Comments for Ultimate Reloader

Comment on Quality Matters by Michael

Michael — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:27:56 +0000

My only piece to add is do not assume quality based on reputation only. Each reloading manufacturer makes quality equipment, but not ALL pieces are great. I own equipment from Lee, RCBS, Hornady, Dillon, Lyman, and more. Each manufacturer has let me down with some things and performed flawlessly with other equipment — often at a savings. Due diligence helps in finding bargains; personally I know few people without a budget they need to keep to, and with some bargain hunting a satisfying reloading experience can be had on most budgets.

Comment on Quality Matters by Dave Pearsall

Dave Pearsall — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:27:21 +0000

Great discussion. I’ve had great luck with RCBS digital calipers I bought quite a few years ago. Not sure of its origin but suspect China. I guess I hit one of the heads up manufacturers. As for presses, I’ve never had a Lee press and understand their place in the market because of their low cost. I feel fortunate to have a RCBS single stage and four Dillon presses although I did go through a couple red presses before going strictly with Dillon (and the RCBS single stage). Nothing really wrong with the red presses except that I found them quite quirky in several area. Much faster than my two 550′s, too fast for my needs I should add. Quality-wise, can’t complain about any of the presses I’ve had or have but in the end feel that the extra money spent on Dillon presses comes back through reliability and second to none customer service. Somehow I think that all the press manufacturers offer great customer service and for that we’re extremely lucky.

I second the bottom line about not buying cheap and from a reputable dealer. I plan to have the presses I presently own and reload for a long time to come. They, in turn, will be handed down to any of my kids who wish to learn the art. There doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of new technology lurking around the corner causing me to look over my shoulder for a newer design or model. I suppose that might change.

Comment on Quality Matters by Bob in Woodinville Wa

Bob in Woodinville Wa — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:39 +0000

Quality does matter … a lot. I recently endured the purchase of a Hornday digital caliper (made in china). The bad news is it was defective. It skipped entire ranges of numbers. When I contacted Midway they sent 2 replacements and all were defective. The good news is Midway ultimately sold me a much more expensive Lymann caliper for only $10 more (it works great). I think one asian manufacturer has a handle on quality and the other does not.

The bottom line is don’t buy cheap and only from a reputable dealer and you’ll be ok.

Bob

Comment on Quality Matters by Dave

Dave — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:12:31 +0000

Great post. This is exactly the type of decision I went through. I originally bought a Lee single stage because it was cheap. Instantly wanted a turret because I need to get more rounds out quicker. The turret accomplished that, but the powder measure wasn’t very consistent, I constantly had to tweak, I would see videos (such as ultimatereloader ), where the user wasn’t constantly fiddling with things. After stove-pipeing a few rounds in competition because my loads were light (metering being inconsistent, I presume), I went with an RCBS pro2000 based on forum reviews and the videos here at UR. Wow! Happy happy happy! Dead-on consistent metering, mostly trouble free operation with minimal tweaking, solid feel, etc. (I really can’t believe how consistent and accurate that powder measure is, from when it is full to when there is very little powder left in it)

To make a long post longer, I should have bought the Pro2000, or a dillon, from the start and saved all the money I spent on those two cheaper presses. (I’m 54, and I’m still learning these lessons!)

Comment on Quality Matters by Byron

Byron — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:23:07 +0000

I have collected tools and equipment of different types for many years. I always buy the best that I can afford. When it came time to buy a progressive press I bit the bullet and got a Dillon 650. I have never regretted that desision. With proper maintianance I expect it to perform well in to the future. I expect to pass it along to my son when I am gone.

Comment on Q&A: Help! crushed cases loading 45ACP! by Gary

Gary — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:22:28 +0000

Using mixed brass or with Mil-Crimp ?

Can offer this: even with 9mm pistol cases, have had to set the pin markedly longer than either Dillon or Redding suggests to insure
all the primers “pop” out of the various mfg’s. cases !

Never have had a problem with same set at this longer distance, no broken or damaged pins during many K reloads for USPSA/IDPA ammo, etc.

This is not to say the pins haven’t been damaged or broken via other case problems, however !

Comment on Quality Matters by Alex

Alex — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:53:46 +0000

I have to take exception to your example of calipers. I have used Mitutoyo, Brown and Sharps and Fowlers and yes they might last alittle longer but with the imports being $16 to $25 and the top brands being $125 and up it is a no brainer. A pair of calipers last me about a year and I have been in business for 15 years. Now at $25.00 each that would be $375.00. If the top shelf lasted twice as long (they don’t) but for sake of argument lets say they do they would be replaced 7 1/2 times in 15 years at a cost of $125.00 each or $937.50.

