Lee Turret Press - Good Single Stage Multi-Tool?

[Ugly Dwarf]

I do my loading on a Dillon 550B. It works great for that, but it's not ideal for single stage, one off operations (examples below) without buying a tool head for each operation or removing dies from an existing tool head.

This said, I've been considering buying a Lee Turret (3 or 4 hole) press. My plan would be to fill the holes with 1) universal decaper, 2) collet bullet puller and 3) bullet sizing die (I plan to start casting bullets this year). Depending on how many calibers I would be casting for, I would probably get a second turret.

1. Has anyone else tried what I'm suggesting here?
2. How did it work out?
3. Can you see any issues with what I propose?
4. Can you think of a better way to do it?
5. Can you think of a fourth function that would justify getting the four hole model over the three hole?

I'm always looking for a way to save a few bucks (if it doesn't cost too much in lost functionality), so I've also been considering the Lee Single Stage Press Kit with the included Lee Modern Reloading book. I've heard the book is a good source of information, and the cost of the book and press is about $10 more than just the book. I understand that this would have me threading the dies for each operation in and out each time, but I don't plan to move between operations frequently so the lost time would be minimized.

Anyone have experience with this kit and thoughts on these two alternative plans?

Thanks for your input.

Dwarf

[Mikeb]

I'm not a big fan of the book. Lee has his own ideas and attitude.(he's a little wierd about primers). But I had a Lee turret and made a bunch of ammo with it. It is pretty rigid. I gave it away when I got a Lee LoadMaster that I use now. Which I like.
I don't think you can lose.
Mike

[.454]

I use a Lee Turret Classic with auto indexer and I love it. All you need to do in order to use it as a single stage is to take the indexer out.

[Telperion]

If you get a Lee turret press, make sure it is the classic turret. It has a 4 hole turret, better construction (cast iron), and a superior primer disposal system. If you just want a single stage press you can also get the sturdier Lee classic cast press. $10 difference between it and the classic turret.

I also don't care much for Modern Reloading. Nothing new there that you won't find in other reloading manuals. The load listing looks like many loads were cribbed from other sources.

[jandmtv]

Redding T7 would solve your problem of not wanting to buying extra turret heads as its a 7 station press.

(on the right)

[Bruce3]

the classic turret is nice, easy to use and set up and extra turrets are only $10. i load 9mm and .223 and changing between the two are fast. you don't need to take the indexer out if you want to use it as a single stage. all you do is stop when the shell holder is about an inch from the bottom of the press.

[10fcp]

I use a classic turret for 357,44, and 40. It works great. Very afordable and real easy to use. I got mine at Kemphs gun shop, they have a great deal on their presses. It would be a good idea to get extra ratchet nuts as they do get worn out, they are made of nylon and when they get worn out the turret won't index right. Lukily they only cost 50 cents each.

[Ugly Dwarf]

Redding T7 would solve your problem of not wanting to buying extra turret heads as its a 7 station press.

Jandmtv,

Is what I described what you use your T7 for? I'm interested to know if I'm the first person to have the thought of putting all my single stage operations on one machine like described or if anyone else tried it? If someone else has done it, I'd be interested to know if it worked great, if they had issues (and solutions) or if it was too much hassle and they scrapped the whole plan?

I hadn't looked at the T7, but the seven stations would probably fill my needs quite well (I don't think I'll be sizing lead for more than four calibers any time soon). Based on my experience with their dies and their quality service (after some self induced issues), I'm a fan of Redding. On the other hand the T7 looks to be significantly more expensive and I don't know if the quality will translate across to the functions I'll be doing.

Any other thoughts out there?

Thanks,

Dwarf