4 Best Turret Press Choices For Reloading [2024 GU Selection]

We reckon the best turret press available is the RCBS Turret Press (and we’re right), but all 4 of each individual turret press (T/P) in this article have their benefits. Read on to figure out which is right for you.

If you’re new to reloading ammo, no worries! Check out our beginner’s handloading guide.

This list of the 4 best turret reloading presses won’t include progressive reloading presses or single-stage presses; we’ll cover those elsewhere.

Sometimes, there is an overlap between turret presses and single-stage reloading presses. Still, we wanted to keep them separate because once a reloader decides on a style of kit that’s right for them, many style-unique questions follow.

Many articles that claim to cover T/Ps confuse them with other styles — and wind up not answering the appropriate questions (or worse, answering them incorrectly). We always strive to deliver good info without any bull$#!&, but we’ll be looking to readers to help us stay up to speed’.

If we are missing something or getting it wrong, let us know in the comments!

What Is a Turret Press?

A turret press is a reloading press that simplifies the reloading process with its rotating turret head. This feature allows you to mount multiple dies simultaneously, eliminating the need for manual die changes between steps like resizing, priming, and seating bullets. By simply rotating the turret to the next die, reloading becomes quicker and more efficient. This makes it perfect for making moderate amounts of ammo without a lot of fuss.

Now, I know many folks who ask me, “What kind of turret press do I need?“

The type you need will depend on their situation. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, spring for a Lee 4-Hole Turret Press. If you’re looking for the highest quality, purchase RCBS’s turret press. I also recommend that reloaders invest in a reloading manual before getting started. A manual helps the reloader learn more about the reloading process (and helps dial in an individual’s needs).

Although some brands, such as Hornady and Dillon, are not included on this list, this does not mean you shouldn’t purchase their products. Some brands just don’t make T/Ps.

Most of the more prominent brands come with a great warranty.

How I Chose the Best Turret Press

As an experienced shooter who is deeply involved in NRL22 and IPSC competitions, I’ve had extensive hands-on experience with various turret presses. This has given me a solid understanding of what makes a turret press top-notch. While writing this article, I drew from my own insights and consulted seasoned shooters who share a deep knowledge of turret presses. Their input helped me create a list of the best turret presses available today.

Choosing a turret press 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 turret presses from 1 to 4 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 turret press. So, let’s dive in and find the right one for you!

List of our Top Turret Press Choices

Top 4 Turret Press Options

1. RCBS Turret Press		No automated features Includes a progressive and single-stage models	Check price
2. Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit		Contains auto-indexing feature Solid steel linkage and a cast-iron frame	Check price
3. Lee Cast Aluminum 4 Hole Turret Press		Built-in primer catcher Most budget-friendly	Check price
4. Redding Reloading T-7 Turret Press with Primer Arm		Cast-iron construction Optional automatic primer feed system	Check price

Running ’em down: Our Selections

1. RCBS Turret Press
2. Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit
3. Lee Cast Aluminum 4 Hole Turret Press
4. Redding Reloading T-7 Turret Press

Reviews: Presses for Reloading

So that was an overview of what we’ll be checking out. Let’s take the time to review each one individually. This section will look at each model and discuss its advantages relative to the others.

Feel free to crack a beer while reading this – that’ll help prepare you for drinking beer to celebrate the purchase of your new current press.

Best Turret Press – Buyer’s Guide

In this Buyer’s Guide, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a turret press for your reloading setup. But before we dive into those details, let’s first clear up the differences between turret presses, single stage presses, and progressive presses. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision that fits your specific reloading needs and preferences.

Turret Press vs. Single Stage Press vs. Progressive Press

When it comes to reloading ammunition at home, there are several types of presses to consider, each offering unique benefits depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of three popular types:

Single Stage Press: A single stage reloading press handles one step of the reloading process per cycle. Each case is loaded into a single shell holder and processed one at a time. This method is preferred for precision loading, especially for rifle cartridges or when crafting high-performance ammo.

Turret Press: Unlike a single stage press, a turret reloading press features a rotating turret where multiple dies can be mounted. It combines aspects of single stage and progressive presses, allowing for more efficient reloading as one case can go through several steps in the process without needing die changes for each stage. However, like the single stage press, it handles one case at a time.

Progressive Press: A progressive reloading press operates differently by using all dies with each pull of the handle. This results in much faster cartridge production compared to turret or single stage presses. It’s ideal for bulk reloading but requires more setup and maintenance.

Factors To Consider When Buying a Turret Press

Reloading Volume: Think about how much ammo you usually reload. Turret presses strike a good balance between precision and speed, making them great for folks who reload moderately or in larger batches without sacrificing quality.

Die Change System: Look for a turret press that’s easy to switch dies on. Models with quick-change turrets or auto-indexing features save a ton of setup time, especially if you switch between different calibers often.

Construction Quality: Go for presses made from tough materials like cast iron or solid steel. A sturdy frame means it’ll hold up well over time, even with frequent use.

Ease of Operation: Check for features that make reloading smoother, like a comfy lever, intuitive controls, and clear instructions. These little things make a big difference, especially if you’re new to reloading.

Compatibility with Accessories: Make sure the press can handle extras like primer catchers, powder measures, and mounting options for case trimmers or bullet feeders. This flexibility lets you customize your setup for maximum efficiency.

Die Compatibility and Setup: See if the turret press works with the types of dies you use (like standard or carbide). It should also fit the caliber sizes you reload and have enough space for all your dies without crowding.

Budget Considerations: Set a budget based on how often you reload and what features matter most to you. While there are cheaper options, investing in a higher-quality turret press often pays off in better accuracy and longer use.

Tell us which one you bought.

We value our readers’ feedback. Tell us if we left any high-quality press off our list. Comment why you bought your model. Any specific advantages?

Note: if you decided to go a different route, I suggest looking into the excellent Forster Co-Ax or the popular Hornady Lock-N-Load.

For further reading, we’ve provided a detailed comparison of the three main types of reloading kits typically used. Hopefully, this helps you decide what type of reloading press is best fitted for your needs.

New to guns? Start here.

Best Turret Press – FAQs

Is a turret press suitable for reloading pistol ammunition?

Yes. Turret presses like the Lee Precision Classic and Lee Cast Aluminum 4 Hole are great for reloading pistol cartridges. They’re versatile and easy to use, making them a top choice for pistol reloaders who want dependable performance without breaking the bank.

What accessories should I consider for my turret press setup?

When setting up your turret press, think about grabbing accessories like primer catchers, powder measures, and extra turret heads for different calibers or stages of reloading. These additions can really boost your reloading efficiency and convenience, making your setup more tailored to your specific reloading needs.

Can a turret press handle different types of handgun cartridges?

Yes, turret presses like the Lee Precision Classic Turret Press and Lee Cast Aluminum 4 Hole Turret Press are designed to handle a variety of handgun calibers. They’re flexible in terms of die setup and adjustment, which means they can accommodate different sizes and specs of handgun cartridges commonly used by shooters.

Is a turret press suitable for beginners reloading handgun ammo?

Absolutely! Turret presses are actually quite beginner-friendly. They’re easy to operate and offer enough versatility for beginners to learn the ropes of reloading handgun ammo effectively. Starting with a turret press is a great way to build confidence and skill before potentially moving on to more advanced reloading setups.