Which Reloading Press should I buy - How to pick the reloading press that is right for you

[@hankbrinlee4677]

"Buy once, cry once!"...there's a life lesson right there, well presented!

[@xelalex35]

I also like "By nice or by twice " :p

[@ninjaswordtothehead]

This has saved me so much money and heartache.

[@rivec33]

Bought a Lee challenger single stage kit with a set of Dillon and rcbs die kits for 223 (dillon) and 9mm(rcbs) for $50 from a coworker who was just trying to get rid of it. Was never into reloading but I couldn’t pass it up. Figure the dies would be worth it by themselves and if I like reloading I can just get a better press in the future.

[@carbonunit57]

Buy once cry once has been my philosophy forever. I Iook at number of uses when I buy something. If it only gets used a couple of times, I'll buy cheap. If I plane on using it a lot over many years, I buy based on value.

[@jasonrippentrop7314]

You have no idea how much this video actually helped. I want to start reloading and I've been trying to find different videos' that will give me basic information about presses; what to look for what to maybe steer clear of, what I just don't even need to consider currently for just small time reloading. You were straight to the point, didn't just outright favor one or the other and gave what I feel was a nice neutral presentation on the basics.

[@hardball107]

Ebay can be your best friend. If your just doing pistol and say 223 you can get a Lyman Spartan press for $50-$60. Gun shows abound with dies, scales and anything else you'll need for 25c on the dollar. My advise, spend your money on a good beam powder scale. Most important.

[@bradleyswasey6778]

Dillon's customer service is awesome. But I have to say, I used a Hornady lock and load ap for several years and their customer service is really good. They really stand behind their product as well.

[@gunholder67]

Started with a Rock Chucker to learn on. Went to a Dillion 550b, then a Dillion 750. Use the 550 for small primers, the 750 for large primers, and still use the Rock Chucker for precision rifle.

[@Xx0ME0xX]

yeah, i was surprised he didn't mention the RCBS rock chucker. My dad has used one for about 30 years, so has my uncle. I ended up getting one myself recently that was my great uncles. I dont believe that it's too easy to beat for a single stage press. Especially if you're reloading hunting rounds for accuracy. There isn't much need for anything else if you only want to load 10-20 rounds at a time for accuracy and quality.

[@robertfree1908]

It’s videos like this that help out ALL reloaders. For some of us that are new it’s certainly advice we need. For others it’s advice we can pass on to those with little or no experience. Some like younger family members we’d like to see learn these things. And watch them develop a sense of pride in what they do. And a benefit in many cases where it helps people of all ages lose that ridiculous, indoctrinated fear of firearms. Not even the feeling that comes with a well culminated hunt compares to the pride one feels in setting a person new to shooting on the path of a great shoot and knowledgeable reloader. Thank you so much, Bolt Action

[@BoltActionReloading]

Thank you Robert! Your comment is much appreciated!

[@xnorcal831x]

I had got handed down a couple dillon presses two 550 and a sdb. There was some parts that was just not working anymore. They sent out new parts without asking or needing money. Super cool to see how easy the customer service was.

[@sisleymichael]

I started out with a Lee turret press. Years ago, I was reloading nothing but handgun. It does that task well. I then bought a Lee classic single stage for rifle. It has done well. My needs are met. No issues or problems. The Lee OAL gauge is one tool every rifle reloader needs to make ammo tailored to each individual rifle. It is responsible for my getting the most from my bolt action rifles. It made all the difference. Good video.

[@BoltActionReloading]

Hi Mike glad you enjoyed the video. Can I assume you mean the Hornady OAL gauge?

[@ronaldjohnson1474]

Nope, I have the same item from Lee. It doubles as the trimmer gauge.

[@sisleymichael]

@@ronaldjohnson1474 I'm referencing the device that allows you to push the bullet forward to the lands and grooves to take up the freebore. Yes, the Lee trim gauges are nice. They work fine. Can't recall the name of the darn thing.

[@garrytalley8009]

Great advice for a beginner looking to buy. I started out with a RCBS Rock Chucker set and have had a few in between my Dillon 550. What I love about the Dillon is the fact you can run just the stages you want. You can do single stage to multiple stages depending on how you set it up. You can always remove pins in order to just put the cartridge in and remove it for just one stage if you like. I usually hand prime everything and weigh my charges. I sometimes just size the brass in the first stage after cleaning primer pockets, trimming deburring chamfering and repriming remove the pin in the second station after putting powder in the cases and progressively seat and sometimes crimp the bullet. 223's I actually use a Dillon powder measure in that station because it is ball powder and meters well. It's very versatile. I don't really pump the ammo out fast though. It is more important to get it right. I do also use neck sizing dies in the first station for some of my bolt guns. What I do is after years of reloading and certainly would not suggest a beginner even try until they have reloading entirely figured out. I do have all my dies set up on toolheads as well, too many to mention.

[@tuckerjl]

So true no one press is perfect for everything or everyone!! I use a Dillon progressive for all my pistol reloading and a Lyman turret for my two rifle calipers!!

[@GB-zi6qr]

Good video, covers most of what I was looking at when considering getting into reloading. I picked up the Lee Classic Turret for several reasons. Cost was the main reason, less than $500 included 3 sets of dies and 2 additional turret heads. As far as precision loading, this has helped me reduce 100 yrd groups from 2 - 2.5 inches to 1- 1.5 inches in an entry level MSR. COAL length can differ by about .005 inch. I may need a different seating plunger to better fit the projectiles. Have to say that overall I'm happy with it. I load about 100/hr with little problem. I'd recommend getting a separate de-burring tool. Just depends on how precise you want to go in your reloading.