Comment on Redding T-7 Loading 357 Magnum (HD) by Frank

Frank — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:49:11 +0000

Bought the Redding t-7 on sale today at Cabelas for $279. MidWayUSA has them on sale for $239 but they are out of stock and when you add shipping the savings would be negligible. Mounted and ran 175 .45 Colt through it with no issues. Per my previous question above the RCBS Little Dandy it mounts just fine and I dropped powder from the press into the cases. I didn’t purchase the Redding primer system as I’m not a fan of tube primers. My Lee Auto Primer is faster to load/reload and works flawlessly on my old press so I primed on it. I’ll be running .45 colt and .357 mag dies on the Redding and feeding powder from the Little Dandy for both. Someone above asked about wobble. Zero that I could tell and I have a rock solid bench I work off. Very pleased and will go out tomorrow and run some .357 mag through it

Comment on AR-MPR- RCBS Rifle Bullet Feeder Overview by Lucian

Lucian — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 17:54:43 +0000

Gavin, if you could post a dillon 650 mod for the Rcbs rifle BF that’d be great

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by Gavin

Gavin — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:33:24 +0000

That’s strange John. I’d try raising the baffle 1/2 inch, and see if that helps at all…

Comment on Suggestion Box – Submit Your Ideas for Ultimate Reloader by Ray

Ray — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:15:55 +0000

Can you adapt a $30 Lee case feeder to a D-650 or a Hornady LnL instead of spending $300 for the motorized version ?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by John

John — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:09:28 +0000

Still having powder drop variances outside a 10th of a grain. I have disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with graphite, and wiped with a drier sheet. What am I missing here? Do I need to be using the rifle rotor for 45 acp? I saw a mention of what rotor and then never a confirmation.

Comment on Redding T-7 Loading 357 Magnum (HD) by Frank

Frank — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:41:44 +0000

Gavin…could you do me a favor and measure the distance from the cventer of the die hole to the edge of the primer tube…I’m trying to determine how much clearance there is as I see the real advantage for purchasing this press (for me anyway) in being able to drop powder from the turret vs off press. Thanks

Comment on Redding T-7 Loading 357 Magnum (HD) by Gavin

Gavin — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:42:07 +0000

Not sure, I don’t have one of those measures.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Gavin

Gavin — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:41:42 +0000

Earl- the pedestal plans are here (require different bolt pattern for Loadmaster, plans are for Lock-N-Load): http://ultimatereloader.com/?p=826

Comment on Lock-N-Load Steel Stand / Pedestal Plans Available! by Mike

Mike — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:08:37 +0000

Great plans! I know what you mean about the aircraft carrier. I have an over 300lb steel bench in the garage that shakes like crazy when the press is going. Since the garage isn’t heated though, during the winter I was hoping to locate the press indoors but the room has wood floors and can’t have the stand bolted down.

In the existing plans the base is 18″x24″x1/4″ which is a 30.6lb footing. Do you think upping that to a 1/2″ (61.19lbs) or 3/4″ (91.79lbs) plate, filling the column with concrete, and mounting the column more towards the rear of the plate (creating an L shape) would be ok or would it still move too much?Then I could weld wheels to the back of the plate (off the ground) so it could be moved around like a hand truck and rested on a piece of carpet while indoors.

Thanks for all the time and effort you put into this site and your videos!
-Mike

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Earl

Earl — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:16:23 +0000

Thanks for the excellent blog and well made videos, have you covered the design of the steel press stand that your presses are mounted to?
Or if not, would it be possible to cover this and its design, along withother mounting solutions that reduce flex well?

Many thanks for such an informative site!

Comment on Redding T-7 Loading 357 Magnum (HD) by Frank

Frank — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:10:02 +0000

Do you know if the RCBS Little Dandy Powder Measure would fit on this press and not have problems clearing the Primer tube. I’m having problems getting an answer to this question. If I can confirm that it will work I’ll be placing an order for the Redding ASAP. Thanks in advance for any help ou can provide

Comment on Loadmaster Loading 45 ACP (HD) by Savvas

Savvas — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:41:35 +0000

The Loadmaster has a weak priming system. It is not simple to operate, or keep working reliably. Primer change from small to large takes more time than it should. Inadequate visibility on the number of primers remaining.

It is very susceptible to spilled powder grains interfering with the priming.

Priming system should be disassembled and cleaned after every reloading session.

When problems do come up, having to remove a case from the shellplate is time consuming.

I prefered the spring-return measure over the chain to the frame, and converted all my powder measures to spring return.

It should be completely stripped and cleaned periodically. Every 1000 rounds is a rough guide.

Plastic parts must be inspected for wear at every strip-down.

For single caliber setups, it’s ideal. Once tuned and running well, it tends to stay that way.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Ray

Ray — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:06:40 +0000

Yes, primer detonations. The first time only 1 primer went off , the second time about 5-7 went. Both times the plastic parts were wiped out (not the disk shaped tray). I was not hurt (only my shorts were damaged). Since I was experiencing about 5% missing or chrushed primers (small primers) I was always slowing down to remedy the situation and wasting a lot of powder, bullets and time, I set up my old Lee turret press to resize and prime. I actually think my production rate is about the same and my yield is way better.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by John Woolfrey

John Woolfrey — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:42:37 +0000

Gavin,
I’ve only tried the Lee 45acp bullet feeder so far. The fingers grip the bullet okay but after 400-500 rounds or so they tend to get tired and spread a little, causing loss of grip on the bullet if you go too fast. The Loadmaster seems to have a speed limitation where if you go too fast things start to go wrong. The Lee bullet feeder seems to keep up with the Loadmaster but after a 500 rounds or so you want to dip the fingers in hot boiling water for a few seconds so they will grip the bullet again at fast speeds. If you wanted to go fast as possible or want to run say a Dillon 1050 then I would recommend sacrificing the factory crimp die for an RCBS or Hornady bullet feeder die.
John

