Lee Loadmaster Unboxing/Setup, Loading 9mm Start to Finish

[@chipper7086]

One thing I really like about your channel is that although you have access or own a lot of presses, you are not a "press snob." You give equal time and attention to presses that someone like myself who loads for hobby and not a ton of ammo will likely buy as to the big progressive presses. Thank you.

[@joem3524]

I've used the Pro1000 since late 2016, and (with simple but consistent regular maintenance) it has worked perfectly for over 39,000 rounds of exclusively 9mm - an average of about 7,500 per year. The press is still working quite well, and I'm very pleased!

[@USMC4Life23502]

I just received my Loadmaster in the mail last week, in the process of building work bench for it now.... cant wait the get started!!!!

[@SteveZ919]

How's the press been?

[@ryridesmotox]

I've been running a loadmaster for 8 years. Its a good press once you set it up properly. I pretty exclusively load 9mm for uspsa on mine. My major tip is to MAKE SURE you have it mounted very solid. Even the way Gavin had it, almost too much rocking back and forth. If it rocks around you will flip/tip primers. Other than that, as with any progressive press, you can load a ton of ammo, or a ton of mistakes in record time. So keep an eye on things.

[@benspragge33]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 "and a ton of mistakes in record time" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mpngreen3897]

Do you deprime before cleaning with the press?

[@ryridesmotox]

@@mpngreen3897 I clean before and deprime on a Lee APP press

[@grahambozeman]

I’m almost 12 yrs and already have a setup with this press thanks Gavin so much for your help in getting me into reloading

[@adamrenissance3322]

I have a Lee Loadmaster with over 50,000 rounds of 9MM; 40 S&W; 45 ACP and 223 through it. I have found that the key to making it run is keeping it well maintained and properly adjusted. Running hundreds of rounds per session the one essential upgrade is the Inline Fabrication Roller Handle conversion. I also upgraded to the Lee Auto Drum Power Measure. I can't believe the press still comes with the Disc system.

[@alanhoutz5513]

I've been running a Loadmaster for a year or so. I understand there were some issues with earlier iterations of the priming system, but mine came with the same one shown in your video and between it and using the sizing die in the priming station I have no issues priming on the press. As a rule I have to bump up the disc size on the Autodisc. The reference list seems to be a little light for 9mm charges in my experience. The issues I've had have all been minor and a result of something I could have done a little better. The biggest thing to remember with this press: If you think you're smarter than the folks who wrote the manual on it, you're going to have trouble and end up disliking it. Follow the instructions as written and you'll be fine. I strip it down and clean it every 3,000 rounds or so. I'll be getting that light. The Loadmaster is economical and reliable. Thanks for the video!

[@5jump]

I had the same issue with light powder charges using Alliant (then Hercules) powders. No issues using ball powder from Winchester/Hodgdon.

[@craigrushton7363]

I have ran my load master for about a year it’s honestly a love hate relationship. Some days I can legit crank out 700-1000 in about an hour hour and a half. Same press same components nothing gets touched, powder drop starts leaking the drum or disk, primers won’t seat, case feeder acts up, I now did 50 rounds in a hour I sit down shop dillons and look at the price and say ok one more shot it works awesome again and I touched nothing. Also installed an in-line fab roller handle if your running one of these that is by far the best upgrade for the press. My hand would cramp for days when using the stock ball now it’s easy sailing. I would like to see you do some trouble shooting videos on this thing. My powder drum will run awesome 95% of the time than the chain won’t stay put than it will drop a super light charge than no powder than on the money and repeat, than my auto disc no matter what powder will not stop leaking. Love the page by the way no brand bias you love the Lee single stage cheap intro press as much as the mark 7 with auto drive

[@Paul-dc6sp]

Ditto on love hate relationship. I do a tune up on the press every so often. Clean, lube, adjust and that seems to keep it more reliable. Also, my press has "loosened up so that the index rod does not glide all the way down the frame. I had to add a washer on one of the bolts on the linkage and that seems to have helped. I think it happened because I used the press to deprime about 8000 cases for cleaning. So I have probably run 12000 cases thru it causing it to loosen up. I usually run 9mm and can easily reload 200-300 in an hour. For .223 I resize in Loadmaster, prime on another press and finish the rest on the Loadmaster. If I have $1200 I would try out a Dillon.

[@constitutionalright827]

Just get rid of the chain. Use a small bungee cord to connect to the powder measure and you can even run it straight back to an eye hook on the workbench as long as it applies the rearward pressure to pull the charge carrier back to the rear after the upstroke. It's probably the first thing I replace on these.

[@rryan7476]

I've been using a Loadmaster for 2 years for 9mm, 45acp, 38/357, .223. I modded a 6s shellplate for 9mm (big improvement). I decap, size, clean (wet pins) and prime off press on my Mec. I have never primed on this press because I used the pin method. I polished all my shell plates. I load 22-250 & 308 on the Mec. I LOVE this press. I started reloading in 1990 on a 550b (just pistol). I feel that the loadmaster is a press that needs fine tuning and that is a plus for me. I enjoy reloading as much as shooting! My favorite dies are Lee. I also appreciate your treatment of Lee. My wife wanted me to get a 650 but I took a chance on Lee and had the the money I saved for toolheads, dies, and more equipment.

[@swnorcraft7971]

I have owned a Loadmaster for about 15 years. It has always had issues crushing, installing upside down, sideways and missing primers. I have watched numerous videos on how to remedy this. I have replaced components, tweaked this and that, to no avail. I just prime the cases in a different operation and then load on the Loadmaster. The case feed mechanism has always had issues as well. The slider on the square rod binds and causes it to flex. The toggle that pushes the case to the shell plate would short load and cause a case to crush against the press frame. I totally reworked the system to rigid mount the square rod and made a detent for the toggle to eliminate the short load problem. Since doing this, the case feeder mechanism works better than it ever did in the factory configuration. I have loaded thousands of rounds of handgun calibers on this press over the years. I have never been comfortable loading rifle rounds with this press. Am waiting in ernest to see your review of the new Breech Lock Pro 4000. Thanks for sharing.

