Now before you all go telling me to search. I DID. I have been spending $$$$ for years to have my ammo reloaded for me and I am finally going to spend some dollars on my own equipment. I have reloaded before. I don't own my own equipment but have done load makeup on a friends rock chucker. I want to be able to build precision rounds for my target rifle in 308. At the same time if I'm going to spend the money I want to be able to load for all of my regular shooters. I have a 308 benchrest, a 6.5 x 55 swede for mid range steels, I will need to load for three different .204's, 45 long colt, 32-20, a 40 s&w, a 38 special, my little 380 ruger and 45 acp. I have been looking at the dillon 550 but I question the precision. For the handgun ammo I need to be able to kick out lots of consistent rounds. At the same time I need to be able to get precision cases and loads for my 308 and my 6.5. I am not opposed to a progressive and a single stage as long as dies can be switch between the two. I like the T-7 but the cost of setting it up for all the different calibers seems a little prohibitive. I know some of you guys have been reloading for a long time and have reloaded more than just precision long range ammo. Any suggestions will definitely be appreciated. I am currently working on putting together a nice little setup and will be buying in the near future. I would like to know what powder throws are the most accurate and opinions on other accessories.
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Need some Professional advice on a set up
- Thread starter FowlWater
- Start date
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Yeah, I think you are beginning to answer your own question there....
For the precision rifle stuff, I prefer the Forster Co-Ax press. Slower loading process for sure but you can't beat it for versatility and accuracy in a single stage press.
For the handgun cartridges, I prefer a Dillon 550 progressive for the speed and efficiency. While accurate enough for handgun rounds and bulk output, it doesn't do as good of a job with rifle rounds.
In the end, you are wanting to reload for two distinct types of firearms. Best to just start off with the best for each scenario.
Yeah, I think you are beginning to answer your own question there....
For the precision rifle stuff, I prefer the Forster Co-Ax press. Slower loading process for sure but you can't beat it for versatility and accuracy in a single stage press.
For the handgun cartridges, I prefer a Dillon 550 progressive for the speed and efficiency. While accurate enough for handgun rounds and bulk output, it doesn't do as good of a job with rifle rounds.
In the end, you are wanting to reload for two distinct types of firearms. Best to just start off with the best for each scenario.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Oh and as far as dies go, with two different setups, you can purchase dedicated dies for each setup and not worry about swapping dies around (which is always a pain). Heck, even with my Forster press, I have dedicated dies for specific rifles to avoid swapping die settings around! Yes a more expensive way to go but in the end it is worth it.
Oh and as far as dies go, with two different setups, you can purchase dedicated dies for each setup and not worry about swapping dies around (which is always a pain). Heck, even with my Forster press, I have dedicated dies for specific rifles to avoid swapping die settings around! Yes a more expensive way to go but in the end it is worth it.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
The problem I see is buying three sets of 204 dies. Do I want to drop $200 just to reload rifle specific ammo. Are there any mircometer style dies that are accurate enough that I can set them for which rifle I am loading for and be able to go back and forth? I am kind of overwhelmed with the brass preping tools and some of the smaller tools. I could spend thousands and only use some of the stuff after 5 years. I am trying to come up with the best shopping list right off the bat. 1 scale 1 powder thrower, etc.
The problem I see is buying three sets of 204 dies. Do I want to drop $200 just to reload rifle specific ammo. Are there any mircometer style dies that are accurate enough that I can set them for which rifle I am loading for and be able to go back and forth? I am kind of overwhelmed with the brass preping tools and some of the smaller tools. I could spend thousands and only use some of the stuff after 5 years. I am trying to come up with the best shopping list right off the bat. 1 scale 1 powder thrower, etc.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Hehe, welcome to the wonderful world of reloading. Sure you can purchase items that serve multiple functions to start with and hone your reloading process from there. Sometimes it is helpful to start with one set and spend the extra time to really get to know your stuff before buying rifle specific dies. In the end though, I think many of us end up there so if you're looking to cut to the chase, my recommendations still stand.
Yes, the Redding micrometer dies are very repeatable and are very easy to adjust to specific rifles (just make sure to log or mark your dies).
If you are not really concerned about reloading speed, start with the Co-Ax and buy a single set of dies for each caliber you reload. That will at least give you the basics to build anything you want. From there you can hone the setup.
And as far as brass prep tools go, what are you looking for? I've been to hell and back trying all sorts of tools and can probably make a few recommendations for you.
