If you rely on only store-bought ammunition, shooting games can be costly. You may end up with better rounds than factory-grade ammunition. This is where the best progressive reloading press comes in.
Best Progressive reloading presses on the market have a production rate about 500-1000 rounds an hour! The turret press and a single stage press are just not enough.
An estimated 65% American hunters are already reloading their ammunition to save time and money, improve the quality of their bullets. We spent hours sorting through hundreds upon hundreds of bullets on the market to find the best 8 best progressive reloading press with everything you need to buy!
Page Contents
- Who makes the best progressive reloading press?
- Top 8 Best Progressive Reloading Presses in 2021
- 1. Lee Precision Load Master 45 Reloading Press Kit
- Pros & Cons
- 2. RCBS RC Supreme Press
- Pros & Cons
- 3. Hornady Lock n Load Classic Reloading Machine
- Pros & Cons
- 4. HORNADY LOCK N LOAD IRON-PRESS AMMO LOADER
- Pros & Cons
- 5. LEE PRECISION: CLASSIC TURRET
- Pros & Cons
- 6. LEE PRECISION PRO1000 PRESS
- Pros & Cons
- 7. Dillon Precision 14261 RL550C 4 Stage Manually Indexed Progressive Reloading Machine
- Pros & Cons
- 8. Lee Precision Load Master 22 Remington Reloading Rifle Set
- Pros & Cons
- How Does A Progressive Reloading Press Work?
- Different types of progressive Reloading Press
- Which is the best progressive reloading press?
- Benefits of owning a Progressive Reloading Press
- Consider these things before you buy a best progressive reloading presses
- 7 STEPS TO USE A PROGRESSIVE PRESS
- Safety Tips when you use a progressive press
- Conclusion
- Most Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best progressive reloading press?
Our team unanimously voted that the Lee Precision Load Master Progressive Press was the best of the 7 best progressive reloading presses on the market. It can load even the largest handgun and rifle cartridges. The progressive reloading press offers an pro auto indexing feature. It is strong and reliable due to its steel and aluminum frame. Five stations can also be used to accept most popular fast reloading tools.
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Lock-N-Load Auto Progressive Reloading Press – Reload up to 500 rounds per hour with this professional grade, auto indexing, 5 station progressive press that features the patented Lock-N-Load bushing system. This must-have Hornady reloading equipment is intuitive and well equipped for all your reloading needs
- Fast Reloading – Lock-N-Load technology allows you to stop loading, change dies and start loading another caliber in a matter of seconds thanks to the 5 station bushing system. Switch from 223 to 45 in less than 5 minutes
- Quick and Reliable – The Lock-N-Load powder measure uses quick change metering inserts that allow you to switch from one powder to another with a push of a button. The EZ-JECT system ensures a reliable ejection of cartridges, every time without adjustments
- Smooth and Precise – With a single pull of the handle, you’ll feel the smooth responsiveness, the rugged construction, and most of all, the power! And since the AP features automatic indexing, priming and ejection, every pull of the handle give you a precisely loaded round
- What's Included – Item 095100. Includes 5 Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 1 large cartridge bin, primer pickup tubes, metering inserts and rotors, Lock-N-Load Powder Measure, and case activated powder drop. All you need are dies and shell plates to start loading with your AP
- Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit
- Cast Aluminum
- 7/8"x 14
- Choose caliber conversion kit to be included
- Dies Sold Seperately
- Capable of loading 120+ Calibers
- Will Load Rifle and Pistol
- Shown with optional accessories.
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Top 8 Best Progressive Reloading Presses in 2021
1. Lee Precision Load Master 45 Reloading Press Kit
- Load Master Reloading Pistol Kit
- Cast Aluminum
- 7/8"x 14
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Many best progressive reloading presses make it difficult to quick change metering the caliber of the press. Lee Precision Load master press kit has a solution. They set their Load Master to a specific caliber conversion kit. We tried the 9mm Luger variant, and counted 9 other specific variants (such the 38 Specialю, the 40 S & W or 12 gauge).
The 9mm Luger progressive reloading press includes the Carbide 3-die Sets (Carbide Full Size, Powder Through Expanding, and Bullet Seating Dies), as well as the turret and the #19s Shell Plate. A universal case feeder and a spent primer feed are also included. Lee Precision Load master press kit works well and you can still make a high production rate: 300 rounds per hour with just 5 stations.
