The Most Affordable Way To Load 9mm

Published on May 1, 2026
Duration: 11:45

This video demonstrates the process of handloading 9mm ammunition using the Lee Precision Hand Press, highlighting its affordability and portability. The presenter, Stephen Caleb from Brownells, guides a novice through each step: sizing, priming, expanding the case mouth, charging with powder, seating the bullet, and applying a taper crimp. The Lee Hand Press is presented as an accessible entry point into reloading, suitable for those without dedicated bench space, and capable of producing quality ammunition comparable to that from more expensive presses.

Quick Summary

The Lee Hand Press offers an affordable and portable solution for reloading 9mm ammunition, eliminating the need for a bench-mounted press. It utilizes standard Lee dies for sizing, priming, powder expansion, bullet seating, and crimping, allowing for quality ammunition production in a compact, easy-to-use tool suitable for beginners.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to Basic Handloading
  2. 00:30Lee Hand Press Overview
  3. 00:529mm Die Set Components
  4. 01:12Compound Leverage Press Design
  5. 01:38Reloading Without a Bench
  6. 01:47Sizing Die Demonstration
  7. 02:03Available Calibers for Lee Hand Press
  8. 02:27Precision Reloading with Hand Press
  9. 02:42Loading a 9mm Round: Step-by-Step
  10. 03:20Switching to Priming Tool
  11. 03:53Priming Process
  12. 05:13Powder Through Expander Die
  13. 05:51Expander Die Functionality
  14. 06:58Primed and Expanded Cases
  15. 07:05Powder Charging Methods
  16. 07:44Powder Dipper Capacity and Load Data
  17. 08:47Charging Case with Powder
  18. 09:09Seater/Crimper Die Installation
  19. 09:16Bullet Seating and Crimping
  20. 09:54Benefits of the Lee Hand Press Setup
  21. 10:10Comparison to Older Reloading Tools
  22. 11:00Lee Hand Press as a Gift Idea
  23. 11:21Conclusion and Further Assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Lee Hand Press an affordable way to reload 9mm ammunition?

The Lee Hand Press is affordable because it eliminates the need for a large, bench-mounted press and associated setup costs. It's a portable, all-in-one tool that uses standard Lee dies, making it an accessible entry point for new reloaders or those with limited space.

Can the Lee Hand Press be used for precision reloading?

Yes, the Lee Hand Press is suitable for precision reloading, especially for tasks like neck sizing. While it lacks the rigidity of a bench-mounted press for full-length sizing of larger rifle cases, it offers sufficient control and leverage for handgun cartridges like 9mm and for specific precision tasks.

What are the essential steps for loading 9mm with the Lee Hand Press?

The process involves sizing the case, priming it, expanding the case mouth with a powder-through expander, charging with powder, seating the bullet, and finally applying a taper crimp using the appropriate Lee dies. Each step is performed sequentially using the hand press.

What calibers can be reloaded using the Lee Hand Press system?

The Lee Hand Press system is available in kits for various popular calibers, including 9mm, .45 ACP, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .223 Remington. Lee suggests it can handle larger cases with adequate lubrication.

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