The sharp crack of a revolver, the smell of gunpowder, and the satisfying thump of a spent casing hitting the ground. For many, these are the hallmarks of a treasured pastime, and the .38 Special cartridge holds a special place in this world. From its humble beginnings to its continued popularity, the .38 Special remains a beloved round for target shooting, self-defense, and even historical appreciation. But what if you could tailor each shot to your exact needs, experience the thrill of crafting your own ammunition, and potentially save money along the way? The answer lies in reloading, and at the heart of many reloaders’ setups are Lee 38 Spl Dies.
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of reloading .38 Special cartridges using Lee dies. We’ll explore the intricacies of these affordable and user-friendly tools, from die types and their specific functions, to setting them up, troubleshooting common issues, and producing high-quality ammunition. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting your reloading journey, this article provides the knowledge to embark on this rewarding endeavor safely and effectively.
Understanding the Lee 38 Spl Dies
Lee Precision has a well-earned reputation for producing reloading equipment that combines affordability with ease of use. Founded on a philosophy of providing high-quality tools at reasonable prices, Lee has become a go-to brand for many reloaders, particularly those starting out or operating on a budget. Their dies are known for their simplicity and effectiveness, making them an excellent choice for anyone wanting to reload .38 Special.
Lee’s dedication to innovation is also apparent, offering tools that often simplify the reloading process. Their designs are geared towards practicality and functionality, making the reloading experience less daunting for beginners.
Within the Lee product lineup, several die sets are specifically designed for the .38 Special cartridge. Understanding the different types will guide you in making an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
Types of Lee 38 Spl Dies
Let’s examine the key die sets offered by Lee for reloading the .38 Special, understanding their features and advantages.
Lee Carbide Die Set
This is often the first set recommended to newcomers due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The Lee Carbide Die Set typically contains three dies. This set is built around efficiency and is especially useful for individuals who anticipate reloading large volumes of .38 Special ammunition.
First, the sizing die is crucial. This die is carbide, meaning it is extremely durable and resistant to wear. This is particularly beneficial when working with a volume of brass, because it smoothly resizes the fired brass to the proper dimensions, readying it for a new projectile. The inclusion of a carbide sizer helps makes resizing brass smoother, reducing the effort required.
Second, there is the expanding die. This die opens the mouth of the case to accept the bullet. The expander is carefully sized to ensure a good fit and helps to prevent bullet damage during seating.
Third, the seating and crimping die is the workhorse of the set, responsible for two important tasks. It seats the bullet to the correct overall length and simultaneously applies a crimp to the case mouth. The crimp securely holds the bullet in place and helps with consistent ignition.
Lee Deluxe Carbide Die Set
Taking the reloading process a step further, the Deluxe Carbide Die Set offers more options and control, catering to reloaders who value precision and convenience. This set typically comprises four dies. This set offers additional flexibility, especially for reloaders keen on precision loading and those who use a powder measure.
As in the three-die set, you have a carbide sizing die, providing the same benefits of effortless resizing.
Next is the expanding die, however, it now includes a powder through expander. This allows the reloader to charge a powder through the expander die. This provides an even more accurate, reliable way to measure the right amount of powder with each load, helping ensure the overall consistency of the ammunition you are producing.
Then, the seater crimper die performs the function of seating the bullet and crimping the case mouth simultaneously.
Lee Factory Crimp Die
While not a complete reloading set, the Lee Factory Crimp Die is a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit. It applies a separate crimp to the case mouth after the bullet is seated. This die is designed to apply a very consistent crimp, which can improve accuracy and consistency, especially when using less-than-perfect brass or when reloading ammunition for semi-automatic firearms. The Factory Crimp Die can be used with other brands’ dies as well.
Identifying the Correct Lee 38 Spl Dies
Selecting the right set of dies for your .38 Special reloading needs is crucial. To ensure you’re buying the correct set, carefully examine the product packaging. Look for labeling that specifically mentions “.38 Special” or “.38 Spl.” Double-check the die set’s description to confirm it’s designed for the cartridge you intend to reload.
Product information and specifications, including die sets, can usually be easily found on the Lee Precision website or from any of their retailers. Carefully reviewing these descriptions can help prevent incorrect purchases. Remember to always adhere to safety guidelines.
Setting Up and Using the Lee 38 Spl Dies
Before you begin, it is critical to prioritize safety. Reloading involves handling potentially dangerous materials. Always wear appropriate safety glasses and hearing protection. Work in a well-lit, uncluttered space, away from any potential ignition sources. Always refer to a reputable reloading manual for specific load data.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Lee 38 Spl Dies
Let’s go through the process of reloading .38 Special rounds, focusing on the Carbide three-die set as an example. Remember that using the four-die set requires similar steps, with the addition of the powder-through expanding die.
Sizing Die
1. **Preparation:** Start with your fired .38 Special brass. Ensure it’s clean and properly inspected. You may also need to trim the cases to the correct length (more on this later).
