cast lead bullets, achieving consistent ammunition is paramount. The journey to superior accuracy, reduced barrel leading, and optimal cartridge function begins long before the bullet meets the powder. It starts with precise bullet preparation, and at the heart of this crucial step lies the often-underestimated process of bullet sizing and lubrication. This comprehensive guide explores the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit, a foundational tool designed to empower reloaders to achieve professional-grade results from their cast projectiles. Are you a handloader who struggles with inconsistent bullet diameters? Do you experience frustrating barrel leading after a range session? Are you looking for a reliable, economical way to process your cast bullets for improved accuracy and extended firearm life? If you've ever asked "How do I properly size my cast bullets?" or "What's the best method for lubricating lead bullets?", the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit offers a compelling answer. This kit is specifically engineered to address these common challenges, providing a straightforward and highly effective solution for preparing cast bullets for superior performance.

Why Bullet Sizing and Lubrication Are Critical for Cast Bullet Reloading

Before delving into the specifics of the Lee Precision 90057 kit, it's essential to understand why bullet sizing is so vital. Cast bullets, unlike their jacketed counterparts, are often produced with slight variations in diameter or may require a specific diameter to precisely match the unique groove dimensions of your firearm's barrel. An undersized bullet can lead to gas cutting, poor accuracy, and excessive barrel leading, as hot gasses bypass the bullet and melt the lead. An oversized bullet, on the other hand, can cause excessive pressure, make chambering difficult, and deform the bullet during seating. Proper sizing ensures that the bullet diameter is consistent and perfectly matched to your specific firearm’s bore and groove dimensions, typically 0.001 to 0.002 inches over the groove diameter. This snug fit enhances accuracy by ensuring the bullet engages the rifling cleanly and uniformly, creating a gas seal that maximizes propellant efficiency. Beyond dimensional consistency, lubrication is equally critical. A high-quality bullet lubricant, such as Lee Liquid Alox (sold separately), reduces friction as the bullet travels down the bore, minimizing lead fouling, decreasing pressure, and improving overall bullet stability. The Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with your preferred lubrication method, facilitating the application of lubricant during the sizing process for maximum efficiency. Furthermore, for many cast bullet designs, particularly those used in higher velocity applications, gas checks are an indispensable addition. Gas checks are small, thin copper or aluminum cups placed on the base of a lead bullet to protect the base from hot propellant gasses, preventing leading and improving downrange stability. The Lee Precision 90057 kit is adept at seating and crimping these gas checks firmly in place, ensuring their secure attachment and proper function.

Unpacking the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit: Components and Functionality

The Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit is a testament to Lee's commitment to delivering high-quality, user-friendly reloading equipment. This kit, crafted from durable steel, provides everything necessary for the fundamental process of sizing and lubricating cast bullets, along with the ability to seat gas checks. Each kit contains three primary components:

1. Sizer Die: This is the heart of the system. Manufactured from robust steel, the sizer die features standard 7/8 x 14 threads, making it compatible with virtually any single stage reloading press. Its precision-honed internal diameter ensures consistent bullet sizing to the chosen caliber. The innovative design of the Lee sizer die allows bullets to be pushed nose first through the die. This "push-through" method is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for special nose punches specific to different bullet profiles. Instead, the bullet's own nose guides it through the sizing orifice, ensuring concentricity and ease of operation.
2. Sizer Punch: Replacing the traditional shell holder in your press's ram, the sizer punch is ingeniously designed to push the cast bullet through the sizing die. This direct, inline force ensures smooth and consistent sizing. Its robust construction can withstand the forces required to precisely size even hard-cast lead bullets.
3. Sizer Box (Capture Container): Once a bullet has been pushed through the sizing die, it is captured in this special container. This thoughtful addition keeps your resized and lubricated bullets organized and prevents them from falling onto your reloading bench or floor, streamlining your workflow and maintaining cleanliness.

Additionally, comprehensive instructions are included, guiding the user through the setup and operation of the kit, making it accessible even for those new to cast bullet preparation. Important Note: It is crucial to remember that the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit does not include the Lee Liquid Alox lubricant or a reloading press. These items are sold separately and are necessary for the complete bullet sizing and lubrication process. Lee Liquid Alox is specifically recommended for use with this kit due to its unique tumble-lube application, which is highly efficient for cast bullets.

The Lee Precision Push-Through Advantage: A Deeper Look

One of the defining characteristics of the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit, and indeed all Lee sizing dies, is the "push-through" design. Unlike conventional sizing dies that pull the bullet into the die base first, Lee's system pushes the bullet nose first. This design offers several distinct advantages for the reloader:

• No Special Nose Punches Needed: As mentioned, because the bullet is pushed nose-first, its own nose acts as the guiding element. This eliminates the need to purchase or change out specific nose punches for different bullet profiles, simplifying the process and reducing the overall cost of your reloading setup. Whether you're sizing round nose, semi-wadcutter, or SWCGC bullets, the same sizer punch works universally.
• Reduced Bullet Deformation: Pushing the bullet through from the nose can sometimes result in less deformation of the bullet's base compared to pulling it in. This helps maintain the integrity of the bullet's critical bearing surfaces and base, contributing to better accuracy.
• Efficient Gas Check Seating: The push-through method also facilitates the precise seating and crimping of gas checks. As the bullet is pushed through the die, the die's internal profile guides the gas check onto the bullet's base and then crimps it securely in place, all in one smooth operation.
• Clean Operation: The capture container ensures that sized and lubricated bullets are neatly collected, preventing mess and keeping your workspace tidy.