[@GB-zi6qr]

So, 3yrs later and I'm still on the same press. For how I reload, I made the right choice. I've been successful in finding loads that help make my marksmanship what I was looking for. There is a down side, now I've become an ammo snob. Yes factory loads do work but I get better accuracy with my handloads. I do buy factory ammo, mainly for verification and new brass. The problem with this is that the factory offerings do cost more than what I'm loading, even now. Thank you Bolt Action Reloading for the content you make.

[@ronboe6325]

"Buy once, cry once" is great advice but in many cases it implies a certain amount of wisdom and for first time buyers - that wisdom has not been learned yet. So spending a little at the beginning (Lee or used) will be the way to go. Once you get some experience under your belt then you will know in what direction you want to head off in. If your budget allows. Even our shooting styles/habits can change so what once was a very useful reloading scheme can fall short if you switch, say from deer hunting to bullseye or combat shooting. Or the other way around. But if you build up a good kit, most of that kit will serve a different press(es) if needs dictate a change.

[@robertfree1908]

Used is a very good option. So much out there. If you can stay away from E-“charge-lot”-Bay. Speaking of Lee their hand press, imo, is a must have. So inexpensive. So very useful if space is a major limiting factor. I learned on it and a pre-supreme Rock Chucker back in the early 90s. Still have both. The T7 and the Lock and Load AP didn’t replace their utility. To date my most accurate loads have been a 50/50 split between the former 2 presses. Some close-to-undesirable runout with the Hand Press occasionally but found no fault at the range with the loads

[@hardball107]

Good video and suggestions. I have helped many family and friends over the years start reloading and I often buy used. My advise, stick to a single stage to start. They're the most rugged and I've never seen one with a loose ram. I just bought an old Lyman Spartan press for $15 at a flea market, great C frame press for pistol and 5.56x45. Just the piece for my nephew who wants to feed his Glock and AR. Last gun show I picked up a RCBS Uni-Flo powder measure with stand for $50. Beam scales abound for $20-$25 and I have a set of certified weights to check and adjust them. Lee equipment is awesome like hand primers and brass trimmers when set up properly, just takes a little thinking outside the box. I bought a $9 308 trimmer and a $6 power adaptor for it so I could lock it into a small drill press I have. I set the stop to the proper dimension and 200 trimmed rounds an hour is doable. I even found Dillon SDB in 357 Magnum in a barn for $200, couldn't get the cash out of my pocket fast enough, needed a cleanup and a few new parts that Dillon covered but it keeps my GP100 and Rossi 92 carbine well fed despite the little bit of rust here and there. Once you decide on calibers, amounts of output and precision needed a person can make an educated decision on new equipment. The older stuff can still do duty elsewhere or be passed along, the equipment sure ain't gettin' any cheaper.

[@additudeobx]

Good video. It confirms all those initial startup what-if's ands and buts and provides a focused result.

[@BoltActionReloading]

Thank you.

[@CalmBeforeTheStorm76]

Sold. I've been using a single stage MEC for a few years now. I never knew the co-ax could do that. I'm sold on it. Just bought one online. 😁

[@CalmBeforeTheStorm76]

Thanks for the like. Your channel is the best reloading channel I've found on KZbin. No BS. No extraneous information. Just a lot of time and effort on your part to collect a lot of incredibly useful data. Because of your channel, I now have much more faith in my federal primers (I would always be bummed finding federal vs CCI-- but from what I can tell, federal are slightly more consistent when looking at all types).

[@CoachKalu]

Congratulations, and enjoy that Co-Ax press.

[@bustabass9025]

Rock Chucker II single stage press kit. Thirty years and only hundreds of rounds later, it is as valuable as my Tundra SR5. Thinking about adding a turret press. I load mostly magnum rifle and pistol rounds. Don't need to crank out a thousand of 'em at a single sitting.

[@mikehenthorn1778]

Good video sir. I started with a lee single stage kit. I still use it for small runs and rifles. I picked up a used lee turret press, old classic they have changed. I run 9mm in that or anything else that I keep in a 3lb can of empty brass. Both work great for me and make good ammo. I enjoy the fact that you can make the classic turret press manual indexing if you want. I find I am faster that way then when the rod rotated the head. Then again I'm a lefty so that might be why it works for me.

[@erikjensen6503]

I started with Lee original, upgraded to a basic Dillon 550B. Upgraded the 550 with accessories. Yes there is more to change caliber conversion kit and dies but it is awesome and makes precision ammo! I would recommend the 550 as a starter of you can afford it. Not difficult to learn and cranks out ammo. I average about 200 rounds an hour going slow and steady, checking every charge visually. In sure if you crank you could easily get 400 plus an hour if you needed. It will also load all my pistol and rifle calibers.

[@davelaneve2446]

We shoot thousands of rounds every month with handguns and ARs, running defensive drills. Use a Dillon progressive set up to reload that ammo. For my PRS rounds and defensive ammo, I use a single stage.

[@taylorbokshowan5713]

It’s possible to load very consistent ammo on a Dillon. Check out F class John and Erik Cortinas videos

[@bigjoe-pm2ql]

Rcbs has excellent customer service as well, there products are top shelf.

[@carlcauch2413]

Me I prefer a single stage press. One step at a time, a solid frame and with the care I take in brass prep and powder measure along with primer is what’s for me makes my ammo the closest to match grade I can get. Yes it is a pain to have to change dies at each step but we’ll worth it to be able to reach out to 300 yard and beyond with confidence in your ammo to be the same round to round.

[@davidabernathy4553]

I purchased a Lee loadmaster press because I wanted a progressive press that wouldn't break the bank but if I had it to do over I would have just started with a Dillon 750.

