The process of seating a primer is the final mechanical handshake between a reloader and their ammunition. While many choose to perform this task on a standard press, dedicated bench tools offer a level of “feel” and consistency that press-mounted systems often lack. The Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is engineered specifically for reloaders who demand high-volume throughput without sacrificing the tactile sensitivity required to detect crushed or improperly seated primers. This tool bridges the gap between the portability of hand primers and the brute strength of bench-mounted units, utilizing a unique mechanical linkage that transforms simple finger pressure into precise seating force.
Quick Info Block
- Tool Category: Bench-Mounted Priming System
- Operation Type: Manual Lever Action
- Mechanical Standout: Symmetrical Linkage for Ambidextrous Use
Best For: High-volume reloaders who prefer a stationary workstation and require maximum tactile feedback during the seating process to ensure primers are seated flush to 0.008-inch below the case head.
Technical Specifications & Market Pricing
The Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is constructed using a blend of Lee’s traditional red-finished aluminum alloy for the body and high-strength polymers for the feed system. It is designed to be a permanent or semi-permanent fixture on a reloading bench, though it is compatible with the Lee Bench Plate Kit for those who need to swap tools frequently.
| Field | Value |
| Model | Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool |
| MPN | 90700 |
| Materials | Aluminum Alloy Body, Steel Lever, Polyester Trays |
| Weight (lbs) | 1.25 lbs |
| MSRP | $48.98 |
| Approx. Street Price | $33.99-37.99 |
The value proposition of the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is significant. At a street price often under $40, it provides a dedicated priming station for less than half the cost of most competitors. While it requires the use of proprietary Lee Auto Prime Shell Holders, these are inexpensive and eliminate the need to constantly swap shell holders from your main reloading press.
Build Quality, Materials, and Ergonomics
The foundation of the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is its cast aluminum body, which provides a rigid mounting point to the bench. The 7.5-inch steel operating lever is positioned at the rear of the tool, allowing for a downward pull that is naturally ergonomic for most users. This design utilizes a sophisticated mechanical advantage; because the lever is long and the seating stroke is short, the reloader can “feel” the primer anvil bottoming out in the pocket with extreme precision.
Unlike many budget tools that use pot metal for high-stress components, the primary linkage in the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is steel. The ergonomic handle is shaped to prevent hand fatigue during sessions involving hundreds of cases, such as preparing bulk 223 Remington or 9mm Luger brass. One of the standout features is the water-clear tough polyester material used for the primer elevators. This transparency allows the user to visually verify that a primer is correctly oriented and staged before the seating stroke begins, a critical safety feature when working with sensitive components.
Comprehensive Setup, Calibration, and Operation
Setting up the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is straightforward. The tool features two mounting holes spaced specifically for the Lee Bench Plate system, though it can be bolted directly to any workbench using standard 1/4-inch bolts.
- Mounting: Ensure the tool is mounted at a height where the lever can achieve a full stroke without hitting the bench edge.
- Component Selection: The tool includes separate primer elevators and trays for small and large primers. Select the appropriate size for your caliber, such as large primers for 308 Winchester or small primers for 6.5 Creedmoor.
- Tray Loading: The folding primer tray is designed to take primers directly from the box. Simply place the tray over the primer box, flip it over, and give it a gentle horizontal shake to orient all primers anvil-side up.
- Operation: Insert a case into the Lee Auto Prime Shell Holder. Push the lever up to the rubber stop to stage a primer, then pull the lever down to seat it. You should feel the primer reach the bottom of the pocket.
Maintenance is minimal but essential for long-term accuracy. A tiny drop of oil on the main lever pivot pin every 2000-3000 rounds will keep the action smooth. It is also important to keep the primer elevators clean of any brass shavings or Spherical vs Extruded Powder residue, as debris can cause primers to feed at an angle.
Internal Brand Hierarchy
Within the Lee Precision ecosystem, the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool sits as the primary bench-mounted option for those who want a dedicated station.
- Lee New Auto-Prime: The classic hand-held version. It is portable but can cause hand strain during large batches.
- Lee Ergo-Prime: An upgraded hand tool with a long, ergonomic lever that uses the same trays as the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool.
- Lee Ram Prime: A press-mounted tool that uses standard shell holders but is significantly slower as it requires manual, one-at-a-time primer feeding.