Hehe, welcome to the wonderful world of reloading. Sure you can purchase items that serve multiple functions to start with and hone your reloading process from there. Sometimes it is helpful to start with one set and spend the extra time to really get to know your stuff before buying rifle specific dies. In the end though, I think many of us end up there so if you're looking to cut to the chase, my recommendations still stand.
Yes, the Redding micrometer dies are very repeatable and are very easy to adjust to specific rifles (just make sure to log or mark your dies).
If you are not really concerned about reloading speed, start with the Co-Ax and buy a single set of dies for each caliber you reload. That will at least give you the basics to build anything you want. From there you can hone the setup.
And as far as brass prep tools go, what are you looking for? I've been to hell and back trying all sorts of tools and can probably make a few recommendations for you.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
For a powder dispenser, you'll want to take a long time considering the virtues of the RCBS ChargeMaster Combo. Mechanical dispensers simply just don't do the job with many powders. This is a consideration for any progressive alternative.
There is a personal liability assumed when loading for others. You'll want to evaluate those risks.
Micrometer seating dies simplify loading for multiple rifles. Loading on different presses and for different rifles may be simplified by using shims under the dies. However, it's still a complex problem that may be best solved by using multiple sizing dies. In the end, a turret press may simplify things.
Wilson trimmer
Dial caliper
Imperial sizing wax
Glen Zediker's <span style="text-decoration: underline">Handloading for Competition</span>
For a powder dispenser, you'll want to take a long time considering the virtues of the RCBS ChargeMaster Combo. Mechanical dispensers simply just don't do the job with many powders. This is a consideration for any progressive alternative.
There is a personal liability assumed when loading for others. You'll want to evaluate those risks.
Micrometer seating dies simplify loading for multiple rifles. Loading on different presses and for different rifles may be simplified by using shims under the dies. However, it's still a complex problem that may be best solved by using multiple sizing dies. In the end, a turret press may simplify things.
Wilson trimmer
Dial caliper
Imperial sizing wax
Glen Zediker's <span style="text-decoration: underline">Handloading for Competition</span>
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
If you are looking for a one press solution, it doesn't really exist. You have single stage presses for accuracy and progressive style presses for quantity.
I like the Hornady AP progressive press as you can get it for $370 plus Hornady has a rebate for 1000 free bullets.
If you have friends that reload, use their equipment and see what you like and don't like.
Below is what I use in my reloading room:
Hornaday AP press for all handgun ammo and .223
Rockchucker for all precision rifle reloading
Redding dies for precision rifle reloading
Hornady for pistol reloading. (for the price, you can't beat the bullet aligning sleeve in the seating die)
RCBS Primer for rifle loading
K&M neck turner for rifle loading
RCBS chargemaster for rifle loading
Giraud trimmer for rifle case trimming
Add it up and it is a couple thousand dollars of reloading equipment but I think each items represents the best bang for the buck without any compromise in quality ammo.
Feel free to ask any specific questions.
If you are looking for a one press solution, it doesn't really exist. You have single stage presses for accuracy and progressive style presses for quantity.
I like the Hornady AP progressive press as you can get it for $370 plus Hornady has a rebate for 1000 free bullets.
If you have friends that reload, use their equipment and see what you like and don't like.
Below is what I use in my reloading room:
Hornaday AP press for all handgun ammo and .223
Rockchucker for all precision rifle reloading
Redding dies for precision rifle reloading
Hornady for pistol reloading. (for the price, you can't beat the bullet aligning sleeve in the seating die)
RCBS Primer for rifle loading
K&M neck turner for rifle loading
RCBS chargemaster for rifle loading
Giraud trimmer for rifle case trimming
Add it up and it is a couple thousand dollars of reloading equipment but I think each items represents the best bang for the buck without any compromise in quality ammo.
Feel free to ask any specific questions.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg
Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
I only reload rifle so I can only speak to that. Do your self one favor- the Forster Co-Ax press is by and far the best- well worth the hundred over an RCBS or Hornady.
Just an engineering marvel... you will not be sorry.
My friends who reload handgun swear by their Dillion's
I only reload rifle so I can only speak to that. Do your self one favor- the Forster Co-Ax press is by and far the best- well worth the hundred over an RCBS or Hornady.
Just an engineering marvel... you will not be sorry.
My friends who reload handgun swear by their Dillion's
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
There ain't a cheap way, spend the money and cry once. Or go cheap and cry every time you reload. Sorry, but that really is "The way it is."
