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Posted: 12/30/2012 8:14:00 AM EDT
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I am interested in a progressive press for reloading a lot of 9mm and .223.
I have a single stage RCBS that I can use for other calibers or just working up a few loads. My goal for the progressive would be something I could get set properly and leave in place for a long time. I don't shoot a ton, I have just heard so many great things about Dillon that prompted my interest. Any recs on which one to get? Thanks. |
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Quoted: The 550 and 650 are the backbone of the line. Both are great. The 550 can be set up to swap caliber quicker and cheaper, and can crank out 500 rounds per hour. The 650 is better if you don't plan to switch calibers often. I agree, I went with the 550. Many here on this forum have the 650.  |
| When i first was getting into reloading I was wanting to get a 650 and wasnt even LOOKING at the 550B. Thankfully I am in AZ so I can just go to Dillon and mess with each machine. after messing with them, I really liked the 550B more. Price was somewhat a factor, but more so that i wouldnt be cranking out THAT much ammo at 1 shot. my main 2 calibers are .223 and 9mm. would a progressive bee nice when i make those.. I guess it would because at 1 sitting im making ATLEAST 500 rounds but closer to 1000-2000. but when i do 45, .38/.357, .243, .308, 30-06 and 300 weatherby, I may be doing 100-300 in a month and i make those more "match" quality then just plinking quality. plus i like the simplicity of the 550B. |
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either the 550B or 650 will suit you fine. My first Dillon was a 550B and I still have it. The 650 is wicked fast doing 9mm and has an extra station for a powder checking die. The case feeder is what makes it faster. But...feeding the case feeder isn't all that fast. You have to be absolutely 100% sure all the cases are 9mm for example, and suitable for reloading. Can't just dump quickly sorted range pick up brass in there. You'll find steel, berdan, 9x18 Makorov, 380 ACP, cases with crimped primer pockets and such which first must be weeded out. On a 550B without a case feeder you can inspect each piece of brass just before loading it onto the shell plate. The one downside with a 550B is you'll want sooner or later a 650 just for variation, call it 650 envy or something. |
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Quoted: The 550 and 650 are the backbone of the line. Both are great. The 550 can be set up to swap caliber quicker and cheaper, and can crank out 500 rounds per hour. The 650 is better if you don't plan to switch calibers often. If you get quick change kits, setup changes on the 650 are super fast. |
| I just started reloading .223 a few days ago on a 550B and love it. Going to buy the 9mm dies for it next week and start on that too. The only other experience I have is on a single stage Lee my Dad bought decades ago and the 550B is so much easier and faster. I have no regrets buying the 550B. |
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