Which Press for Rifle Rounds?

[ArchAngelCD]

I have a Lee Classic Turret press right now and it works OK for loading 30-06 rounds. I remove the Auto-Index rod and use it as a single stage press. I'm wondering if a real single stage press would be better for larger rifle rounds? I figure it will be less stress on my Turret press or am I wrong?

Would you guys suggest a single stage press or just keep using the Turret press? If you think I should go with the single stage, which one? (please keep the price low, funds are low...) I was thinking about buying that new Lee Breech Lock Challenger Press that just came out. Does anyone know if it's as strong as the Lee Classic Cast Press? It doesn't look as strong in the pictures on the Lee site.

Thanks...

 

[SASS#23149]

Unless you can actually sees ome flexing going on,or maybe 'feel' something not right,I'd stick with what you have.
To me,the Challenger would not be an upgrade,but the new cast press would be.It's quite a bit sturdier.

 

[loadedround]

If you want to use a single station press for rifle rounds, spend a little extra bit of money and buy a Redding Boss press. It's probably one of the best single station press' on the market today.

 

[fourrobert13]

I use a Lee Classic Cast single stage for my rifle loading. I have yet to try it on my turret. The single stage press is a bit more stout than the turret, and my turret press has some play in the turret itself, although not a bunch, but enough to keep me from trying rifle on it. On my single stage, the ammo I am loading for my bolt actions is getting .5" or smaller groups, so why change.

 

[strat81]

The linkage on the Classic Single Stage is the same as the linkage on the Classic Turret. The SS has an O-frame design, the Turret uses 3 pillars. The Turret also has the aluminum turret "disc" which has several locking lugs (for lack of a better term). I'd put them both on the same level for durability (high). You'd probably bust the linkage before you killed anything Turret-specific.

The Challenger isn't even in the same class as the Classic SS.

 

[BigJakeJ1s]

I really like the Forster co-ax (what I have) due to its quick change floating die retention system, automatic shell holder jaws, and overall rigidity/leverage inherent in the design. I like the over-the-top handle stroke better than that of traditional presses, but it does preclude some operations that traditional presses can accommodate (most collet type bullet pullers, powder measures w/ through expanders, etc.) The priming system has an excellent reputation, but I use an RCBS universal hand primer (quicker). And because there is no slot in the ram for a priming arm, it completely captures spent primers/debris in a catch bottle underneath.

I'd also add Redding UltraMag to the list of best single stage presses from major manufacturers.

Andy

 

[PotatoJudge]

I've done lots of 30-06 and some 300 Win Mag on my Lee Turret. Make sure the bolts going into the three pillars are tight and look to make sure there is no flex in the press. After I did this and started using imperial sizing wax I had no sticking problems and the press feels as solid as the bench it's on. I also use it as a single stage with rifle rounds so I can clean the primer pocket, trim to length if needed, and prime by hand. I tumble the primed cases then store away, ready for the powder and bullet of whatever load I choose.

 

[ldv444]

Loading Rifle

Just when I say that I love my Forester Co-Ax and that I've also been real happy with my RCBS Rockchucker, there is someone out here that will tell you that they love their xyz turret or single stage made of aluminum or some c-frame that was made 40yrs ago! Several make good ammo......just look at what's important to you in terms of features and buy the best you can afford. After you have it, if you really come to not like it, sell it on ebay and buy another one with a more educated decision. But, whatever you buy, do give it a fair shot before you cash it in for something else. I got rid of a Lyman T-Mag turret a few years back, and I don't think I gave it that fair of a shot. Now, I wish I had a turret. Oh well, live and learn. Hope my mistakes and comments help!

 

[RustyFN]

You already have the Classic Turret so I would keep loading it on the CT. The press is supposed to be designed to load 30-06 and larger without problems. I would save my money for components usless I had a problem with the CT. For what it's worth I have talked to a few others on forums that said they have loaded a lot of 30-06 on a CT with no issues. If you continue to load it on the CT keep us updated as to how it performs.
Rusty

 

[Down South]

I use a RCBS Rock Chucker single stage press for (All) of my rifle bullets. I don’t have to load rifle bullets in bulk and I concentrate more on accuracy for rifles. I like to do one step at a time but I shoot long range. For plinking or short range (200 yards or less) a turrent press will work fine. I can’t say how hard it would be on the press because like I said. I use a single stage for this stuff. I use a Dillon 550B for my pistols and revolvers and am very well satisfied with it. I wish that I could help you more. You asked about a Lee single stage press and I know absolutely nothing about one. I would think that they are good presses. I do use several Lee die sets and powder measures and I like them. The powder measures I use for pistols. I weigh every rifle charge. I would say that a single stage press would be more heavy duty than a turrent.

 

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

I load a variety of high power rifle cartridges on my Lee Classic Turret all the time. One thing you need to be aware of is the occasional need to trim rifle cases. Another thing I do an you can do to make things easier, especially if you're loading extruded powder, is you can add an RCBS Uniflow powder measure and case activated powder drop (either RCBS or Hornady brands) to your Lee Classic Turret. This is what I did for extruded powders that my Pro Auto Disk doesn't handle well.

If you think you need a single stage (A very handy press to have) I would suggest you buy a Lee Classic Cast single stage. The linkage is the same as your Lee Classic Turret and has the same primer disposal system, keeping your single stage press as clean of primer filth as it does on your Turret press. You can add a Hornady conversion kit for the very handy to change dies LnL bushings. That way, you set your dies for the single stage once, then you can change them out in a second. If you're reloading for a semi auto, FL resize your dies, then trim then, then finish the reloading steps on your Lee Classic Turret.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Dave

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Thanks for the replies everyone.

I'm not having a problem reloading 30-06 rounds in my CT, I only wanted to make sure I wouldn't abuse the press doing so. I am going to stick with it for now and not buy anything else.

Thanks again for the input...