4 Dies or 3?

**z662** · May 23rd, 2009, 04:52 PM

Hello, I just purchased a Lee Turret Press (4 stage) and looked around to buy a set of dies for it. I was curious to see what the difference was between using a 3 die set or a 4 die set, or if I was required to use a 4 die set since there are 4 holes on my turret press. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

**RJH245** · May 23rd, 2009, 05:23 PM

http://forum.pafoa.org/ammunition-re...4-die-set.html

This might help...

**z662** · May 23rd, 2009, 05:59 PM

Ok thanks a lot. I am not sure how I missed that thread but I appreciate the follow up. I think I will probably get a 4 die set since I will be using a revolver. Better safe than sorry I guess. Also, this may be a dumb question but can I reload both 38 special rounds and 357 magnum rounds with the same die set? I couldnt tell if the die sets were different or just marketed together. Thanks

**rwilson452** · May 23rd, 2009, 08:13 PM

I think the set that Lee markets now is for 38/357. you can load 357 with the older .38 set but not the other way around. Remember the only difference between the 38 brass and the 357 brass is 1/10" in length.

Originally Posted by z662

Ok thanks a lot. I am not sure how I missed that thread but I appreciate the follow up. I think I will probably get a 4 die set since I will be using a revolver. Better safe than sorry I guess. Also, this may be a dumb question but can I reload both 38 special rounds and 357 magnum rounds with the same die set? I couldnt tell if the die sets were different or just marketed together. Thanks

**bert** · May 25th, 2009, 12:08 PM

I prefer the 3 die set. The time saved with 3 dies is relevant to me and I find the accuracy of the crimp and seat in one die is o.k. Some .357/.38 and .44mag/.44 special dies come with a spacer to take up the difference in length of the cartridge.

**brian** · May 25th, 2009, 12:31 PM

Originally Posted by rwilson452

I think the set that Lee markets now is for 38/357. you can load 357 with the older .38 set but not the other way around. Remember the only difference between the 38 brass and the 357 brass is 1/10" in length.

lee makes two different .357/38's
the .38 dies will do .38spl and .357 mag

the .357 dies will do .357 mag and .357 maximum.