Station 1 is a universal decapper. Station progressive 2 is for resizing. Station 3 dispenses powder with case extender. Station progressive 4 holds the bullet. Station 5 is for crimping. This conversion kit is made of cast aluminum.
The primer cost 3C/ per bullet, 7C/ each bullet and 2C/ the powder. This is a total cost of 12C per bullet – progressive reloading press work! How much will factory-made 9mm or 12 gauge bullets run you?
2. RCBS RC Supreme Press
- Made of the highest quality materials
- Hunting reloading presses
- Another quality Bushnell product
- Rock Chucker press frame provides a full four inches of ram-bearing surface to rigidly support the one inch diameter main ram
- Handle is made of solid steel and features a comfortable ball-type handle grip
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Cast iron is one of the most durable metal alloys on Earth, and the body of the Pro Chucker progressive reloading press was made from it.
RCBS Rock Pro Chucker has a ambidextrous, o-based design which makes it easy to reload cartridges. Its larger window allows you to quickly and easily reload modern cartridges. RCBS Rock Pro Chucker reloading press progressive also can work with large and small cartridges.
Let’s now get to the insides of Pro Chucker progressive reloading press. The frame that comes with the tool is large. The frame provides a maximum 4 inch ram diameter, which is perfect for supporting the main powerful ram.
Manufacturers have taken comfort into consideration when designing products. The lever that initiates the pressing is given a more comfortable handle. And the Pro Chucker reloading press progressive has a production rate about 600 rounds per hour!
3. Hornady Lock n Load Classic Reloading Machine
- Lock-N-Load Auto Progressive Reloading Press – Reload up to 500 rounds per hour with this professional grade, auto indexing, 5 station progressive press that features the patented Lock-N-Load bushing system. This must-have Hornady reloading equipment is intuitive and well equipped for all your reloading needs
- Fast Reloading – Lock-N-Load technology allows you to stop loading, change dies and start loading another caliber in a matter of seconds thanks to the 5 station bushing system. Switch from 223 to 45 in less than 5 minutes
- Quick and Reliable – The Lock-N-Load powder measure uses quick change metering inserts that allow you to switch from one powder to another with a push of a button. The EZ-JECT system ensures a reliable ejection of cartridges, every time without adjustments
- Smooth and Precise – With a single pull of the handle, you’ll feel the smooth responsiveness, the rugged construction, and most of all, the power! And since the AP features automatic indexing, priming and ejection, every pull of the handle give you a precisely loaded round
- What's Included – Item 095100. Includes 5 Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 1 large cartridge bin, primer pickup tubes, metering inserts and rotors, Lock-N-Load Powder Measure, and case activated powder drop. All you need are dies and shell plates to start loading with your AP
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Hornady Lock N Load AP progressive reloading press will give you many great features for the time and money. The Hornady 095100 automatic indexing system provides smooth movement by moving each station halfway up the upstroke, and then the rest halfway down the downstroke.
The quick-change calibers Hornady 095100 Lock N Load bushing system allows you to convert the Hornady Lock N Load AP progressive reloading machine from a 223 to a.45 caliber reloading station. These Hornady 095100 Lock N Load bushing system can be used in 5 different ways. Case retainer spring holds the cases reloading to simplify reloading process.
It takes just 5 minutes to quick change calibers, since the 2 Hornady Lock N Load reloading dies are securely held in place by the bushings.
Hornady Lock N Load AP progressive reloading machine should be capable of firing 500 rounds an hour. This Hornady Lock N Load AP best progressive reloading press is a better alternative to the Hornady Turret Press. So, we recommend Hornady Lock N Load auto progressive reloading press with their case retainer spring!
4. HORNADY LOCK N LOAD IRON-PRESS AMMO LOADER
- Automatic priming System
- Gravity fed automatic priming System
- Increases efficiency by allowing more processes to happen simultaneously
- Made in the USA
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hornady Lock-N-Load Auto progressive reloading press includes a high-quality Lock N Load bushing that makes switching calibers faster and easier.
The Hornady Lock N Load auto progressive reloading press makes a single twist that allows you to switch between reloading dies. This option of progressive reloaders eliminates the need to unscrew and screw and allows for any adjustments to be made.
