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-   -   Which Press Do You Suggest? (https://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=643067)

1911 Shooter 11-11-2012 6:24 PM

Which Press Do You Suggest?
 
Hi, I'm considering getting into reloading with my son. I'll be reloading the following: 45 ACP, 9mm, 38 special, 223/556 & shotgun 12 gauge.
Which press do you guys recommend and where is the best place to purchase it. I live in So Cal, Inland Empire but will travel.
Thanks for your assistance.

Colt562 11-11-2012 6:26 PM

Well, couple questions

1. Whats your budget?
2. Progressive or single?

For shotgun you will need a completely different press.

1911 Shooter 11-11-2012 6:34 PM

I'm open to suggestions regarding a progressive press. Budget around $100-300

short circuit 11-11-2012 6:56 PM

I use and recommend the Lee Classic Turret press, it does pistol and rifle with equal ease, about 150-200 round an hour. I prepare bottleneck brass size and trim in batches then tumble before loading. I use the Lee delux double disk powder dispenser on the press to drop the powder.

It is a good press with the advantages of a single stage and the advantages of a multi stage al in one, and the turret plate is very inexpencive (for caliber changes)

Colt562 11-11-2012 6:56 PM

A lee turret press kit would best suit your needs and budget. I would link you one but I'm on my phone

drkphibr 11-11-2012 6:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1911 Shooter (Post 9705019)
I'm open to suggestions regarding a progressive press. Budget around $100-300

I don't believe you will be able to find a progressive press for under $300 and that would just be the press...no dies or plates. Plus, you'll need an entirely separate set up (press) for loading shotgun. Auto indexing with a Lee Classic Turret will give you better than single stage functionality but not true/full progressive. I'm sure plenty more folks will chime in here on this. With the 4 calibers you have listed, you're already over $100 in dies alone (averaging $30 per caliber or so).

short circuit 11-11-2012 7:01 PM

For a progressive press at least 4 or 5 stations would be best. A powder drop test die will keep from having under/over filled cases from getting loaded. Also a 5 stage progressive can be used to lube/trim the brass automaticly is desired (and a lighter wallet) :)

The brand would depend on your wallet and the desired features.
Happy reloading :)

short circuit 11-11-2012 7:04 PM

I really do recomend the Lee Classic Turret, You can not go wrong with it. Do not get the Lee Delux turret press as it is for pistol only and would not work well for rifle,

Wrangler John 11-11-2012 7:19 PM

I suggest considering something such as this for a start.

http://www.grafs.com/retail/catalog/...productId/7524

Lee equipment is the best value for a beginner, for $116 you get a good starter kit. You'll need a set of dies for each cartridge. Shotgun shells are usually loaded on a separate press designed for the purpose. Peruse this site to make yourself familiar with what is available. Lee dies are as good as any and a good bargain. http://leeprecision.com/

You should first purchase a loading manual, such as Lee's Modern Reloading 2nd Edition, Lyman's Manual or one from any of the bullet manufacturer's such as Sierra, Hornady, Nosler, etc. Online load data is available at www.hodgdon.com for all the Hodgdon and IMR powders and it's free. There is an extensive catalog of manuals and videos at http://www.midwayusa.com/find?newcat...ensionid=13924

Do a Google search on reloading videos and many free examples popup such as http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DP4p6HEEEUM

BigBronco 11-11-2012 7:22 PM

How much ammo you plan to laod every month? If not loading mas quantities. A single station like a rock chucker will serve you well.

1911 Shooter 11-11-2012 7:24 PM

Thanks for the help guys,the Lee Classic Turret has been highly recommended. However, a progressive is tempting as I don't want to be looking for another press in a year or two. I can raise my budget. Please let me know again your thoughts, stay with the Lee or move to a progressive press?
Thanks again

call-in 11-11-2012 7:24 PM

Lee turret press kit: http://www.cabelas.com/product/1374275.uts
Extra turrets: http://www.cabelas.com/product/740034.uts (optional: one for each caliber)
Dies: http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/brows...195+4294771112
Bullet Puller: http://www.cabelas.com/product/706430.uts
Cabela's coupons: http://www.slickguns.com/product/cab...rs-150-or-more
Caliper: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019O6OCO

Those along with components should get you started. If you're using range pickups you might consider a tumbler and media separator but those are not necessary.

call-in 11-11-2012 7:24 PM

Lee turret press kit: http://www.cabelas.com/product/1374275.uts
Extra turrets: http://www.cabelas.com/product/740034.uts (optional: one for each caliber)
Dies: http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/brows...195+4294771112
Bullet Puller: http://www.cabelas.com/product/706430.uts
Cabela's coupons: http://www.slickguns.com/product/cab...rs-150-or-more
Caliper: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019O6OCO

Those along with components should get you started. If you're using range pickups you might consider a tumbler and media separator but those are not necessary.

