Lee case trimmer vs lathe style

[atkins08]

I have always used the lee case trimmers, but now that I'm trying to get into f class competition I wanted to ask if there is anything I'm missing out on by not switching to a lathe stle such as the wilson. I've read a ton about the wilson trimmers, but always thought the lee was fool proof. Is there something I am missing?

 

[hunter243sgk]

I used to use a Lee trimmer that you buy the die for your press to trim. The older ones used the bad rubber O-rings that always wore out. The newer ones have the plastic bushing which seems better than the o-ring style. But now I use a RCBS lathe style and I like it a lot better!!

 

[atkins08]

I used to use a Lee trimmer that you buy the die for your press to trim. The older ones used the bad rubber O-rings that always wore out. The newer ones have the plastic bushing which seems better than the o-ring style. But now I use a RCBS lathe style and I like it a lot better!!

The kind I currently use is the style with the caliber specific length guage and she'll holder.

 

[hunter243sgk]

The kind I currently use is the style with the caliber specific length guage and she'll holder.

I have seen those but never tried them. So I cant help you there but I really do like my RCBS.

 

[jds holler]

I've been using them for years. If there is anything wrong with them, I'd really like to know what it is jd

 

[Lapua40X]

Take a look at Little Crow Gunwords Worlds Finest Case Trimmer.


https://littlecrowgunworks.com/product-category/case-trimmers-and-case-prep-tools/?v=7516fd43adaa

 

[Sniper338]

I swear by the wilson trimmer still... it is dead on precise for me.

 

[RonS]

atkins08, everyone has there own idea of what works for them when it comes to prepping there ammo. I've use the same Lee trimmers from time to time and find them to be very consistent. I do have a Wilson trimmer with the micrometer adjustment. I like the Lee for my standard cartridges [221 FB, 223, 22-250 and 308] and the Wilson for the ten-plus wildcats I have because I can achieve repeatable lengths for them and the fact that Lee doesn't make them unless they're custom made. I don't shoot F-class, but I do like consistency and accuracy...I hope this helps and good luck with your journey.

Ron

 

[hoz53]

I have always used the lee case trimmers, but now that I'm trying to get into f class competition I wanted to ask if there is anything I'm missing out on by not switching to a lathe stle such as the wilson. I've read a ton about the wilson trimmers, but always thought the lee was fool proof. Is there something I am missing?

I used the lee when I started -it was okay. I always wondered if the little rod would wear on the tip after awhile and change your trim length. The best thing about the lathe style is they are adjustable and you can tailor your trim length to each individual rifle.

 

[243winxb]

This works ok.

 

[jds holler]

I have made custom pilot shafts for the Lee system by shortening the pin that goes through the flash-hole. I think I made the one for 22 BR by shortening the shaft of a 223, redrilling it, and reinserting the pin. I also invested in the Lee Three Jawed Chuck, which will hold any case for spinning with a drill motor. jd

 

[jfseaman]

I did only a few cases "the hard way" with a case length die and file. Literally less than 6, ever. For get that s...

I then went with the Little Crow Gunworks WFT. It is fast and accurate as long as your shoulder is accurate. I never had any more than .0005 off. However...

I load so many chamberings that a WFT for each chambering started looking cost prohibitive when I got to 3. That is pre "insert" model gen 2.

From there I got a Wilson lathe style, it was fine but it migrated to a bullet trimmer very quickly with the Whidden setup. Happy with it in that role forever.

I've settled on the Forster lathe style and I am very very happy going that way. I have 3 now. They stay "setup" for chambering "ranges" like RUM and belted magnums, 30-06/308 and 223 size base.

Recently I added a 50DTC to the collection. This presented a challenge. I could chuck them into real the lathe but worried about keeping the case true. Then I spotted the WFT in the box of case preparation tools. I looked at it closely and realized it was all pressed together. So, I pressed the various parts out and started measuring. Made adjustments to the shoulder guide bushing. Bored out the WFT body to accept a 5/8 end mill. Pressed it all back together. I chuck that into the lathe and trimming 375HE and up is a piece of cake.

So

IMO: if you are going to do a lot of chamberings or need base to case mouth accuracy, use a lathe style. If you only have 1 or 2 chamberings a WFT really rocks. Accurate and fast. Like I said I prefer the Forster, I also have Lyman, RCBS and Wilson which has the bullet trimming job.

 

[Brians356]

I used the lee when I started -it was okay. I always wondered if the little rod would wear on the tip after awhile and change your trim length.

The end of that rod is hard and ain't going to wear away.