The Hornady Lock N Load auto progressive reloading press allows the user to load more shells quickly. It features a well-designed angle aluminum frame, a prime catcher, an instructional manual, and a comfortable grip handle.
5. LEE PRECISION: CLASSIC TURRET
- If you are using the Auto-Disk Powder Measure on this press, the Auto Disk Riser will need to be Purchased to Provide Adequate Clearance for the Lee Safety Prime.
- Features Solid Steel Linkage
- The Industry's Largest Ram is Drilled Completely Through to Dispense Primers in an Attached Clear PVC Tube
- Heavy Duty Construction
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press is made of solid steel and is suitable for heavy-duty work. The ram is also thoroughly drilled to quickly dispose of any primers attached to the clear PVC tube.
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press can be used with Auto-Disk powder measure. You should also consider purchasing the Pro Auto Disk Riser. The Lee Safety Prime will be clean with this additional purchase. You don’t have to adjust the turret relative to the position of your bullet seating die when switching between calibers/turrets.
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press is the perfect choice if you don’t want to compromise on the progressive reloading press you use. It features the same instant quick change turrets that the Lee Turret Press. Its Lee Lever Primer System, Lee Safety Primer tool and Lee Safety Priming System make priming as enjoyable as hunting.
6. LEE PRECISION PRO1000 PRESS
- Fits: lee Pro 1000, load-master progressive press
- Function: case collator
- Material: plastic
- Makes filling the tubes faster on the Pro 1000 and Load-Master Presses
- Does not include the case feed tubes
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lee Precision Pro 1000 progressive reloading press includes the highly-anticipated upgrade to its roller handle. This progressive reloader allows you to easily switch between different calibers. This reloader is heavy-duty, but it can be used for all your gun collection needs.
You can use the Lee Precision Pro 1000 progressive reloading press to try it out or just adjust it. The alternate loading sequence allows you to load only one case at a given time. Although press comes with turrets included, additional turrets are sold separately. This progressive press works well with both 9mm and 5.56 cases.
If you’re wondering if the Lee Precision Pro 1000 progressive reloading press can use primes at any stage, the answer is a definite yes. It can de-prime shape, prime, prime, fit and fill your bullet. It also performs priming, powder measure, setting the bullet, and crimping.
7. Dillon Precision 14261 RL550C 4 Stage Manually Indexed Progressive Reloading Machine
- Choose caliber conversion kit to be included
- Dies Sold Seperately
- Capable of loading 120+ Calibers
- Will Load Rifle and Pistol
- Shown with optional accessories.
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Dillon Precision 14261 RL550C progressive presses have been rated as a “mean machine”. The reloading machine has 4 stations and produces cartridges that are almost instantaneously. The first station of Dillon Precision RL550C works in three ways. The first station will size, prime, and then de-prime the cases. The second station of Dillon Precision RL550C will load the powder into the cases, and the third Dillon progressive station press will seat your bullets and crimp them.
The Dillon Precision 14261 RL550C progressive reloading press model comes with one large pickup tube and one small pickup tube for the primers. These tubes make it easier to load them into your Dillon Precision priming system. The Dillon Precision RL550C also has a low-primer alarm that will let you know when your tube runs low.
Dillon Precision 14261 RL550C Stage Progressive Reloading Machine comes not with a automatic indexing, but with a manual indexing feature. This means that you will need to quick change your shell cases every time you shift next stage. Dillon Precision press will still work on all types and cases of standard dies simultaneously so you will be able to produce at most 500 rounds per hour, which is what best progressive reloading presses are capable of.
8. Lee Precision Load Master 22 Remington Reloading Rifle Set
- Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit
- Cast Aluminum
- 7/8"x 14
Last update on 2021-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The 5 progressive stations make Lee Precision Load Master 22 easy and quick to load handgun or rifle cartridges at a production rate of about 400 rounds per hour. The oversized chrome-plated diameter Ram can also accommodate larger magnum rifle cartridges.
The turret tool head can be removed and allows for faster caliber changes. The standard dies will not be damaged or lose their settings when set-up for specific calibers. This arrangement only requires that the shell-plates be replaced.