[@markp6062]

Great 101 class here. Thanks for posting it. Learned quite a bit that was missing from some of the other beginner vids.

[@TexasTrained]

I started out reloading with a Dillon 550C for high volume 9mm pistol & 223 Rem AR15 ammo, Then bought a Hornady Lock N Load Single stage for some rifle ammo .After that I got a K & M Precision Arbor Press with Dial Indicator for Seating Pressures/Neck Tension for my 6.5 PRC Competition Ammo. I had wanted a Forster Co-Ax or the Frankford Arsenal Co-Ax Press. The Forster had been on backorder for so long. My friend has a Frankford Arsenal and he loves it so I bought it when it came off back order. Its made so well and I love it. Great Video..Thank you

[@friendlyfire01]

I like not wasting time or setting things up again, so the lock n load progressive press is fantastic for me. I got bushings to lock dies where I want them in an instant. This negates a lot of the setup you spoke of with progressives, if you have dies ready to lock in and a plate at the ready, setup for a new caliber is nothing. I definitely load for quantity though, enjoy the ability to pump out a fully loaded bullet from a bare brass case on every pull of the lever.

[@daviddale3624]

For most of us, it's how much time will it take me to reload a "box" of ammo. In the beginning I saved my purchased boxes and all the packing that came with them in one big box. When I finally purchased equipment I based it on how much of each caliber I was shooting. Good info.

[@Calaveras32Spcl]

I have a RCBS Rockchucker, great for rifle where I usually am loading 20-40 rounds. Kind of thinking of adding a faster press for faster production of plinking pistol ammo.

[@jimbasler303]

I've been looking and hunting the best price and best quality deal for about a year now. I decided on the Lyman AA8 turret kit. It came with quite a lot but not everything. So far I'm happy with my purchase.

[@officerdaughtry]

I bought an RCBS Rock chucker II press when I was 17 years old and I use it several times a week, I'm 63 years old now and this press is still as good as new. I loaded 100 rounds of 45 ACPs every night for probably 15 years. That's over 500,000 rounds of just 45s not counting tens of thousands of 9mm and rifle loads. I keep it oiled and it's just as tight as it was when I bought it over 45 years ago. I would estimate that I've loaded close to a million rounds total on this press.

[@glockasauruswrex6362]

I started with Lee...n stayed with them. Wound up with the 4 hole turret press. I load both rifle n pistol, use just one turret for pistol, 2 for rifle. Gotta work the brass on rifle 1st, n if your reloading for a semi, ya better be reworking your brass on both ends! I use Lee's auto-drum powder measure n for .308 with Sierra MK 175 gr over 42 gr of H4895, can easily hold 1/4 MOA at 100 yards. Sad part is, if you're just trying to get into reloading...good luck! No large rifle primers for years now n if you can find anything its now 3X what it used to be! Used to buy 1000 CCI large rifle for $32!

[@ericbovee7680]

I am Very Impressed with your videos Sir. They are thorough, well thought out and very professional!! Kudos on your high quality presentations!!

[@rogerpemberton79]

I started with a Lyman Orange Crusher press what seems like forever ago. I moved on to a Hornady L-N-L single stage and later added a Hornady L-N-L progressive press. Currently I have a Hornady L-N-L single stage I'm not using, a RCBS Turret press, and Hornady L-N-L progressive with case feeder, and a Hornady L-N-L Ammo Plant. All my presses and tools used for reloading has been acquired over 20 years of reloading. But this is what I've found works best for me.

[@dustyfoster9272]

Appreciate the video man. Truthful wisdom hard to find these days.

[@kris308100]

If you use the LE Wilson Case Gauge Depth Micrometer with their case gauges you can accurately measure shoulder bump and set up your full length dies to what you wish. Therefore this can replace a comparitor. I found this very accurate.

[@quagmyer7230]

Never had an issue with the LNL Progressive press, just some occasional tweaking, something you will have with EVERY other brand in the market including the overpriced ones, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, I currently load, 9mm .223, .40 S&W, 38 special, 357 magnum, .50 AE, 300 Wby mag, 270 win, .45 acp, .500S&W. Do a bit of homework, get adapter bushings, have everything neatly organized, I usually pick a day for a specific caliber, very seldom I reload more than one caliber on de same day, in fact, I don’t remember last time I did. Good video, thanks.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

For 40+ years I've been using a single stage RCBS RockChucker JR2 for hunting rifle hand loads up here in Alaska. I will last my lifetime.

[@redrock425]

I've had a Rockchucker since the 1990's, still going strong and when the nylon bushing wore out RCBS sent me one for free to sunny England. That's good service.

[@bobsullivan5714]

I clicked on your thumbnail photo and watched your dog training vids..... I am impressed!

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

@@bobsullivan5714 Thank you. Compliments are rare these days and always appreciated!

[@kjmdrumz3]

I started with a Lee Classic Loader. Loaded a few thousand .223, some 9mm, 10mm, and even .243 on it. It works okay. I still have it. But it’s relegated to a dark corner of the garage. In it’s place is a Forster Coax and Dillon 550c. I’m a happy boy now.

[@BoltActionReloading]

A COAX and a Dillon are great presses to have!

[@williams9859]

I have 3 presses. Started with a Lee Pro 1000 and glad I did as I learned how to work on a press lol! After that I bought a Dillon 750 and it is great except for the priming system ( add weight to the primer rod), now it is awesome. The Dillon 750 is expensive to change calibers so I was looking for the Lyman All American 8 but I couldn’t find one and I was wanting to load that weekend so I found the Lee Breech Lock (works but still want the Lyman). I will be buying the Lyman next. The press I really want and stress the word WANT is the Mark 7 Evolution, but that’s a few years down the road. Can’t have too many presses so I feel they were all good buys.

