Lee Precision 45 ACP/Win Mag Powder Through Expanding Die - 90585

Master Your 45 ACP Reloading with the Lee Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die (90585)

For dedicated handloaders and shooting enthusiasts, the pursuit of precision, efficiency, and consistency in ammunition reloading is a continuous journey. Whether you're a seasoned veteran looking to streamline your process or a newcomer eager to produce reliable, high-quality 45 ACP rounds, optimizing each step is crucial. One of the most common challenges in reloading straight-walled pistol cases like the .45 ACP involves two critical, often separate, operations: expanding the case mouth to accept a bullet without deforming it and accurately charging the case with propellant. What if you could combine these steps, enhance your workflow, and achieve superior results with a single, intelligently designed tool?

Enter the Lee Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die 45 ACP (MPN: 90585). This innovative die from Lee Precision is engineered to fundamentally transform your 45 ACP reloading experience, offering a solution that not only expands the case mouth but simultaneously deposits a precise powder charge directly into the case. It’s a remarkable piece of reloading equipment designed to save you time, reduce the number of handling steps, and improve the overall consistency of your ammunition production.

What is a Powder-Through Expanding Die and Why is it Essential for 45 ACP?

A traditional reloading setup typically requires separate stations for belling (or expanding) the case mouth and dropping the powder charge. The Lee Powder Through Expanding Die cleverly merges these two functions into one seamless operation. As the ram raises the case into the die, the expanding mechanism flares the case mouth just enough to allow for easy bullet seating. Critically, during this same upward stroke, a compatible Lee powder measure (such as the Auto Disk or Pro Auto Disk Powder Measure) dispenses a pre-set charge of gunpowder directly through the die and into the prepared case.

Why is this particularly beneficial for 45 ACP? The .45 ACP is a large, straight-walled pistol cartridge known for its forgiving nature in reloading, but also for its relatively high powder volumes, especially with certain propellants. Efficiently and accurately getting that powder into the case is paramount. By combining expansion and powder drop, you:

• Streamline Your Process: Eliminate an entire station or step on your reloading press, significantly speeding up production, especially on progressive presses.
• Enhance Consistency: Reduce variations that can occur from multiple handling steps. The powder drops immediately after the case mouth is prepared, minimizing the chance of contamination or accidental powder loss.
• Improve Safety: Fewer manual interventions mean fewer opportunities for errors like double charges (though proper reloading practices and visual inspection are always vital). The direct-through design helps prevent powder spills around the press.
• Optimize Press Utilization: Free up a station on your progressive press for another operation, or simplify the sequence on a single-stage press.

This die is a workhorse, precision-machined from robust steel to ensure durability and a long service life, even under high-volume reloading conditions. It stands as a testament to Lee Precision's commitment to providing reliable, user-friendly, and cost-effective reloading solutions.

Who Needs the Lee Powder Through Expanding Die for 45 ACP?

This specialized die is ideal for a broad spectrum of reloaders:

• High-Volume Pistol Shooters: If you regularly shoot and reload thousands of rounds of 45 ACP for competitive shooting, training, or casual range time, the efficiency gains from this die are invaluable.
• Progressive Press Users: This die truly shines on progressive presses, allowing you to perform two critical operations in one station, greatly increasing your rounds-per-hour output.
• Single-Stage Press Users Seeking Efficiency: Even on a single-stage press, reducing the number of times you handle each case and reposition it between dies saves significant time and effort over a long reloading session.
• Reloaders Focused on Consistency: By integrating the powder drop with the expansion, you establish a more consistent flow for powder delivery and case preparation.
• Beginner Reloaders: Learning to reload can seem complex. Tools that simplify steps, like this powder-through die, can make the initial learning curve smoother and help establish good habits from the start.

Key Features and Benefits: Unpacking the Value

The Lee 90585 Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die isn't just an expanding die; it's a productivity enhancer. Let's delve into its core attributes:

• Simultaneous Case Mouth Expansion and Powder Drop: This is the defining feature. As the 45 ACP case enters the die, its mouth is flared to prevent bullet crumpling during seating. Concurrently, a precise powder charge from your connected Lee Auto Disk or Pro Auto Disk Powder Measure falls directly into the case. This "two-in-one" action dramatically reduces reloading time and effort.
• Designed for Lee Powder Measures: This die is specifically engineered to seamlessly integrate with the renowned Lee Auto Disk and Pro Auto Disk Powder Measures. These measures are celebrated for their simplicity, reliability, and consistent powder throws, making a perfect pairing with the powder-through die. It can also be used with a Lee Powder Funnel Adapter for manual powder charging if preferred, offering flexibility for different reloading styles.
• Precision-Engineered for 45 ACP: Caliber-specific design ensures optimal case mouth expansion for the .45 ACP cartridge, providing sufficient flare for smooth bullet seating without overworking the brass, which can shorten case life.
• Durable Steel Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of frequent reloading, the die is crafted from high-quality steel, promising longevity and consistent performance for years to come. This robust construction ensures the die maintains its precise dimensions, critical for accurate reloading.
• Reduces "Work-Hardening" of Brass: By providing just the right amount of flare, the die helps preserve the integrity of your brass cases. Excessive flaring can lead to premature case fatigue and cracking, shortening the usable life of your valuable brass. This die's design mitigates that risk.
• Minimizes Powder Spillage: The direct-through design means powder is dispensed directly into the case within the confines of the die body, significantly reducing the chances of spillage on your press or bench. This not only keeps your workspace cleaner but also helps prevent wasted powder.
• Part of a Comprehensive Reloading System: Lee Precision reloading equipment is designed to work synergistically. This die integrates perfectly into any Lee reloading press setup, from single-stage to progressive, enhancing the overall efficiency of your reloading bench.

