Dillon reloader

[Mistered]

This is something I posted on another forum - and in several variations but it is what I believe one should actually consider about reloading before taking it up:

I have heard I won't save any money

Technically you will not except on paper. However I have said it many times (and variations) but still the same - DON'T get into reloading thinking you will save money - get into reloading as an extension of your interest in firearms and the desire to get the best performance out of them or variations of performance and specialized loadings you can NOT get unless by reloading. An example of this would be reduced velocity loads that are simply not available for some calibers. Eventually as you build up supplies by finding deals or components you know you will use you will always be ready to 'knock out' however many rounds you think you will need instead of driving around looking for what you want and unsure of the prices. With reloading you will always know what your per round cost is and depending on the caliber can be a significant savings over store bought. And while I never thought it would happen the recent shortages of certain calibers during the 'panic' phases kept some people I know from shooting while I was able to supply myself.

[Jdl447]

I also saw a couple of youtube videos where guys seemed to be quite focused on "static electricity" while reloading. Ok I get it, it's gunpowder, but is this something that's an issue you think about when you reload? Just curious. If I blow myself up my wife will kill me.

Not until now.

[Mistered]

I also saw a couple of youtube videos where guys seemed to be quite focused on "static electricity"

These are most likely the same people who go out into the woods armed to the teeth for 'bear and cougar' defense.

[BigAl52]

One thing about the Dillon and Im sure the others have some also there is good ole Youtube. Dillon also comes with a manual that is very complete and can teach even a guy with only just horse sense how to reload. Al

[Mistered]

I have often responded in similar threads and always the same. Reloading should be taken up as an extension of your interest in shooting and firearms, and not as just a chore to save money. As previously stated you will save (eventually after initial costs are 'absorbed') but the ability to tailor ammo to your own needs or for better performance in your guns is priceless. Also once you get some supplies built up you will always have a ready supply of ammo whenever you want - this is what saved me on the first, and the latest go around of ammo availability which I only noticed when I saw the empty shelves, but was not affected by it. You do however need to understand reloading is a science as well as a hobby and requires dedicated concentration, reading and follow up study and, as stated before, you need to have the patience to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining a serious attention to detail. Reloading is not for everyone and you should find someone who does so you can assist and give it a try before investing in equipment.

[RanchRoper]

lots fo sound advice. thanks.

[Oksrt]

Wish I still had my RL550.

[NoFlyZone]

My $0.02... I had a Dillon Square Deal press back when I was shooting a lot (competition). I have to say Dillon makes super fine products. They are in Scottsdale AZ, not real far from me. I've been to their place many times over the years. Great people, great company, great warranty.
About the Square Deal... I think its a fantastic press if all you want to do is load handgun ammo (which is all I did). I had it set up for .380, 9mm, .38/.357, and .38 super and 44 mag. No problems with it.
I got out of shooting for a few years and sold the press and all. Wish I had it back, but I don't do near as much shooting as I used to.

Long story short... I vote for the Dillon Square Deal.

Dale

[tractortad]

Hey RR -
I had all the same questions you are asking when I decided to get into reloading earlier this year. I agree with previous posters that the Dillon is a fantastic press from a great company, but a progressive Dillon is probably way too much press for what you want to do. I ended up getting a Redding T-7 turret press. A turret is faster and more convenient than a single stage press, but slower and less mechanically complicated than a progressive. In my case, I saw it as a good compromise - both in $ and capability. Redding is an American company known for their high quality reloading equipment. As with most things nowadays, one of the best ways to research these things is on the internet using u-tube videos. There is no shortage of videos on all the different presses out there in the reloading world...
-Tad

[RanchRoper]

I will check it out. Thks.