- Lee Deluxe APP (Automatic Processing Press): The fastest option in the Lee lineup, designed for high-speed automated priming and de-priming, though it offers less tactile “feel” than the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool.
Competitive Market Analysis
The bench-mounted priming market is diverse, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end precision instruments. The Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool competes primarily on speed and value.
- Forster Co-Ax Bench Priming Tool: The gold standard for precision. It is much more expensive and uses a unique “3-jaw” shell holder system that requires no individual shell holders.
- RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool: A heavy-duty alternative that uses a primer tube feed system rather than a tray. It is more robust but slower to switch between primer sizes.
- Lyman Accu-Prime Auto-Load Bench Priming Tool: Similar in design to the RCBS, focusing on reliability and a vertical handle orientation.
- Hornady Versa-Prime Bench Priming Tool: A newer entrant that focuses on a large, easy-to-load tray and high visibility.
| Materials | Feed System | Versatility | Price Class |
| Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool | Aluminum/Polymer | Folding Tray | High (Fast) |
| Forster Co-Ax Bench Priming Tool | Cast Iron/Steel | Manual Feed | Moderate |
| RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool | Cast Iron/Steel | Tube Feed | High (Slow Switch) |
| Lyman Accu-Prime Auto-Load Bench Priming Tool | Cast Iron/Steel | Tube Feed | Moderate |
Real-World Feedback & Troubleshooting
Experienced reloaders on forums like Reddit and SnipersHide often praise the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool for its speed, noting that a hundred cases of 223 Remington can be primed in under five minutes. However, the use of plastic in the feed system is a common point of contention.
Pros:
- Exceptional tactile sensitivity for the price.
- Very fast cycle time with the folding tray system.
- Ambidextrous design is comfortable for all users.
Cons:
- Feed system components are made of styrene and can be fragile if forced.
- Requires proprietary shell holders.
- Struggles with Federal brand primers in tray-feed mode (see troubleshooting).
Troubleshooting:
- Primer Bridging: If primers hang up in the tray, a gentle tap on the side of the tray usually clears the bridge. Do not shake the entire tool violently, as this can cause primers to flip sideways in the elevator.
- Broken Plastic Ears: The “ears” on the primer elevator can break if excessive force is used on a jammed primer. If you feel resistance, stop immediately and clear the jam.
- Federal Primer Issues: Due to their sensitivity, Federal primers are prone to mass detonation in tray-feed systems. Lee officially recommends feeding these individually to ensure safety.
FAQ
Can I use standard press shell holders with this tool?
No, the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool requires the Lee Auto Prime Shell Holders. These have a different base diameter than standard press shell holders.
How do I adjust the seating depth?
Seating depth is controlled entirely by feel. Because of the high mechanical advantage, you will feel the primer anvil hit the bottom of the pocket. Stop at that point to avoid crushing the primer.
Is this tool compatible with large magnum primers?
Yes, it handles large and small primers of all types, including magnums for calibers like 7mm-08 Remington.
What if my primers are seating sideways?
This is usually caused by the tray not being fully seated or the primer elevator being worn. Ensure the tray “clicks” into place and that the tool is clean.
Does it work with military brass?
Yes, but you must remove the primer pocket crimp first. If you attempt to prime crimped military brass without swaging, you will likely break the plastic components of the tool.
Can I mount this to a portable board?
Yes, many users bolt the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool to a piece of 2×6 lumber and use C-clamps to secure it to any table.
How often should I clean the tool?
Clean the primer elevator every 1000 rounds to remove dust. Excess carbon or Single Base vs Double Base Powder residue can interfere with the smooth sliding of the plastic parts.
Conclusion & Expert Verdict
The Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool is an essential piece of equipment for the reloader who wants to move off the press for priming without spending over $100. It offers better ergonomics and speed than any hand-held tool while providing the sensitivity needed for match-grade ammunition. While the plastic feed components require a light touch, the overall reliability and efficiency of the system are unmatched at this price point.
Expert Pro Tip: To improve feeding reliability with smaller primers, lightly polish the internal ramp of the primer elevator with a high-grit sandpaper (1000-2000 grit) to remove any microscopic molding flash.
