The 28 gauge has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, appealing to both upland bird hunters seeking a lighter recoil option and target shooters appreciating its inherent accuracy. For those looking to reload their own 28 gauge ammunition, the Lee Load-All 28 gauge press is a compelling option, particularly for budget-minded reloaders. This review will delve into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various reloading needs.
What is the Lee Load-All 28 Gauge?
The Lee Load-All 28 gauge is a single-stage reloading press known for its simplicity and affordability. Unlike progressive presses, it completes one step of the reloading process at a time. This makes it ideal for beginners or those with limited space and a smaller reloading volume. Its compact size and ease of use contribute to its widespread appeal.
Key Features & Advantages:
- Affordability: The Lee Load-All is one of the most inexpensive single-stage presses on the market, making it accessible to a broader range of reloaders.
- Simplicity: Its straightforward operation minimizes the learning curve, making it perfect for beginners. The straightforward design reduces the potential for errors.
- Compactness: Its small footprint requires minimal bench space, a crucial factor for those with limited reloading areas.
- Durable Construction: Lee products are generally known for their robust construction, and the Load-All is no exception. It's built to withstand consistent use.
- Versatility (with additional components): While the basic kit focuses on simplicity, you can expand its capabilities with optional Lee accessories, allowing for more precise adjustments and potentially more advanced reloading techniques.
Limitations and Considerations:
- Speed: As a single-stage press, the Lee Load-All is inherently slower than progressive presses. This is a trade-off for its simplicity and affordability. High-volume reloaders may find this limiting.
- Adjustability: While sufficient for many reloaders, the adjustability of some components might be less precise than higher-end presses.
- Case Neck Sizing: The process may require more attention to detail than with more sophisticated sizing methods, potentially requiring more experience to perfect.
The Lee Load-All 28 Gauge Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The exact steps will depend slightly on the specific components you've acquired (additional Lee accessories can streamline some processes), but the general procedure is as follows:
- Case Preparation: This involves cleaning, depriming, and resizing the 28 gauge cases.
- Powder Measurement: Accurately measure and dispense the correct powder charge for your chosen load. Consistent powder measurement is crucial for safety and performance.
- Primer Seating: Carefully seat the primers into the prepared cases.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the bullets to the desired depth, ensuring proper crimping and overall cartridge integrity.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth to securely hold the bullet and powder in place.
Is the Lee Load-All 28 Gauge Right for You?
The Lee Load-All 28 gauge press is an excellent entry-level option for reloaders on a budget. Its ease of use and affordability make it a perfect choice for beginners. However, high-volume reloaders or those seeking advanced adjustability might find its single-stage operation and limited precision limiting.
Conclusion: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse
The Lee Load-All 28 gauge press represents a solid value proposition for those looking to reload their own 28 gauge ammunition without breaking the bank. While it lacks the speed and adjustability of more expensive presses, its simplicity, durability, and ease of use make it an ideal choice for beginners or those with moderate reloading needs. Carefully consider your reloading volume and desired level of precision before making your purchase. Remember always to prioritize safety and consult reloading manuals for your specific ammunition components.
