[Floppy_D]

Is it interchangeable with the 550, or is it different? Everyone swears I need one, and that the benefit is huge, is this true? What's the upside? Can I mount it to a board and c-clamp it still, or will it have to go onto a bench?

Thanks!

[pruav]

I have mine bolted to a 2x4 & plywood and then bolt that down to the bench when I am reloading. I have never reloading without out the strong mounts so I can't help with if it is needed, but it is nice. IT should fit the 450 as long as the mounting hole are the same.

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd143/pruav/guns/07_18_1.jpg

[cpttango30]

The 550 is based on the 450 I believe. I am not 100% on that but if it is it should fit. If not get a drill and drill the holes your self.

I would call dillon and ask. or try the message boards on their web site.

[Mike Kerr]

If you have the auto eject upgrade and the Auto prime system upgrade on your 450, then the strong mount is a great idea for loading. It truly does what Dillon says it will- provide stability for your press. I put two 450's on the strong mount after I saw how well it worked with My 550. If you plan on putting in reloading sessions of more than an hour or two in length on a progressive press then the more stable and comfortable the setup - the happier camper you will be.

Of course the 450's I utilize have all 550 upgrades except the frame upgrade.
If you have not upgraded the auto eject system ($53.95) and the auto prime system upgrade ($80.95) to a 550 set up then I think you need different thought sequence on what comes first. Once you have a 450 upgraded it is basically a 550 - with a stationary tool head. Then if you use the strong mount you can get the most benefit out of it.

You will probably be a happier reloader if you add the stuff in the right order, because there can be some hitches which may cause you problems. I dont know this for sure because your situation may be different, but if you will provide a few more details I can give you some tips on pitfalls to avoid. You already have reloading knowledge so your learning curve should be short.

Regards,

:):):)

[Floppy_D]

It's fully upgraded, and basically a 550. I just wanted to make sure there weren't any changes I didn't know about, and see what the benefits of a strong mount are.

What it looks like to me, is instead of having 2 tubs laying around for cases and bullets, and a bucket between my knees to catch primers, is that everything will be a lot handier.

Sounds like it's time to send Dillon more money. :)

[Mike Kerr]

No doubt that Dillon knows how to sell add ons. However, the Strong Mount is worth every dime. Stability and leverage are better, and as you mentioned your brass tray and bullet tray position easier.

BTW I use a bench - don't know but what a C clamp/2x10 mount will allow to much wobble- wobble is not good on the progressives becuse they like stability. Not like single stage or a Lee Turret which CAN function fine on a moveable mount set up.

I use two old plastic (melamine ?) dinner pates - One on each side of the strong mount. This allows them to be about 8" under the base of the press (and slightly to the side which matches your arms away the centerline of your spine). Its an inexpensive substitute for Dillon's bullet tray $36.95 add on and their fairly new " cartridge case bin and brackett" $21.95. Their equipment works great - but so does mine - and mine only cost $0.50 at Goodwill.

I found the roller handle -add on- to be overkill for a 450/550 set up. Your hand comes off of the handle on every stroke anyway which allows your arm, wrist, hand , muscles to relak for a few seconds. However, if you had an auto case feeder like a 650 ( or now 550 also) you would definitely benefit from the roller handle. Separate topic anyway.

If you ever completely solve the " spent primer chute" - retainer pin problem you will definitely be a happier camper. At least with the strong mount you can see it stick better. ;).

Regards,

:):):)