Really noob question about dies. If I have a lee loader, can I use other brand dies?

[bballwizard05]

Basically what the title says. I have a Lee single stage kit, and I bought Lee 30-06 dies, my next set of dies will be 38sp, so do I have to buy Lee dies or can I buy another brand if a deal comes up?

[JNunez23]

They can be different brands, but they must be the same size. Good luck

[RazzB7]

Most dies are interchangeable. Check the thread size and pitch.

[XDRoX]

Yes. You can buy any brand dies. For the most part they're all the same size. Certainly any site selling reloading dies will be selling the ones you want.

[gau17]

They will fit as long as the dies have 7/8"-14 Threads

[the led farmer]

when you say lee loader do you mean this:

http://leeprecision.com/reloading-kits/lee-loader-rifle/

or this:

http://leeprecision.com/reloading-presses/single-stage/

the actual single stage press the answer is yes, but if you truly mean "lee loader" then the answer no

[Cowboy T]

They will fit as long as the dies have 7/8"-14 Threads

Yep, and this basically means almost any reasonably modern dies you encounter. The only notable exceptions are the Dillon Square Deal B (SDB), which uses Dillon-specific dies; and anything for the .50 BMG family of cartridges. For example, there are plenty of folks who use Lee's collet neck-sizing dies on their Rockchuckers, Lee pistol dies on RL-550B's, and Hornady die sets dies and powder cops on their Classic Turret Presses. I use RCBS's Primer Pocket Swager die on the cheapie little $30 Lee Reloader Press.

Gotta love standards sometimes.

[bballwizard05]

when you say lee loader do you mean this:

http://leeprecision.com/reloading-kits/lee-loader-rifle/

or this:

http://leeprecision.com/reloading-presses/single-stage/

the actual single stage press the answer is yes, but if you truly mean "lee loader" then the answer no

Good point, yes I meant single stage. Ok so looks like I can just get a set when I find a deal, thanks!

[klewan]

The deal is just buy more Lee dies. I think Hornaday is about the only company that comes close to Lee in price. Everybody else is close to double or more, so even if you get it half off, it's still about the same as a new Lee.

[bballwizard05]

The deal is just buy more Lee dies. I think Hornaday is about the only company that comes close to Lee in price. Everybody else is close to double or more, so even if you get it half off, it's still about the same as a new Lee.

Valid point. thx

[thomashoward]

They will fit as long as the dies have 7/8"-14 Threads

Yes

[RudyCakes]

I've been using a Lee press for 8 years and did not know this. Good info.