Comment on AR-308 – RCBS Pro-2000 and 30 cal RCBS Rifle Bullet Feeder by William Valentin

William Valentin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:37:09 +0000

Well Gavin, you convinced me the RCBS 2000 progressive press is the way to go.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by GW

GW — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:10:42 +0000

I reload 9mm, 45, 40 s&w, .223
I use case feeder on pistol cases
I use collater with a penny in the center of the collator to srink opening size on 9 and 40
I run all my brass through single stage to size and deprime before putting them into my loadmaster
I wash with laundry detergent, dry then vibrate with walnut media till bright
All brass is reamed with Hornady primer pocket reamer, I found even some comm. brass had problems feeding primers on the Loadmaster. Same issue on my L&L Progresive.
Like you all Lee dies, 1 universal decaper in case I missed a primer, 2. Lee sizer die without decapping pin 3. Standard Lee Powder charge. 4. Seating die only 5. Factory crime die.
I found by preprocessing my brass I do not have many issues.
I just tried to reload 9mm using Alcan 7 which is a shotgun powder very fine and the Hornady L&L powder hopper just bound up. I switched over to the Loadmaster and the Lee powder hopper fed the fine powder just fine with no leaking.
I have found with 4-5000 rounds loaded on both press’s they cannot be forced or jambed. Like you said slow and steady always works.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:34:11 +0000

“1 went off so far.” –> Can you tell us more about this incident?

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:33:28 +0000

Ray- Re: Ka-Booms – are you referring to primer tray explosions? If so, can you tell us a bit more about what happened, and if your hearing was damaged (or equipment)?

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:32:14 +0000

Dave: I haven’t tried it myself, but I believe it would work.

Anyone else using a Hornady powder measure on the Loadmaster?

This would make a good Frankenlöder video/post.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:30:20 +0000

Jeff- that is some great DIY action you have going on there!

How reliable are the Lee bullet feeder fingers? I’ve heard varying reports as to their function…

Thanks for sharing!

-Gavin

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Ashley

Ashley — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:55:47 +0000

I reload 9mm and 45ACP.

Use the case feeder.

Dies are all Lee, no die she’ll in the priming station.

Yes I prime on the press. 1 went off so far.

I hope to be rid of this abomination of a progressive press as soon as I can upgrade to a Dillon 650. This thing is junk. It requires constant vigilance. Things go wrong with no warning.

Lots of wasted components.

Comment on Poll: What Rifle Cartridge Do You Reload Most Often? by Sherm

Sherm — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:55:03 +0000

I reload for the 20-06 a lot because it is so much fun to shoot at the range. While I use the 25-06 mostly for target practice using a 75 grain bullet, it makes a good whitetail rifle with a 117 grain Interlock. Also reload for the 6.5×55, 30-30, 30-06, 9mm, 38 Special, .357, and 40 S&W.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Chris

Chris — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:39:15 +0000

So far I have only loaded 9mm on mine. I do the standard setup for 1-3 and have a hornady bullet feeder die in #4 and seat/crimp in #5. The case feeder is a must. I just don’t understand why they don’t include the funnel with the press. I have recently been processing lots of brass through this and kicking it out in station 3 to clean it a second time. This gives me less problems with primimg. I will admit though I am on my 3rd rocker/lever for priming. They have snapped in half on me. The Hornady die allows me to load up about 9 bullets at one time and seems to make it go a little faster. I also thing they need a little more mechanical advantage on this. The lever shouldn’t be hard to pull. I have worked on a Dillon before and it requires no force at all compared to the Loadmaster.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Ray

Ray — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:11:37 +0000

I load 45 ACP and 9mm and 9mm Major on the press. Since I have had 2 Ka-Booms, I no longer prime on the press. I consider the prime-on-upstroke to be the fatal flaw of this press.
My die setup is #1 empty #2 powder using Lee Pro Auto Disk Powder Measure ,#3 Hornady Powder Cop #4 Redding Competition Seating die and #5 Lee FCD. I am somewhat dissappointed with the press in terms of Case OAL also, that varies +/- 0.006, in spite of my attempts to correct. This becomes a factor when loading 9×19 for Major Power Factor for USPSA Competition. I use the case feeder with the collator all the time but never the bullet feeder.

I guess I got what I paid for and have the capacity to easily keep up with what I’m shooting (~1k/mo).

Ray

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Rene Damhaut

Rene Damhaut — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:10:41 +0000

What cartridges do you load with your Loadmaster?
9Luger, 357Magnum, 223Rem, 22-250, 243, 270, 308, 30-06, 300WM
Do you use the case feeder? If so, with what cartridges?
Yes for pistol caliber and 223 Rem
What is your die setup of choice?
Most cartridge are decapped on the Load Master before ultra sonic cleaning.
Station 1 Resize, Station 2 Prime (I use a seater die to center the shell on this station, I get less prroblem with the primer this way.), Station 3 Powder feed, Station 4 Bullet Seat, Sation 5 Factory crimp.
9Luger, 357 Magnum and 270 Lee dies,
223 and 308 Redding Competition neck sizing sets with Lee factory crimp,
22-250, 243, 30-06 Redding Type S neck sizer, Forster Competition bullet seater and Lee factory crimp
For pistol caliber I use a Lee Lee Pro Auto-Disk Powder Measure, for 223 and 22-250 a Redding, for 243 and 308 a RCBS and a Lee Perfect for 30-06. The Redding and the RCBS powder measure have been modified to be activated by the shell.
Do you prime on the press, or off the press?
On the press but I have used a lot of slider, this the most delicate part of the press.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Dave Stiles

Dave Stiles — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:51:12 +0000

I’ve asked this question before but I’ll ask again. Can any other case-activated powder measure be used on the Lee Loadmaster? Can you replace the Lee disc powder measure with the Hornady case-activated powder measure?