[@dannywilliamson5869]

I purchased a Lee Loadmaster and a Pro 1000 because Midway USA had a great sale. Your videos have helped me very much. I am new to reloading, and your videos are much more helpful than the owner's manual.

[@2aSince1776]

So I just got this press from my wife for Christmas...what a great gift! I've watched this video a few times and will refer back often since I'm a complete and total newb to reloading. Great content here...THANK YOU for keeping it simple for people like me that need all the help we can get. Now all I need is a local store that actually has primer, powder and projectiles for a decent price......pray for me. Thanks again Gavin!

[@LivingLife128]

been loading on a loadmaster for 20 years . 9/40 . one thing i had to fix was the wooden ball would give me a blister if i loaded on it for a big amount at once. i fixed that by putting an old sock over the ball . now i can load 1k at a sitting without worry . the newest primer system is loads better than the old one with the little arm sticking out. i have probably loaded 300k on my loadmaster over the years

[@corporalpunishment1133]

I've had a loadmaster for over 12 years now and I reload 10 different rifle calibers. The only problem I get with priming is when reloading cases with crimped primer pocket. Also tight pockets can create some inconsistencies with primer depth I cured this by screwing a charging die body into station 2 so it touches the shell plate. Also the indexing crank arm needs to slide as smooth as possible I use a motorcycle chain lube CRC tac2 and the indexing is perfect. I don't size on this press I found the Lee Collet die didn't work on this press and I did a lot of case prep as well. I've adapted a case feeder to feed 308 win, 223 rem and 6.8 spc and occasionally 1 out of 50 a case flips out I also use the Lee autodrum. 12 years and I still love it and buying a Dillon doesn't even cross my mind because the loadmaster works beautiful it will test you when you first start with it and you do need to learn it's issues and some people sell them because they cannot make it work so look out for bargains.👍🇭🇲

[@kaptkrunchfpv]

Do you swage your cases? I had issues with crimped 223, swaging fixed it right up.

[@corporalpunishment1133]

@@kaptkrunchfpv i have the Lyman factory crimp primer pocket cutter and i stick it in a battery drill to speed it up. A swage tool would be good but i don't use to many mil cases just XHP 303 and some lake city 30-06. Ferdal 223 seem to give more issues so i just scrap them.

[@kaptkrunchfpv]

@@corporalpunishment1133 Yes I have the lyman small and large primer tools myself. I was having issues with a go bit of my 223 brass even after using it also. I think I was looking only for the crimps that use the three stakes, but alot of mine also had the circular indentations. I got the RCBS swaging tool and used that on all my brass and then used a camphor tool to slightly bevel the edge of the pocket. My primers seat perfectly now. It didnt look like they needed swaging but it for sure helped even the non crimped primer pockets. I also wet tumble my brass so the pockets are just about spotless from that.

[@corporalpunishment1133]

@@kaptkrunchfpv i user the chamfer tool as well. the XHP 303 has the 3 indents and i don't get much issues but yes circular crimp can be a pain i think what makes it worse i the federal 223 is the crimp is not centered or consistently pressed so it's a bit more hit or miss, so i don't bother with them I've got plenty brass now i can be more picky with what i use.

[@dennisjwest.7016]

have been running 3 load masters for over 20 years. very pleased with their customer help ,products,,and warranty program...sure Dillon are better but they do the same job at far more money...and they end up using the lee factory crimp die best one one the market...try one you will be amazed at the way it makes your cases fit. no bulges...with perfect crimps. have loaded from 32. to 3. 45s. colt acp and auto rim....and some rifle on them. oh and all the other presses have that primer problem that everyone complains about.

[@desertfarmer248]

Love mine. Load 9mm, 223, 308, 30-06. Just swap the heads and shell plate. I did replace the chain with a spring for a trouble free reset of the powder measure.

[@jmm6990]

I ve using this press for the last 6 months reloading 9mm, 45 acp, 300 blackout and .223. i’m using the minibulletfeder and it works great once you have the press properly setup. I’m using dedicated tool heads for each caliber including the auto disk powder measures that are extremely precise and repeatable ( 1/100 of a grain difference checked with a high precision Mettler-Toledo scale). The only issue happens with .223 when going from station 4 bulletfeeder to station 5 seating and crimping die, the stroke is to violent sometimes that the bullet flies away, even I’m flaring the cases. Overall it is a great press for the money and you can get reasonably high volumes per hour.

[@jasonwhite6682]

I’ve run a LoadMaster for a few years, and I always had problems with the priming system and the case holder advance ram. I still use it quite a bit, mostly for 9mm and 223, but I’ve had to go back to priming by hand, just so I can be sure that each case is primed correctly

[@FawaazJ]

Yip, I do the same. Prime all my cases on single stage and then fill the case tubes on Loadmaster. Wasted so many primers by crushing them or getting stuck under the plate and causing more primers to fall into the ram. My setup and process still fast enough and completed rounds are consistent and costed me 1/3 of the price compared to Big Blue.

[@dealershiptechtruth]

No priming issues for me in the two years of use. 9mm and 40sw. BUT i contribute my lack of failures to having a RCBS case prep station and bevel all my primer pockets prior to reloading.

[@nealnusbaumer9750]

When I run my Loadmaster I also prime off press. I use mine for .44 special and .44 mag.

[@robbennett]

Same here. Primers not seating and then powder falling under the plate. Or primer falling under the plate either way it jams it all up and I have to take it all apart. I've been depriving and priming 100 then running them again, to pick up powder and crimp. Not ideal but overall faster

[@Glide1992]

Me too. The Lee priming system costs a lot of wasted primers. Even tried a brand new primer assembly. But all it was, was new plastic crap. Still had to go back to priming by hand. I'm retired, I have time. I like the 5 stations and automatic case feed.

