Looking into a progressive reloading setup

[Kenk]

Thanks crockett!

[Markwell]

      What Crocket said is all true.  We switched to a Redding T7 a number of years ago and never regretted it. We now have 4 tool heads with pre-set dies. We use the T7 for cartridges that we don't shoot lots of like .250-300 and .45-70.

       For the stuff we shoot in volume we run 2 Dillon 550s and a 650. Our #1 550 is set up for .223/5.56 with a Hornady powder measure. Only thing that ever gets changed on this machine is seating
depth and powder charge. The 650 (with case feeder) does only 9mm and .45ACP and often it doesn't get switched over for a year or more as when we run either cartridge we runs lots of it. Our second 550 is the do-all machine; .357/.38 spcl., .38 Super, 10mm, .45 Colt, .44Mag., .45AR, .32 H&R, etc. We have separate tool herd for most of these rounds.

     Like someone else mentioned, progressive machines are all about time vs. volume. We have never looked at reloading as a hobby but, as an old time IPSC/IDPA shooter, it has always been a necessary evil;  if one wanted to shoot a considerable number of rounds per year they needed to be loaded with as little time spent as possible.

    If you shoot a lot, or aspire to, you need to go progressive.

[Kenk]

Absolutely, Thanks Markwell

[cphills]

I have a 20 year old Dillon 550 B (converted the C last year). This was after selling my RCBS ammomaster that I owned for ~10 years. Dillon and RCBS support have been 100% excellent in my many years of experience.
If you go progressive, I highly suggest the mind set of taking your time vs going as fast as you can. This goes for caliber changes/switching primer size. There is a lot going on with each throw of the handle and all it takes is a hiccup on primer feed to stop one in their tracks. Triple check the powder feed/charge weight before going full production and I like using a separate crimp die in the 4th station.

[TXshooter]

I'm a long-time RCBS Rock Chucker SS user.  A few years ago, I ventured out and purchased a Dillon 550C.  In short, I love it.  Set-up took a little time, but once done, it has performed to my expectations.  I still use the RC, but the Dillon meters Longshot well and does not disappoint.  Plus, Dillon has a lifetime warranty.

[Kenk]

Thanks man!