Lee Loadmaster’s Pro-Auto Disk powder measure is one of the most useful features. It stops any leaking or spilling of gunpowder that has been loaded into each case. The right amount of powder is dispensed before the shells are crimped. The handle of the progressive reloading press allows you to control the quality and quantity of each pull.
How Does A Progressive Reloading Press Work?
It is dependent on which model you are using that the exact working mechanism of your progressive reloading machine will be. Each model will have a different design and operate differently.
The number of stations will determine the answer. Each station is capable of performing a specific task. It is common to have 4 or 5 stations.
This will depend on how many automated attachments are being used. These attachments can automate tasks that you would normally do manually.
The basic operating reloading process remains the same.
Different types of progressive Reloading Press
There are many ways to categorize types of progressive reloading presses. These are the most common distinctions:
Made for Specific loaded cartridge
A variety of rifle and handgun rounds can be reloaded using progressive reloading presses.
A progressive reloading press may not be intended for shotgun shells. It may be the best rifle-reloading press but it can’t be used for pistol rounds.
Progressive reloading presses that can handle different types of rounds have a problem. It is difficult to change the caliber without caliber conversion kit. It is usually necessary to change the standard dies on each station and get them back in order.
Some brands, such as Lee Precision, make progressive reloading presses that are designed for specific loaded cartridge. A specific variant of the progressive loader press has been pre-set in factory to work with that particular load.
Manual or automatic indexing
The progressive reloading presses have multiple stations that the casing must pass through during the reloading process. You can choose to use an auto indexing or manual progressive reloading machine.
Manual indexing requires that you manually move the casing from one station into another. Automatic indexing automatically moves the casing to the next station every time you cycle your handle.
The auto indexing version is obviously faster. Some prefer the manual indexing model to auto indexing, even though it is faster.
Which is the best progressive reloading press?
Two key press features are required for a progressive reloading press to be the best.
Efficiency
The best progressive reloading press must be efficient. You may want it to be able to reload thousands, if not hundreds of rounds per session.
Because it can do multiple tasks in one go, the progressive reloading press is able to help you accomplish that. It can do more than one task at a given time.
This also means it should be simple to use. Comfort is important, especially if you are pulling on the handle for long periods of time.
Durability
Your reloading press must be capable of handling thousands of rounds. This means that the press should be strong and durable.
It’s better to save your money and time than spend too much on a reloading machine. Even if it is used frequently, the best progressive reloading press for the money should many years.
Benefits of owning a Progressive Reloading Press
You can enjoy two distinct benefits from any progressive reloading press:
You get additional benefits when you use a progressive-reloading press:
Consider these things before you buy a best progressive reloading presses
If you are going to purchase progressive reloading press, there are some things that you should know.
Brand Name
It’s not about brand snobbery since we aren’t in the fashion industry. Reloading is a business where a brand’s reliability, quality, and innovative press features are what make it famous.
A well-respected brand can be trusted to make the best reloading equipment. However, an unknown brand isn’t proven reliable.
Affordability
You should be careful when choosing the reloading press you wish to buy. What number of bullets can you make in an hour? What number of bullets does reloading press produce? You might consider whether it is worth the extra money to buy a sturdy, long-lasting press. You’ll pay more for reloading presses that are cheap, but progressive presses will only last you a few weeks.
Is it a good idea for your ammo?
You should make sure that the reloading press is suited to the type of ammo you are using. It’s not worth buying a shotshell loader if you intend to use it for rifle rounds and pistol rounds.
A progressive reloading priming system is ideal for those who have multiple types of rifle and handgun. It allows you to quick change the caliber. These systems can be used to make smooth transitions from one caliber to another.
If you are looking for the best 223 Remo, you might consider a reloading press made for this caliber.
Material
When you’re looking for the best progressive presses, quality should always be your first priority. A solid steel block is better for durability. Simple cast iron is cheaper and can accomplish the same task. Because they have fewer moving parts, quality is more difficult when compared to progressive presses. They are also more susceptible to malfunctioning, breakage, and jamming.
Reloading Rate
Manufacturers may provide a number to help you determine how many rounds you can load per hour using best progressive reloading presses.
This may not take into account all features, but it is often inaccurate. Everything you need is to be an expert in order for things to go smoothly. How often is that possible?
You might instead want to read customer reviews about their accounts to see how often they can reload. These accounts should be more realistic.