[@henco9306]

I've loaded about a 1000 rounds of 9mm with a single stage press in the last 2weeks. Might have to upgrade to the Lee loadmaster soon!.

[@gee556]

Wait for the Pro4000 video. I'm not very fond of my Loadmaster, but I love my Classic Turret press.

[@lisamarie8700]

@@gee556 Hey, is the 4000 model as good?!

[@James-qz2ny]

Amazing loader will never change equipment

[@DingaReloading]

Just received word from Brownells that the Loadmaster press I purchased back in early November 2020 has arrived (July 2021). Talk about needing to have patience!!! But I am excited to get the loadmaster mounted to the bench. I started loading a few years back with a single stage, then moved up to a turret, and finally I will be able to load with the Progressive. Great channel! In fact your channel is the reason I chose the Loadmaster. I really enjoy watching your vids and cant wait to start cranking out the ammo.

[@timothyrose4052]

Yes, I run a Lee Loadmaster. As most others that do the same will attest, it requires some futzing about to get it to run the way you want. But I always told myself that it was "affordable" and I like a challenge and typically don't mind futzing with something from time to time. Well, after 4+ years, I am ready to change over to Big Blue. The final straw was that the aluminum handle finally wore out. At the bottom of the handle, there is a pin that goes through it and holds the saddle on the bottom of the ram itself. The two holes in the aluminum handle that this pin goes through have worn so that there is play in them. Those holes now measure .441 for a pin that is only .432. By contrast the corresponding holes in the yoke still measure .435 so those are not severely worn. Big deal, so there is a little play, right? Nope. That play allows the ram and the carrier to move radially. That little movement messes up the crank slide for the case pusher so the crank slide sticks due to the slight misalignment. Then the case will not always get pushed all the way into the shell plate or a shell won't drop at all. (just depends on which way it has moved) So I'm finally giving up on the Loadmaster. I've ordered a new handle and will rebuild it, but I'm done with the Loadmaster as my main loader. I kept this thing well greased too, but you can clearly see that there are chatter marks in the machining of the holes on that handle. It served me pretty well for that time, but I for one will be moving on to a Dillon XL750.

[@kendalblack9146]

I'm looking at getting a Load master very soon. I bought the Lee Classic Turret press on 2013 while in Afghanistan, knowing that when I came home I'd be a broke college student but still wanted to shoot. It was the best decision I ever made! I reloaded around 50k rounds since then. I'm not going to say I saved any money but I didn't shoot for cheaper and shot much more. I've been looking at the Dillon, RCBS, and Hornady progressive presses but the process always scare me off. That plus Lee, although the press I have now is not the most accurate each pull off the handle, it still works and they have earned my business. I recently purchased the Hornady bullet feeder does for 9mm and .45ACP and I'm kicking myself for not doing that years ago. I think that with those does and the case feeder that comes with the Loadmaster, I could get cooking on making some ammo. Knowing that this and shooting are my only two hobbies I frequently participate in, that I want to move up from the Classic Turret Press, and that I'm on a budget (8th kid coming in December), would the Loadmaster be sufficient and make me happy? Have you used the Classic Turret Press and if so, how do they compare? Thank you and I love watching your videos!

[@livincincy4498]

If you are happy with 4-500 per hour the LM will make you happy. Richard Lee said 500+ per caliber per week of you want a progressive. Many buy a progressive as a time machine and leave it set up for a caliber until they have made thousands of rounds.

[@patmancrowley8509]

I've had a Lee Load Master since about 1991. Love it! I've used the RCBS single stage and prefer the Lee Load Master over a single stage EVERY DAY!

[@gary44444444]

Your reloading videos are by far the best thought out, well produced and informative I have ever seen. I am always so happy to get the email notification that you just posted up a new video. Thank you!

[@curtislong1987]

Check out 76highboy reloading

[@jmike212]

I have enjoyed my Loadmaster. I had never reloaded before until I bought mine used. There are times it can be finicky. I think it is important to set it up step by step. Without dies make sure the shell plate is advancing properly. Then set up the dies properly, there are a lot of good videos on KZbin (gunblue490) videos are great. Start out with one cartridge at a time to learn and understand how each stage works. Press needs to be mounted very firmly to prevent primers from being misaligned when seating. BE PATIENT AND STUDY!

[@chrisjamz2206]

I am very close to divorcing my Loadmaster after suffering an ongoing problem with the primer feed system. I lost total confidence in the system and now pre prime my brass before running it through the press. Perhaps this video will rekindle the spark in my relationship with it. I will start from scratch and set it up again as if I just unpacked it. Thanks for posting!!

[@billj4859]

I've had this press for about 5 years. The thing I have found I have to watch the most is the powder charge. I set mine up using all 5 stations. The charge can vary when all 5 stations are active. Don't check your charges too early. I believe its from the shell plate flexing/tilting slightly when stations 4 and 5 are empty. Love the UFO light.

[@alexjohnson9580]

your expertise of the product is untouchable. awesome delivery of your video production. i have used LEE products for 25 years NEVER had a problem. I'm sure there are others, that cost much more, but in the end you still just have a LOADED BOOLIT.

[@hughstewart547]

I just got my load master set up. I haven't even loaded my first rounds with it quite yet but I have been reloading single stage for close to 20 years. I am stoked to finally get into the progressive loading scene.

[@JoeKrol]

Loved this video. I have not started reloading yet but have picked the Lee Loadmaster as the press I will start with. I have about 3000 brass 9mm cases that have been cleaned and hand deprimed so this is the exact press I will be purchasing. I will later get die sets for 380, 45, 223 and 35 Remington. I’m really looking forward to seeing the upcoming videos!!!!! Thank you for all the work and information you share!!!

[@RUFFRIDER1978]

just got mine yesterday and couldnt be happier, knocked out around 1000 rounds so far and its running smooth.

[@crobtompkins7824]

Got this press set it up for 9mm loaded 30 rounds first two magazines went off fine, second round in the third mag had only primer bullet stuck in barrel ended my shooting for the day. Went back to my turret press and put the Lee in the closet.