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Jewish Marksman

Jewish Marksman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:12:39 +0000

My answers are pretty much the same as yours for pistol ammo, but the headaches caused by priming for revolver ammo has lead me to prime revolver ammo by hand. And for .38 special I use the same die for seating/crimping, but use the separate crimp die for .45. Powder using the disk system, which works great.

For rifle, I remove the indexer and simply use the press as a single stage press. I de-prime using the lee universal depriming die, resize using a lee die, and seat using a lee die. Powder and priming are done off the press. I tried the dual disk for powder on the press, but was not getting good results with ball powder (H335) and the dual disk system, lots of spilled powder and inconsistent charges. The lee perfect powder measure off press was better, but I’ve since switched to rcbs chargemaster combo. Since already many operations are off press, I figured I may as well hand prime.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by Harry

Harry — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:53:27 +0000

1. I load 9mm and 38/357 with my Loadmaster.
2. I use the case feeder for 9mm, but not for 38/357.
3. Dies are all Lee carbide dies, except Station 4.
Station 1 = Universal Decapper
Station 2 = Sizing Die (with no decapper)
Station 3 = Powder-Through Expanding Die (with Auto-Disk Pro powder measure)
Station 4 = RCBS Lock-Out Die
Station 5 = Seating and Crimping Die
4. Yes, I do prime on the press.

I’ve been very happy with my Loadmaster. If you’re willing to tinker a little bit, it’s a great value.

Comment on Calling all Lee Loadmaster Owners! by John Woolfrey

John Woolfrey — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:06:51 +0000

>>What cartridges do you load with your Loadmaster?
9mm, .40s&w, .45acp and 223 Remington

>>Do you use the case feeder? If so, with what cartridges?
Yes, for all mentioned calibers above. I don’t use the funnel thing provided by Lee because it does not save me all that much time. I instead built a Dillon style case collator to use with the Lee case feeder assembly. I also built a bullet collator to use with the Lee bullet feeder.
Here’s my setup in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9C3ru3FKV0
I also have a video showing how to build the bullet collator.

>>What is your die setup of choice?
Always prime on the press. Always use Lee dies. At first I had better results with large primers than small primers. After filing down the edges on the primer rocker arm I have had success with small primers also. There is the occasional 1 sideways primer every 300 rounds or so for small primers.

Pistol: Decap/Resize in #1, Empty #2 (priming station), Power in #3, Bullet seat #4, Factory Crimp #5

Rifle First round: Decap/Resize in #1 then trim and clean the brass. No more case lube after this step. I have a Dillon case trimmer I plan to install in station #4 that I haven’t setup yet.
Rifle Second Round: Empty #1, Empty #2, Power #3, Bullet Seat #4, Factory Crimp #5.

Comment on Loadmaster Loading 45 ACP (HD) by Danny

Danny — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:36:46 +0000

Awesome site &his videos, also have a question about the Lee loadmaster. I switched over from 45 ACP to 40 S&W, everything is working great, except the case feeder. The brass coming out of the tube is binding up withe slider & the next piece of brass. I’ve tried adjusting the space between slider & feeder, but it doesn’t seem to help. Any suggestions?

Comment on Loadmaster Loading .223 – 5.56 NATO by Lee

Lee — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:50:52 +0000

Is there any loadmaster information for loading the 6.8 SPC?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by C Armas

C Armas — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 05:08:55 +0000

Gavin, are you considering adding powder measure spacers to your product offering, so that those who load various calibers don’t have to measure ans remeasure the spacing….plz

Comment on AR-308 – Loading 308 with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP by Rick Cameron

Rick Cameron — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:01:14 +0000

Was noticing the metal rails in the bench to locate bolts to tie down items on your bench like presses ect. Would you be able to tell me what they are where I might find some like them. I have a hornady ammo plant on its way and might install that set up. thanks

Comment on RCBS Bullet Feeder on RCBS Pro 2000 45ACP (HD) by Carlos Armas

Carlos Armas — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:00:46 +0000

can you use the LnL hornady bullet feeder or case feeder with the Pro2000?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by Carlos Armas

Carlos Armas — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 23:18:40 +0000

Question…instead of holding the bullet up while the press moves upward so it connects with the case/brass have you or anybody tried using RCBS competition seater die that allows you to drop the bullet down the shaft?

Comment on Redding T-7 Loading 357 Magnum (HD) by Rod

Rod — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:06:12 +0000

I e-mailed Redding about progressive presses.

Their response was they will not produce any as they deal with varmint and benchrest shooting.
They find the single stage and turret styles meets their needs for accuracy better than a progressive.

