It isn’t strange that more and more hunters like making their own bullets. Believe or not, there are so many advantages of this activity, which have even more positive effects on the overall experience. Of course, in order to get them, you will need the Best Reloading Presses. Instead of ordering the first one you see, spend some time in understanding these tools and making the right decision.
Comparison Table
Benefits of reloading presses
Of course, a reloading press is designed and made for one purpose only, to reload your bullets. But, there are a lot of benefits these tools have to offer. The first one is freedom. You will feel like a more professional hunter, due to the fact you will make your own bullets. It is a real pleasure being able to make as much of bullets as you want and to store them for the situation when you will need them.
- Ammo customization
The best reloading press will allow you to make perfect bullets. This is also the main reason why so many hunters or users in general use reloading presses. Gunpowder, lead and etc. can be perfectly mixed and matched to adjust the recoil or the force of a bullet. Basically, here there are no limits, so you are free to make any bullet you have in your mind. For professional hunters a bullet is good only if it performs perfectly, without any issue. That’s why reloading presses are essential for professionals. But, in recent months we have been able to see that more and more amateurs are using these tools as well.
- More affordable bullets
Some bullets are very expensive. Others are hard to find. In general, a reloading press will eliminate both issues. It makes bullets far more affordable and allows to the hunters to enjoy hunting more. All professional hunters know that the savings on bullets are massive, so it is a much better choice to invest one time into the reloading press and start saving money as soon as possible than to spend a low amount of money on bullets over and over again.
- Perfect for rare bullets
What if you are looking for a rarer bullet? It may be impossible to find or it is extremely expensive. In that case, you will probably give up, which has a negative effect on your moral. But, with the help of a reloading press, you will be able to make a rarer bullet you need. How about that? Furthermore, making this type of bullet won’t be a complicated task, because all reloading presses are easy to use. In addition there are so many weapons which use rare bullets, which cannot be purchased freely. As such, the only way to get them is to use a reloading press. Now you can understand how much these tools are actually needed.
- Allow you to reload obsolete bullets
In another case scenario, you have a weapon or you need a bullet which is obsolete. It cannot be purchased. Even if you find one, you won’t be able to be certain that it will work when needed. But, if you have a reloading press the situation will be changed completely. You can make that old bullet ready in just a few seconds, yes seconds! There are a lot of people who are using reloading presses just for this purpose. But, most of them start using for other purposes as well, once they discover how much bullets are affordable when loaded at home.
- Great for storing bullets
You need lot of bullets at once. Getting them in a store isn’t an option, because a store is closed. If you have a reloading press, you will be able to make them in your home immediately. As such, you will always have a perfect collection of the bullets at your disposal. In reality, most people like keeping a high number of bullets in their home just for emergencies. We can add the fact that those who live in areas where wild animals are common, must have a reloading press. You never know when you will need an additional bullet, so this tool is a must have item.
- Easy to use
Some of you believe that a reloading press is complicated to use, so they will avoid one. However, you actually need 5 minutes to get an idea how it operates and you need less than a minute to make a bullet. Doesn’t this sound complicate? Of course not. It is easier than going to the store and purchasing bullets. As a matter of fact, all reloading presses are easy to use and there are no major differences.
- Use a very little of space
All reloading presses are small and compact. They require a tiny amount of space to be stored. As such even if you live in a small apartment, you will definitely have space for them.
All reloading presses are a smart and wise investment. They can help you save tons of money on bullets, but they are simple tools, easy to use and they are durable. A single reloading press can last for decades without a single malfunction and issue. Better said, there are dozens of reasons why you should use a reloading press, but not a single reason why you don’t need one.
Factors to consider
Before just ordering a reloading press you like, there are plenty of factors to be taken into consideration. As a matter of fact, there are three types of reloading presses, which will be mentioned in this segment. All of the factors included below can make a massive effect on the reloading press you will own. That’s why you definitely have to pay attention.
- Types of reloading presses
There are three types of reloading presses which must be taken into account. Each type is suitable for a specific type of a user and each one has separate positive sides.
Single stage reloading press- This is the most affordable and the simplest to use reloading press. However, you will need to change die after single step. Of course, this model perform step by step, so it is a time consuming type of a reloading press. Keep in mind that we recommend it for those who don’t need a lot of bullets and who are beginners. In addition, these models are great for those who are on a tight budget.