[@MrVideoyoulike]

You will get that prob regardless what press you use.

[@crobtompkins7824]

@@MrVideoyoulike At least with the turret your handling at every stage.

[@TTiger86268]

got mine a few weeks back in .223, unfortunately not the carbide dies with it, had one many years ago, stopped reloading but back into it, got this as a second press. Works great and budget friendly. Paid a little under $200 for everything and actually came with the auto drum not the disc.

[@jeffreygoldstein4707]

I bought a Load Master after watching tons of UR videos. I knew I wanted to upgrade to progressive reloading but cost effectively. I even purchased the bullet feeding kit and a few diff size bullet feeding dies that work well for smaller pistol calibers. The bullet feeder is picky but it works well if you spend the time. I currently reload 380, 9, 38, 357 mag, and 500 mag. The 500 mag is actually the easiest setup in the press because you cannot use the shell or bullet feeder. Anyway... The LLM and reloading in general is working out great because of UR and I cannot thank you enough for the videos. I’ve purchased from some of the sponsors as a way to say thanks.

[@katrinaanon1038]

The lighter the bullet the better the bullet feeder work. Anything that interferes with moving the bullet causes problems with the bullet feeder system. I was loading 200 grain .45 Colt cast lead bullets and I could never get it function well enough to be worth the twiddling time. A stack of 200 grain bullets is putting a fair amount of weight on top of the bullet in the loading station. The fingers have a difficult time moving the slug from the bottom of the stack and positioning it over the case. If it gets bounced around it might not be straight enough to be seated in the case. I don't remember is I had the same problem loading 125 grain .38s but I am pretty sure I did.

[@jeffreygoldstein4707]

@@katrinaanon1038 Using the bullet feeder I've had good success with 100g for 380, 115g for 9mm, and 124g/148g/156g for 38spl/357mag. I assume I would have similar success with similar weights regardless of caliber. For the 100g bullets, they are literally right on the border of being slightly too long for the small 9mm feeder die, and way too short for the medium 9mm feeder die. Using the medium die causes the bullet to pour out of the tube like water. To make the 100g's work I used a rotary tool to shave off a tiny amount of metal from the small 9mm feeder die, allowing the bullets to freely exit the die on the fingers. I haven't tried however I'm guessing 95g bullets would work with the small 9mm feeder die with no modification.

[@jeffreygoldstein4707]

One more quick comment. Gaven alluded to this in his video and he's 100% correct. You will get much better primer seating by installing the sizing die in the primer station/station 2. Alternatively you can use a lee quick-trim die to hold your case straight in station 2. Using the quick-trim die in station 2 is a setup used for rifle reloading. Lee sells a unique 4-die .223/5.56 kit for the LLM that includes the quick-trim die for this reason. On my pistol setups I use the Lee universal de-priming die in station 1 because it's oversized enough for just about any pistol caliber. It even works for my S&W 500. Then I install the sizing die in station 2, which significantly improves primer seating vs. leaving that station empty. No mods or changes to the rest of the stations.

[@michael1electricianquiroz338]

Been using my lee classic turret but have bought a lee loadmaster used and it’s been sitting boxed up in my workshop, felt daunted with all the parts .. gonna take it out and get some 9mm going- thx for making that set up video simple and easy to follow.. truly enjoy you using all the presses and different brands- keep it up man.

[@SteveZ919]

How's the loadmaster working?

[@congaronbo]

I run a loadmaster since 2009. The case slider was too short for my brass... So i hot glued two strips of industrial zip tie to stop it from kicking the The brass out at the bottom. This year, I bought a Lee APP... The case feeder kit included a redesigned slider! I love my loadmaster and the parts that wear are cheaply replaced. The APP is slick too.

[@PracticallySquared1]

Good video. Completely agree on the starting with a progressive if your somewhat mechanically inclined. I tried a single stage and hated it because of how slow it was. Used a buddy’s Dillon 650 and loved it. Ended up getting a hornady LNL AP and had that press for a while, now I’m running a Dillon 750. Love the progressives. I also have a Redding T7 for smaller loading sessions

[@engineermike5987]

I have a Lee single stage reloader. Used it for years, but after using it last week, I still have a sore muscle going from my neck to my shoulder blade from all the repeated reaching and my neck feels stiff. I considered getting a more advanced reloader but I couldn't figure out how to use one until I watched your video. Thank you sir!

[@dking9517]

Been running a Loadmaster for a few years. Loaded thousands of rounds, but it is finicky. If I hadn't made my own case and bullet orientators, I would've stepped to a Dillon long ago. I do not prime on the Loadmaster, caused to much headache. For the cost, it does work.

[@dealershiptechtruth]

RCBS case prep station and bevel all primer pockets prior to reloading. ZERO issues thus far.

[@katrinaanon1038]

The Loadmaster is an ok press if you do not mind twiddling with it. Also stick to large primers because it tends to flip small primers. You also can't run it fast because it flings powder out of the cases if you run it too fast. I manually primed my cases because of the problems with the priming system. At half the price of a Dillon or other better presses it is ok. Just don't run it fast and it will work ok for you.

[@glidercoach]

Exactly what I needed! I bought the loadmaster before I immigrated to Italy. I'm about to set myself up and start reloading. Got a kilo of powder, which I delared at the police station, (rules are tight here) and I'm ready to go. Great video! Grazie!

[@ctech01]

I love my LoadMaster, I've have been cranking out 45acp on it sense 2013. Not one issue with it period. I was lucky, I got the new revised primer system with mine. With the money I saved on the LM. I bought a Forester Co-Ax to load all my rifle bullets. I love the videos man, keep them coming.

