Lee Loader for 7.62x39?

[slogfilet]

Lee Loader for 7.62x39, or just get hand press?

Unfortunately, there isn't a Lee Classic Loader available for 7.62x39 (it's not one of the discontinued calibers, right?) However, i came across the following question in another forum, but it was never answered:

"Could you 'make' a Classic Lee Loader for [7.62x39] by simple modifications of existing models? What I am thinking is to get a kit for 303 British and cut the main die body to the right length for 7.62x39. Then, use the decapping base for the 243 during the powder loading and bullet seating parts of the procedure. I believe that the 243 decapping base has the right depth to position the 7.62x39 case for these operations. What do ya'll think?"

Has anyone tried this, or does anyone have ideas for the conversion? I realize reloading x39 isn't currently practical, but I thought it would be an interesting item to stow in my readiness bag.

On the other hand, the Lee Hand Press looks pretty good, and could be used for multiple calibers... I'm not a reloader at this point, but I love the "what if" game.

 

[Grandpa Shooter]

http://www.midwayusa.com/ebrowse.ex...309&categorystring=9315***731***702***8344***

Here is the link for Dillon Precision showig the dies you can buy to reload 7.62 x .39. I like to tinker, but why do it if the real stuff is available?

 

[steve4102]

The Lee Classic loader is very slow, very awkward, very slow, very noisy, very awkward and very slow. The words POS come to mind. If you want to get into reloading, purchase the right tool for the job. These are tiny little bombs we are making here and mistakes can be deadly. Brass casings are resized to .001 of an inch. I doubt your die modifications will will be accurate enough to produce acceptable brass.
If price is a concern check out the Lee Anniversary Kit.

 

[Mike 56]

You can buy one of these for 30 dollars http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=624416&t=11082005 and add a set of lee RGB dies for 12 dollars and you are good to go and you did not break the bank.

Mike

 

[slogfilet]

Yeah, I think sticking with factory dies is the smart thing. Thanks for the help!