want to start reloading, suggestions on press etc

J

JR Hartman

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Thinking of either the Dillon 550 or its equivalent in the Hornady progressive. The sticky thread convinced me to check out the Hornady. Many people I know say just get the Dillon, but I want to know for sure as its not a minor investment.

I also need to know what else I need.

I have many good tools as I am an auto tech professionally. I do have a calipers as well. However, I don't know what else I need. I know I need dies for each caliber I want to do, and something to measure powder but let me know what I need.

I don't need the fanciest stuff, but I want stuff that works and actually makes a difference. not the cheapest way, but spending money for the sake of spending money isn't right on this one either.

as well, I know .45acp comes in small and large pistol primers. Does .223 use small pistol primers? If so, would it be wize to get rid of my large pistol primer .45 casings and only use ones that have small primer pockets? this way for 9mm Luger, .223 and .45 would all use the same primers.

Thank you all, I know you have lots of knowledge on this topic. I have almost zero knowledge. And I am more than a bit intimidated as well. I don't want to hurt my guns, or any one, nor fight with problems.
 
I have the hornady and love it. 5 stages, you don't need to use them all. Depending on the calibers the shell plates are good for multiple types, I love the quick release bushings. All I need is the powder cop for mine and I can go full speed.
 
The Dillon or the hornady are both fine choices for progressives- They both have a great warranty. If you think you will be changing calibers frequently then I think the hornady is better in this department due to the quick-change bushings. The primer change on the Hornady is the longest operation when changing between calibres so changing to all small primer will help you avoid this (but it still is a fairly quick change-over). You may want to consider multiple powder hoppers and set them up for each load. If you will be doing high volume reloading then you may consider getting the case feeder. Aside from the above equipment you will need the basic reloading equipment - A good scale, Caliper, Bullet puller, dies, lube and a reloading manual. Extra akro bins are handy as well. If you have never reloaded before it helps to have someone experienced mentor you through the process. It is not complicated but it is very important that it be done correctly to avoid issues. (safety and other).
 
I use a Dillon 650. I had a single stage and later, a Lee progressive for doing 223. I never have used my 650 for 223. BTW 223 uses small rifle primers. I suppose using .45 small primer CT would eliminate one step when you go to change over, this is what I do just to simplify things when I swap over calibers. I load 45 38 and 9mm normally.
The way I have mine set up, I Just swap toolheads. I have one toolhead set up for each caliber. More expensive way to go but a time saver and a way to ensure that your loads don't vary fro batch to batch.
Apart from dies you will need a conversion kit for each caliber. Go to Dillon Precisions website and you will be able to answer a lot of your own questions. When it comes to Dillon's no BS guarantee, I've had occasion to use it once or twice for problems caused by my own carelessness--they still covered the stuff at no charge to me. I think if you go to their sister companies website Dillon Aero, you might get a very good idea of their product engineering standards.
 
I like the 650, but I have been told its not good for rifles. I will not only be doing .223, but 8mm mauser and possibly .308.

thanx. keep it coming :)
 
Tagged for interest. Plan to start re-loading soon as well. Finding/having someone who is experienced to help guide you would be a Big help!
 
I'm just getting started with pistol myself. Been doing rifle for about a year now. Starting with 45 ACP and plan to go to 38sp/357 and 9mm both of which use small pistol primers. To keep things simple I've decided to do small pistol for the 45 as well and started acquiring brass.

I like to minimize setup time so I think this is the right setup for me.
 
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