6 Best Reloading Kit Choices 2024 [Reviews + Images]

If you’re a Gun University regular, you already know most of us (especially Ryan) think the process of hand-loading ammo is an enjoyable and fiscally rewarding hobby. Collecting spent casings and using them for new ammo can save you money and give ya a great excuse to spend more time at your workbench.

Reloading kits are gaining popularity across the firearm industry. Since ammo is only getting more expensive, and the current state of gun laws is becoming increasingly uncertain, now is the best time to buy a reloading kit and participate in this cost-effective process.

In this article, we’ve listed out our favorite reloading kits. Your mileage may vary!

What Is a Reloading Kit?

A reloading kit is a comprehensive set of tools and equipment designed for assembling ammunition at home. It usually comes with a reloading press, dies, powder measure, scale, priming tool, and a case trimmer. With these tools, you can resize, prime, and seat bullets to create your own customized loads. Many shooters use reloading kits to save money, improve accuracy, or tailor their ammo to specific needs. It’s a great way to recycle spent cartridges and ensure you always have reliable, consistent ammunition for your firearms.

How I Chose the Best Reloading Kit

As an experienced shooter who is deeply involved in NRL22 and IPSC competitions, I’ve spent countless hours working with various reloading kits. This hands-on experience has given me a solid understanding of what makes a reloading kit top-notch. For this article, I combined my insights with the advice of other seasoned shooters who know the ins and outs of reloading. Their input helped me compile a list of the best reloading kits available today.

Choosing a reloading kit is a personal decision, and what works for me might not be the perfect fit for everyone. That’s why, although I’ve ranked these reloading kits from 1 to 6 based on my experiences, I’ve ensured that each selection caters to a wide range of needs. Alongside these reviews, I’ve included a buyer’s guide to provide you with valuable insights into what factors to consider when selecting a reloading kit. So, let’s dive in and find the right one for you!

Best Reloading Kit

1. Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit		Clear, Easy setup Great Price	Check Price
2. RCBS 9354 Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit		Heavy, Sturdy Design Not a bunch of extra pieces	Check Price
3. Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit		Very consistent Faster than single-stage, slower than progressive	Check Price
4. Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press Reloader		Fast, high-volume reloading Complex set up	Check Price
5. Lyman All American 8 Turret Press Kit		Durable cast iron frame Includes straight-line primer feed with large/small primer tubes	Check Price
6. Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press		Excellent value Slower, but more reliable	Check Price

Best Reloading Kit

1. Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit
2. RCBS 9354 Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit
3. Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit
4. Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press Reloader
5. Lyman All American 8 Turret Press Kit
6. Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press

Best Reloading Kit Reviews

Now we’ve had an overview look at our list, let us take the time to individually review each reloading kit. In this section we’ll be revisiting our list, speaking into the product and looking at the pros and cons.

Best Reloading Kit – Buyers Guide

When you’re diving into reloading, picking the right kit is essential. Each reloading kit has unique features, and understanding what to look for can make all the difference. Before we discuss the factors, let’s take a look at the types of presses to get a better overall understanding of your options.

Types of Presses

Reloading kits generally come in 3 types of presses:

1. Single-stage reloading press
2. Turret press
3. Progressive reloading press

Each of the types comes with different sets of components and uses for your reloading bench setup. Below, let’s quickly break down the 3 types of presses, from most beginner-friendly to most advanced.

Single-Stage Reloading Press

Single stage reloading presses are the best reloading kits for beginners, thanks to their ease of use and lower cost. These kits have little room for error. They require the least maintenance. Some say they are the most reliable press since they have the least amount of interchangeable components. This is why many use them for rifle cartridges.

The basic design dramatically decreases the amount of maintenance that other presses require. Less maintenance required means more longevity.

There are some downfalls to the very basic designs of these presses. Single-stage kits only conduct a single function on one die each time the lever is pulled. This causes reloading with this press to be the most time-consuming.

For these reasons, I do not advise purchasing these types of presses if your main goal is a high-volume production rate.

If you are dead-set on purchasing a single-stage press and want to know more about this type, check out this article.

Turret Press

A turret press and a single-stage press are similar because they both perform one function on a single die for every pull of the lever. They both have one shell holder.

The main difference is the turret ring found at the top of the turret press. This piece contains multiple dies and allows for quick change between dies and bushings.

Therefore, the turret press’s reloading process is more efficient than that of a single-stage press, where one would have to switch out the reloading dies manually.

A turret reloading press might be suited best for someone who appreciates the simplicity of the single-stage, but desires a faster reloading process — all without breaking the bank.

