Loading since 70s

[Steve]

Hi all, I started reloading using a Lee Loader for 30-06 in the early 70s. In the late 70s, maybe 80 I traded Richard Lee a nice looking old analytical balance for a turret press. I have absolutely no idea of how many rounds I have loaded. It's a lot. If I stick with it I might get it right any day now. (Wish I still had that scale.)

[Ranch Dog]

Very interesting Steve. I wonder what percent of Lee users started with the Loader? From what is reported here, it seem huge. I started with a 30-30 Win kit and still have it, haven't used it in a while but it is still as good as new despite the use!

Interesting about the analytical balance, he say what he was working on?

[Steve]

When I got that Lee Loader I picked up some 180 grain RN bullets, the place didn't have the powder the chart specified. So I bought some that the number was close. After a few nervous shots I decided I better talk to some one that knows what they are doing.

Each one of those first few shots required me beating on the bolt handle with my shoe to get it open. Turned out I was useing shotgun powder. Luck was with me, I didn't hurt the rifle, or myself. Went on to load a lot of ammo with that little loader, and got one for 357. Then the turret press I mentioned above.

I wore out the turret press, then rebuilt it a couple times. A friend of mine is useing it now, I was looking at it a few days ago. He should rebuild it again. I have no guess at how many rounds that thing has loaded.

[62chevy]

welcome aboard Steve. We'll be looking forward to what you have to say.

[akuser47]

It does seem to be a common starting point for many.

[larryw]

Wish I had my old 38 Spec Lee Loader. Got it in the
mid to late 60's & loaded literally thousands of
38 spec with it. It left me in a trade with my late
brother in law for an old Plymouth with a 225 slant 6.
That was my brother in laws start in handloading also.
Recently, in my sisters garage
in a box of his junk, I found the expander from
my old set, still has my initials in it, sure would
have liked to find the entire set, but the expander
sit's on the shelf with my measure & gives me a good
feeling when I see it.. OK, I'm done, & I know you are glad. LMAO
PS.. I also used it a couple times lately when I found a
couple that missed the expander, so, instead of changing dies
or getting the punch out, I used old reliable, That was a good feeling also.
OK, Now I'm really done..

[RBHarter]

I have a 38/357 and 32 Win special Lee Loaders . I just aquired the 5 hole progressive........ as I hang my head... I have a bench full of RockChuckers. The 32 was really the only way to get an accurate 32 Rem die w/o spending a mint.

[Ranch Dog]

Recently, in my sisters garage
in a box of his junk, I found the expander from
my old set, still has my initials in it, sure would
have liked to find the entire set, but the expander
sit's on the shelf with my measure & gives me a good
feeling when I see it.. OK, I'm done, & I know you are glad. LMAO
PS.. I also used it a couple times lately when I found a
couple that missed the expander, so, instead of changing dies
or getting the punch out, I used old reliable, That was a good feeling also.
OK, Now I'm really done..

Funny how something like that takes you back. I have all kinds of small "reminders" in my reloading room.