Wrangler John 11-11-2012 7:27 PM

I suggest considering something such as this for a start.

http://www.grafs.com/retail/catalog/...productId/7524

Lee equipment is the best value for a beginner, for $116 you get a good starter kit. You'll need a set of dies for each cartridge. Shotgun shells are usually loaded on a separate press designed for the purpose. Peruse this site to make yourself familiar with what is available. Lee dies are as good as any and a good bargain. http://leeprecision.com/

You should first purchase a loading manual, such as Lee's Modern Reloading 2nd Edition, Lyman's Manual or one from any of the bullet manufacturer's such as Sierra, Hornady, Nosler, etc. One line load data is available at www.hodgdon.com for all the Hodgdon and IMR powders and it's free. There is an extensive catalog of manuals and videos at http://www.midwayusa.com/find?newcat...ensionid=13924

Do a Google search on reloading videos and many free examples popup such as http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DP4p6HEEEUM

Colt562 11-11-2012 8:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1911 Shooter (Post 9705338)
Thanks for the help guys,the Lee Classic Turret has been highly recommended. However, a progressive is tempting as I don't want to be looking for another press in a year or two. I can raise my budget. Please let me know again your thoughts, stay with the Lee or move to a progressive press?
Thanks again

How much do you want to raise it? If you want the best go for a Dillon 550 or 650. (Waiting for yet another red vs. blue person). I have the 550. Now to get started with that its going to be around 600.

TAS 11-11-2012 9:24 PM

I originally started out with the RCBS Rock Chucker knowing that I would eventually move on to a progressive. For me, it was a great way to learn the fundamentals of reloading before moving on to something bigger. Even though my primary machine is now a Dillon 650, I still use the Rock Chucker just as much for load development or for those tasks that don't warrant changing out the Dillon's current set up.

Based on my own experience, I would suggest starting out with a single stage (like the Rock Chucker), even if you plan on going to a progressive later on. Even if you decide to sell it later on, you could get most of your money back on it. You might find out though that you would still want to keep it around.

I'm set up for multiple calibers but either the RCBS or Dillon will handle your 45 ACP, 9mm, 223/556 and 38, plus a whole lot more. I can't comment on the 12 gauge though - you'll need a separate setup for that. I've used Cabelas for most of my RCBS needs but I went to Dillon directly for their stuff.

Good luck on your search / decision.

damndave 11-12-2012 2:47 AM

I would get a Lee Classic Turret in that budget. Roughly $200 will get you setup for 1 caliber. Then you can add more calibers by getting new die sets.

If you are leaning towards a progressive, you will be looking a $500-600 budget if you choose to go with a Hornady or Dillon.

For 223/556 reloading you need a bit more stuff on top of what you already have for pistol. Case trimmer, chamfer/deburr tool etc.

You still need to factor in the costs for a tumbler, calipers, scale, case gauges etc.

To reload shotgun, you need a entirely different press.

fcr 11-12-2012 8:14 AM

Brian Enos has an easy buy package that will get you started, it is for a Dillon 550 and it isn't in your price range. You can get an idea of what you need from that. google the name and go to his product pages for dillon.
There are many threads on this subject, check the stickies up top. Not sure if one is posted there.

Oceanbob 11-12-2012 8:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1911 Shooter (Post 9705338)
Thanks for the help guys,the Lee Classic Turret has been highly recommended. However, a progressive is tempting as I don't want to be looking for another press in a year or two. I can raise my budget. Please let me know again your thoughts, stay with the Lee or move to a progressive press?
Thanks again

I love that you and your son will be reloading together. My kids reload with me and on their own (some are adults now). Watch out for the 'Hey Dad, got any .40 boolets I can borrow..?...hehehe....

I sense that as your-new-interest in reloading is evolving, you're thinking about the future. Most people start out with a single-stage set up (a couple hundred bucks) and get the equipment they need that they use on whatever press they 'evolve' too. Some people are fine with a starter set, single stage and leave it the same over the years. I did that. But once I made the decision that I am a Gun-Nut and ammo cost money so I had better invest in a GOOD machine that will last a lifetime, I moved to a DILLON PRECISION machine.

These machines hold 90% of their cost over decades. So I don't consider it a capital investment with money lost, I consider it an investment that I can recoup later if I desire. (at least that's what I told the wife. ;) )

I run two Dillon's and several calibers. I have 5 kids, 2 boys and 3 girls and everyone of them can make ammo. I have one left at home now she shoots and reloads with me and 1 grandson who comes over to reload on Saturday morning before we all go to the shooting range together. They earn their ammo by making it. :D

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colt562 (Post 9705879)
How much do you want to raise it? If you want the best go for a Dillon 550 or 650. (Waiting for yet another red vs. blue person). I have the 550. Now to get started with that its going to be around 600.