[@SmogFighter]

I bought this press based on the older videos. I’m glad he did a new unboxing vid. He forgot to mention that when you buy it, it comes caliber specific and doesn’t come with the other priming setup (9mm comes with the small primer system only. )

[@carltaylor334]

I bought a Loadmaster for 44mag in 1997. I bought another Loadmaster for 40S&W somewhere around 2004. I am lazy I didn't want to change the primer feed from large to small. Right now I am set up for 9mm, 40S&W, 357mag, 45ACP, 45LC, and 44mag. I have loaded many thousands of rounds through these presses. They are not perfect they have their quirks. I like the presses and think they do a very good job. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to step up to a progressive.

[@roul3688]

I’ve come to really love the loadmaster. The case feeder and bullet feeder allows the reloader to really pay attention to the powder charge and get a great rhythm. Also saves a ton of time.

[@curtwuollet2912]

I resumed reloading after a break of many years. I decided to treat myself to a new press, the old, old Lyman Spartan with Herters dies still works, but.... I looked at the loadmaster, but retired, I have more time than money, so I drew the line at the relatively new Lee value turret. This I've found to be an excellent press for pistol and a great value. I got the kit for their auto drum measure, but prefer a cheap electronic scale which is much faster than their safety scale. This setup is 10 times faster than the old single station press and unless you compete, turns out all the ammo I can afford to shoot😉.

[@Johan_Pentrose]

Your videos have fact filled no fluff content. I have wanted to reload for decades and with ammo shortages and covid now is a good time. I like the LEE line of reloaders. The classic four hole or the pro 1000, I was leaning towards, but having seen the loadmaster progressive, i a, back to square one. Thanks again

[@x1xBryanx1x]

I bought one of these back in 2009. Some days it would work, then other days it would chew up priming parts and even broke the carrier. I learned to load at least a week before I had to shoot because there was a good chance something was going to break, or go wrong. Like many others, I started priming separately (off the press). With .223 and RCBS SB dies, I could not size .223s. The only way would be to grind the bottom of the dies (had 3 different dies). The shell plates were too thick. Cases would not sit flush in a gauge, about 1 in 10 would jam up an AR. That was it. My wife hates guns, and didnt like me doing this. Even she said one day, "Honey, just get a Dillon". With the loadmaster, I couldnt get a .223 to sit flush no matter how hard I tried (broke the press trying). I was so happy when I used the same die on the 650 and for the very first time, the case dropped below flush on the gauge. Also, I could finally prime with the press. With that said, it looks like they did make some improvements.

[@robertvestal6054]

I have had a lee loadmaster for 3 years still working on trying to get it to work😂 I’m a truck driver so only have a couple days a month

[@whetski]

Just got my Loadmaster a few months ago. As others have already stated, the primer system is all I've really had issues with. On .223 it seems to be about 95%. I get about 5 out of 100 cases with crushed primers. Only using the recommended CCI primers and have not had one go off, but it sure is hard to tell if they seated correctly. I find myself checking about every 15-20 rounds. I do also have the Challenger single stage and have thought about doing all my priming on it, but then it kinda defeats the purpose of the progressive press. I am using range brass that I run through my APP press to decap, then run through the Lee swager on all the brass before I wet tumble it. I ran about 100 rounds of 9mm the other night, and had about 3 cases with crushed primers. I was able to pull the bullet, dump the powder back in the hopper, decap, and reuse the brass. Just a pain to have to worry about if the cases are primed correctly as I go. I have also ground the numbers off the head of the bolt of the primer seat adjustment. That did help when setting the depth. Any other tricks for getting the priming system to work smoother? Oh, and the UFO light is awesome! I got one of those as well and it made a huge difference. I may have to mount a camera like one of the previous posters did so I can see the poweder charge on the 223. Checking 9mm is no issue , but the longer cases are hard to see into, even with the UFO light.

[@livincincy4498]

Do you swage your 223/556 & 9mms brass ?

[@whetski]

@@livincincy4498 yes, all of my brass

[@livincincy4498]

@@whetski - crushed but seated in the correct direction ?

[@whetski]

@@livincincy4498 yes, that is correct.

[@livincincy4498]

@@whetski - I am guessing that the head stamp lettering on the bolt head that the primer arm impacts is at fault. File smooth or replace with smooth one. The primer rocker arm should also be filed and made smooth on both ends.

[@alforrester5679]

Thanks for the help , I followed your instructions step by step and set my loadmaster up first time. I’m a press junky and have two lees a Dillon a Lyman co ax and a Lee single stage breech lock. Your videos are helpful for sure.!

[@leoncordero9083]

I have run a LoadMaster for about 3 years and my experience has been good. Some tinkering to get it to work smoothly and headaches with bullet feeding but once I tossed out the bullet feeder everything was good. I also cannot say enough good things about Lee's customer service. I will always buy lee products but, with that said, as I type I am waiting on an LNL AP to arrive (8 stops away). I am going with the LNL to see if it's actually better in all areas than the LoadMaster. My only real gripe with the LoadMaster is the priming because you have one station dedicated to priming, I don't mind occasional tinkering so that is not an issue for me but I have noticed others complain about it. My questions are if anyone cares to answer... 1. How does the AP compare to the LoadMaster? 2. Is it worth spending the extra money on other presses like big blue or Hornady?

[@aznhomig]

I used an LNL AP for years before switching to a Dillon 750. I would say the LNL AP is a decent press even without the case feeder or bullet feeder for about 3-500 rounds per hour pace. Caliber changeovers are also pretty easy on an LNL AP. If you decide to get a case feeder for it though I would recommend just stepping up to a Dillon. The case feeder on those just work.

[@tjh44961]

I have an RCBS 4x4 progressive press that I've been using since 1985. Everything is manually done -- the indexing, case loading, bullet loading, powder drop, primers. I'd like to move to a more automated system, but I have such an investment in shell plates that it would cost a fortune to replace them all. The biggest annoyance is that I shoot quite a bit of 480 Ruger, and I can't get a shell plate for it, they never made one. I think have 15 or 16 different shell plates for it.

