I got this to verify how -soft- lead is, not how hard. Finding a good source of pure lead to cast bullets for muzzle loaders can be a challenge. But with this tool an unknown sample can easily be checked, even by hand in the field if necessary. The measurement scale only goes to 0.10", but if the indentation goes to 0.10" or more then the lead is soft enough. The indentation tool is spring-loaded and applies the correct amount of pressure as long as it's not over-compressed. So it's possible to make a measurement in the field without a press if it's just to verify the softness of an unknown sample. A more precise reading can be done at home if necessary. One thing to note is that the microscope's optics can be disorienting since the image is reversed. Apparently in order to minimize costs, there's no corrective prisms in the microscope to get the image oriented properly. If the scope is moved to the right, the image also moves to the right. And if it's moved down, then the image also moves down. Once you understand this strange behavior it's not that hard to get the scope into the proper position.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This hardness tester is extremely easy to use and almost fool proof. The way that the indenter is spring loaded ensures consistent and repeatable readings. The scale on the eyepiece is clear and easy to read and only takes a little practice to get used to lining it up. There are aftermarket devices to steady it, but I found getting accurate readings very easy.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Like the title states, the tester seems accurate.It is however, extremely hard for me to line the scale up on the microscope with the dimple and get a clear sight picture. The scale seems to disappear and become blurry once lined up with the dimple. It takes me about 10 minutes each try to read the dimple. The included case is also merely a case for lee reloading dies she the microscope isn't held securely, just left to lay sideways. For the occasional tester I say go for it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This is the handiest tool for measuring Lead hardness that I have ever used. Simply place the tool in your press and adjust the height to make the indent in the lead sample and read the diameter of the indentation with the enclosed calibrated microscope and check the hardness on the enclosed data sheet. All you need to check the hardness is a hand press and the lead sample and of course the Lee tester. The lead sample needs to be filed flat to make a legible and consistent indentation by the tester. The only tricky part and it is very minor is that one has to keep the proper tension on the plunger for half a minute or so. Highly recommended for cost and accuracy.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
For the price you won't beat the quality and ease of use. The only problem is with the microscope, I would have paid a little more for Lee to put the extra lens in the microscope to correct the backwards view. You'll also need someway to hold the microscope since its to hard to hold steady enough to get a good measurement, I bought a small octopus type camera phone tripod and zip tied the scope to it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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