Setting Up Your Lee Powder Through Expanding Die

Integrating the Lee Powder Through Expanding Die into your reloading process is straightforward. Here’s a general overview, though specific instructions will come with your die:

1. Mount the Die: Screw the die into the appropriate station on your reloading press. For progressive presses, it's typically positioned where you want to perform the expansion and powder drop simultaneously.
2. Adjust for Case Mouth Expansion: With an empty, sized 45 ACP case in the shell holder, slowly screw the die down until it makes contact with the case. Then, make small adjustments until you achieve the desired amount of flare on the case mouth – just enough to start a bullet by hand without resistance, but not so much that the brass is noticeably over-expanded.
3. Attach Powder Measure: If using a Lee Auto Disk or Pro Auto Disk Powder Measure, securely attach it to the top of the die using the provided adapter.
4. Calibrate Powder Charge: Follow the instructions for your specific powder measure to select or set the correct disk cavity or micrometers for your desired 45 ACP powder charge. Always verify charge weights with a sensitive powder scale.
5. Test and Verify: Run a few cases through the die, checking both the expansion and the powder charge weight. Make any final micro-adjustments to ensure consistency.

Remember, consistent application of lubricating resizing wax on your 45 ACP cases (if using carbide sizing dies, lubrication is often optional but can still be beneficial for smooth operation) and regular cleaning of your dies will ensure optimal performance and extend their lifespan.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting for Reloaders

Q: How does this die compare to a traditional expanding die?
A: A traditional expanding die only flares the case mouth. The Lee Powder Through Expanding Die also dispenses powder into the case during the same stroke, combining two operations into one. This significantly boosts efficiency, especially for high-volume 45 ACP reloading.

Q: Can I use this die on any reloading press?
A: Yes, it's compatible with any standard reloading press that accepts 7/8"-14 dies. Its design is particularly advantageous on progressive presses but offers benefits on single-stage and turret presses as well.

Q: What if I don't use a Lee Auto Disk or Pro Auto Disk Powder Measure?
A: The die comes with an adapter that allows you to use a separate powder funnel for manual powder charging if you prefer. However, its full efficiency is unlocked when paired with the compatible Lee powder measures.

Q: Will this die work with other calibers?
A: No, this specific die (UPC: 734307905859, MPN: 90585) is precisely engineered for the 45 ACP cartridge. Lee Precision offers similar powder-through dies for other calibers, each tailored to its specific cartridge dimensions.

Q: How do I know if I'm getting enough expansion for my 45 ACP bullets?
A: A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to start the base of the bullet into the expanded case mouth by hand with light thumb pressure. If the bullet wobbles excessively or if it's too tight to start without significant force, adjust the die accordingly. The goal is to prevent scraping or shaving lead/plating from the bullet during seating.

Q: Is cleaning necessary for this die?
A: Like all reloading dies, periodic cleaning is recommended to remove powder residue, carbon buildup, and any brass shavings. A soft brush and a solvent-soaked patch can typically clean the die bore and the expanding plug. Keeping the die clean ensures smooth operation and consistent results.

Trust in Lee Precision: A Legacy of Innovation

Lee Precision has been a cornerstone of the reloading community for decades, renowned for manufacturing innovative, high-quality, and affordable reloading equipment. The Lee Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die 45 ACP (90585) embodies this legacy, offering a thoughtful solution to a common reloading challenge. When you choose Lee, you're investing in tools that are designed by reloaders, for reloaders – tools that prioritize accuracy, safety, and efficiency.

Whether you're crafting match-grade 45 ACP ammunition or simply producing reliable rounds for the range, this die is an indispensable asset for optimizing your workflow. Its robust construction and intelligent design ensure it will be a reliable component on your reloading bench for countless reloading sessions.

Explore this essential reloading component and a full range of other Lee Precision reloading equipment, all available at DEGuns. Elevate your 45 ACP reloading experience and discover the difference that precision-engineered tools can make in your handloading journey.

Product Specifications: Lee Powder Through Expanding Pistol Die 45 ACP