Once I started to reload for the 223, I quickly realized the trimmer and chamfer tool that came with the LCT wasn't going to be worth it.
I originally had planned on getting the L.E. Wilson case trimmer, but realized I would still have to chamfer separately.
I seen the Lee's Quick Trim Deluxe (non-deluxe doesn't include chamfer blades) and thought I'd give it a try.
The end cutter itself is nicely sharpened. The chamfer blades look to be stamped out from tempered spring steel stock. The blades are under spring tension and will float independently. They basically rub on the bur produced by the cutter. I disassembled and took a stone to the blades for back relief of maybe 5 degrees. That made the deburring more effective. A note, the pin that retains the blades is undercut and must align properly with slots in the blades. I broke it and had to make a new one.
I used a light amount of grease on the cutter shank for freer turning. Cleaned and regreased about every 200 cases. Also made a habit of making a quick wipe of the shell holder to brush of any shavings.
On 223, the shortest it will trim is 1.743". On cases that measured 1.750-1.755", it took about 6-8 rotations. The trimmer will cut faster, but I had to add a few turns to allow for deburring.
I have done almost 2k of 223 and around 100 8x57. Cutter is still nice and sharp.
It's stored easily and one less clutter in my cramped reloading area.
I feel it was well worth it.
I originally had planned on getting the L.E. Wilson case trimmer, but realized I would still have to chamfer separately.
I seen the Lee's Quick Trim Deluxe (non-deluxe doesn't include chamfer blades) and thought I'd give it a try.
The end cutter itself is nicely sharpened. The chamfer blades look to be stamped out from tempered spring steel stock. The blades are under spring tension and will float independently. They basically rub on the bur produced by the cutter. I disassembled and took a stone to the blades for back relief of maybe 5 degrees. That made the deburring more effective. A note, the pin that retains the blades is undercut and must align properly with slots in the blades. I broke it and had to make a new one.
I used a light amount of grease on the cutter shank for freer turning. Cleaned and regreased about every 200 cases. Also made a habit of making a quick wipe of the shell holder to brush of any shavings.
On 223, the shortest it will trim is 1.743". On cases that measured 1.750-1.755", it took about 6-8 rotations. The trimmer will cut faster, but I had to add a few turns to allow for deburring.
I have done almost 2k of 223 and around 100 8x57. Cutter is still nice and sharp.
It's stored easily and one less clutter in my cramped reloading area.
I feel it was well worth it.
