Best Reloading Press: Our Top 6!

Between hunting, range time, and ammo shortages, many people – both beginners and pros – are looking at their options for the best reloading presses. 

Heck, you’d be crazy not to look at options.

If you’ve been using firearms for any amount of time, you know the value of solid hardware that is reliable and accurate, especially when you reload ammo.

The right reloader and materials can provide you with homemade ammunition superior to store-bought in almost every way. Below, we break down the pros and cons of our favorite reloading presses from best to good. No duds or bad decisions here.

Now, before diving into the list of the best reloading presses, let’s first understand what a reloading press actually is. After that, I’ll walk you through how I selected the best reloading presses for this guide.

What Is a Reloading Press?

A reloading press is a tool that helps you assemble your own ammunition from scratch. With it, you can handle every step—resizing the brass, inserting primers, adding powder, and seating the bullet into the case. There are a few different types of presses to choose from, like single-stage, turret, and progressive presses. Single-stage presses are slower but offer more precision, while progressive presses speed things up when you’re loading in bulk. Whether you’re after accuracy or efficiency, having a reloading press gives you the freedom to customize your ammo to suit your needs perfectly.

How I Chose the Best Reloading Press

As someone who’s been shooting for years, I’ve had the chance to try out a lot of reloading presses, which has helped me spot quality options among the many out there. While putting this list together, I didn’t want to rely solely on my own experiences. So, I reached out to a few friends who are professional shooters and really know their stuff when it comes to reloading presses. By blending our insights, I’ve created this list of the best reloading presses out there.

I know that choosing a reloading press can be a personal decision, so I’ve ranked these from 1 to 6 to cater to the diverse needs of different users. I’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you figure out which press is the best fit for you. Keep reading to find the perfect match for your reloading needs!

Best Reloading Press

1. Hornady Lock N’ Load AP		Progressive Standard for high-volume reloading Lifetime warranty	Check Price
2. RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme		Single Stage Heavy-duty, sturdy frame Ambidextrous handle	Check Price
3. Lee Precision Classic		Turret Clearance for handgun and rifle cartridges Affordable price	Check Price
4. Dillon Precision XL 750		Progressive Bells and whistles included More expensive price tag	On Amazon
5. Redding Big Boss II		Single Stage One-piece O-frame Most durable press on this list	Check Price
6. Lyman All American 8		Turret 8 die stations Large clearance	Check Price

Best Reloading Presses

1. Hornady Lock N’ Load AP – Progressive
2. RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme – Single Stage
3. Lee Precision Classic – Turret
4. Dillon Precision XL 750 – Progressive
5. Redding Big Boss II – Single Stage
6. Lyman All American 8 – Turret

Best Reloading Press Reviews

Now that we’ve had an overview look at our list let’s take time to review each reloading press individually. In this section, we’ll be revisiting our top picks, discussing the product, and looking at the pros and cons.

Best Reloading Press – Buyer’s Guide

Let’s be honest—if you’re planning on shooting a lot, making your own ammo can save you money in the long run. And to really make the most of it, having the right reloading press is essential. To help you find the one that fits your needs, here are a few important factors to consider.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Reloading Press

Type of Press:

• Turret: A turret reloading press is a great step up from a single-stage press. With this setup, you can rotate the top turret to quickly switch between different dies without having to remove and reattach them each time. This means you can handle multiple steps of the reloading process more efficiently while still maintaining good control over each round you make. If you’re looking for a balance of speed and precision, a turret press could be your best friend.
  
• Progressive: If speed is your priority, then a progressive reloading presses are the way to go. These machines are the top-of-the-line option, featuring rotating platforms that automatically cycle through each necessary step for reloading. Once you get the hang of it, every pull of the lever produces a live round, making it the quickest option out there. If you’re reloading in bulk, especially for competitive shooting or stocking up for hunting season, this type can really save you time.
  
• Single-Stage: On the other hand, if you’re after precision and consistency, single-stage presses are often favored by hunters and long-range precision shooters. They require you to perform one step at a time, which may seem slower, but this method offers a level of consistency that can be hard to beat. With fewer moving parts, single-stage presses tend to be durable and reliable over the long haul. If you’re focused on creating high-quality, consistent ammunition, you might find a single-stage press fits your needs perfectly.

Material and Build Quality: Look for presses made from sturdy materials like cast iron or heavy-duty steel. A solid frame reduces flex during the reloading process, which helps improve accuracy. You want something that feels robust and can handle the demands of frequent use.

Ease of Use: A user-friendly design can really enhance your experience, especially if you’re new to reloading. Features like auto-indexing, which helps move cases through the press smoothly, and quick-change die systems make the process easier and more efficient. Also, consider the comfort of the handle—something that feels good in your hand can make a big difference over long sessions.

Versatility: Think about the range of calibers you plan to reload. Some presses are more adaptable and can accommodate a wide variety of cartridges. If you anticipate reloading different types of ammunition, look for a press that allows for easy adjustments and the addition of extra die sets.

Capacity: Consider how much ammo you intend to produce. If you’re loading in bulk for matches or hunting trips, a progressive press will save you time. However, if you typically reload smaller batches or specific loads, a single-stage or turret press may be sufficient.

Price: Set a budget before diving into the options. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a quality press can save you time and frustration in the long run. There are great choices available across various price points, so you can find something that fits your needs without breaking the bank.

Accessories: Think about any additional tools or accessories you might need. Some presses come with essential items included, while others might require separate purchases for die sets, shell plates, or primer feeders. Factor these costs into your budget to ensure you’re fully equipped.

Final Thoughts

No matter if you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, choosing the right reloading press can make a huge difference in your overall shooting experience. It’s not just about saving money on ammo; reloading lets you tailor each round to your exact preferences, which can improve accuracy and consistency. Take the time to think about the kind of shooting you enjoy and how often you plan to reload. Whether you’re loading for precision shooting, competition, or just for fun, finding a press that suits your needs will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

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Best Reloading Press – FAQs

What is the most accurate reloading press?

The most accurate reloading press is a single-stage reloading press such as the Redding Big Boss II, followed by the best-made turret or progressive reloading press.

What should I consider when choosing between turret and progressive reloading presses?

Consider your reloading goals. Turret presses strike a balance between speed and precision, making them great for handling multiple calibers. If you need to produce ammo quickly, progressive presses excel at high-volume production with each lever pull.

Can I use different calibers with a single-stage reloading press?

Absolutely! You can reload various calibers, but you’ll need to change out dies and shell holders each time. This process may be slower, but it’s perfect for achieving precision reloading, ensuring each round is crafted carefully.

What are the benefits of using shell holders?

Shell holders keep casings securely in place during resizing and priming. Using the right shell holder improves alignment and consistency, which is crucial for achieving precision in your reloads.

What type of press is best for beginners?

Single-stage reloading presses are often best for beginners. It allows you to learn the basics at a manageable pace, focusing on one step at a time. Once you’re comfortable, you can upgrade to a turret or progressive press for more efficiency.