[@mvurquiza]

It's a finicky press. As many mentioned priming is challenging, mine go sideways many times, I 3D printed a dummy resizing die for the calibers that I use to keep the shell in position at the priming station. Also, setting the height for the case feeder is labor-intensive, once again I printed spaces for each of my calibers so I can easily and fast set up the case feeding, still many times the case will tip over. The disc loader is pretty good but it leaks sometimes.

[@markcarter5450]

Had a Lee 1000, which was damaged in a notable flood. Replacing it with the loadmaster. Looking forward to 5 stages. Half set up now. Had a little trouble with the indexing not indexing, but it seems to be fine now.

[@blything]

Hi Gavin I really appreciate and enjoy your channel have found allot of useful info from here, thank you . I have two Loadmaster's A Classic Turret and a Lee Challenger , it all started with the challenger 20 years ago progressed to the 1st Loadmaster for 9mmP 4years ago , then 1 year ago I got another for my 5,56/223 and the lee classic Turret for my 308, the challenger is now only a de-priming/priming station prior to wet tumbling my cases. I had issues with the priming system on the Loadmaster so I removed the system on both and adapted my case prep routine , I like to wet tumble all my brass and de-prime all cases prior to tumbling so as to get the primer pocket clean, I pack them in a bin for each cartridge caliber named "Dirty Brass" when I have time and enough cases I wet tumble and once dried they go to "ready to Prime" bin on the rifle cases I also take the time to then check OAL etc prior to dumping in the ready to prime Bin, Priming is done on either the Challenger or Classic Turret using the safety Prime fitted to both presses, after priming they go to a ready to load bin from where I feed the Loadmasters case tubes. The 9mmP LM has a bullet feeder which works ok as long as you refill before the qty gets to low or bullets tend to fall out on the last 3 or so in the system keep it topped causes less drops and store the LM with the Ram raised to avoid tension on the Bullet feeder arm the plastic wil last longer. Overall I love my Presses and they work well and my shots are as good as any other persons on the range so I am happy. Keeping them clean and the case plate on the 223 especially as a grain of powder that may fall on the plate will cause enough deflection on the case going up into the powder station on the 223, I noticed this to cause powder to mess presumably because the cartridge doesn't make flush contact with the riser die, so brush the base plate whenever you see powder laying around I do it every 100 loads just to avoid stoppages and serious spills. I like my Lee presses, I don't see any reason why I would change to the more expensive brands they serve my needs. Be safe and thanks again for A very informative channel,

[@yukon4545]

Nicely done young man. Could've maybe touched on installing the priming system and the adjustment bolt.

[@jassonco]

I'm no stranger to the Lee Precision products and I got mine in 223 (and for Creedmoor based cartridges), October/2019. It's fast and accurate and easy to setup! I use the American Accurate case collator, which works way more better than the Lee and a better 3D printed case block. Now, if someone could put together an affordable powered case & bullet feeder, that functions close 100%, that would make it just that much better?!

[@JeffreyFulton]

Hey Gavin, just in time! I just unboxed my new Loadmaster and can't wait to get it rigged up and producing. Added the light and I can see! Thanks for all your hard work on these videos. Keep them coming.

[@vhoward1122]

The biggest mistake people make with the loadmaster is mount it on a flimsy bench and then complain when they can't figure out why it won't run smoothly. I had a Loadmaster and it ran fine. I just did not care for the priming system, so I sold it and moved on to a different press.

[@marvincieszynski275]

I’ve had the loadmaster for quit a few yrs . Been reloading for about 30 yrs. the problem I have with the load master is the primer feed and primer seating . So I decal and sit primers on my turret press . Than put cases in collater than load

[@dougcittel143]

Thanks for the clear and fair review of this Lee press. I have been reloading on a Lee single stage press for the last 10 years. Currently checking into getting a progressive press to allow me to increase the volume of ammo that I reload. I am doing all 5 calibers that I shoot ranging from 9mm to 300 WM. Since I've been reloading on the Lee single stage all this time, I naturally have all of the Lee dies which together is a significant investment. So when I look at going with a Dillion Precision press, I am thinking 'but I probably need to buy Dillion dies'. No doubt the Lee Load Master progressive press would be a great upgrade for me and a cost efficient one too.

[@davejones67]

Just bought a Loadmaster and have lights on order. One of the case alignment tabs snapped off on the priming station. The fellow I bought it from Budget Shooter Supply in Surrey, BC, Canada, was good enough to swap it for another one he had in stock. No idea how to change the whole carrier which is what I would have had to do. You have a video on that? I have another carrier on order from Midway just in case. The press seems to work great. Things slow down when you have to gauge each loaded round, add primers which is a pain with new priming tray, and keep flipping over cases that are in tubes upside down from collator. They advertise 500 rounds an hour. I’d say closer to 200 which includes above plus picking up loaded rounds on floor. Lee has also made mistake of discontinuing this press and coming out with the 6000 which is way more cheaply made.

[@pfoutz84]

What great timing I just got mine in 9 mm. Just finished building my table and am applying poly to it today. Perfect timing Gavin!

[@o2wow]

I have two loadmasters, one dedicated to .223 and the other pistol rounds, right now .357 SIG. One thing I do not do on this press is priming, I use an RCBS Bench Primer.

[@BernieDiaz]

I really enjoyed this video. I bought my Loadmaster about 18 months ago when I moved from Florida to Texas, but now I've decided to go ahead and set it up as I still had a few more boxes to open from our move with all my reloading stuff. I built a nice reloading table as soon as we arrived and installed an Inline Fabrication Ultramont. I finally was able to do some 6.5CM reloading these past few weeks (hunkered down due to COVID) using my old LEE single-stage press, but I want to start using the Loadmaster now that I saw this video. I ordered mine with 45ACP accessories. It's a contraption of things, including the UFO lights and the bullet feeder. I'm looking forward to start cranking rounds pretty soon. I followed your step of using a universal decapping die on station #1 as well as a crimping die on station #5.

[@SteveZ919]

U like the LM?

