I actually DID completely repopulate my bench this July/August
In 35 years I outgrew some gear and overbought elsewhere. So, this summer I cleaned house. I retired my entire loading bench (except the RockChucker, the RCBS 10-10 scale and a few die sets).
I picked the best that money could buy that suited my needs and style. My bench is mostly red now. Lee Classic Turret, Lee dies, Lee Safety Prime (I prime on-press). I don't like red Kool-Aid, but the Lee Turret is the only turret that rotates the dies automatically.
Read the story here:
http://rugerforum.net/reloading/293...ver-outgrow-novice-handloader.html#post308019
or, if the link does not work, paste this into you web browser
rugerforum.net/reloading/29385-budget-beginning-bench-you-will-never-outgrow-novice-handloader.html#post308019
It is entitled:
Budget Beginning Bench you will never outgrow.
This "absolute minimum reloading setup" is chosen to facilitate
1) low-cost entry and
2) little or no waste trading in or retiring the starter equipment.
I examined my loading/shooting habits (mostly handgun; 5 calibers, about 100-400 rounds per loading session and fewer than 5,000 rounds a year. I stow my gear in toolboxes when not in use.)
Informed by my experience reconstituting my loading bench, I compiled a list of the barest essentials that would allow a novice loader to load well and which would still be gratifying in 30 years. (Again, considering my ammunition needs.)
I think it makes an ideal shopping list for the loader just starting out.
So, the "kit" developed in stages:
Initial, minimal:
Press, scale, dies, a way to measure powder and a work surface are all you need, really. Everything else just makes it easier or faster.
$150, but all the equipment is first-class (though missing many pieces some consider essential, they are enough to allow you to produce a cartridge safely). No scrimping on the quality, but you are measuring powder with the (one) scoop Lee includes with their die set and handling primers with your fingers.
Then add items in the order of the priority you assign.
powder scale
full set of Lee Scoops/Dippers; Still in lieu of a scale and powder dispenser.
primer feeding
powder dispenser
a proper bench (to replace the coffee table)
Bullet puller; 20 years, I never used one. But when you need one, you need it.
Calipers; I had none for 30 years. Now that I do, I find uses.
Tumbler; Never had one. Got one now. My brass is prettier. Shoots the same.
Loading blocks
Powder Trickler
Lost Sheep