There is a review of the best shotshell reloading press in 2024.
After investing 50 hours in extensive research, testing numerous models, and analyzing hundreds of presses, I have confidently selected the ideal choice for shotshell owners.
As the best, I choose RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press. This tool is durable, can evolve to progressive press, works for both left-handed and right-handed users. The accuracy on this is within a couple thousandths between each cartridge. Speed – about 100 rounds per hour.
And below is the opinion of one of our readers about the Rock Chucker Supreme Press:
Review of our reader about RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press: “I recently bought a couple more of these presses, after taking advantage of a mail-in rebate. These presses are top-notch and can produce highly precise loads. Although I’m not a hardcore reloader, I was able to achieve loads that are under .5 MOA loads @100yds using this press.”
By our reader Max Branson
In this blog post, I’ll be exploring the pros and cons of different types of shotshell reloading presses, discussing the key features to look for, and providing practical tips and advice on how to get started with shotshell reloading. Let’s get started!
Why you should trust me?
- I purchased 10 shotshell reloading presses
- I spent over 50 hours testing by myself
- I spent more than 30 hours talking to real press owners
- I have included both objective and subjective tests
- None of the companies in this test paid me
Our best shotshell reloading presses
So, 3 top shotshell reloaders on the market!
Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Here is our list of the most important characteristics of shotshell reloading presses that real reloaders can expect. You can also vote and see interesting statistics!
[totalpoll id=”6627″]And now let`s talk more about the details!
1. Best shotshell reloader: RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker 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 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Accuracy: within a couple of thousandths between each cartridge
Speed: about 100 rounds per hour
If you’re looking for a reliable press for loading your ammunition, the Rock Chucker Supreme press is definitely a great option to consider. I recently got my hands on this press and have been using it for a few weeks now. Here’s what I think about it:
Design and Build Quality
The Rock Chucker Supreme press is a well-made and well-finished press. Its casting was apparently done in China, but the rough casting was machined and finished in the USA.
The press is solidly built and has a sturdy construction, which makes it ideal for loading large cased cartridges. It’s a bit of overkill if you’re not loading some fairly large cases, but it’s definitely a reliable and durable option for any gun enthusiast.
How I used Rock Chucker Supreme for reloading ammo:
Handle and Ram
One of the things I like about this press is that the handle lays back toward the press, which prevents it from falling from its own weight and also keeps it out of the way when not actively using it.
This is a significant improvement compared to my old RCBS Jr press, which had a handle that stuck out at an angle and sometimes fell, causing pinched fingers. The ram on the Rock Chucker Supreme press is snug and operates smoothly.
Primer Seater and Catcher
Much has been said about the primer seater on this press, but I found it to work just fine. I have other options for seating primers, but I like the one on this press better than the one on my old RCBS Jr. I do think I like the one on the Forster press better, though.
As for the primer catcher, mine works as it’s supposed to 90% of the time or better. I’ve counted the number of times the primers have popped out of the catcher, and it’s only about 5 to 10% of the time.
However, if you want absolute control of your spent primers because you don’t want them on your carpet, the Forster press might be a better option.
Feedback from an expert, real user, and manufacturer!
Feedback from a reloading expert: “Thanks to its comfortable handle and mechanical advantage, each round is expelled with ease, as if with a simple handshake. This means that you only need to handle the round twice – once to set the case and once to remove it after pressing. Say goodbye to casings falling out of the press and spilling gunpowder on your floor, once and for all.”
by James Forrester
Feedback from a manufacturer: “The Rock Chucker Supreme combines easy operation, ambidextrous handle, outstanding strength, and versatility to earn that coveted spot on your reloading bench. Featuring a spacious 4.25″ loading window that is perfectly suited for loading longer magnum and a central pivot design that provides outstanding leverage to size the toughest cases. The Rock Chucker Supreme also has large mounting points, a long handle to ensure you can size your cases with ease and without fear of pulling your press off your bench.”
by RCBS
Review from a real reloader: “Used one for years so I bought one for my nephew who is new to reloading. These are built solid, work well and will last a lifetime if coated with light oil to keep corrosion off of the exposed metal surfaces. My only suggestion to RCBS is to put a better spent primer catcher on it. OEM is not effective and there are plenty of good aftermarket primer catchers available.”
by JetMech727
In summary, the Rock Chucker Supreme press is a good press. It’s big, heavy, and solid, and it will do the job. It’s ideal for loading large cased cartridges and is a reliable and durable option for gun enthusiasts who are serious about their craft.
Also, I spoke with several owners of RCBS Rock Chucker and outlined some of its pros and cons in the table presented below.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent as a resizing station | Rudimentary priming arm with limited primer capacity |
| Very well built and robust | |
| Can handle heavy loads with ease | |
| Yields great results with good quality die | |
| Accepts 3/8″ bolts for easy mounting to the bench |
2. Best Single Stage Press: LEE PRECISION II Shotshell Reloading Press 12 GA Load All (Multi)
- Package length: 9.4 cm
- Package width: 21.8 cm
- Package height: 49.0 cm
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Package length: 48.26 cm
- Package width: 21.843 cm
- Package height: 9.398 cm
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Convenient Handle Easy to Carry
- Easy to Carry
- Easy to Operate
Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Accuracy: You can reload more accurate ammo than factory-loaded rifled slugs.
Speed: Primer feeder
I recently purchased the Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press in 20 GA. I wanted a press that was easy to set. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a press, so the Lee was a great option for me.
Ease of Use and Consistency
After using the Lee press for about two months now, I can say that it is great for my purposes. I have loaded about 600 shells to date, and it only takes me about 12 minutes to fill a box without rushing. I always weigh the powder and shot to ensure that everything is accurate, and I have consistently had good results.