[@Ammmm18462817mm]

My Lee load master is arriving in the mail today. Pretty excited to get started.

[@MrAnythinggood]

I found that when loading cast or powder coated cast using a separate crimp die is a necessary. Using a crimp seater die will shave some of the lead or coating off

[@timwilkerson8867]

Thank you! My wife and I have loaded thousands of rounds with our loadmaster and your videos!

[@adamlucero5916]

Not happy with my lee master, i set it up for 9mm. Used your guidance as well as the instruction manual. It’s bolted to a hard flat surface and I still keep getting squib loads… Keep up the awesome videos.

[@markrounds6302]

Wow! You are loading almost exactly what I load on my Lee Turret. I have 4.2gr CFE PIstol with 147gr Berry's Bulletts, but I use CCI Primers and range brass.

[@edhoffius4389]

I don’t mind my Lee loadmaster. It appears that yours has an updated case pusher and priming system. I have had some major issues with the priming system to the point I started hand priming all my cases first. That sucks because that’s suppose to be a huge benefit of the progressive press. I’ve also had issues with the mechanism that rotates the shell plate too. It’s been a while since I’ve used it because of those reasons. That sucks because I have more then one tool head and shell plate for different calibers. Great video!

[@rickflanders8161]

I totally agree, have had those issues and more.

[@moman0166]

I’m going to start reloading but I think doing some research on the Lee Reloader and the set up to get some confidence before buying equipment.

[@pierrepretorius8023]

I am running the pro1000 for 5 years now. Would love to upgrade to the loadmaster. I am loading 9mm. Thanks for a great channel and excellent content.

[@johncarr123]

Yes I run a loadmaster and have found that that your brass primer pockets have to be perfect or you are going to get tipped or crushed primers. Using new brass like you just did is a huge advantage. Can you do a video on how to achieve perfect primer pockets so we do not get any jams using the lee Loadmaster? Also troubleshooting tips on the case feeder. Thank you

[@dealershiptechtruth]

RCBS case prep station and bevel all primer pockets prior to reloading. ZERO issues thus far.

[@MichaelLindsey]

i started with this exact kit, i have since upgraded. but i leave this set up for my sons to load 9mm and 223.

[@adamwilson1362]

I love my lee load master its worth its weight in gold the only thing that I see that could be improved would be the way it seats primers

[@bloodstone6196]

I recently switched from pro 1000s, which i used since 1992 to a loadmaster. At first I had some primer flipping,then decided to stop it! I have found the loadmaster is an awesome press since I concentrated on 2 things,mounting the press super solid and polishing everything super smooth. Now this thing runs great,butter smooth running press after polishing shellplates,indexing rod,and NOT having a die in station 2! Size and deprime on 1 and make things as smooth as possible with rigid bench,works amazing!

[@deankay4434]

Wow, I bought my Lee Loadmaster in 1994. It works very good but perhaps I need to update a couple of accessories. I had trouble with fully seating the primer on the 44 Magnum. Typically a wheel gun, I could not close it. Never got it corrected but honestly have not tried since. ASE Master Tech since 1978 - Retired

[@rh-pr3hs]

I started on a Loadmaster about 12 years ago. It works and isn't as bad as a lot of people say. I moved on to the Hornady lnl and then a Dillon 650. Gave the loadmaster to a nephew and he's still mad at me (joking).

[@trentcrabtree3348]

I'm running a Loadmaster still working at getting it running smoothly. My main problem right now is the indexing rod and flipper set up. It will work for 5 or 10 round then I have to adjust it again. Still have a lot to buy for it too since I was a used press.

[@mohammedcohen]

...I used to own TWO Pro 1000s both with the case collators...it made the whole process so easy...too easy because I got into a groove and didn't notice that I'd run out of power along the way...after you've hadda disassemble at least 100 rounds to find where the oversight occurred you'll never do it again....with the disks I found on my setup that the holes were about .3 grains over - an old timer (I'm an 'old timer' now) told me that he adjusted

[@ridgerunneroutdoors2423]

Glad to see you using lee thank you sir lee is the working mans friend .

[@bigrod0069]

can't wait to get mine set up, seems like it will be a good press, don't like the plastic parts, but just gotta pay attention. I ordered the 45acp kit, they sent with a large priming pin, so I had to contact Lee and order the small pin, the pin was free, but then they charged $12.22 for shipping, I was quite upset about that little trickery. they sure could've threw it in with the kit, considering 45acp uses large and small.

[@aviciouswalrus1303]

I've reloaded roughly 1000 rounds of 9mm on my single stage press using CFE powder, I was super confused when you said "4 grains" of CFE powder I was like.."gavin MUST be reloading subsonic.." and the Osprey glock comes out 3 mins later :P nice stuff

[@mus1970]

I'm still with the Breech Lock Challenger, good enough for my modest needs. It almost looks like you're not seating any primers - smooth operator!

[@livincincy4498]

I observed that the press would tilt using the mount shown. There is something about the mechanics that make it move in a lot of videos. You were doing about (12) per minute. That would be about 5-600 per hour. People often have unrealistic expectations that output is based on how fast you can stroke it. This press requires that you push gently as you seat primers at the bottom of the stroke. At the top of the stroke pushing in the rod to move the shell plate and not roll over the primer is required. Developing this rhythmic movement is why some cannot use this press, sing, or dance... Station #2 can use a Lyman M die or similar for cast bullets. I do have the feeling the Press is going to be updated or replaced soon. Lee is really into their breech lock designs. Realistically their new locking lock rings make the need for the beech lock of questionable value. Also the 4.5 or 5 dies on the press is showing its age. People want powder check dies & bullet feed dies. With a four die pistol set that means (6) stations. Six would also place Lee in a unique position in the herd of presses. The priming systems on Lee presses seems to be beyond 10% of the markets ability. Others seem to have no issues while others never got them to work. Avoiding primer detonations has always been part of their design in every system. I think the compromise will be a version of their manual safety prime or an automated trough system that the user decides they prefer.

