I’m diving into the world of reloading and need some insights on progressive presses. I’m especially interested in hearing about personal experiences, detailed reviews, and recommendations for models that suit different needs.
What to Consider?
When choosing a progressive reloading press, here are some factors that I believe are essential:
- Ease of Use: Some models claim to be beginner-friendly, while others may require a steep learning curve.
- Speed vs. Precision: Balancing bulk reloading for target practice with the precision needed for competition shooting.
- Durability: How well do these presses hold up under continuous use?
Your Recommendations
- Best Brands: Which brands do you trust the most, and why?
- Models to Look At: Are there specific models that stand out based on your experience?
- Safer Practices: Any tips on safe loading practices that should be followed?
I’m looking for a variety of perspectives here - both personal anecdotes and expert advice. Your insights would be greatly appreciated, and I hope we can all learn from each other’s experiences. Thanks in advance for your feedback!
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I’m currently using a Dillon 650, and I can’t recommend it enough! The setup was straightforward, and once you get the hang of it, the speed is incredible. It has significantly cut down my reloading time.
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I agree, laura96! I have the same press, and I’ve found that the initial learning curve is worth it. You can produce ammo so efficiently once you master it.
I’ve owned a Hornady Lock-N-Load for over a year. It’s been quite reliable, but I had some issues with alignment at the beginning. It took a bit to figure out the best setup for my needs.
That’s interesting, gwilliams. I avoided the Lock-N-Load because I read about those alignment issues. Did you find a fix, or is it just trial and error?
I switched to a Lee Loadmaster after my single-stage press. While the price is great, the reliability isn’t always there. I’ve had to troubleshoot various parts quite a bit.
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That’s a bummer, lwalker. I’ve heard mixed reviews on the Lee Loadmaster, so it’s good to have this firsthand experience!
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I’m considering my first progressive press. I’ve only used single-stage presses, so the switch seems a bit daunting. Any tips on the learning curve?
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You’ll get the hang of it, whicks! I felt the same way when I switched. Focus on one step at a time, and before you know it, you’ll be cranking out rounds.
I have a Dillon RL 550 and I love it. It’s user-friendly and has a solid reputation. Plus, their customer service is fantastic if you run into issues!
That’s a huge plus, murilloamanda! Customer service can make all the difference, especially for beginners like me. How long did it take you to feel comfortable with it?
Honestly, it took me about a month to really get confident with it. Practice makes perfect! Now, reloading feels like second nature.
Has anyone tried the RCBS Pro 2000? I’ve heard pros and cons, but it seems like a good middle option. Thoughts?
I’ve used the RCBS Pro 2000 briefly and found it pretty decent. It’s not as speedy as the Dillons, but it’s a solid workhorse for the price.
Haha, if I can figure out a press, then anyone can! The first few rounds I reloaded were definitely more ‘creative’ than accurate.
Haha, that’s so true, dunlaperic! I may still have some ‘artistic’ rounds lying around. But hey, we all start somewhere, right?
I’ve been researching progressive presses for a while. From what I’ve found, Dillon and Hornady are two of the top brands. Dillon is known for its durability, while Hornady offers great value. Have others had similar experiences?
I agree, Dillon is solid! However, the price can be quite steep. Hornady’s LNL AP is also a great option for those on a budget while still delivering quality.
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Content aside, does anyone have experience with the Lee APP? I’ve read mixed reviews about its reliability.
I’ve tried the Lee APP. It’s great for beginners due to its low cost, but it doesn’t compare to Dillon in terms of build quality and speed.