This^^^^..Go BLUE...hahaha.. Call up Dillon Precision and get their monthly free catalog. Go ahead and get the single-stage less expensive set up; build some ammo with your son and if you decide that you're in guns and shooting sports for a lifetime, then move up to a DILLON. You won't regret it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by fcr (Post 9707676)
Brian Enos has an easy buy package that will get you started, it is for a Dillon 550 and it isn't in your price range. You can get an idea of what you need from that. google the name and go to his product pages for dillon.
There are many threads on this subject, check the stickies up top. Not sure if one is posted there.

Brian is the man: (free shipping and usually has something added no charge)

http://brianenos.com/pages/dillon.html

I have a Dillon 1050 and a Dillon 550B with case feeder. No need for a case feeder really so don't spend that money on the 550B.

Read the link carefully. Good Luck.

gotglock99 11-12-2012 11:01 AM

Go with the Hornady LNL AP, can't go wrong with this press. You will be able to make lots of different calibers!

Bill Steele 11-12-2012 11:38 AM

I love my Dillon 550B. It will last the rest of my life and is as trouble free as any reloading piece of equipment I have ever used.

If you want to stay in your original budget, you cannot go wrong with a Lee Classic Turret (the Classic part is important).

For shotgun, you can get your feet wet with a Lee Load-All. Like $50 for the press. You will likely spend more experimenting with wads than the press will cost. If you are just loading for clays, I would stick with Remington Gun Clubs on sale, hard to load them for less.

Lead Waster 11-12-2012 11:44 AM

A Lee Classic Turret will never ne useless. If you want to jump to progressive right away, I highly suggest the Dillon 550B or the Hornady Lock N Load.

Disclaimer: I have the Dillon 550B.

As for budget, consider that you are creating consumable items and you will need to buy consumables anyway (powder, bullets, primers). The cost of the press will be a non-factor in the years to come. The 550B is less expensive to change calibers than the 650xl, but more than the turret press.

chozenfew805 11-12-2012 1:07 PM

Dillon RL 550B was what I decided to start off with. I shoot about 3 times a week approximately 1500-2500 a month. That's between 9mm, 40s&w, 45acp, and .223 but my original budget was $900 and ended up spending about $1400. If you do go with Dillon I recommend using http://brianenos.com/store/dillon.html.

call-in 11-12-2012 2:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chozenfew805 (Post 9709439)
Dillon RL 550B was what I decided to start off with. I shoot about 3 times a week approximately 1500-2500 a month. That's between 9mm, 40s&w, 45acp, and .223 but my original budget was $900 and ended up spending about $1400. If you do go with Dillon I recommend using http://brianenos.com/store/dillon.html.

Egad! :eek:

With that much volume I'd definitely won't mind spending the $$, but for a <500 rounds per month habit, my classic turret is doing me well, an hour a week is not too bad.

Mutant 11-12-2012 8:49 PM

Had the Lee, replaced it with the Redding T-7. Never looked back. A Ferrari vrs a Monte Carlo. Now have two Reddings and four heads.

Redding much more solid than the Lee. Head holds more. Leverage tons better.

Everything stronger. Indexes more precisely. For me there is no choice - except price, which can matter. If really strapped, the Lee works fine but not as professional or versatile as the Redding. If you can, I suggest going straight up to the Redding T-7.

MIAMIbaseballer 11-13-2012 3:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Oceanbob (Post 9707846)
I love that you and your son will be reloading together. My kids reload with me and on their own (some are adults now). Watch out for the 'Hey Dad, got any .40 boolets I can borrow..?...hehehe....

I sense that as your-new-interest in reloading is evolving, you're thinking about the future. Most people start out with a single-stage set up (a couple hundred bucks) and get the equipment they need that they use on whatever press they 'evolve' too. Some people are fine with a starter set, single stage and leave it the same over the years. I did that. But once I made the decision that I am a Gun-Nut and ammo cost money so I had better invest in a GOOD machine that will last a lifetime, I moved to a DILLON PRECISION machine.

These machines hold 90% of their cost over decades. So I don't consider it a capital investment with money lost, I consider it an investment that I can recoup later if I desire. (at least that's what I told the wife. ;) )

I run two Dillon's and several calibers. I have 5 kids, 2 boys and 3 girls and everyone of them can make ammo. I have one left at home now she shoots and reloads with me and 1 grandson who comes over to reload on Saturday morning before we all go to the shooting range together. They earn their ammo by making it. :D



This^^^^..Go BLUE...hahaha.. Call up Dillon Precision and get their monthly free catalog. Go ahead and get the single-stage less expensive set up; build some ammo with your son and if you decide that you're in guns and shooting sports for a lifetime, then move up to a DILLON. You won't regret it.