There ain't a cheap way, spend the money and cry once. Or go cheap and cry every time you reload. Sorry, but that really is "The way it is."
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg </div></div>
It also takes out the monotony of reloading. Reloading pistol on a rockchucker(single stage) is for the brain-dead. A 550 dosn't cost that much if you value you time above $5 an hour.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg </div></div>
It also takes out the monotony of reloading. Reloading pistol on a rockchucker(single stage) is for the brain-dead. A 550 dosn't cost that much if you value you time above $5 an hour.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Phil1</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg </div></div>
It also takes out the monotony of reloading. Reloading pistol on a rockchucker(single stage) is for the brain-dead. A 550 dosn't cost that much if you value you time above $5 an hour. </div></div>
This is exactly why I went with a progressive recently, although I bought a Hornaday LnL since I wanted 650 capabilities but only had 550B money to spend. So far it's been very good.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Phil1</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Dillon RL550B is the only press I've ever had for about two decades. Reliable, capable of producing sub 1/2MOA ammo. You give up nothing, can use it in single stage mode, or go progressive. The interchangeable toolheads allow one-time die setup, and swapping out calibers by swapping toolheads without readjusting dies.
Greg </div></div>
It also takes out the monotony of reloading. Reloading pistol on a rockchucker(single stage) is for the brain-dead. A 550 dosn't cost that much if you value you time above $5 an hour. </div></div>
This is exactly why I went with a progressive recently, although I bought a Hornaday LnL since I wanted 650 capabilities but only had 550B money to spend. So far it's been very good.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
OK as of right now I am looking at either a dillon 550 or a hornady lock and load. I am also looking for an O frame style single stage press. Should I go RCBS for a powder throw? How about case prep? Possum hollow? What reamers and primer pocket tools do the best job? Should I get a digital scale or a balance beam? I will only be weighing every round for my 308 and my 6.5 I will just be checking the powder throw every once in a while on all other calibers. Are the Forster full body resizing dies about the best?
OK as of right now I am looking at either a dillon 550 or a hornady lock and load. I am also looking for an O frame style single stage press. Should I go RCBS for a powder throw? How about case prep? Possum hollow? What reamers and primer pocket tools do the best job? Should I get a digital scale or a balance beam? I will only be weighing every round for my 308 and my 6.5 I will just be checking the powder throw every once in a while on all other calibers. Are the Forster full body resizing dies about the best?
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
I know I'll catch some heat for this, but here-goes.
I have 2 Hornady and 1 Lee charge thrower
1 of the Hornadys belongs to my LnL AP and so that's a given, but the other Hornady I've used for the Single stage RCBS RockChucker for years. I actually like the Lee thrower BETTER than the Hornady because it was 1/4 of the price, it throws charges incredibly consistently (as in, I set it and for ball powders like H335 I have no need to trickle, it's that consistent) and it has a nice firm feel to the throw so I can feel it if the stick powders are starting to cut grains or something's stuck in the bearing surfaces.
Yes, it's plastic, so it will probably wear out sooner than later, but at $20 each and about 5k charges through it so far this year, I haven't seen enough wear to warrant buying the $80+ throwers.
An electronic thrower is more than likely worth it, but I don't have one, so I can't say anything for or against them.
For the single stage press, the Rock Chucker is really good, so's the Hornady Lock and Load, and if you can afford it, the Forester Co-Ax is the standard to be measured against.
I know I'll catch some heat for this, but here-goes.
I have 2 Hornady and 1 Lee charge thrower
1 of the Hornadys belongs to my LnL AP and so that's a given, but the other Hornady I've used for the Single stage RCBS RockChucker for years. I actually like the Lee thrower BETTER than the Hornady because it was 1/4 of the price, it throws charges incredibly consistently (as in, I set it and for ball powders like H335 I have no need to trickle, it's that consistent) and it has a nice firm feel to the throw so I can feel it if the stick powders are starting to cut grains or something's stuck in the bearing surfaces.
Yes, it's plastic, so it will probably wear out sooner than later, but at $20 each and about 5k charges through it so far this year, I haven't seen enough wear to warrant buying the $80+ throwers.
An electronic thrower is more than likely worth it, but I don't have one, so I can't say anything for or against them.