Progressive Reloading Press

Unlike both the single-stage and turret press, the progressive press can produce an entire round of ammunition with a single pull of the lever. Its process, somewhat similar to the turret press, contains inserts for multiple dies within its structure.

However, instead of using one die at a time, the progressive reloading press can use multiple dies with the addition of a shell plate and several shell holders.

If you plan to purchase a press for your handgun, or want to reload ammo in high volume, you might consider selecting a progressive reloading press.

Although progressive presses allow for greater efficiency, there are a couple drawbacks to these intricately designed kits.

Because it can perform so many tasks within the same action, it requires more frequent maintenance and adjustments, making it more suitable for someone with prior experience. This is something to keep in mind if you are just now learning about the reloading process.

Also, progressive presses are typically the most expensive.

If these benefits are what you’re looking for, and you want to know more about the best progressive kits, read this article.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Reloading Kit

Ease of Setup and Use: You want a kit that won’t frustrate you right out of the gate. Look for features like quick-change bushings that let you swap dies without a hassle. Clear instructions and user-friendly designs can really make your reloading experience smoother, especially if you’re new to the process.

Durability and Construction: Reloading is an investment, so you’ll want equipment that lasts. Kits made from sturdy materials like cast iron or heavy-duty steel will stand up to the rigors of frequent use. A solidly built press not only performs better but also gives you peace of mind that it’ll serve you well for years.

Included Components: Pay attention to what comes in the kit. A good reloading kit should include essential items like a press, dies, powder measure, and even a case trimmer. Make sure the components fit your specific needs—if you reload multiple calibers, having everything you need in one box is a big plus.

Reloading Speed and Efficiency: Consider how quickly you want to reload. Single-stage presses are great for meticulous work but can be slow, while turret and progressive presses can significantly ramp up your output. Think about your shooting habits—do you need to produce a lot of ammo quickly, or are you more focused on precision?

Precision and Consistency: Accuracy matters when it comes to reloading. Look for kits that offer features like adjustable dies and reliable powder measures. These elements are crucial for producing consistent and reliable ammunition, which can make a big difference in your shooting performance.

Price and Value for Money: Reloading can save you money in the long run, but you need to weigh the initial cost of the kit against what you get. A higher-priced kit might seem daunting, but consider the savings you’ll enjoy over time. Look for kits that offer the best balance of features and durability for the price.

Additional Features and Accessories: Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference. Look for extra features like case lube kits, ergonomic handles, and primer catchers. These additions can enhance your overall reloading experience and make your time at the bench more enjoyable.

Benefits of Reloading Kits

Investing in a reloading kit can be a great decision, especially if you hit the range often or just enjoy the process of making your own ammunition. There are plenty of benefits to reloading, but let’s focus on the two main reasons:

1. Saving money: If you are an avid shooter, then you’re aware how pricey weekly trips to the range can be. While prices are going up, and availability is going down, the sooner you start, the more money you save.
2. Piece of mind about the future: As previously stated, ammo availability is going down. The best way to guarantee your protection/hobby will remain intact is to learn how to reload your own ammo sooner rather than later.

Your New Hobby: Reloading Kits

I hope this article has equipped you with the knowledge needed to pick up this cost-effective hobby. These are some of the best reloading kits on the market, hands down.

Wondering why some popular brands such as Dillon, Forster, or Redding weren’t included? Don’t think it’s because they don’t produce quality reloading presses. It’s more due to the value of their available kits. Forster Co-Ax is one of my favorite reloading presses, but it doesn’t come in a kit.

Just because a company can produce a reliable press doesn’t mean their kits come in at the same value.

If you’ve decided you don’t necessarily need an entire kit, and just want to purchase a stand-alone reloading press, check out this list of reloading presses.

New to firearms? Get started with these:

• Gun 101
• Gauge vs. Caliber: What’s the difference?
• Gun University Courses

Best Reloading Kit – FAQs

Can I use one reloading kit for different calibers?

Yes, many kits can handle various calibers, but make sure the kit includes the right dies and components for the calibers you want to reload.

Can reloaded ammo be as reliable as factory ammo?

Yes, properly reloaded ammunition can be just as reliable as factory ammo. With careful attention to detail and quality control, many reloaders achieve high levels of consistency and performance.

What features should I look for in progressive reloading presses?

When choosing a progressive press, look for features like ease of adjustment, capacity for multiple calibers, smooth operation, and included accessories that simplify the reloading process.

Is a bullet seating die necessary for all types of ammunition?

Yes, a bullet seating die is essential for all types of ammunition, as it ensures bullets are seated correctly, which affects accuracy and safety during firing.