Mine in 45 Colt are about 20 years old and the inside finishing looks about the same.
The brass isn't touching anything other than the carbide insert ring, so it doesn't really matter.
He's telling you right. The carbide ring is the only thing that matters in the sizing die. As for Lee, I like their pistol dies better than a lot of other brands. This is mainly due to the carbide factory crimp die. Nothing better for crimping in my opinion.