They did say that Hornady and Dillon are good presses for progressive presses.

The 1000 yd benchrest record holder loads on a Redding T-7 press.

FWIW

Comment on RCBS Bullet feeder on Lee Loadmaster for 45 ACP (HD) by ChrisM

ChrisM — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:37:57 +0000

Nice setup with the RCBS bullet feeder. Can you do one with Hornady LNL bullet feeder and Lee Loadmaster?
I’m reloading FMJ/HP 9mm and 45 ACP. I would like to compare and decide which bullet feeder to get.
I tried the Lee bullet feeder and wasn’t really happy with it.

Thanks!

Comment on Loadmaster Loading 45 ACP (HD) by travis

travis — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:23:49 +0000

how much and how hard was it to put tht bullet loader on this press…was it worth it

Comment on Loadmaster Loading 45 ACP (HD) by brian

brian — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:07:11 +0000

hey Gavin,
love this site and video’s! My question for you is there any way to put a powder cop die on a Lee Load Master press?

Thanks Brian

Comment on AR-15 Precision Rifle Build DVD now available! by Erik

Erik — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:04:55 +0000

Hey Gavin,

After watching a few of your youtube videos, I’ll be ordering your DVD in March for sure. I’d order it sooner, but this month we’re doing a ‘zero spend’ February (only spending money on household expenses, utilitys and bills) so unfortunately fun money purchases are on hold until 3/1.

I’ll be starting my AR build as soon as my S&W lower comes in next month (lay-away @ Bud’s is what allowed me to start the build!). Thanks for the build resources, they will definately come in handy!

Comment on Poll: What Rifle Cartridge Do You Reload Most Often? by Jason

Jason — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:26:31 +0000

260 Remington for me, used in Highpower Rifle Silhouette

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Die Stations by BL

BL — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:58:49 +0000

(Just wanted to put in a pointer to the comment on Dec. 15th from Randy, as it references this post.)

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Die Stations by BL

BL — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:57:45 +0000

Also curious about what Jeff is proposing. I think you can even have an expander die on the first pass, so that the powder station (on the second pass) is not also doing expansion. That’s equivalent to your ideal 7-station set-up Gavin proposes at the beginning of the article.

Three related questions:
1. This proposed set-up assumes that the powder station can be inserted in station #1. Is there a clearance issue there?
2. It also assumes that the primer can be disabled on the second pass, as the case is already re-primed in the first pass.
3. It also assumes that the flared case will feed fine through the case feeder on the second pass, and that it is safe to use with re-primed cases.

Comment on Lee Classic Turret Loading .223 Remington Part I by RobW

RobW — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:38:59 +0000

Gavin,
I think i have watched all the lee 223 videos at least a couple times and very good videos. How are you removing a primer crimp?
Thank you,
Rob

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by Jeremy

Jeremy — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:30:08 +0000

On every bullet feeder I have seen they all say for use with plated bullets only. Why? What happens when u use a regular lead bullet like a full wad cutter or semi wad cutter?

Comment on RCBS Bullet Feeder on RCBS Pro 2000 45ACP (HD) by John

John — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 23:27:52 +0000

What a piece of kit!? I’m looking to buy a reloader what I have just seen has made my mind up. Hope it’s available in the UK

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part II by Rod

Rod — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:20:19 +0000

John,

Redding is made in USA and of top of the line quality.

Wonder why they do not make an Auto Progressive Press?

The T-7 Turret is built like a tank!

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part I by Dave Pearsall

Dave Pearsall — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 21:03:49 +0000

Have to agree with what Bill says in his Jan 24th words to Skeet. I had two Hornady L-N-L’s, one with case feeder, and suffered the same problems. I’m not saying Hornady doesn’t make a good product, it just doesn’t fit my likes as does the Dillon 550.

I started without the benefit of a class or another reloader to show me the ropes. My RCBS Rockchucker was slow and laborious but with the help of “The ABC’s of Reloading” along with several manuals, I found myself becoming more and more proficient (and comfortable) to the point that I decided I wanted more output capacity. Saying that, the Dillon 550 and SDB are both at a speed that I feel comfortable with. Having a case feeder, while convenient and speedy, just isn’t something I need to have. I still have the RCBS and have sold the two L-N-L’s.

Great topic. Lots of folks getting into reloading seem to question how deep to start with.

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part II by Rod

Rod — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:30:25 +0000

Here is the video for the Redding T-7 for .44mag
Shows changing primer system, shell holder and using powder measure.

http://ultimatereloader.com/2009/07/11/redding-t-7-loading-44-magnum-hd/

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part II by Rod

Rod — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:13:25 +0000

Oops! Typo.

Redding T-7 Turret Press Video
http://ultimatereloader.com/2009/07/11/redding-t-7-loading-357-magnum-hd/

RCBS Turret Press
http://www.rcbs.com/guide/#videos

Lyman T-7 Turret Press
http://www.lymanproducts.com/lyman/presses-and-kits/LyC_RPK_Exp_Del_Tmag.php

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part II by John McMann

John McMann — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:19:02 +0000

Gavin,
I would like to see you cover all of the Redding presses since I know they are made in the USA!!!

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part II by Rod

Rod — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:28:15 +0000

Gavin, good review.

