First Impressions of Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool
Reloading ammunition is a rewarding process, allowing for fine-tuned precision and cost savings. One often overlooked step in the reloading process, especially when dealing with military surplus brass, is the removal of primer pocket crimps. That’s where the Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool steps in, promising a smooth and reliable solution for prepping brass. I’ve been reloading for over a decade, and I’ve tried various methods, from hand-held chamfering tools to dedicated swaging presses. My initial curiosity about the Lee tool stemmed from its compact design and attractive price point of $14.95.
Having struggled with inconsistent primer seating in the past due to stubborn crimps, I was eager to test its effectiveness. Upon unboxing, the Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool felt surprisingly solid for its size. The steel components appeared well-machined, and the design looked straightforward. I picked this tool over hand-held chamfering tools because those tend to remove brass, altering the primer pocket dimensions. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was intrigued by the tool’s simplicity, but slightly skeptical about its long-term durability, given the price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool at my reloading bench, using a variety of once-fired military brass in .45 ACP. The brass was a mix of brands and showed varying degrees of crimping. I attached the tool to my Lee Breech Lock press, which made setup effortless. The instructions were clear and simple, and it only took a few minutes to get everything adjusted.
The swaging process itself was surprisingly smooth, even with some of the more heavily crimped cases. The tool consistently removed the crimp, leaving a clean and slightly radiused primer pocket. There were no issues with cases sticking or requiring excessive force.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, processing hundreds of rounds of brass, the Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool has proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading setup. The tool shows no signs of significant wear or damage, despite the repetitive nature of the process. I’ve processed everything from .45 ACP to 8×57 Mauser with great success. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous method of using a hand-held deburring tool, the Lee swage tool is significantly faster and more consistent. It also minimizes the risk of removing too much material from the primer pocket, which can lead to loose primers. The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool
Specifications
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is designed to remove military crimps from primer pockets. It works by swaging, which displaces the brass around the primer pocket instead of cutting it away. The tool is compatible with the Lee Breech Lock system for easy press mounting. It includes swaging heads for common cartridge sizes, including .25/06, 7mm/08, 8×57 Mauser, and .45 ACP, as well as similar-sized cases. The tool itself is made from hardened steel, ensuring durability.
The included swaging heads create a smooth entry radius for new primers. This is crucial for consistent primer seating and reliable ignition. The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is designed for use in a standard reloading press.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool performs its primary function of removing primer pocket crimps exceptionally well. It consistently produces primer pockets that are ready for new primers, with a smooth and consistent feel. It is relatively easy to use, even for beginners. The tool’s design minimizes the risk of damaging the brass.
The main strength of the tool is its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no complex adjustments or procedures to follow. A minor weakness is the need to change swaging heads when switching between different cartridge sizes. Overall, the tool meets and even exceeds expectations for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool features a simple and functional design. It is made from hardened steel, giving it a solid and durable feel. The tool is relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to handle and manipulate. It mounts easily into any Lee Breech Lock compatible reloading press.
The ergonomics are adequate for the task. The tool is comfortable to use for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve involved in getting the depth adjustment correct.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is made from durable materials and should last for many years with proper care. The steel components are resistant to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Applying a light coat of oil occasionally can help to prevent rust.
The tool is not designed to be easily repaired, but the simple design means that there are few parts that can fail. Given its low price, replacement is a viable option if necessary. The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is built to withstand the rigors of reloading.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool comes with swaging heads for several popular cartridge sizes. No additional accessories are included in the box. There are no customization options available for this tool.
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool can be used with other Lee reloading equipment, such as the Lee Breech Lock Challenger press.
Pros and Cons of Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool
Pros
- Inexpensive: The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is one of the most affordable options on the market.
- Effective: Consistently removes primer pocket crimps, ensuring proper primer seating.
- Easy to use: Simple design makes it easy to learn and operate.
- Durable: Made from hardened steel for long-lasting performance.
- Breech Lock Compatible: Quick and easy to install and remove from a compatible press.
Cons
- Requires separate swaging heads for different cartridge sizes.
- Some adjustment may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
Who Should Buy Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool?
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is perfect for reloaders who process a large amount of military surplus brass and want a fast, affordable, and reliable way to remove primer pocket crimps. It is especially well-suited for those who already own a Lee Breech Lock reloading press. It’s also a great option for beginners who are just getting started with reloading and don’t want to invest in a more expensive swaging press.
Those who should skip this product are reloaders who only process a small amount of brass or who primarily use commercial brass that does not have primer pocket crimps. If you reload many different cartridge sizes, the cost of buying additional swaging heads may make a universal swaging tool a better option.
A must-have accessory for this tool is additional swaging heads for different cartridge sizes. A good set of calipers is essential for measuring primer pocket depth and ensuring proper swaging.
Conclusion on Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool
The Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for removing primer pocket crimps. For a price of only $14.95, it offers excellent value for the money. The tool is easy to use, durable, and produces consistent results.
I would definitely recommend this tool to any reloader who processes military surplus brass. It has made my reloading process faster and more efficient. If you are tired of struggling with stubborn primer pocket crimps, the Lee Breech Lock Primer Swage Tool is a worthwhile investment. Add it to your reloading bench today, and experience the ease and consistency of properly prepped primer pockets!