Lee Loader 30-30 Help

[TNsailorman]

I recently bought a Lee Loader in 30-30 and it is missing two the powder scoop. This is the old model with the cardboard box and foam tool tray inside. I don't know what the year is but I think I would have a scoop that will go with it if I knew the number of the scoop or the cc number of the scoop. The old models like I have had the numbered scoops. Since the load data sheet is missing also, and also the priming rod, I am going to have to try to find these. Any help would be appreciated, my Marlin 336 is waiting on food. James

[44Vaquero]

The correct Powder Measure is 2.2 and you can get a copy of the loading sheet from Lee.

[TNsailorman]

Thanks 44vaquero, I have found one of the old black plastic powder scoops, number 129, which is correct for the old 30-30's original and improved sets. Now I need to work on finding a .30 cal. priming rod and an original data sheet and I'm in business. I'm going to call Lee Monday and see if I can buy them. james

[r1kk1]

I would use a hand primer. The whack-a-mole arrangement can detonate primers when seating.

Take care

r1kk1

[mdi]

One method I like which lessens the primer pops is use a heavy deadblow hammer, and make sure the primer punch/spring/washer is free and clean. Mebbe it's the tap, tap, tap that sets off primers? I still use my Lee Loaders on occation and some times use one with an arbor press; about as fast as a single stage press and no primer pops.

[JCherry]

TNsailorman,

The old black scoop #129 is indeed correct. I have a copy of Lee's First Edition Reloading Handbook that has the 30-30 data information correct for the #129 scoop. I sent you an "e-mail", if you answer it I can send you a scanned copy of the appropriate page.

Have Fun,

JCherry

[TNsailorman]

JCHERRY, I will send you a reply and wait for your scanned copy. Thank you very much sir. james

[TNsailorman]

Popping a primer in the Lee loader is indeed an experience. By the time you say it, you have already done it. After I had popped a couple, I bought a wooden mallet, about 4" in diameter and 6" long. The handle is about 12" long. I started using a short length of 2 by 4 to set the lee tool on to seat the primer. It is fairly light but by using 3 or 4 light taps from the wooden mallet instead of trying to seat the primer in one blow, I haven't popped a primer in the last 40+ years (knock on wood here). Works for me anyway, james

[44Vaquero]

This should get you started! You may want to get a entire set of dippers.

[TNsailorman]

What loading manual is that? Is that Lee's?

[44Vaquero]

"What loading manual is that? Is that Lee's?"

Yes, it is circa 1997. There is a newer version available.

[TNsailorman]

emailed Lee Precision today and got all the missing items ordered. Reasonably price too. All is well. Thanks for the help fellow casters. james