[@scbane]

I have the Lyman 8, and love it. Have a turret set up with 3 die set of 308 Win and 30-06 Spring. Have another turret set up with 9mm, 40/10mm, 357 Mag, and 44 mag. Priming system SUCKS. I hand prime, removed the on-press priming. There is a bit too much play in the shellholders....need to guide the bullet into the die with fingers on rifle rounds.

[@foulplaymead]

I have two single presses. One for decapping and resizing the other for precision reloading. My third press is a progressive and used for bulk reloading

[@FMDad-dm5qo]

The appeal of a turret press is (1) keeps the “transparency” of a single stage - only one step per pull of the press handle makes it easy to identify and address problems. Very comforting for the beginner. Next, (2) you can keep all your dies for one caliber together on a turret head, adjusted and ready to go, and can do super easy caliber changes back and forth. I would add that for some turrets like the Lee Classic, the caliber changes are not only easy but CHEAP. You see price data for progressives that includes several hundred dollars to add an additional caliber; some turrets can add a new cartridge for less than $70. Huge differences. Finally, (3) if you screw up or realize you need to revisit a step, it’s as easy as pivoting the turret head back to the die you need. I will probably end up eventually with a simple progressive like a Dillon SDB for pistol reloading, but learning on a turret has gone really well for me - and yielded a lot of good ammo.

[@twissted1277]

I started on my dads RCBS Rock Crusher. So when I bought a used Dillion 650 and used it for about 8 years. Then I sold it moved to the Redding T7 which I have now.

[@alexdiersen]

Thank you for your videos. You present honest information in a clear cut way, and I appreciate it. I'm a young guy looking to start reloading to save money over time.

[@MrGyrhed]

This is a great video for someone just starting. I drank the blue koolaid myself and i am not sorry i did. Best company ever and well worth the high price. The 550 will easily do 500 rds an hour, but it will take you a while to get there. Advancing the brass by hand is not an issue. niether is feeding brass one at a time. Feeding bullets and charging 100 primers at a time is the bottleneck. I thought long and hard about getting a 650 or 1050 at the time but when all is said and done you need to shoot a lot more than i do to justify it. A turret press was on my wish list but the co-ax solves the die set up issues. I see no reason to get a turret press any longer. I wish i had known about the coax when i got started, I had no idea they even exisited until about a year ago, been on backorder about that long too!!! I really only bought the dillon to load 45 colt. the cost difference in 45 colt paid for the press pretty quick. But i find now i use the 550 all the time, just becasue everything is set once on the tool holder. I even size and deprime rifle brass and remove it from the press to trim, prime by hand, weigh each powder charge then back to the 550 to seat and crimp hunting rifle ammo.

[@oscarbear7498]

Is the Co-Ax really that good? I'm in a similar boat as you, I want to pretty much just load .460 magnum because of how expensive the rounds are. If I'm just loading .460 should I go with a Dillan 550 or a co-ax?

[@jasonbroom7147]

For a beginning reloader that shoots less than 2,500 rounds of ammunition a year, which is the vast majority of recreational shooters, the Lee Classic Turret is the best value available, hands down. If you want really precise rifle ammo, and shoot a lot more than 2,500 rounds of pistol ammo a year, the Forster Co-Ax and a Dillon 550 would be a great combo. Good job explaining the different press types, the potential use cases for each, and the advice to buy what you're going to need. What you failed to acknowledge is that the Lee Classic Turret is so inexpensive, you can buy once, NOT CRY, and still buy a dedicated single-stage or progressive, later on. Very few people ever regret buying the LCT, because it is a quality tool at a very affordable price...no crying necessary. :)

[@kjmdrumz3]

This was my road EXACTLY. Lee Classic Turret to start and loaded thousands of rounds on it. Learned a lot and figured out what I really wanted and ended up with a Forster Co-ax and a 550C.

[@CoachKalu]

I agree with the Concept of Forster Co-Ax & Dillon 550c. That is an awesome combo.

[@gslavik]

As a new reloader, I opted for the Lee kit simply for one reason: It already had almost everything needed to start reloading in one box. Only needed to add shell holder and dies.

[@the206er2]

I was a competitive f-class shooter what seems to be a lifetime ago. It's been a decade since I've hand loaded😢 but I'm getting back into it now. Been watching your videos to get a refresher and to learn about the new stuff out there - great channel by the way! I own a Dillon 550, which I used to use to load my match ammo back in the day. I have all my dies on their interchangeable quick-swap plates, per caliber. The interchangeable die holder plates do have a fair bit of slop, but Dillon insists that the slop is very consistent and therefore ok. Great numbers of sub 0.6moa 5-shot .308 groups at 100yd, would seem to support that argument. But I only got those best results when I effectively used the press as a single stage with only one shell in the press at a time. I've always wondered if going to a true single stage, like the one you own, would give me even better results in terms of accuracy, but then I see your quick swap system is actually pretty similar to what Dillon is doing with their plates. What are your thoughts on this? Also, I noticed that you also shoot the .338LM. I saw a review that said, when reloading that cartridge, that bullets need to be "tipped in" due to clearance issues with the handle design. What's your experience and thoughts on that?

[@sherrypulec1449]

you forgot to mention that a cam over style press has a better capability to make more accurate ammo than a Lee press , been using a pacific tool multi power press for 35yrs and havent found anything else to beat the accuracy and yes i have tried others , turret presses tend to have the turrets rock or wobble under stress causing headspace measurements to vary along with bullet seating measurements. Lee presses have a stop on the ram stroke and unless you use the exact same pressure each time theirs gonna be differences between rounds not to mention that the die bushings tend to move around from having slack in them.