I use the Lee system and while not designed to be adjustable, it's possible to leave the rod screwed out a bit (not seated home) owing to the split threaded portion tends to grab and stay put where you leave it.
-

 

[hoz53]

The end of that rod is hard and ain't going to wear away.

I use the Lee system and while not designed to be adjustable, it's possible to leave the rod screwed out a bit (not seated home) owing to the split threaded portion tends to grab and stay put where you leave it.
-

I had an adapter i put the cutter part in that would fit in a drill so i turned that instead of turning the case. No having to tighten the case and worry about it spinning. Thats probably why I wondered about the pin wear. That was about 1975. The Lee worked fine for me for a few years and I just like to be able to adjust them how I want. Ive got a Wilson now and it holds its adjustment well unlike some others Ive had. Im thinking about the other power operated ones these days though.

 

[gotcha]

I've been using them for years. If there is anything wrong with them, I'd really like to know what it is jd

Same here The only problem with the Lee case length gauge is they're not adjustable for length. ....... I bought a Wilson but still prefer the Lee case length gauge for simplicity & accuracy. P.S. My lock stud was a bit sticky at 1st so I applied 600 grit lapping compound to the threads and now its smooth as glass and doesn't eat up my finger tips.

 

[Shaggy357]

This works ok.

I have about 30 different Lee trimmers like above, an RCBS lathe type trimmer, a Forster lathe type (set up for neck turning), and a Lyman Electric trimmer. If I have lots of cases to do that I know may be on the short side, I use the Lyman where I can adjust the length so they all come out the same length. If I only have a few cases to try something different, I use the RCBS. If you have 100 cases to do on the RCBS, the knurled knob on the handle will eat the skin off your fingers. If I have a lot of cases to do and I know they are all too long, I use the Lee trimmers above. They are the fastest and easiest because the cordless screwdriver or drill makes it fast and the cutter base can be purchased in a round ball to make it easier. My cordless screwdriver is quiet so no hassles when sitting in front of the TV with other members of the family.

Steve

 

[Shynloco]

...... Is there something I am missing?

IMHO, there is no such thing as "FOOL PROOF!" But there is such a thing called "CONSISTENCY" FOR THE MONEY, you cannot beat the Wilson. Are there better models, yes there are, but it'll cost you more money. I use the Wilson for my BR rifles and use a Redding 2400 for my AR's. I've GIVEN other models away because they couldn't provide the consistency I was after. I parted ways with a Lee a several years ago. It may be good enough for hunting, but not for competition shooting.

Alex

 

[ireload2]

The most versatile trimmer for the money is a lightly used Forster.
The only think required to change calibers is a pilot after you have the 3 basic collets.
The Wilson requires a separate case holder for most rounds and you can't get case holders for many rounds.

A light used Forster will cost you $25 to $50 and you may have to buy a collet and pilots.
The Forster is very repeatable, can be used as a neck turner and can be driven with an electric drill or screwdriver.

This comes from some one that bought the Lee tools nearly 45 years ago. They work ok if you have a drill press. For trimming a lot of material off of a lot of cases they are not much.
I also have 4 Wilson trimmers that do not get used much because they are more tedious to manipulate since you have to hold the case in place with one hand while cranking with the other. The Forster is easier to use. I have 5 and several of those are set up for neck turning. I have used one case trimmer very hard since 1975 with zero problems. Forster also makes a nice box to keep stuff organized.

 

[hoz53]

The most versatile trimmer for the money is a lightly used Forster.
The only think required to change calibers is a pilot after you have the 3 basic collets.
The Wilson requires a separate case holder for most rounds and you can't get case holders for many rounds.

A light used Forster will cost you $25 to $50 and you may have to buy a collet and pilots.
The Forster is very repeatable, can be used as a neck turner and can be driven with an electric drill or screwdriver.

This comes from some one that bought the Lee tools nearly 45 years ago. They work ok if you have a drill press. For trimming a lot of material off of a lot of cases they are not much.
I also have 4 Wilson trimmers that do not get used much because they are more tedious to manipulate since you have to hold the case in place with one hand while cranking with the other. The Forster is easier to use. I have 5 and several of those are set up for neck turning. I have used one case trimmer very hard since 1975 with zero problems. Forster also makes a nice box to keep stuff organized.

If you want to sell one of the Wilsons let me know

 

[boltgunluvr]

I use the system that most folks laugh about. Lee Zip Trim. I have trimmed thousands of cases and have lost count. I never dreamed that plastic pull/recoil trimmer would last and last. BUT then again, many of us said Glock would never last either. Just saying!