Good first reloading setup?

[STEELHORSES]

Do you "need" to trim 44mag brass? I never trim my lessor calibers (9mm, 40, 45)

 

[Springfield 1911]

Do you "need" to trim 44mag brass? I never trim my lessor calibers (9mm, 40, 45)

Personally, I use the calipers and measure all my pistol cases and trim if needed. with the factory crimp die I have all but eliminated the need to trim auto cases, I still measure them to make sure. I guess it makes me feel better.

 

[Springfield 1911]

I have not found a lot of Lee stuff that is "crap". They do have some products that meet those standards, such as their progressive presses, yep they are crap.

I have been using a Lee single stage press from the first day I started reloading and that was a little over 40 years ago. I have had to replace the handle linkage on it. The only dies that I buy are still Lee and they work great in my Dillon press. I use the Lee for all rifle and some handgun reloading. The Dillon is used for most of the handgun cartridges I do.

I am with you Lee makes some good stuff! Their dies are very well machined. I have yet to have a stuck case in a Lee die. I tend to stay away from Lyman dies, the seater plug adjustment just makes me want to break stuff!