[@ninjaswordtothehead]

The handloading kit from Lee, at least in .45acp, is cheap, easy enough, and does work. It does utilize a non-marring hammer. As to speed, what's the opposite of efficient? It got me started, works great for a small (read: really small, less than 100) amount of ammo variants for testing; but I am here because handloading is more of an experiment than a hobby.

[@barndweller4573]

I started with a Dillon 550 and As a bran new reloader I figured it out. I did upgrade to the 650 wish I still have and use for pistol and some rifle. What he did not say was the 650 is a safer press to load on than the 550. The 650 has one more station that is designed to be used with the powder check die. This stops a case from getting through without powder. Also the auto indexing stops double charges. In the last couple years I have been loading my rifle stuff on a single stage press. I am trying to get more precision so the number of rounds are not big and I want total control over every step. If you want to shoot a bunch of pistol then start with a progressive press. You will never go wrong with a single stage press because even after getting a progressive you will still use it for some things like brass prep.

[@Lauterbach24]

You are correct. I have a Dillon 550, and I am considering purchasing a co-ax or more than likely the Area 419 Zero press for more accuracy in my long range rifles.

[@Johnsormani]

I started out in 88 with a rock chucker, sold it at some point to buy a square deal b . That was my main press for years for 38 super, 45 and 357. then I inherited a rockchucker and mounted it next to the Dillon as was quite happy until I couldn’t pass a sale on a xl650 . Later I bought a bunch of reloading equipment from a friend , which included a rock chucker, 550 and a Lee classic turret. And last year I got a free hornady classic lnl with a rifle that I bought and inherited another rock chucker. All these presses and I am still craving for a Turban Präzipress or a Forster Coax 😊

[@PracticallySquared1]

Good video. Personally I'm kinda in a opposite situation as you. I have a Dillon 750 tricked out with all the bells and whistles including a case feeder, and im looking at picking up the forster. Not necessarily to replace my 750 but compliment it. I can and have loaded precision ammo on the 750 but I want a solid single stage for that stuff that way I can keep the 750 setup for 9mm. Ps, I've owned the Hornady progressive. Sold it to buy the dillon after using my buddy's. Dont regret it one bit. The dillion 750 is the bees knees. I wouldn't mind a 550 but it doesn't come with a cal conversion kit. When you equpit it its about $120 cheaper. For that, its hard to justify the slight saving vs speed/features of the 750.

[@thetexasrat]

Buy Once Cry Once: I got the Buchanan Precision Hand Press with the Hornady LNL system, and Redding Competition dies, for high precision on the fly reloading. If I ever get a bench mounted press it will be the Area 51 Zero Turret Press.

[@CHenry1951]

Yes, all sorts of options this day and age, I purchased my only press back in 1982 an RCBS Rock Chucker and still use it today "slow & steady". I can't count the number of rounds I have put through this unit " Thousands " and it's still precise,.today I shoot a 6mm BR, 6.5 Creedmoor every week !! Buy once, cry once the choices today are phenomenal..............

[@markmasterpole9867]

Dylan 550 reloading press for 6mm creedmoor.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

I bought my RockChucker JR2 in 1972 and it is still my go-to press for hunting rifle handloads up here in Alaska.

[@paulomorris8547]

Great video...thanx...I just bought my first reload ress kit from Lee...the 1000...I'm excited and ready to start a brand new way of life... thanx again and many more videos fo sho💪🤙

[@thomasherbert5790]

I started with a Bonanza 68 in 1970 , still use it for priming

[@redleg1013]

Just pony up for the Forster for rifles, and get a sturdy mount for it (really any of them). Pony up for the Dillon for pistols (and get a sturdy mount). Let's face it, if we're talking reloading, it's because factory ammo is either not enough in either quality or quantity.

[@taylorbokshowan5713]

Forester is a bit short for seating bullets in long cartridges. It can work but for some of the big magnums you might want a 50 bmg class press. I’ve actually opted for a Dillon for case prep and seating on another press

[@mikeastrong6089]

Great Video, Really like your straight to the point approach.

[@donkeene1948]

40 year old RCBS single stage. No idea as to how many rounds have gone through the process. Handles everything from .38 Spl to .375H&H. Now being retired, time is not so much an issue. That said, I am looking at a turret press to better cover all the rifle calibers I currently reload.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

I bought my RockChucker JR2 in 1972 and it is still my go-to press for hunting rifle handloads up here in Alaska.

[@Drivapete]

@@RetrieverTrainingAlone I have the same press from the same era, bought it from a friend who sold out and quit. I've reloaded about 1500 rounds in 4yrs without a single failure on the equipment. That's not a lot for a hunter/target shooter, but I think it speaks volumes for RCBS and some of the most reliable equipment on the planet!!

[@HypocriticYT]

my progressive press are two single stage Rock crushers I bought at auction, each under $100. I would like a progressive for 9mm but so far it's hard to reload 9mm for less than factory. Canadian prices are higher for reloading supplies.

[@bobsullivan5714]

I bought the Dillon 550B, with a full load of accessories at their showroom in Flagstaff, AZ....I was going to get into reloading but never got around to it.

[@leadpilled5567]

Can’t go wrong with a RCBS Rock Chucker. RCBS also has some great kits. I’ve had my Rock Chucker for 30 years. I had it crack near the mounting holes. Pretty sure it was my fault as it happened right after mounting to a new bench. Called and they said send it in. In 2 weeks they sent me a brand new press no questions asked I’ve had a couple Lee progressives. They can be a bit finicky especially the priming system but they work and you can buy one for each caliber cheaper than a Dillion or Hornady progressive. Would I want to load 50000 rounds a year on them, no but for the average shooter who wants to load 1000rds a month for range day they work well. If you’re reloading magnum rifle or plan on ever getting into a wildcat and reforming brass nothing can beat a good single stage. It’s a horrible time to get into reloading. Good luck finding primers and even other components are getting hard to find.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

I bought my RockChucker JR2 in 1972 and it is still my go-to press for hunting rifle handloads up here in Alaska.