Optimizing Your Reloading Process with the Lee Precision 90057 Kit

To maximize the benefits of the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit, consider the following operational guidelines and best practices:

1. Selecting the Correct Die Size: This is perhaps the most critical step. For cast bullets, the general rule of thumb is to select a sizing kit that is 0.001" to 0.002" larger than the groove diameter of your firearm's barrel. To determine your barrel's groove diameter, you can "slug" the bore with a soft lead slug. A common mistake is to size bullets to the nominal cartridge caliber (e.g., .357" for .38 Special/.357 Magnum). However, many firearms have groove diameters that differ from the nominal caliber. Precision is key here; a properly sized bullet minimizes leading and optimizes accuracy. If your barrel has a groove diameter of .358", then a .359" or .360" sizing die would be appropriate.
2. Bullet Preparation: Ensure your cast bullets are clean and free of any debris before sizing. While the sizing process can iron out minor imperfections, starting with clean bullets ensures the best results and prolongs the life of your die.
3. Lubrication (Lee Liquid Alox): While the kit sizes bullets, the application of lubricant is a separate but integrated step. Lee Liquid Alox, a tumble-lube lubricant, is highly recommended. The process is simple: place your unsized bullets in a plastic container, add a small amount of Lee Liquid Alox, and tumble them gently until they are evenly coated. Allow the lubricant to dry completely before sizing. The sizing process will then redistribute and firmly set the lubricant into the bullet's lube grooves.
4. Press Setup: Thread the sizer die into your single stage press. Insert the sizer punch into the ram in place of a standard shell holder. Adjust the die so that when the ram is fully raised, the bullet passes completely through the die and into the capture container.
5. Operating the Kit:
   • Place a pre-lubricated (and dried) cast bullet, nose-first, onto the sizer punch.
   • If using gas checks, place the gas check firmly onto the base of the bullet.
   • Slowly raise the press ram. The bullet will be smoothly pushed through the sizer die. As it exits, it will fall into the capture container.
   • Lower the ram, and you're ready for the next bullet.

This systematic approach ensures that each cast bullet is consistently sized, properly lubricated, and, if applicable, features a securely seated gas check, all contributing to superior ammunition performance.

Who Benefits from the Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit?

This kit is an indispensable asset for a wide range of reloaders:

• The Cost-Conscious Shooter: Reloading cast bullets is inherently more economical than using jacketed bullets. This kit further enhances that savings by providing an affordable and efficient way to process your own cast projectiles. It significantly reduces the per-round cost of ammunition, allowing for more range time without breaking the bank.
• The Precision Enthusiast: Achieving sub-MOA groups with cast bullets requires attention to detail, and consistent bullet sizing is a cornerstone of that precision. This kit ensures uniform bullet diameter, which is crucial for consistent barrel engagement and flight stability.
• The Beginner Reloader: For those just venturing into the world of cast bullet reloading, the Lee Precision 90057 kit offers a simple, intuitive entry point. Its straightforward operation makes it easy to learn the fundamentals of bullet preparation without overwhelming complexity.
• The High-Volume Shooter: While a single stage press requires manual operation for each bullet, the efficiency of the Lee push-through system, combined with tumble lubing, makes processing large batches of bullets surprisingly quick and manageable.
• Anyone Battling Barrel Leading: If your firearm's barrel fouls quickly with lead deposits when shooting cast bullets, improper sizing or lubrication is often the culprit. This kit provides the tools to correct these issues, leading to cleaner barrels and extended shooting sessions.

The Lee Precision Legacy: Trust and Innovation in Reloading

Lee Precision has built a sterling reputation over decades for manufacturing innovative, high-quality, and affordable reloading equipment. The 90057 Lube & Size Kit is a prime example of their commitment to providing reloaders with practical tools that deliver exceptional results. Their focus on user-centric design, such as the universal nose-first push-through system, demonstrates a deep understanding of the reloader's needs. When you choose Lee Precision, you're investing in a brand trusted by countless reloaders worldwide for its reliability, durability, and performance.

Secure Your Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit Today at DEGuns

Elevate your cast bullet reloading to new levels of precision and efficiency. The Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit is an essential addition to any reloader's bench, promising consistent bullet dimensions, reduced barrel leading, and ultimately, improved accuracy. This robust steel kit, with its innovative push-through design and compatibility with single stage presses, offers unparalleled value and performance for processing your cast lead bullets and seating gas checks. Invest in the tools that help you achieve superior ammunition and a more rewarding shooting experience. The Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit, along with all the necessary reloading presses and accessories like Lee Liquid Alox, is readily available for purchase at DEGuns. Trust DEGuns to provide you with authentic Lee Precision products and all your reloading needs. ---

Lee Precision 90057 Lube & Size Kit Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Lee Precision
Model	Classic Bullet Sizing
Material	Steel
Function	Size Bullet
Compatible With	Single Stage Presses
Includes	Sizer Die, Punch, Sizer Box, Instructions
Media Type	Cast Bullets
Quantity	1 Kit
Weight	95 oz
UPC	734307900571
MPN	90057
SKU	40561