Decoding the Lee Reloading Six Pack and the Importance of Proper Shell Plate Movement
Reloading ammunition is a rewarding hobby, offering precision, cost savings, and a deeper connection to the shooting experience. It’s also a craft that demands patience and attention to detail. The Lee Reloading Six Pack is a popular choice among reloaders, known for its speed and affordability. However, like any reloading press, it can present its own set of challenges. One of the most common sources of frustration, especially when reloading the ubiquitous nine-millimeter cartridge, lies in *indexing*. Understanding and addressing *Lee Reloading Six Pack 9mm problems with indexing* is key to a smooth, safe, and enjoyable reloading process.
This article will delve into the heart of these issues. We’ll explore the intricacies of the Lee Six Pack, dissect the common pitfalls that plague reloaders when working with 9mm rounds, and provide practical solutions to get your reloading operation back on track. We’ll walk you through troubleshooting techniques, offer valuable tips, and help you become a more confident and efficient reloader.
Common Troubles in 9mm Reloading with the Lee Six Pack
The nine-millimeter cartridge is a popular choice for both recreational shooting and self-defense. Unfortunately, the Lee Six Pack can encounter some specific *indexing problems* when reloading this cartridge. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequently encountered issues:
The Shell Plate’s Path: Misalignment and Malfunctions
A shell plate that isn’t moving smoothly is a primary source of trouble. This can manifest in several ways: the shell plate might stick, fail to rotate fully, or feel excessively stiff. The culprit can be several factors. Debris, such as brass shavings, powder granules, or even small bits of primer residue, can accumulate in the indexing mechanism, causing friction. Burrs on the shell plate itself or on the press frame, often formed during manufacturing or from wear, can create similar resistance. Further complicating things, sometimes the screw that holds the shell plate is not tight or is too tight. Finally, if the shell plate is not properly adjusted it can hinder its rotation.
Identifying this problem involves careful observation. Watch the shell plate as you cycle the press. Does it rotate smoothly with each stroke of the lever? Or does it hesitate, bind, or make scraping sounds? If the shell plate has issues rotating the reloader will have difficulties. A visual inspection might reveal the accumulation of debris, or a closer examination with a magnifying glass may uncover burrs or rough spots.
A Case of Case Feed Frustration
Proper case feeding is critical for ensuring that cases make their way to the appropriate die at each station. Problems with this system can be very frustrating. The most common issues revolve around a failure to lift the case from the case feeder, if installed, or a case that fails to properly engage with the shell plate. This can happen if the shell plate is not indexing correctly. Case jams where the case gets trapped or misaligned within the shell plate also cause these issues. Another problem is the case feed itself. If the case feed is out of adjustment, cases might not be delivered to the correct position, or at all.
The symptoms are often obvious: The reloading operation halts because a case doesn’t arrive, or there’s a visible jam. The reloader must then stop, identify the cause, and clear the jam.
Primer Problems: Feed Failures
The Lee Six Pack, when equipped with a primer system, uses a system to bring the primers to the shell plate. This mechanism, however, can experience its own set of headaches. Common problems include the primers failing to feed from the primer tube (or strips), the primers jamming in the feed system, or, in rare cases, the system attempting to feed two primers simultaneously. This problem can stop the entire reloading process in a moment.
Causes can range from simple things like a lack of primers, to a blocked primer tube. The primers themselves might not be seated properly. The primer seating tool can be out of adjustment or have some issues. It’s important to be careful not to let the primers get dirty, as this can cause them to jam. If the tube or strip isn’t properly seated, the primers might not get delivered correctly.
The Powder Challenge: Inconsistent Charges and Spillage
Accurate and consistent powder dispensing is fundamental to safe and effective ammunition. *Lee Reloading Six Pack 9mm problems with indexing* can disrupt this vital process, leading to inconsistent powder charges. This may appear in the form of powder charges that are consistently too high or too low, fluctuations in charge weights from round to round, or even the spilling of powder during dispensing.
The indexing system itself is at the heart of this. If the shell plate doesn’t time its movement correctly with the operation of the powder measure, the powder charge might not be dispensed fully or accurately. If the powder measure is not adjusted correctly, it might overcharge or undercharge a round. Powder bridging or sticking within the powder measure can cause the measure to provide inconsistent charges. These issues can all add up to real problems when reloading 9mm on the Lee Six Pack.
The visual clues for these problems are often subtle. You may notice varying charge weights when weighing the powder charges. Look for powder spills, or if you notice an abnormally low amount of powder being dispensed. These are clues of indexing problems.
Bullet Seating Struggles: Alignment Issues
Once the case has been charged with powder, it’s time to seat the bullet. *Lee Reloading Six Pack 9mm problems with indexing* can create issues here as well. Problems with shell plate alignment can affect this process, preventing the bullet from being seated squarely in the case. This, again, can be caused by the shell plate, where issues may exist. Another source of the problem can be the case mouth.