[@paulvenn4447]

Yup, the on-press Lee safety prime system is starting to show it's age, I personally hate it on my Classic Turret, do all priming off press now.

[@dennisbrindle3762]

@C-Bomb I bought a prochucker 7 that by far was a big mistake.

[@livincincy4498]

That is a press that looks so nice but does not get good reviews. Gavin 's umbrella review will be interesting.

[@rick_inflorida]

Got one after watching your video. That was no easy task because they were sold out every where! But managed to find a brand new one a person was selling on Facebook. Wasn't the caliber I was needing but already had dies and ordered a plate. Now waiting for a side and riser to come in before I can start. But your video helped me be lazy and set it up 😂. Thanks for the informative instructions on set up! Mine did take some more adjustments than you showed but I got it figured out and running smooth now. Had to adjust the entire ram. It was about an inch off and wouldn't index.

[@inzkane707]

Love it Gavin! I thoroughly considered the load master, but decided to go with the LnL AP. I've had it set up for a couple weeks and am able to make 400-500 rounds an hour. Running a mr. Bullet feeder and a 3D printed case feeder lol. Works great!

[@rickflanders8161]

Boy did you dodge a bullet.

[@BernieDiaz]

Thanks for the video. I set up my brand new one when I moved from FL to TX and... still waiting to unbox packing boxes to find my reloading components. Sorry to say a whole year has passed and not a single round reloaded yet. Procrastination? Maybe. Too many 'honey do' projects to go still. I ordered mine for 45 ACP. As prices dropped in the las couple of years I bought tons of 9mm so I figured 45 ACP was the way to go. By the way... that huge piston was hard to move initially, but now it is moving a lot better with a bit of lubrication and stroking it now and then.

[@mariodesmo]

Hey Gavin, I bought a Loadmaster last year and spent the better part of last Fall and Winter reloading with it. I am in the process of selling my house and moving so unfortunately for me, the opportunity to load even more due to the virus thingy, is on hold since all my stuff is in storage while I move. Anyway, I also have the Pro 1000 and find the Loadmaster to be my favorite. One reason is that the primer seating takes place when the operator's handle is in the down position as opposed to the up position like on the Pro 1000. It's just easier to push down on the handle to seat the primer, than to pull up. I also have a micro camera attached looking down on each charged case to check the charge. The camera is connected to my laptop which I use to display the image. Also, the ability to empty spent primers on the Loadmaster is much easier. My Pro1000 is still going strong however after nearly 30 years, but the Loadmaster is a real treat to use. So I've set up my Pro1000 dedicated to 9mm, and the Loadmaster handles 40 S&W, 45ACP, 44 Spl/Mag. I do use dedicated tool heads for each caliber for ease of use, and the presses are mounted on a solid wood workbench. Looking forward to seeing your press comparison!

[@davidwalle5025]

I have a loadmaster the biggest problem is the primer setup not consistent depth. Used a turrrent press for 20 years before getting a,loadmaster. Turret press is absolutely great.

[@sethybaby1]

I run a loadmaster, and after a decent amount of tweak time, i find it to be a very reliable press, especially for the price.

[@TexasLeverGunner]

It really is surprising to see this press work so smoothly. I want a Dillon XL750 but this press is on my list... there are just too many horror stories for me to buy with confidence. After 12 years I'm tired of loading pistol ammo on my rock chucker.

[@jyc2201]

Went from a Lee Loadmaster with all the works to a Dillon 550. That should tell you everything you need to know.

[@DimaProk]

12 years... ooh, I feel your pain :) I got Hornady LNL after couple years and now I can't even look at press without case feeder. Mine is 3D printed that uses same Lee feed tubes, the way they designed it is brilliant, you drop a handful of brass in to the collator on top and you shake a little and brass goes down tubes in proper orientation 90% of the time and even less flipped cases with .40 and .45 and I use the same case feeder for .223, 300 blackout, 38 SPL, etc. The coolest thing about progressive is you don't have to handle each case, even simple task like just decapping and sizing. I run mine in 2 stages. First I prep all the brass, clean washed brass from range pickup gets sized and neck expanded, than I prime by hand (can be done on the press) and 2nd time around I adjust the neck expander more fore lead bullets or leave it as is for copper plated, throw a powder charge, seat the bullet (using hornady bullet feeder, works great) and just pump out the rounds with no interruption. With sizing done already, there is less jerking around, meaning the powder feed is more consistent and bullet seating also. I still use single stage press when I am making accuracy rifle rounds.

[@TexasLeverGunner]

@@DimaProk 95% of what I load is rifle ammunition, and my round count is close to 6 digits at this point. Probably the reason I don't shoot handguns much in general is because I have to load single stage. We'll see. All of that could change shortly.

[@michaelbeach3352]

How much variation do you see in OAL?

[@nicholassimpson2513]

I have a Lyman all American 8 that I got about 3 months ago to start learning how to reload, but I was looking at the Lee pro 1000 before I got it and the reason I didn’t get it was because it seemed really complicated for me as a beginner. You seem to make it seem easy tho

[@lane8376]

Such a satisfying sound when he gets into rhythm

[@dealershiptechtruth]

I run a loadmaster for two years now and reload 40sw and 9mm. You do need basic mechanical know how to work out bugs and minor failures that will arise.

[@johnjenniges664]

I have two loadmasters set up 1 for 38 and 2 for 40. I also have a lee beach lock pro for 9 mm. My next step is getting a bullet feeder for each one. When I was getting into reloading I was set on a Dillon xl750 but did my research and settled to start with lee. I am still thinking of getting a Dillon. Ps love your channel.

[@patcap535]

I had the loadmaster for a couple years finally got rid of it and bought the Dillon 650 best thing I ever did. I’m mechanically inclined and could never get the press to run reliably.

[@doctor8342]

Same, I'm a master mechanic, can rebuild transmissions with my eyes closed, best day of my life was when I got rid of the Loadmaster and got a 650...