[@drtmi8789]

I get 0.001" or less runout on my Lee Classic Cast press. Though I do seat with a Harrell's micrometer seating die and hand press. My custom Savage RPLB shoots 0.125" 5 shot center to center groups at 100 yards. I use a Lee 4 hole turret for quantity pistol and get 1.5" accuracy at 25 yards with my .45. You don't need to spend stupid amounts of money to start reloading. The whole point of reloading is lower cost or calibers that are not commercially available.

[@Gareth96v1]

Been using 2 single stage RCBSs for years.. Not sure I'll change, but like the Forster co-ax operation. Seems it's essentially also a turret press since it's so easy to swap dies: to me not much difference between rotating the turret vs swapping the die.

[@phild8095]

Look at that bench, looks solid, well lit, spacious. That's an unmentioned requirement for reloading. A solid spacious well lit area. This could cost more than the press. I've reloaded rifle and pistol on the lee classic cast. If you are just a hobbyist, have time, and don't shoot more than a couple thousand rounds a year, it works. The handle is adjustable, so you can use a short throw when you don't need a lot of force (most steps of reloading) You don't need a separate priming station. It is easy to maintain. It is solid and heavy. If you are considering reloading If you are easily distracted, don't like to follow or read instructions, cut corners because you think you might get away with it, don't have time or space, reloading may not be for you. Reloading can be safe or it can be dangerous. It is your choice. Buy the book and read the introductory chapters. There's a couple types of primers, Boxer and Berdan. Boxer primers have once center hole on the inside of the case. These can be reloaded. Berdan has two holes inside the case and cannot be reloaded. If you run them through a sizing or decapping die you can break the decapping pin. ALWAYS store your powder and primers in a cool dry location. Heat and humidity will damage them both. Legally unless you have a specific FFL you cannot legally sell your reloads. (just sayin') People will ask you to sell your reloads. If there is an accident with your reloads...

[@garyjohns4711]

Would love to own a Dillon progressive but can't afford the blue cool-aid... love my lee pro-1000s.....

[@Bigdaddylobo1]

Great info. Really helped me grasp the whys of each type. Thanks!

[@BoltActionReloading]

Thanks for commenting Bob, glad it was helpful!

[@leebrewer1190]

One point I have yet to be discussed by anyone is what sold me on reloading. While I am not a frequent shooter, if I tally up the total I have spent on ammo in my life I could have had a progressive press a long time ago! After 40 years of hunting and buying ammo each year (no, I didn't use that much - just made a nice stockpile) why keep putting the money into someone else's pocket when I could have any future ammo for less money? I can pass the system down to my kids who all shoot and save them money also. Its just common sense for me. And I know now that I am planning on getting a press that I will take the time to shoot more b/c shooting will now be less expensive.

[@erikjensen6503]

Reloading can save Monday or you can just go father down the rabbit hole buying more reloading gadgets, upgrades and gizmos! I use a 550 with tons of upgrades and love it

[@Drivapete]

I got interested in reloading from a friend who I would ask frequently to reload 50 rifle rounds at a time for me. One day he said, "c'mon over and see how this works", so I did. I was horribly embarrassed to learn what a time consuming process it was! He took me over to his mom's boyfriend's house and I bought his reloading outfit for pennies on the dollar. With proper training and acquired knowledge from reading and etc, I've been reloading for about 5 yrs now and I love it. Never knew what I was missing!

[@jpro5232]

Very good advice. Unbiased.

[@leebrewer1190]

I keep hearing about not starting with a progresive b/c of the complexity. I am not trying to be mean, but as a teacher speaking, I feel its s shame our public education system has failed in teaching kids critical thinking skills enough that a progressive press is "too complex." Each stage has its own logical and simply function when a person will simply take the time to look at it. I am old enough to remember when fractions and percentages were simply 5th grade level math and were done easily by kids that age. Now they train them to memorize steps instead of thinking what they are doing and why. It leads to a society of mechanically challenged people. And yes, the kids in my classes could do fractions and percents with ease - teaching HOW to think rather than WHAT makes all the difference.

[@davidclegg4285]

Winner, Winner!! You and I row the same boat. Not enough mental calisthenics applied in lower levels of education to allow for solid analytical processing at a later period.

[@leebrewer1190]

@@tron23058 You hit the nail on the head - its all about them wanting to make more money by making multiple sales. And while I agree Dillon machines appear to be made very well, there is just too much info online of people using Lee Loadmaster presses at a fraction of the cost and still able to make just as many bullets just as easily. When prestige of owning a "name brand" gets in the way of common sense, marketers are the beneficiaries. If I had money to burn, then I would most certainly buy...another gun instead of a more expensive press LOL! BTW - I Do also understand people just wanting a quality machine...and so am not slamming Dillon followers. i would like to see something legitimate though as to why those machines cost so much when Lee had proven a good working press does not have to be so expensive.

[@robertfree1908]

There’s a sore spot... the lack of real education in our schools. The rest of the world laughs at us. I know it’s old hat, but I had a teenage girl working the register fried chicken chain hand me a dollar and a penny when I handed her 2 dollars for a .99 cent pie(which came to $1.07 here in Fort Worth). I said thank you but I’ll pay what I owe. I handed her back the money and she tried counting out change from the coin slots and gave me $1.18 in coins. The poor girl was so embarrassed I just said “thank you” and left. I’m sad and infuriated at the same time. It’s appalling what we’ve let our society become

[@bustabass9025]

Read some of the comments written on KZbin, and you will see that a frightening number of people don't know the difference between a contraction and a possessive, (you're/your, they're/their) or a properly constructed sentence, and words just strung together. Is it any wonder that fractions are more akin to hieroglyphics to present, as well as some not too distant past generations, than a normal exercise in mathematical competence?

