Lee 90106 Ram Prime Priming Tool Pistol/Rifle Universal

Precision Priming: Elevate Your Reloading with the Lee Ram Prime Tool

For every handloader, the quest for consistent, reliable ammunition is paramount. Whether you're aiming for sub-MOA groups at the range, ensuring reliable performance in the field, or simply enjoying the rewarding craft of building your own cartridges, the primer seating process is a foundational step that cannot be overlooked. Inconsistent primer seating can lead to misfires, hang fires, or compromised accuracy, undermining all the other careful steps in your reloading process. This is where a precision-engineered tool like the Lee Ram Prime Priming Tool, model 90106, becomes indispensable.

Designed for both pistol and rifle ammunition, the Lee Ram Prime offers an innovative approach to primer seating, focusing on tactile feedback and universal compatibility. If you've ever asked, "How can I achieve a more sensitive feel when priming cases?" or "What priming tool will work seamlessly with my existing single-stage press?" then this detailed exploration of the Lee Ram Prime is for you.

Why Consistent Primer Seating Matters: The Foundation of Reliable Ammunition

Before diving into the specifics of the Lee Ram Prime, it's crucial to understand why primer seating is so critical. The primer is the ignition source for your ammunition. It contains a small amount of explosive compound that, when struck by the firing pin, creates a spark to ignite the main propellant charge. For optimal performance, the primer must be seated to the correct depth – typically slightly below flush with the case head – and with uniform pressure.

• Safety: A primer seated proud (above flush) can increase the risk of an accidental discharge if the cartridge is dropped or jostled.
• Reliability: An inconsistently seated primer might not ignite properly, leading to a "click" instead of a "bang" (misfire), or a delayed ignition (hang fire), which can be dangerous and frustrating.
• Accuracy: Uniform primer seating contributes to consistent ignition, which in turn leads to a more consistent powder burn and predictable projectile velocity. This consistency is a cornerstone of tight groups and predictable ballistics, making every shot count.

The Lee Ram Prime directly addresses these concerns by providing a method that prioritizes consistency and control.

Introducing the Lee Ram Prime Priming Tool (UPC: 734307901066)

The Lee Ram Prime Priming Tool (MPN: 90106) is a robust, steel-constructed device designed to be used directly on your reloading press. Unlike hand priming tools or the priming systems built into some progressive presses, the Ram Prime utilizes the inherent leverage and stability of your press to provide a unique "up-stroke" priming experience. This design offers distinct advantages for reloaders seeking precision and a superior feel during the priming process.

This tool is not just another accessory; it's an enhancement for your reloading bench, compatible with virtually any single-stage press on the market. It's the same reliable tool often found bundled with Lee's popular Hand Press Kits, underscoring its versatility and ease of integration into any reloader's setup.

Key Features and Their Benefits for the Discerning Reloader

Let's break down the core features of the Lee Ram Prime and explore how each contributes to a more efficient, precise, and satisfying reloading experience.

1. On-Press Up-Stroke Priming: The Ultimate Tactile Feedback

This is arguably the most significant differentiator of the Lee Ram Prime. Instead of pushing primers in on the downstroke, where the main force of the press is typically applied, the Ram Prime seats primers as the press ram moves up.

• Enhanced Sensitivity: By priming on the up-stroke, reloaders gain an exceptional level of tactile feedback. You can literally "feel" the primer bottom out in the primer pocket, ensuring it's seated firmly and to the correct depth without over-camming or crushing. This intuitive feedback helps prevent common priming issues like high primers or excessively crushed primers, which can lead to misfires or compromised safety.
• Optimal Leverage: Your reloading press provides significant leverage, making the priming process effortless, even when seating tight primers. This combination of power and delicate feedback is hard to match with other methods.
• Consistency: The controlled up-stroke motion, guided by the precise mechanics of your press, promotes highly consistent primer seating depth across all your cartridges, contributing directly to more uniform ballistic performance.

2. Universal Press Compatibility: A Tool for Every Bench

One of the most appealing aspects of the Lee Ram Prime is its universal design. It is engineered to fit all brands of single-stage presses, utilizing standard 7/8"-14 threaded dies and the universal shell holders.

• No Brand Lock-in: You don't need a specific Lee press to use this tool. Whether you operate a Redding, RCBS, Hornady, Dillon, or another brand of single-stage press, the Ram Prime integrates seamlessly. This means existing reloaders don't need to invest in new primary equipment to take advantage of its benefits.
• Cost-Effective: This universal compatibility translates into significant cost savings. Instead of needing dedicated priming systems for different presses or calibers, the Ram Prime serves as a central solution for all your on-press priming needs.
• Streamlined Workflow: Switching between calibers or primer sizes is quick and intuitive, maintaining an efficient workflow regardless of your reloading volume or variety.

3. Includes Punches for Both Large and Small Primers: Versatility Defined

The Lee Ram Prime comes complete with easy-to-change punches for both large and small primers.

• Comprehensive Coverage: This single tool handles all common pistol and rifle primer sizes, eliminating the need to purchase separate tools or kits for different ammunition types. Whether you're loading .223 Remington, 9mm Luger, .30-06 Springfield, or .45 ACP, this tool has you covered.
• Quick Changeover: The design allows for swift and hassle-free changes between primer sizes, making it ideal for reloaders who work with a diverse range of calibers.
• Integrated Solution: Everything you need for priming both large and small primers is included in the package, providing a complete and ready-to-use solution right out of the box. The inclusion of primer guides, a shell holder, and the universal ram ensures you have the necessary components to begin priming immediately.

