Handloading PART VIII, The Semi Progressive Lee Turret Press ~ GunBlue's Complete Guide

Published on March 9, 2016
Duration: 35:43

This guide details the setup and operation of the Lee Semi-Progressive Turret Press for handloading ammunition. It covers installing dies, calibrating the powder charging die using the double disc system, calculating powder charges based on VMD, selecting and stacking powder discs, and performing the reloading steps of sizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping. Emphasis is placed on accurate powder measurement and safe reloading practices.

Quick Summary

The Lee Semi-Progressive Turret Press offers a balance between single-stage and progressive reloading. Key to its operation is the Lee Rifle Charging Die and Double Disc Measure. Accurate powder charging relies on understanding the powder's Volumetric Density (VMD) to select the correct disc combination, ensuring precise volume measurement. Always verify powder charges on a scale and follow strict safety protocols to avoid errors and ensure safe ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Semi-Progressive Reloading Intro
  2. 01:18Progressive vs. Semi-Progressive Presses
  3. 07:09Lee Semi-Progressive Turret Press Overview
  4. 08:15Required Components for Lee Turret Press
  5. 09:26Lee Powder Charging Die
  6. 11:46Lee Double Disc System Explained
  7. 13:30Powder VMD and Calculations
  8. 17:37Installing the Rifle Charging Die
  9. 23:53Bullet Selection and Data
  10. 25:50Powder Charge Calculation Example
  11. 28:05Selecting Disc Combinations
  12. 30:23Powder Measure Operation
  13. 31:40Reloading Checklist and Safety
  14. 32:41Starting the Reloading Process
  15. 33:31Bullet Seating and Crimping
  16. 34:40Full Reloading Cycle Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calibrate the powder charging die on a Lee Semi-Progressive Turret Press?

To calibrate the powder charging die, bring the ram up to engage the actuator arm. Align the largest charge hole on the powder disc directly over the charge hole on the die, ensuring there is no shelf present that could trap powder. This step is crucial for proper powder dispensing.

What is the role of Volumetric Density (VMD) in handloading with the Lee Double Disc Measure?

Volumetric Density (VMD) is essential for calculating the correct powder disc combination. It represents the volume in cubic centimeters (CCs) that one grain of a specific powder occupies, allowing you to determine the necessary disc size or combination for your desired powder charge.

What are the key safety precautions when using a Lee Semi-Progressive Turret Press?

Always verify powder charges on a scale, use only one type of powder on your bench at a time, and ensure correct primers are loaded. Never feel resistance when resizing or seating bullets, as this can damage cases. Maintain a checklist to avoid loading errors in batches.

How do you select the correct Lee powder discs for a specific load?

First, calculate the required powder volume in CCs using the powder's VMD and desired grain weight. Then, consult the Lee disc chart to find the disc combination that matches this volume. Remember to stack the smaller disc above the larger one for accurate dispensing.

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