[@joshclemons7266]

You're right, with that logic everyone should start off with a Shelby Cobra as their first car if they are remotly interested in cars. Its pretty easy, just don't press the gas too much and you won't get hurt. Why do i get to say this, why I've been liscenced to drive for 10 years. I say you can make the same claims too. Why not, you aren't a developmental psychologist who understands actual psychological development, but it doesn't stop you from making claims as if you were one because you went to school to teach kids literal elementary topics. Get back on your rocker

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

I use a Lyman Spartan and a Dillon 450 that was updated to a 550. I seem to be able to load sub MOA Ammo 🤷‍♂️

[@DanielBoone337]

I started out with a RCBS Partner press for load development and sizing and I bought a Dillon 550C with multiple tool heads and everything else for it to reload 9mm to 7mm Rem Mag. I seen videos saying that sizing on your progressive press while loading ammo could give you inconsistencies in your reloads so that was the main driving factor for a single stage and load development but once I work up a good forgiving load I transfer everything to my Dillon to crank out ammo. I love my Dillon but I hate that Partner press there's so much slop in that press that I get a lot of inconsistencies which is kind of ironic because I bought it to make my reloads on my Dillon more consistent... LOL I've loaded a bunch of ammo on that crap press but I'm definitely looking for a new one and kind of thinking about getting a turret instead of another single stage just to speed things up. I was looking at the Redding T-7 have you heard good things about that one also???

[@chrisallen3741]

I'd be interest in seeing the single stage press from forever setup movies etc. This would be myfirst re reloading press.

[@Sanus180]

Get one of each - single & progressive.

[@jeffgenchi5863]

I have the Dillon 550C. I can make easy 400 rounds an hour. I started with the Dillon. I am glad i did not start single stage. Yes I drank the blue koolaid. lol

[@Haveablessedday820]

Hey I'm paralyzed in a wheelchair I was looking for a small turret press that's easy to use for rifle/pistol any suggestions?

[@rem45acp]

@@Haveablessedday820 I have the Lee Classic Turret press and that is what I learned on. Very fun to use, but I did get a Dillon RL550B later on. The Lee Turret you can do 100 hour taking your time. For you, mount it on a low wooden table. You need something sturdy to reload.

[@deathlis]

XL750 here. At least buying Dillon you avoid any misconceptions about reloading saving you money right out the gate!

[@therangersbulldogs6350]

In my opinion the Turban Prazipress is the best single stage press for precision rifle cartridges.

[@smrettpecca]

It depends also on what you prefer...……. a massive, robust Press wich is built for Eternity and Accuracy, a cheap one, or one wich is made for mass production. I miss a couple of Singlestage Presses in this Video. Especially the Turban Präzi Press and the Talon.

[@johnnash5118]

I chose the Redding Turret press with a spare turret plate, enough space for 4 die sets.

[@daaurpoj]

Where did you get the spare?

[@m444ss]

FOR WHAT IT"s WORTH (free advice): My first press was a Lee Loader. I bought a .243 Win off the used gun rack when I was 18 and grabbed at the same time a box of ammo, a Lee Loader (for just $12.95!), a box of bullets, two boxes of primers, and a 1lb can of some IMR powder. 2-3 years later, I bought a Lee Hand Press kit with a neck-sizing die set. At the time (1980s), the press cost around $35. It was practical as well as cheap b/c I had no place to mount a fixed press. It was also practical for me b/c I was a virtually broke college student. These days, a single stage press isn't that much more $$ than the Lee hand press. If you live in an apartment or small house and don't really have room for a reloading bench, the hand press remains practical as a minimalist solution and provides decent results unless you're reloading for competition or really long range hunting; however, given the current cost of the hand press and if I had a place to mount a press, I'd at least get a single stage press if starting out today just because the hand press no longer provides much of a cost savings.

[@davidsalsedo]

Very well said!

[@badboytommy187]

That is very good video footage and explanation . But I have a question to ask you ? can you refer me a good complete press loading kit for beginner. Right now I’m shooting. 223 , 5.56 , 308 , .38 ,and also 9mm . 🤔 thank you for your time.

[@garytotty3971]

you get what you paid for! The Forster is the Cadillac of presses, and has been for forty years. Dillon is no better than the Redding and that'snot anything to write home about. Yet the Dillon does have the reaction bar. Still lackluster to the Forster. If your're after super precision , then forget these presses and buy a K&M arbor press with inline dies from Wilson. The difference between the K&M and the Forster is about four to five tenths. The Forster has by far the best priming device, but now I only use it for hand gun stuff. I use a hand held K&M. I load a lot of long strait walled cases, and these can seriously tax a press. They'll eat up an RCBS or Hornaday press! Dies are something that was not spoken about. I use most brands out there, but my goto dies are Forster. Two thirds the price of the Redding die and a little better. The Hornaday dies are junk. The Lee Colette dies are good if all you have is a factory chamber, but if you using a national match chamber then look elsewhere.

[@uralbob1]

The problem is that when you are starting out, you don't really know! All of the cast iron presses are probably good. Cast aluminum, in my opinion, is not ideal.

