first timer..

[trigga]

i have done quite a bit of research on reloading and have come to understand the basic steps of hand loading your own ammo. I have finally decided to give it a try. What I really want is a dillon 650 but as a poor college student working part time, it's kind of out of my budget. I have been looking at other presses, mostly single stage like the lee.

something like the lee challenger kit which comes with the main components.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/42...reech-lock-single-stage-press-anniversary-kit

what do you guys think? i know eventually i will move to a progressive press but as of now, i won't be doing any major reloading or shooting. i can justify investing $200-300 towards something then upgrading it later... its the hands on experience that I want. Any other presses or kits that is a good deal, please let me know. doing more research and will be buying perhaps monday.

 

[trigga]

damn the $99 deal ends tomorrow... might have to get it sooner than i think... will be loading mainly .40 sw and .223. later 9mm, 45 acp, 30-06 and 308...

 

[CZ9shooter]

Thats what I started with. And still use. I dont need to reload in high volume or as fast as posible, so I see no need to change..... yet. It makes fine quality ammo.

The powder measure and beam scale are a little chinsy and may require some fiddling, but once set up they have both proven to be accurate and reliable.

I really like the priming system. Takes a bit to get the feel for it, then it works smoothly.

 

[Jesse Heywood]

Every loader needs a single stage press. And it's the best way to hone your skills before moving up to a dillon.

 

[trigga]

what is the difference between the classic and the challenger? removable bushing?

 

[CZ9shooter]

I thought the main difference might be the method of priming between the two. Hand tool for the classic.

 

[cfullgraf]

A single stage is handy to have around. There are some tasks it does better than a progressive, particularly quick, small quantity ones.

Also, in my opinion, it is better to learn reloading on a single stage. Things do not happen so fast and only one thing at a time. Keeps information overload to a minimum.

Except for the press, most of the Lee gear will be useful when you get a progressive. Unless you want to, you do not have to replace the auxiliary gear.

Have fun.

 

[trigga]

yes i have found that the lee dies will fit for the 650 which is a bonus. other than that it sounds like a good start. now i just have to find powder locally.