Love the quality of your videos!

I think you should have shown the process of inserting the brass and such for each press.

I am sure some of your viewers are not as savy as you about presses.

Also, would have bee nice to show the Redding T-7 Turret press or the Lyman T-Mag to show manual indexing vs. the Lee auto indexing turret presses.

IMHO

Comment on UR Essential 45 ACP Loading Guide – Need your feedback! by Gus

Gus — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:21:28 +0000

I use a similar recipe and have very good results. I shoot bullseye comps.

Mixed Brass, WLP Primer, 4.5g Bullseye, 200g Custom Lead SWC , 1.250″ C.O.L.

Loaded on (OLD SCHOOL) RCBS Rockchucker

Colt Custom Combat

Comment on The new Reloading Bench System at Ultimate Reloader by Jason

Jason — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:08:26 +0000

Im curious how the t-track was mounted into the table.

Comment on Poll: What Progressive Reloading Press Do You Use Most? by Gavin

Gavin — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 03:37:13 +0000

The short answer is “no”.

The lube on lead bullets will gum up the parts. You can use plated bullets however…

Comment on Poll: What Progressive Reloading Press Do You Use Most? by ken confer

ken confer — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:54:16 +0000

gavin
can I use cast lead bullet’s with the hornady bullet feeder?

ken confer.

cosmoconfer@yahoo.com

Comment on Poll: What Progressive Reloading Press Do You Use Most? by ken confer

ken confer — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:52:29 +0000

can I use cast lead bullets with the bullet feeder

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by warren tackett

warren tackett — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:32:57 +0000

If you have case feeder, Leave the sizing die with primer punch in the press. Take all other die’s out, Run the case’s though the press taking out the primers. Now clean the primmer holes. Take out the primer punch, set the rest of the dies up and go. Taking out primers is easier on the LNL AP than the single press.

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Tip: Quick Change Powder Through Expander Linkage by Powder dispenser baffles? - Gun & Game - The Friendliest Gun Forum on the Internet

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 04:30:02 +0000

[...] [...]

Comment on Coming soon to a home theatre near you! AR-15 Rifle Build DVD! by Richard Reiser

Richard Reiser — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:25:36 +0000

Hey and dont`t forget to add showing how the Quick Change Powder Through Expander Linkage works

Comment on A Short History – Cameras at Ultimate Reloader by Jon

Jon — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:36:57 +0000

Gavin. Thanks for all of your hard work to provide such a resource. Your site helped me immensely when I was doing research on what equipment to purchase. I’ve been reloading for the last year on a Hornady LNL AP, which has been an excellent piece of equipment. Watching your detailed videos helped me with my purchasing decision. I’ve referred several people to your site who were looking to start reloading and didn’t know where to begin.

Keep up the good work, and again thanks for the time and effort you’ve put into this site!

Jon

Comment on LNL-AP Stand by Rick

Rick — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:16:24 +0000

Whats your thoughts on using something like this?
http://www.harborfreight.com/bench-grinder-stand-42986.html

When I had quoted the stand above to be made the estimate came in around 260$

Comment on LNL-AP Ergonomic Roller Handle by Dave Stiles

Dave Stiles — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:40:17 +0000

Looks like Lee leveraged your idea and are now offering a roller handle for some of their presses. Doesn’t work on the Loadmaster.

Comment on Lock-N-Load Steel Stand / Pedestal Plans Available! by earljazz

earljazz — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:29:33 +0000

Thank you for the plans. I think the pedestal would be great. But I’m having trouble finding the components. Where did you get your steel? Thanks again

Comment on LNL-AP Case Feeder by Scott

Scott — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:13:18 +0000

I’ll second Chris’ motion for a picture, but think a couple might be even better. Thanks!

I’m close to buying a feeder for my LNL and I do load a good bit of .40 cal. Maybe Hornady has improved on the component fit since these older posts…

Comment on LNL-AP Ergonomic Roller Handle by Scott

Scott — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:59:28 +0000

I got my ergo handle last week (sans lock washer, but no biggie). What a great feel! I wish the receiver for the roller handle was clear on the inside (towards the press) so I could put the handle on the left side of the arm. It’s connected a bit to the right and the weld blocks entry. Since I began reloading with my LNL I have stood far to the left side and being able to put the roller “backwards” would be perfect. I think I’m going to add a case feeder which will allow me to move a little to the right, but I’ll keep hand feeding bullets for a while.

I’m going to paint it red though – why the change to black? At least it’s not blue!

Thanks for the express delivery to make up for lost time. I appreciate the extra effort.

Hey, look at that, 1 year to the day from the last comment… Sorry, I’m easily amused at times.

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by John

John — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:11:17 +0000

This is as far as I got last time I brought this question up before.

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part I by steven

steven — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:59:20 +0000

Hi Gavin,

First let me say I enjoy your website. Just bought the Lee classic turret press and would like to get one of your handles for it. Any idea when you will have more for sale?

Comment on Spray paint to match Hornady red? by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:37:53 +0000

Cool- thanks for the heads-up!

Comment on Spray paint to match Hornady red? by Kyle

Kyle — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:39:23 +0000

I bought a used LNL AP that had some dings and wear on it and I wanted to find some touch-up paint. I contacted Hornady and and was informed by their tech support that:

The color used on Hornady’s reloading equipment is FORD CRIMSON RED.