Turret loading press- This type has a turret which will use all the dies at once. It is a great model for those who have a slightly higher budget and who want to reload bullets for different types of guns and shotguns. Of course it is slightly quicker than the first type here, but it is still a desirable model.
Progressive reloading press- This type will hold all the dies at place and will offer the quickest result possible. Of course, it can work on multiple casings at the same time. They are the most sophisticated and the most desirable type of reloading presses. In addition, they are highly recommended for professionals.
- Precision
Every single reloading press must be extremely precise in what it does. There are exact standards which must be met. Luckily, it is easy to get an idea regarding this matter. Poor-quality presses are easy to spot and you should avoid them.
- Compatibility
Not all reloading presses can be used for all types of bullets. Some can be used for gun bullets only, other for rifles and some for both. Also, keep in mind that there are accessories which can be additionally purchased in order to make a reloading press capable for reloading different types of bullets.
- Simplicity
This factor refers to the simplicity of cleaning and using the reloading press. Cleaning is more important than you may thing and it is something that must be performed regularly. Of course, using the reloading press must be simple as well.
Features Of a Good Reloading Press
You already know the factors that you ought to consider before purchasing a reloading press. However, to enhance your acumen in buying the best, we have listed some of the features of an ideal reloading press.
- Quality Materials
Although the modern materials used in making products have changed, there are still genuine reloading presses in the market. The essence of having a great make and material is for the purposes of durability. A material like iron or steel can make your machine strong and long-lasting. A good material will call for more bucks but in the long run, it is worth it. Some of the key parts of a press that you should ensure have good material include ram, primer, and handle among others.
- Has several functionalities
Well, you need to check at the applicability and functionality of your press. Will it just be used for reloading? Can it be used in doing some activities like case forming or swaging bullets? This can help you save money instead of buying other tools.
- It is from a renowned brand
It is always advisable to buy your reloading press from an established brand. There are brands that have been in the market for decades and have gained great experience in the field. Besides, their quality and experience, they have readily available spare parts in case of repairs. Avoid newly established brands.
- Its ease of being upgraded
Some people prefer upgrading single-stage reloading presses to progressive presses instead of buying the latter. In such a scenario, you will need to have a press that gives room for upgrading.
- It comes with a warranty
Most manufacturing companies, usually attach some warranty to their products. Basically, we have two major types of warranties: comprehensive and limited. Mostly, your press will come with limited warranty which includes factory defects and malfunctions of the press. Comprehensive, also known as unlimited, cover all other parts. They will give a time frame of 1-2 years. Other great companies give money-back guarantee in case you are not satisfied. Whichever the case, ensure your reloading press is warrantied.
- It has a relatively large case and accurate dies
The case size matters a lot in presses in determining its efficiency. You will also need to check at the Dies; check on how fast the dies can be changed, their materials, and perhaps their quality. A die set must be accurate for high performance. A great company should inform you on the accuracy of their dies clearly.
5 Best Reloading Presses
Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press Kit
- included components: LNL Classic Kit
This is the best reloading kit available on the market. In essence, you get everything you need to start reloading your bullets. The kit includes a single-stage press, gunpowder measurement electric scale and also a handbook which is more than just useful for beginners. In addition, you also get several other elements which made this kit complete. We liked the fact it has everything you need to offer and it is going to be everything you will ever need. Of course you must remember that this unit requires Hornady shells, which are sold separately.
Another fact we must include is precision. The kit is made for improved accuracy and for detailed reloading. When it comes to the overall quality, it is on the highest level. The press and other components are made from high-quality materials, so they are going to last as long as you need them. Although, we have mentioned that this model is great for beginners, it can be used by professionals as well.
Pros
- Kit includes all essentials
- Well-made
- High level of accuracy
- Value for money
Cons
- Requires Hornady shells
- Complicated handbook
RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit
- Includes nosler #7 reloading manual
And here we have the best reloading press for accuracy due to a simple reason. It is advertised as a master kit, meaning that the accuracy must be at the highest level. Of course, this is a kit as well, therefore it has plenty to offer. You get the press, a mechanical scale, priming tool and a powder measurer. Basically the only thing you will need is shells and dies. Other than that, you are ready to start reloading. In addition, the simplicity is at the highest level as well. This unit is capable of meeting the demands of the most demanding people and it is capable of withstanding a lot of pressure.