4. Robust Steel Construction with Silver Finish: Built to Last

Crafted from durable steel and finished in silver, the Lee Ram Prime is designed for longevity and consistent performance under the rigors of frequent reloading.

• Durability: Steel construction ensures the tool can withstand the repetitive forces of priming without bending, warping, or premature wear. This robust build guarantees years of reliable service.
• Consistent Performance: The sturdy material and precise machining maintain critical tolerances, ensuring that every primer is seated with the same consistency, shot after shot, year after year.
• Maintenance-Friendly: The finish helps protect against corrosion, making the tool easy to clean and maintain, ensuring it remains a staple on your reloading bench for decades.

Who Is the Lee Ram Prime For? Real-World Use Cases

The Lee Ram Prime (UPC: 734307901066) is an ideal tool for a wide range of reloaders:

• The Precision Shooter: For those demanding the utmost accuracy, where consistent primer seating directly impacts group sizes and ballistic uniformity. This tool provides the tactile feedback necessary for achieving optimal primer seating depth.
• The Beginner Reloader: Its straightforward operation and intuitive "feel" make it an excellent choice for newcomers learning the nuances of primer seating. It simplifies a critical step without overwhelming the user.
• The Volume Reloader (who values quality): While perhaps not as fast as dedicated progressive press priming systems, the Ram Prime offers a balance of speed and precision. For reloaders processing hundreds or thousands of rounds who still prioritize individual case quality, it's a fantastic option.
• The Reloader with Multiple Presses: If you own different brands of single-stage presses, the universal compatibility of the Ram Prime means you only need one priming tool, simplifying your setup and reducing clutter.
• The Cost-Conscious Reloader: Offering exceptional value for its performance and versatility, the Ram Prime delivers high-quality priming without breaking the bank.
• Anyone experiencing inconsistent priming: If you're struggling with misfires, hang fires, or high primers using other methods, the Ram Prime's sensitive feel might be the solution you've been searching for. It provides the direct feedback needed to troubleshoot and correct seating issues.

Comparing Priming Methods: Where the Ram Prime Excels

Reloaders have several options for seating primers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's briefly compare the Lee Ram Prime to other common methods:

• Hand Priming Tools: These are highly portable and offer excellent tactile feel. However, they can be fatiguing during high-volume sessions, and some users find the leverage insufficient for very tight primer pockets. The Ram Prime provides similar tactile feedback but leverages the power of your press, eliminating hand fatigue and providing ample seating force.
• Progressive Press Priming Systems: These systems are designed for speed, priming cases automatically as part of a multi-step operation. While incredibly fast for high-volume production, they often sacrifice tactile feedback, making it harder to detect inconsistent or improperly seated primers. The Ram Prime offers a more controlled and sensitive alternative for quality-focused reloaders who still want to use their press for priming.
• On-Press Priming Arms (built-in): Many single-stage presses come with a built-in priming arm. While functional, these can sometimes be cumbersome to load, and the feel might not be as precise or sensitive as the dedicated Lee Ram Prime, especially given its unique up-stroke operation. The Ram Prime typically offers superior ergonomics and feedback compared to these standard offerings.

The Lee Ram Prime carves out a unique niche by blending the superior tactile feedback of a hand priming tool with the effortless leverage and stability of a reloading press, offering a best-of-both-worlds solution for discerning reloaders.

Simplified Setup and Operation

Using the Lee Ram Prime is straightforward, requiring minimal setup:

• Installation: Simply thread the Ram Prime assembly into the top of your press, just like a standard die.
• Primer Selection: Choose the appropriate small or large primer punch and insert it into the tool.
• Shell Holder: Place the correct universal shell holder for your cartridge on the press ram.
• Priming: Place a case into the shell holder, insert a primer into the primer punch cup, and raise the press ram. As the ram ascends, the primer will be precisely seated into the case's primer pocket. The sensitive up-stroke action allows you to feel the primer bottom out perfectly.

Its intuitive design ensures that even new reloaders can quickly master the process of consistent primer seating.

Why Choose Lee Precision? A Legacy of Innovation

Lee Precision has been a cornerstone of the reloading community for decades, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and affordability. From groundbreaking inventions like the Lee Loader to modern progressive presses, Lee has consistently delivered tools that empower reloaders to produce high-quality ammunition safely and efficiently. The Lee Ram Prime Priming Tool (UPC: 734307901066) is a testament to this legacy, offering a simple yet incredibly effective solution for one of the most critical steps in the reloading process. By choosing Lee, you're investing in a product backed by a long history of serving reloaders worldwide, ensuring reliability and satisfaction for years to come.

In conclusion, for any reloader seeking to enhance the quality, consistency, and safety of their handloaded ammunition, the Lee Ram Prime Priming Tool (model 90106) is an exceptional investment. Its unique up-stroke priming action, universal compatibility, comprehensive primer size support, and robust construction make it an essential addition to any reloading bench. Experience the difference that precise, tactile-driven primer seating can make in your shooting performance.

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