Hope this helps out other users!

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part I by Craig P

Craig P — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:51:31 +0000

Hi Gavin, when do you think you will have the Hornaday LNL handle and bullet tray back in stock?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by John

John — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:30:35 +0000

I also wonder if any other powder measures can be adapted to the LNL and its case activated system?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by John

John — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 03:15:28 +0000

I am using the pistol rotor and insert. Another question is about the “v” shaped baffle position. Mine rests down against the metal housing of the powder measure.

Comment on 2012 is here! What are your reloading plans this year? by g bussard

g bussard — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:51:25 +0000

Kiss !

Buy needed supplies IE: 1k-1500 .308 bullets for 308 and 300 win (175sra or 178hdy)
Bullets for 223, 52 gr sra 1000 and 1k 55 gr fmj or 2 k dogtown bullets from midway
Powder: R-22 2 lbs, 2 lbs varget, 8 lbs 846 from wiedners, 5lbs blue dot for ,38-40 and 357 , 9mm
and .45 . Primmers: 3 K each. Dillon press does’nt need any parts or assy, RCBS press is almost bullet proof .
Pretty much standardizing componets Come on tax return !

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by Gavin

Gavin — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:26:04 +0000

John- which rotor and insert are you using? The rifle one, or the pistol one?

Comment on Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Feeder – Loading 45 ACP by John

John — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:15:23 +0000

Gavin or anyone,

I have been using the LNL AP for a couple of years now. I need some help on getting the precision to .10 of a grain on the powder drop when loading. I typically load 9mm and .45 ACP and see variations of .2-.5 on the powder drop. I use the Hornady PTX and the micrometer adjusters on the measure as well and I typically run WIN WST or Win 231 for my pistol loads. I have quit loading 5.56/.223 rifle on the press because I could not get drops very close using Varget.

Any tips or tricks would be helpful.

Comment on Dillon XL-650 Quick Switch Kit – Magnum/Special by Mike Q.

Mike Q. — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:40:23 +0000

The tool head also works for .32 S&W long to .32 H&R mag. reloading

Comment on Powderfunnels.com universal powder-through expander Part II by John From Georgia

John From Georgia — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 17:32:15 +0000

I’ve owned my LnL AP press for about a year and a half and have used the Powderfunnel most of that time and have been very happy with it. I don’t use an automatic bullet feeder.

A couple of weeks ago, as an experiment, I bought a PTX expander in .40 cal and a the PTX Powder Measure Stop. (the linkage piece referred to above) I loaded about 200 rounds using my new acquisitions and I must say that I was a little disappointed with the PTX expander. Although it did a decent job of flaring/expanding the case mouths, the expander seriously binded (sic?) in the shell and the extra force needed to withdraw the expanded shell occasionally caused minor powder spills from the expanded cases. The PTX Powder Measure Stop worked well and I was able to easily make minor adjustments to the amount of expansion. Due to the binding issue, I will no longer use the PTX expander. The powder measure stop is a winner though.

Comment on A Short History – Cameras at Ultimate Reloader by Joe

Joe — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:47:02 +0000

Gavin,

Thank you for your determination to continually improve the visual and audio of Ultimate Reloader. Your quest brings so much credibility and enjoyment to your reviews.

Thank you for your dedication !

I would like to see reviews of the following:

Mr. Bullet bulletfeeder. ( this bullet feeder feeds cast bullets using a hard lube
Dillon 1050
Dillon case trimmer
Dillon swager
Ponsness Warren Auto Drive
Mec 9000 w/ AutoMate
Magma Master Caster
Magma Star bullet lube sizer w/ heater and bullet feeder
Ballisti-cast Mark IV manual Casting Machine
Balisti-cast Mark VI lube sizer w/ heater and bullet feeder
Lee 6 cavity bullet molds
I believe a review of these machines is appropriate to go hand in hand with the numerous progressive reloaders already on this extremely informative site

Where did you purchase the track used in your loading bench to secure the many different machines to your bench.

Keep up the great work

Joe Claflin

Comment on A Short History – Cameras at Ultimate Reloader by PB_Crisp

PB_Crisp — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:23:13 +0000

Ultimatereloader.com ROCKS! Keep up the good work. This site, and your reviews are the main reason I selected the LnL AP for my first press. Without your videos, I would not have been able to see the details of setup and function. As you know, without that, it makes the decision much more difficult. Well done.
-Paul

Comment on Lee Classic Turret Loading .223 Remington Part I by Bob in Woodinville Wa

Bob in Woodinville Wa — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:57:57 +0000

Gavin

I really like the the roller handle for the Lee Classic Turret and tried to purchase one from your site. I was unabel to oder one because they are out of stock and would not accpet a back-order. Any idea when will be available again?

Thanks
Bob

Comment on RCBS Bullet feeder on Lee Loadmaster for 45 ACP (HD) by Dave Stiles

Dave Stiles — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:11:54 +0000

Can you use any other powder feeding system with the Lee Loadmaster? As long as the powder feeder is case activated and it’s not swinging around (as with the Lee Turret Press) wouldn’t any manufacturer of a case activated powder feeder work?