For the single stage press, the Rock Chucker is really good, so's the Hornady Lock and Load, and if you can afford it, the Forester Co-Ax is the standard to be measured against.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
I've got Dillon 300's (3) a 550, a 650, two Lyman AA Turrets, and a Star. I have RCBS Uniflo's, Dillon measures and a PACT full electronic scale/dispenser.
For the bucks and very accurate ammo go with the 550. Tool heads are cheap. If you want a seating die that will do it all (for a given caliber) buy Hornady New Dimension seaters and add a Micrometer top. One die will do all 223, or 243 or what have you as they use a caliber specific seater and it doesn't care if it is a 308 or a 30-06 or 300 Win Mag when it seats. I even use my 223 Hornady to seat 204 bullets!!
Powder measures are a toss up. The electronic one is great as you develop loads. I throw my regular ammo but on short run very demanding varmint stuff in 20 caliber I like to trickle up the charge with the PACT. The Uniflo also works well.
the 550 lest you do semi-progressive or single stage and that is great. I recommend getting a true single stage press also (Rockchucker or similar) as you have lots of accessories out there that do better on single stage - like a stuck case remover!! LOL
Buy an electronic scale as you will find them much easier to use. Buy the dies that you develop a taste for. I started on RCBS, went to Hornady and am now buying a lot of Reddings and custom set up dies from C&H.
Greg
I've got Dillon 300's (3) a 550, a 650, two Lyman AA Turrets, and a Star. I have RCBS Uniflo's, Dillon measures and a PACT full electronic scale/dispenser.
For the bucks and very accurate ammo go with the 550. Tool heads are cheap. If you want a seating die that will do it all (for a given caliber) buy Hornady New Dimension seaters and add a Micrometer top. One die will do all 223, or 243 or what have you as they use a caliber specific seater and it doesn't care if it is a 308 or a 30-06 or 300 Win Mag when it seats. I even use my 223 Hornady to seat 204 bullets!!
Powder measures are a toss up. The electronic one is great as you develop loads. I throw my regular ammo but on short run very demanding varmint stuff in 20 caliber I like to trickle up the charge with the PACT. The Uniflo also works well.
the 550 lest you do semi-progressive or single stage and that is great. I recommend getting a true single stage press also (Rockchucker or similar) as you have lots of accessories out there that do better on single stage - like a stuck case remover!! LOL
Buy an electronic scale as you will find them much easier to use. Buy the dies that you develop a taste for. I started on RCBS, went to Hornady and am now buying a lot of Reddings and custom set up dies from C&H.
Greg
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Here's my setup:
Dillon 550b for pistol and .223 ball/blaster ammo
RCBS Rockchucker II for precision rifle
Gracey Power trimmer with Giraud cutter(soon) for .223/.308
Lyman DPS powder measurer/scale combo for rifle
Dillon super swager for decrimping primer pockets
Frankford Arsenal tumbler kit from Midway
Here's my setup:
Dillon 550b for pistol and .223 ball/blaster ammo
RCBS Rockchucker II for precision rifle
Gracey Power trimmer with Giraud cutter(soon) for .223/.308
Lyman DPS powder measurer/scale combo for rifle
Dillon super swager for decrimping primer pockets
Frankford Arsenal tumbler kit from Midway
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
Well so far I have decided on a dillon 550 and a hornady landl classic single stage. I am heaving a hell of a time figuring out which 308 dies to get for the hornady and Midway is out of most everything it seems. I was looking at forster and redding dies but holy smokes do they make enough different ones. I really don't know which ones I need. A sizing die, one die needs to deprime. Do I need a neck sizing die also? Bullet seat and what else? To many dang options.
Well so far I have decided on a dillon 550 and a hornady landl classic single stage. I am heaving a hell of a time figuring out which 308 dies to get for the hornady and Midway is out of most everything it seems. I was looking at forster and redding dies but holy smokes do they make enough different ones. I really don't know which ones I need. A sizing die, one die needs to deprime. Do I need a neck sizing die also? Bullet seat and what else? To many dang options.
Re: Need some Professional advice on a set up
I have used the RCBS precision mic seating dies and they are great for the money. When I started loading 338LM I spent the money on the top of the line Redding set and they seem to justify the money with the build quality. It probably makes more sense to just go ahead and buy the Reddings.
I have used the RCBS precision mic seating dies and they are great for the money. When I started loading 338LM I spent the money on the top of the line Redding set and they seem to justify the money with the build quality. It probably makes more sense to just go ahead and buy the Reddings.