[@JM9x]

Thank you for this video. I was actually just at cabelas debating what to get and have been struggling to make a decision on a turret press between then redding T3 and the Lyman All American 8 or just go grab a hornady AP progressive. Options options...decision paralysis

[@texpatriot8462]

Johnnie Reece I moved from a Hornady Classic Single Stage to a All American 8 hole turret press. Love it. I leave 4 holes set up for 9mm and use the rest for rifle. I feel safer as I can walk my round through each step before I start again.

[@oscarbear7498]

Update on your decision?

[@mavriknelson108]

I have a t7 and I love it and it's just what ya like I like most brands of presses. He's right tho it's just what you like their all good tho almost

[@MrFlint62]

I started out with a RCBS single stage press. It's a good press, but when changing from one die to another, it made it tedious. I was talked into buying a Dillon 550B, and man, did it make a difference! I load for more than one caliber, and use their quick-change dies. It cost for these quick changers, but it's worth it in the long run if you shoot a lot. My Dillon is over 20 years old, and still works just fine. That's how well their built! My warranty is still good to this day!

[@janreeves5443]

The type of reloading equipment won’t make any difference if there are NO primers available to purchase.

[@747driver3]

I have a bunch

[@shockwave6416]

@@747driver3 😏 nice. I'm looking at getting into reloading. I know about the primer shortage. My limbs are going to fly off if I cant reload my own just because the darn primers.

[@Drivapete]

@@747driver3 I hoarded about 14k of all brands, mostly federal. I haven't sold at an inflated price to anyone, they are for my personal use. Powders, brass, bullets too! I remember the last time this happened and I started hoarding. I have enough to last me the rest of my life, I didnt need the four finger lesson to remind me of the last time!

[@TalibAlAminDhakir]

I’ve been looking and can’t find any

[@KjWhite-l2h]

Not if you have half a chemistry brain

[@jpjincomega]

Thanks that was good advice

[@eugenejohnson8635]

I heard that the rcbs rock Rock chucker. Is the best one but I like the Forster coax myself Redding

[@johnabbott3896]

Late comment, new to this channel...IMHO, the most PROBLEMATIC area of the Dillon 550C is the primer feed...can't tell you how much time I have spent with Customer Service on this issue...can't make it reliable...

[@Seamusyt1396]

Great video I am new to it and just want to make a bunch of 9mm target loads for range day I own my land and the range but I'm thinking maybe 500 to 1000 rnds a month tops

[@jameselder995]

I've been binge watching a lot from your channel, so far my only complaint is that your affiliate links are only valid for Amazon in the USA, so i have to transfer to the Canadian Amazon page to buy them without massive shipping costs.

[@BoltActionReloading]

Hi James thanks for the feedback. I am not really sure how to fix that. If you have any idea I gladly would.

[@louisshambarger2230]

You didn’t mention using an arbor press. It may not fit in this video because it isn’t bolted to the bench. I only use it for one round I reload. It is supposed to be the ultimate for precision but I really don’t get much, if any, less run out than with my 35 year old RCBS Rock Chucker. If you want to speed up precision reloading get an automatic powder dispenser. When I shot a couple of high power matches per month that was worth while. Now I shoot a couple of matches per year and don’t use it.

[@markashlock9017]

I have a real newbie question for a guy that reloaded thousands of rounds on a RCBS turret press back in the 70’s. Would give anything I hadn’t sold it. Anywhere, my question is this. If you have an RCBS Press, do you, or should you use RCBS Dies, or, are they all interchangeable? Great vid. Thanks!!!

[@BoltActionReloading]

Hi Mark. They are pretty much all interchangeable unless you are trying to load for something like a 50 cal. "Standard" dies are a 7/8"-14 thread that most manufacturers (RCBS, Lyman, Pacific, Redding ect.) use

[@markashlock9017]

@@BoltActionReloading Thanks for taking the time to answer. I really appreciate it.

[@BoltActionReloading]

Hi Mark, No problem. I try to get to most of my comments but sometimes I am not perfect. If there is ever any specific questions don't be afraid to ask. We have a pretty good community here and most people want to be helpful!

[@bunkerman99]

You did not talk about 1 criteria that I was particularly interested in and that is precision. I'm interested in calibers to be shot at long range and time is not an issue but precision is. Thanks for an otherwise good video.

[@JustAverageJeff]

Getting a Dillon 550 as a first press would be amazing lol.

[@anthonydecarlo9694]

I’ve been wanting to go down this rabbit hole for some time now, this is great information, would a single stage be the best option for manufacturing match ammo for hunting calibers?

[@BoltActionReloading]

I would choose that based on volume. If you aren't going to load very much a single stage is fine.

[@Badbri2A]

Great video..thanks

[@aksel487]

Thank you so much!

[@nolanbugg]

You got any recommendations for 6.5 carcano

[@xlasvegan7x]

I have a t7 on order but I like your co-ax👍

[@BoltActionReloading]

I am sure you will enjoy your T7, but I love the CO-AX. Being able to switch dies and leave them set up is one of my favorite features. Set your dies and forget it. (of course you have to double check when you use it the next time)

[@ZhuJo99]

Personally I started on Dillon XL 650. If you are somewhat mechanically inclined, it shouldn't be a problem. Now I own 3D printed bullet feeder I made myself, which speeds up the process considerably. But sure, if I had to reload small batches of ammo and wanted to save tons of money on equipment, single stage is good. But if you want to reload pistol rounds, even 200 per WEEK will make you hate it. But that's maybe only my point of view as I'm spoiled with progressive. To be honest, it's definitely NOT cheap way to start ;) I think good quality turret is great for somewhat good balance between volume and price. Lyman All American 8 is great option, if you want to go cheap and reload not big rifle calibers too, Lee Classic Turret is great value. Put a powder measure on it and you are set to reload anything (but not that much precision oriented big caliber rifle - here Lyman and Redding are much better).