So, why you should consider this unit? It is made to last, it is a kit rather than a single reloading press and it offers a supreme capabilities. When it comes to the price, it is still more than just affordable, so there won’t be any issues with this factor. Try to remember that this model has been upgraded, so now it supports new loading block which brings us plenty of advantages. Chances are high that you are going to be more than just satisfied with the model in question.
Pros
- Upgraded model
- A full kit with everything you need
- Hand priming tool
- Attention to details
Cons
- Lack of electronic powder dispenser
- Complicated to assembly
Hornady Lock-N-Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press
- Auto-progressive reloading press for quickly switching dies and loading other...
- 5-station bushing system lets you change from 223 to 45 in less than 5 minutes
- EZject system reliably ejects every cartridge, every time, without adjustments
- Quick-change metering inserts; universal case retainer spring; automatic...
If you are looking for the best progressive reloading press meaning that you don’t need a kit version, this is a model for you. So what you actually get? First of all, it comes with a sophisticated die changing system which allows you to easily change the caliber at any given moment. Replacing from 223 to 45 requires less than 5 minutes, so you can get a better idea how easy to use this reloading press actually is. EZject is an addition to look for. It will eject every cartridge without a need for adjustments in a single second. Combined, this is a sophisticated reloading press for those who want the best results.
In a nutshell, here we have a high-quality reloading press, which is suitable for those who are professionals and want a quick and reliable press to use all the time. It is capable for reloading a high number of bullets per an hour, so you will get the best results. The quality shouldn’t be even mentioned. As you may know, this is one of the best manufacturers in the business, so you get all the best components and the outstanding quality.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Simple adjustment and modifications
- EZject system
- Built-in priming system
Cons
- Isn’t very affordable
- Requires plenty of pressure to be activated
Lyman 7040781 Reloading Press T-Mag Turret Press
- Turrets Change Easily
All of you should know that this is a turret press, obviously. It has been designed and made for pistol reloading, but the overall performance is still the best ion the class. The steel construction, the overall quality and the performances are all the best you can get. Still, this model isn’t as expensive as some other versions, so it is going to be an excellent value for money. Turrets will have to be replaced all the time, but they are easy to replace, so this is definitely an advantage.
The unit we have here is designed for amateurs and intermediate users, who need an affordable and reliable reloading press to use for a low or medium number of bullets. It has it all, but keep in mind that it is slower than a progressive reloading press. Nevertheless, the unit will get the job done at any given moment and there won’t be any complications with it. Be prepared to reload plenty of bullets for your needs instantly, if you choose this model of a reloading press.
Pros
- Turrets are easy to replace
- Steel design
- Easy mounting
- Quality
Cons
- Slow
- More focused on pistol bullets
RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press
- Hunting reloading presses
- Rock Chucker press frame provides a full four inches of ram-bearing surface to...
- Handle is made of solid steel and features a comfortable ball-type handle grip
- Outstanding strength and versatility, the Rock Chucker Supreme is ideal for the...
This is the best single stage reloading press due to an interesting fact. It is made from the highest quality materials, so we liked the strength and the quality, of course. Then we liked the fact it can be upgraded to a progressive model with an additional components. But, without it, this is the most affordable reloading press out there. It is still capable of meeting all your requirements and it is going to last.
When it comes to the manufacturer, it is known for making some of the best reloading press for actual hunters, who need the best and require something even more. As a hunter, you will definitely be more than just satisfied with this investment. Even the handle is made from solid steel, and added a round-type element at the top for a much better grip. As such needed pressure is much smaller than equivalent models have to offer. In a nutshell, just because we rated this model as the 5th on the list, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t good. As a matter of fact, it may be the best unit for your purposes.
Pros
- Strong and reliable
- Can be upgraded to a progressive reloading press
- Made by one of the best manufacturers in the business
- Low amount of pressure is needed
Cons
- It is very slow without the upgrade
- Old design
Conclusion
The Best Reloading Presses are here. We have 5 models listed just for you, or better said for hunters who need the best and need the best results every single time. In addition, each unit is made by a world-known manufacturer which suggests that you will get the best performances and the best results every single time you need them. Of course, we have added the factors to consider, so in the combination of them and the models we have reviewed, it is incredibly easy to find the best model for your needs.
Came to this post looking for the best rosin press? Feel free to read our rosin press reviews!
Last update on 2022-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This list of presses looks great. Gotta get one.
Looks good and professional probably used mostly in a warehouse or shed!