The visual inspection and feel are crucial here. If a bullet isn’t properly seated, it will likely be visibly crooked or off-center. The operator should then check the case, the shell plate, and the bullet itself.
Troubleshooting and Solving Indexing Issues
Resolving *Lee Reloading Six Pack 9mm problems with indexing* requires a systematic approach. Start by following these steps:
Cleaning and Lubrication: The Foundation of Smooth Operation
Regular cleaning is paramount. Disassemble the press (follow the manufacturer’s instructions), and thoroughly clean all components, especially the shell plate, indexing mechanism, and any areas where debris can accumulate. Use a brass brush or a suitable non-abrasive brush to remove residue. Once clean, lubricate the press with a high-quality dry film lubricant. Avoid using too much oil, as this can attract dirt and debris, exacerbating the problems you are trying to solve.
Fine-Tuning the Shell Plate: Proper Adjustment
Proper shell plate adjustment is critical for smooth operation. Make sure the shell plate is securely fastened to the press and that it has enough “play” to operate smoothly. The shell plate must also be in the correct position to receive the primer. Check for proper alignment and smooth rotation. The shell plate should move effortlessly as you pull the lever. If the shell plate is too tight, it can bind. If it’s too loose, it can cause other problems.
Addressing Case Feed Issues: Precise Adjustment
If a case feed system is installed, inspect it carefully to ensure that it is correctly aligned and adjusted. Make sure it’s feeding cases to the correct station. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjustment to ensure that cases are picked up reliably and delivered to the shell plate without obstruction.
Keeping the Primer System Running Smoothly: Maintenance
The primer system needs attention. Remove the primer feed components and clean them thoroughly. Check the primer tube for obstructions. Verify that all parts are properly assembled and that the primer feed components are properly adjusted, and that primers are seating fully and correctly.
Calibrating the Powder Measure: Consistency is Key
Consistency is key to reload successful ammunition. Before beginning, and during the reloading process, verify your powder charge weights with a reliable scale. Make adjustments to the powder measure as needed, to achieve the desired and consistent powder charge weight.
Die Adjustment: Achieving Proper Seating and Crimping
Finally, make sure your dies are adjusted correctly. Ensure the correct overall length (OAL) of the rounds. This is especially important for 9mm, as cartridges might fail to chamber if the OAL is incorrect. Make sure you correctly crimp the bullets as well.
Damage/Wear Inspection: Preventative Maintenance
Inspect your press regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Check the shell plate, indexing mechanism, and other moving parts. Replace any worn or damaged components to keep your reloading process running smoothly and safely.
Primer Seating Pin Adjustment: Priming at the Right Depth
Adjust the primer seating pin so it seats the primer properly and is seated completely. Improperly seated primers are not only unsafe, but can cause other issues with the proper cycling of ammunition.
Ensuring Safety
Always take appropriate safety precautions while reloading. Remember to wear safety glasses, and work in a well-ventilated area. Double-check everything at each step, and consult your reloading manual.
Practical Advice and Best Practices
Following these best practices will minimize your *Lee Reloading Six Pack 9mm problems with indexing* and improve your overall reloading experience:
Set up and calibrate carefully
When you set up your Lee Six Pack for the first time, it is very important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Double-check that all the parts are in place and installed correctly.
Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Establish a regular maintenance schedule for your press. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and inspection. Preventative maintenance can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Use Quality Components
Use quality components for your reloads, including brass, bullets, primers, and powder. High-quality components contribute to consistent results and can reduce the likelihood of problems.
Use the Right Tools and Equipment
Use the right tools for the job, including a reliable scale, calipers, and other measuring devices. Having the right tools helps to make the reloading process more efficient and safer.
Load Test and Calibrate
Load test each of the rounds. Take your loaded rounds to the range and test them with your firearm. Then make adjustments to the load as needed.
Tips for Troubleshooting
Always have a systematic approach to troubleshooting. When you have a problem, stop and identify the cause. Look at the symptom, and then work backwards to identify the cause and solution. Don’t try to reload if you are tired, distracted, or in a hurry.
Final Thoughts: A Smooth Reloading Experience
By understanding the common indexing problems in the Lee Six Pack, especially when reloading 9mm cartridges, and by following the troubleshooting steps and best practices outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce your frustration and enhance your reloading experience. The Lee Six Pack is a reliable press when it is set up correctly and maintained. Remember that patience, diligence, and a commitment to safety are essential in the reloading process. A properly maintained and adjusted press will provide years of safe and satisfying reloading. Don’t hesitate to seek further information or assistance from other reloaders or reloading resources. Happy and safe reloading!