2. **Die Adjustment:** Thread the sizing die into your reloading press. Adjust the die so that it fully resizes the case. This means the case will go all the way into the die when the ram is at the top of its stroke.
3. **Sizing:** Lube the outside of the brass cases before running them through the sizing die. This eases the process and prevents the case from getting stuck. Run each case through the die, resizing it to the specified dimensions. The carbide ring inside this die simplifies the resizing of the brass.
Expanding Die
1. **Die Adjustment:** Install the expanding die into your press. Adjust the die until the case mouth is expanded enough to loosely accept the bullet you plan to use. Over-expanding can reduce bullet grip, while under-expanding can lead to bullet damage during seating.
2. **Case Expansion:** Insert the sized case into the die and raise the ram. The expander plug inside the die will gently flare the case mouth.
Powder Charging (Using the Expanding Die or a Separate Powder Measure)
* (Note: This step applies to the Deluxe Carbide 4-Die Set and using a powder-through expander. For the 3-Die set and when using a separate powder measure, you will charge powder after the expanding step)*
1. **Die Adjustment:** If using the Deluxe Carbide 4-Die Set, ensure that the powder measure is aligned over the case mouth. Then, calibrate your powder measure to dispense the correct amount of powder.
2. **Powder Charging:** Raise the case into the expanding die. The powder measure will drop the pre-measured powder charge into the case.
Seating Die
1. **Die Adjustment:** Install the seating die. Adjust the die to seat the bullet to the proper overall cartridge length (OAL) as specified in your reloading manual. This usually involves adjusting the internal seating stem.
2. **Bullet Seating:** Carefully place a bullet onto the expanded case mouth. Raise the case into the die. The seating stem will push the bullet into the case to the correct depth.
Crimping
* (Note: This process is performed in the same die as seating and crimping, when using the 3-die set. With the Lee Factory Crimp Die, it is done as a separate process)*
1. **Crimping Adjustment:** After you have seated your bullet, it’s time to crimp. Crimp must be done properly for both accuracy and safety. Refer to your reloading manual.
2. **Crimping:** Carefully raise the loaded cartridge into the die. The crimping process will secure the bullet in place.
Reloading Components for .38 Special
The components you select have a direct impact on the performance of your reloads. From brass and primers to powders and bullets, each contributes to the final outcome.
Brass
Brass, of course, is the foundation of a successful reload. Before you begin, carefully inspect each piece of brass. Look for any cracks, dents, or damage. Remove any dirt or debris. Cleaning brass can be accomplished with various tools.
Brass cases may need to be trimmed to the proper length, which helps in maintaining consistency.
Primers
Primers are the small, yet crucial components that initiate the ignition process. Select primers specifically designed for the .38 Special. There are several options, but consult your reloading manual to identify the correct primer for your chosen powder and bullet.
Powders
Choosing the right powder is essential. There are several powders suitable for the .38 Special. Consult a reloading manual to determine the optimal powder and load data for your chosen bullet weight and desired performance. Some commonly recommended powders for .38 Special include powders such as Hodgdon Titegroup and Unique. Always stay within the load data provided in your reloading manual.
Bullets
.38 Special bullets come in a variety of weights and designs. The weight of the bullet, along with the powder charge, will determine the performance of your reloads. The bullet weight is commonly found on the packaging. For target shooting, lighter bullets (around 148 grains) are often used. Heavier bullets (158 grains and up) may be preferred for self-defense. Choose a bullet that suits your intended use.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Reloading is a meticulous process, and sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some solutions to common problems.
Case Stuck in Sizing Die
If a case gets stuck, you may need more lubrication. Ensure you’re using enough case lube and that your die is properly adjusted.
Bullet Seating Problems
Bullets not seated deep enough, or too deep, can be the result of incorrect die adjustment.
Crimping Issues
Incorrect crimps can lead to inconsistencies and potential malfunctions. Always follow the manual’s guidelines and carefully adjust your dies.
Powder Charging Issues
When you are using a powder through expander, powder charge can fluctuate. Check powder levels for accuracy.
Advanced Reloading Techniques
For those who want to take their reloading to the next level, here are a few suggestions.
When possible, record the specifics of the ammunition you have successfully created. This is a good way to track performance and fine-tune loads. Also, consider chronographing your loads to measure their velocity.
Conclusion
Reloading .38 Special cartridges with Lee dies offers a cost-effective, customizable way to enjoy your shooting hobby. By understanding the different die sets, setting them up correctly, and adhering to safety guidelines, you can create high-quality ammunition tailored to your specific needs. Reloading empowers you to control all aspects of your ammunition.
Ultimately, Reloading with Lee 38 Spl dies offers a rewarding journey.
Start reloading your own .38 Special cartridges today!
Resources
Lyman Reloading Handbook
Speer Reloading Manual
Lee Precision Website
Reloading Forums
YouTube Channels for Reloading