Brian is the man: (free shipping and usually has something added no charge)

http://brianenos.com/pages/dillon.html

I have a Dillon 1050 and a Dillon 550B with case feeder. No need for a case feeder really so don't spend that money on the 550B.

Read the link carefully. Good Luck.

This sums everything up very well! Check out the 550 and 650 and use Brian Enos. It will save you lots on shipping...

Cowboy T 11-13-2012 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1911 Shooter (Post 9705019)
I'm open to suggestions regarding a progressive press. Budget around $100-300

In that budget, Lee's Progressive 1000 ("Pro 1000") is a good choice. I use two of them, one for .38/357, and one for the .44's and .45 Long Colt. This is due to small primer vs. large primer, and given the Pro 1000's price, I could easily afford both presses. I can turn out lots of excellent ammo in a hurry.

Here's an example of its affordability. Includes dies, too. Should you go this way, get the red case collator that goes at the top of those tubes.

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/351...ess-kit-45-acp

Quote:

Originally Posted by chozenfew805 (Post 9709439)
Dillon RL 550B was what I decided to start off with. I shoot about 3 times a week approximately 1500-2500 a month. That's between 9mm, 40s&w, 45acp, and .223 but my original budget was $900 and ended up spending about $1400. If you do go with Dillon I recommend using http://brianenos.com/store/dillon.html.

I did close to that much shooting as well when I first got started, between .38/357 and .45 LC. Now I'm down to about 1,000/month, including .22LR. Any progressive press will do the trick. Dillon RL-550B's are certainly good presses; I've used one before. Haven't tried the Hornady LnL AP, but I've tried their single-stage recently (very solid). Really, all the major manufacturers make good gear. It's like someone else said previously, "how much ya wanna spend."

ALL THAT SAID....

I really think you (the OP, that is) ought to start with a single-stage press and a hand primer, so you learn what you're doing. Learn each step, what to look for, the proper feel, weighing charges, etc. This experience has saved me more than once from both squibs and double-charges.

Once you get started, you'll know what your ammo needs are going to be, and you'll be better equipped to decide "turret or progressive", or not to "upgrade" at all. Either way, your single stage will not go to waste. I have my original single-stage, the Classic Turret, and two Pro 1000's on my bench. All of them get used quite frequently; not one of them has "gone to waste".

maschronic 11-13-2012 10:13 AM

i started reloading with Dillon 550. it was the best choice that i have ever made!!! never and issue...except for user error. haha.

some will say that you should start reloading with a single stage press. my suggestion is to start off with a progressive!! it will be harder in the beginning. once you get used to it, you will be glad that you got a progressive press.

nyc71 11-13-2012 5:55 PM

1 Attachment(s)
I own a LnL & the 550b, the LnL is a hit or miss. I had to sent the LnL back to Hornady for them to fix the issues it was having. The press now functions as it should, the only problem I have with the 550 is I can't load .308 with dropping excess powder. I load 38/.357, 44spl/44mag, 45acp/45c, .41mag, & 6.8 spc. Again this only happens with the .308.
Attachment 179246
From my experience I would go with the 550b.

1911 Shooter 11-13-2012 7:18 PM

Thanks for the ino., which press do you suggest? I considered the Hornady but now I'm hearing a lot about the Dilion.
Thanks for your help.

MIAMIbaseballer 11-14-2012 3:40 AM

Dillon 550 or 650... The differences is the 650 has auto indexing, an extra die station, made for the case feeder, and powder check system option. Watch some of these videos on youtube to get an understanding of how the 650 works.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm8JLmflvrw (45)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eouHsj9Khw (9mm)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7zm96KS7QU (223)

the86d 11-14-2012 3:47 AM

A blue one with an auto-indexing feature if you have the money... and plan on reloading a LOT of ammo.

A Lee or RCBS is your funds are limited and if you have a tone of time to kill, and "progress(ive)" at a later date when you wish to crank out some QTY.

Cowboy T 11-14-2012 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1911 Shooter (Post 9718640)
Thanks for the ino., which press do you suggest? I considered the Hornady but now I'm hearing a lot about the Dilion.
Thanks for your help.

Remember, safety first. You do not want to end up with squibs and/or double-charges, and a newbie starting out with a progressive press--any progressive press--is more likely to fall into that. Crawl before you walk.

If and when you decide to go progressive, having that single-stage on your bench will continue to prove handy, rest assured. Also remember, those progressive vendors will always be there ready to sell you one of their presses. You have time to learn how to do it right, first.

Kappy 11-14-2012 3:38 PM

For that range? Lee Pro1000 or the turret.

gotglock99 11-15-2012 2:16 PM

Hornady LNL AP!


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