Comment on A Short History – Cameras at Ultimate Reloader by Dave Stiles

Dave Stiles — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:37:36 +0000

Great story. I have been thinking about using video to create some cooking video’s for my Wildgamefeast blog as well as YouTube. My site is full of “how to cook game recipes,” but I’d like to use video as well. It would be great to see some pictures of your lighting setup.

Comment on AR-MPR – Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Loading 223 by Skeet

Skeet — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:19:25 +0000

I would reccomend Dillons Super Swage 600. It runs around $100.00 and works great… Good luck!
Skeet

Comment on Powderfunnels.com universal powder-through expander Part II by Chris

Chris — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:19:36 +0000

I have found that this powder through expander will not cut it when using the Hornady bullet feeder. It flares the case mouth very well but does not expand it much, leading to tipping bullets.

Comment on Poll: What Progressive Reloading Press Do You Use Most? by Claude Hill

Claude Hill — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:34:09 +0000

2 APs, 1 650, 5 Square Deal Bs

Also have a Rockchucker and a Hornady LNL Single Stages.

Comment on AR-308 – Loading 308 with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP by Claude Hill

Claude Hill — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:04:45 +0000

I use Gavin’s method in this video but on a Dillon 650 for 308 Win, 260 Rem, 243 Win and 338 Federal.

The best powders for the 308, 243 and 260 are Varget, H4895, IMR4895 and Benchmark pushing 150, 155 and 168 gr Sierra and Hornady HPBT Bullets.

I am using LVR for the 338 Federal pusting the 215 gr Swift Scirocco.

I leave this Dillon 650 Press set for the 308 and all its family of calibers.

I also use Federal Match Grade Primers exclusively.

All of these are for my Semi-Automatic Rifles which I built on LR-308 Upper and Lower Receivers with early McCormick Triggers and DPMS 24″ (18″ in 338 Fed) Barrels.

I still load for all my bolt guns with a RCBS Rockchucker and Redding Competiton Dies.

I will reject any 308 round from the Rockchucker with any measurable runout and from the Dillon, or my AP I use for the 223 Family, with .001 runout.

I use Benchmark exclusively for the 223,/556 and 204 Ruger.

Same rules. Progressive Press for Autoloaders and Single Stage for Bolt Guns.

Been doing this for 54 years and learning things at every reloading session.

Just FYI, I use 5 Dillon Square Deal B’s for the smaller Pistol Calibers, 380, 9mm, 38/357, 38 Super, 40 S&W and a second AP for the large ones including 45 ACP, 45 Colt, 44 Magnum and 10mm.

Lots of Titegroup and H110 in the Magnums.

I have been very Blessed in my life and Loading and Shooting are now at 67 my only remaining hobbies.

Comment on Q&A: What type reloading press should I start off with? – Part I by Skeet

Skeet — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:14:14 +0000

Thanks for the input Bill! I’ll definately keep all of this in mind… Have a great day!

Comment on Lock-N-Load Steel Stand / Pedestal Plans Available! by Gavin

Gavin — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:15:52 +0000

Warren- I’ll email you.

Comment on Lock-N-Load Steel Stand / Pedestal Plans Available! by warren tackett

warren tackett — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:13:18 +0000

Hey Gavin, where can I send you some pictures. When setting up,I find it easier to take off the case feeder. So , I ran the wire though the tube, drilled a hole, and put a plug up by the top. No tie tie’s to mess with. just unplug and lift off. works great and clean looking (no wires). Second , Took a thin piece of cardboard that come’s with some die set’s and cut one piece 1″ by 3/4in. then 3 piece’s 3/4in. by 1/4in. Using wood glue, I glued the three small piece’s together like shims.( I glued them on top of each other). Then glue them on to the big piece bottom left hand corner. Now the base plate where the case slide pushes the case into the case plate, there’s a cut out! Put some glue on the cut out and on the small shims that are glued to the bigger piece. and glue it to that cut out. BINGO, shell’s don’t fall out on to the floor. The wood glue( Gorilla glue) held it to the press. I was mocking this up to drill and tap a hole into the side of the base plate, and use steel shims,small machine screw and small steel plate. But the cardboard and glue worked (clean before glueing). So luv to send some pic’s. Thanks Gavin, loving load’in

Comment on Powderfunnels.com universal powder-through expander Part II by Sorzy

Sorzy — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:48:40 +0000

Hey Gavin,

As usual, great informational video. Thank you.

The one question I have isn’t regarding anything in the video. That s, anything you covered. But it was something I saw.

What is inside the powder dispenser? And what does it help or do? And do you use it with all powders or only certain ones?

Thanks in advance.

Comment on Powderfunnels.com universal powder-through expander Part II by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:42:14 +0000

If you need to have a lot of case mouth expansion (for lead bullets in some cases for instance) you can literally get as much as you want. That’s really where it works better. The other case is when the PTX expander binds because of excess friction.

Comment on Powderfunnels.com universal powder-through expander Part II by Gavin

Gavin — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:41:08 +0000

The adjustment via the linkage is the same as with Hornady’s PTX expander. You lower the powder measure via 7/8 x 14 threads until the metering insert is close to “bottoming out”, then fine tune with the linkage. It works quite well, and makes adjusting case mouth expansion very easy…