This blog article was posted at a much later date than when the original video was posted. As a result, prices, descriptions, product availability, etc. may differ between the two.
DISCLOSURE: This article may contain affiliate links. By clicking on them you help support me to put more content out with no additional cost to you. I paid for this product with my own money and was not paid nor influenced to do this review.
NOTE At the time of this writing the Lee Loadmaster has been discontinued and replaced with the Lee Six Pack Pro
Installing the Lee Loadmaster Explosion Shield
If you'd rather watch the full install process in action, you can watch the video here:
In this post, I’m walking through the installation of the Lee Loadmaster Explosion Shield and explaining why Lee recommends using it — especially if you’re running primers other than Remington or CCI.
Even if you stick to those brands, this is still a very inexpensive and smart safety upgrade for your press.
Why the Explosion Shield Matters
Lee specifically recommends installing the primer explosion shield when using non-Remington or non-CCI primers. That said, it’s honestly a good idea regardless of what brand you’re running.
The reason is straightforward.
If a primer detonates during operation, it can potentially cause a sympathy detonation — where other primers in the chute ignite as well. When that happens, you’re essentially dealing with a small explosion right in front of you.
The shield is designed to redirect and block that blast, helping protect your face and upper body from debris or flame.
Considering how close you are to the primer feed system while operating the press, that added protection makes sense.
What Comes with the Shield
My explosion shield came with:
- Self-tapping mounting screws
- The steel shield itself
On my Loadmaster, there were already screws installed in the factory mounting holes, so I removed those and used the included screws instead.
Installing the Shield
Installation is very straightforward.
The shield mounts to the two pre-drilled holes on the press and installs at a slight angle.
That angle is intentional.
There’s a warning printed directly on the shield that says not to permit persons, valuables, or flammable materials behind the shield. That’s because when you’re standing at the press, the shield is angled toward you, acting as a barrier between your face and the primer feed system.
Once installed, it does not interfere with normal press operation at all.
It’s a quick install that only takes a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those upgrades that just makes sense.
For roughly five or six dollars, you’re adding an extra layer of protection against something that doesn’t happen often — but when it does, it can be serious.
Think of it as cheap insurance for your face and hands.
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