You should aim for 400-500 rounds per hour. You can improve your accuracy with practice.
It’s easy to use
Some auto indexing reloading presses can be more difficult to use than others. You don’t want anything too complicated if you are just graduating from “newbie” status.
Number of stations
Each station is intended for a specific operation so at most 4 out of 5 station will be needed in your reloading presses. Try to get 6 stations if you can.
Optional accessories
It is nice to have the additional accessories included with your reloading press. These optional accessories should be purchased separately by the manufacturer at the minimum.
These additional accessories can automate reloading process that you would normally have to do manually. The optional accessories accessories can help you save a lot of time.
Indexing
It is better to buy a reloading press that has automatic indexing, than to stick with the manual indexing model. Some people might prefer the manual index, which is simpler and less complex.
Powder Management
Powder management systems are more than just a way to reduce waste and minimize spillages. You will also have enough powder to fill your cartridges.
Ejection System
A reliable system will ensure that the bullets are ejected cleanly so they don’t get damaged.
7 STEPS TO USE A PROGRESSIVE PRESS
Safety Tips when you use a progressive press
These safety tips will help you when reloading ammo. Reloading ammo includes dangerous materials like gun-powder and primers. You can reduce the danger by following the safety rules.
These are some helpful tips:
Conclusion
You should pay attention to the machine’s production rate and work efficiency when choosing the best progressive reloading press. The progressive press reviews can help you make the best ammunition to meet your standards and value. The review of progressive reloading presses will help you to decide what your hobby is.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Are progressive reloading presses accurate?
Although single stage reloading press is more accurate than progressive reloading presses, it is still very accurate. With each handle pull, each manual indexing feature or the auto indexing progressive reloading presses index, progressive presses can perform multiple tasks. This type of progressive press is used for bulk reloading and may have a slight decrease in accuracy. However, accurate ammunition can still be produced by this type of a reloading press, but single stage reloading press is more accurate.
What’s the difference between a progressive and a turret-press?
The best progressive presses can work multiple rounds simultaneously, so a turret press is better than one that works in one shot. A turret (not single stage reloading press) can make 50 rounds an hour, while a progressive press can produce up to 100 rounds per hour.
Is it possible to interchange progressive press with different press?
Yes, progressive press can use the same dies. It is true that older presses (single stage press or other type) dies may have different threads than newer progressive presses but it will still fit in a reloading press 90% of the times.
Is it really worth reloading?
Reloading can save you money, increase your rounds’ accuracy, make you have more fun, and allow you to shoot better targets. These merits are only possible if you reload. Reloading can reduce the cost of your ammunition by up to half. Most commercial ammunitions must adhere to strict safety standards. This means that they don’t perform at their best. This can be corrected by progressive, single stage press etc.
What is the cost of reloading 1000 rounds 223?
The cost of reloading 1000 rounds 223 depends on what brass you use. Is it going to be a new brass or a fired Brass? Costs can be affected by the powder and load that you use. Consider the bullet and bullet grains you will use. The price of the components in your area may affect the price.
Is it dangerous to reload ammo?
You should always refer to a progressive reloading press manual for safety. It is safer to start reloading ammo at low levels and work your way up. You should not reload at the maximum load. It is not only dangerous but also unnecessary. You should also check the gun safety laws in your area.
I’m new to all of this, but I can definitely see the logic and the very likely necessity to load ones own rounds. You may have already covered it and I just missed it but I hope you also talk about which of these presses produces the most consistent quality rounds. Keep doing what you do…great gob!
For your vast amount of knowledge on all of this stuff, I feel as if you do a great job explaining things and keeping it simple for people like me who haven’t taken the plunge yet. You really do a great job, thanks Gavin!
Looking forward to seeing this comparison, so many new products on the market these days and the factors/metrics you mentioned looking into are spot on. Wish I was up there to do the test with you–engineer geek out-a-palooza
I’m hopefully going to buy one in the next couple of months, I can’t wait to see what you decide. I am a prescriber who loves your channel! I want moving parts!
As an owner of a Dillon 550B, I’d love to see a discussion on price/value ratio and price/output. I’m sure that’ll be a topic of discussion, especially for the Dillon 1100 and the Mark 7 Evolution, but please include when it makes sense to upgrade from 550 to 750 to 1100.