[Alz Toy]

Originally Posted by lobo loco

If cost is a concern, go with a RCBS. If volume or time is of concern to you get a Dillon 550B. I have both and they sit side by side on the bench. I use the Dillon for the calibers that I use a lot and the RCBS for smaller batches that I load less frequently. Dillon adapters are a bit pricey, while RCBS doesn't need all that stuff...just dies and a shell holder. Redding also makes some great stuff, especially their powder measures.

One more point I should add is don't reload to save money...you won't save much especially if you value your time...DO IT FOR ACCURACY and FLEXIBILITY and OPTIONS to create loads that you can't buy otherwise. Pistol ammo at Wally World is just about the same what the components cost new. Powder is up to around $20 / lb, primers are $2-3 /100 , bullets $15-20+ /100 Brass - depends on the cal. but at least $10/100...Do the math, then make yor decision. If you shoot a lot it's the way to go, but for the reasons I mentioned.

X2. I have a Lyman Orange Crusher set up that goin on 20+ years old, single stage, as I mainly load for rifles. Dies? I like Redding first, as I like wildcat calibers, then Hornaday. Its not the press and dies that cost 'ya, its the incidental items that go with it. Kind'a like black powder/archery. Once you buy the gun/bow, its the little things over time that drive up the cost. BUT!, it also depends on how technical you want to get with it. Mainly, have fun, and keep an open mind. Al