Modification for Smaller Loads
The only modification I have had to make way for a 3/4 oz load. The smallest bushing that comes with the 20 GA press is 7/8 oz, which is too large for the smaller load I wanted to make. I ended up cutting a shell hull and putting it inside a bushing to make the volume smaller.
I started with a lot of hulls in the bushing and kept testing and shaving off more until it was throwing 3/4 oz. It was a simple modification to make, and now it consistently throws 3/4 oz.
Bushing Adjustments Can Be Tricky
One thing to note about the Lee press is that making bushing adjustments or changes can be a bit of a pain. You either need to detach the press from your bench and try to pour out the powder while covering the shot and vice versa or keep cycling the charge bar while catching the powder in one cup and shot in another.
However, since I only use the press for one recipe, this isn’t really an issue for me. When setting up the press with my recipe, I put only a load or two of materials in the hoppers so I can make adjustments relatively easily.
Ideal for Target Loads
If you are a hardcore reloader who loads a variety of hunting loads, the Lee press may not be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for a press to use for target loads that you can set up once and pound out rounds on, the Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press in 20 GA will do the job well.
Feedback from a reloading expert: “The Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press can accommodate 2 3/4 inch shells, which is the standard size in the industry. Additionally, it has the ability to accept shells with a measurement of 3 inches. When purchasing the device, Lee provides a generous amount of bushings for free, which is a nice advantage. These bushings are molded and unique to this manufacturer.”
by Team of keepreloader
Feedback from a real user: “Getting back into bird hunting. Decided to relaod for 20 gauge. This will work perfect for my needs. Should have waited until ammo shortage was over though, everything is a bit pricy these days. Took a week to find one!”
by John
Feedback from a real user: “Performs all needed functions. Includes shot and powder bushings to make whatever load you desire. Still prefer and MEC but for the price difference it is worth it unless you are loading a lot of rounds regularly.”
by Seth Nelson
My verdict. It is easy to use and produces consistent results, and with a little modification, you can make smaller loads. Just be aware that making bushing adjustments can be a bit tricky. Overall, I am happy with my purchase and would recommend this press to others who are looking for a similar option.
I had a conversation with a few Lee Precision II Shotshell owners and summarized the advantages and disadvantages in the table shown below.
| Pros | Cons |
| Complete solution (excluding primer feed) | No drawer to empty spent primers |
| Lee support is quick and efficient | |
| Works well for smaller quantities | |
| Can be set up and used repeatedly for the same load | |
| Sufficient for reloading 75 rounds per hour |
3. Best progressive Shotgun Reloading press: MEC 650N 12 gauge Press Shotshell Reloader
- 9000GN12 progressive
- Series 9000N grabber shot shell reloaded
- Type shot shell reloading press
Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I’ve been using the MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press for over two decades now, and I can say that it is one of the best presses out there. It has served me well throughout the years and continues to do so today.
Ease of Use
When I first got the press, it did take me a bit of time to get used to all the operations as there is a lot going on with each stroke of the handle. However, after a couple of hours spent going back through the manual, making sure everything was adjusted properly, and retraining my muscles to reach for shell, wad, then handle, I was good to go.
The press cranks out shells like nobody’s business, and I found that it was easy to get used to after a box or two of reloads.
Quality of Build
I’ve also owned and used a MEC 600jr and a 700, and I can attest to the fact that all MEC products are quality made and work great. The MEC 9000GN is no exception. It’s built to last and can handle a high volume of shells without any issues.
Progressive Press
Most people probably don’t need a progressive press unless they do a LOT of shooting, but if you’re someone who shoots regularly or has a large group of friends who enjoy shooting, then the MEC 9000GN is definitely worth the investment. It takes some getting used to, but once you do, you can be the Mack Daddy of shotshell reloading.
Longevity
One of the things I love about the MEC 9000GN is its longevity. I originally got it about 23 years ago, used it for several years, and then marriage and kids caused me to gradually forget about it. However, after dusting it off and cleaning it up, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it still works just as well as it did when I first got it.
Feedback from a real expert: “If you’re in search of a press that offers precision and consistently produces reliable rounds, this is the ideal option for you. It’s constructed with top-notch materials and designed to be user-friendly. The handle even features a comfortable grip to facilitate easy lever pulling. Additionally, it can be easily affixed to your workbench via the base plate.”
by Jayson Irvyn
Feedback from a real user: “The Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press can accommodate 2 3/4 inch shells, which is the standard size in the industry. Additionally, it has the ability to accept shells with a measurement of 3 inches. When purchasing the device, Lee provides a generous amount of bushings for free, which is a nice advantage. These bushings are molded and unique to this manufacturer.”
by R. Borel
Feedback from a real user: “Speedy delivery, This reloader will make my husbands reloading a lot easier. I would recommend this product to all of my friends.”
by Nancy Gabrielson
Overall, I highly recommend the MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press to anyone who wants a reliable and high-quality press that can handle a high volume of shells. It’s definitely an investment, but it’s one that’s well worth it if you’re serious about reloading.
After speaking to multiple owners of the MEC 650N 12 gauge Press Shotshell Reloader, I have compiled a table outlining its pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to keep clean with a cover | May require time to get used to |
| Adjustable charge bar for more customization | |
| Can be manually operated for even faster production | |
| Trouble-free after over 5,000 loads | |
| Good quality and customer service from MEC |
Buying Guide
1. Type
What should you look for when choosing a shotshell press to reload? The result of my 10 years of experience is shown below.
If you need to reload shotshell, then I recommend using single-stage or progressive presses. We compare their main parameters in the table:
| Single stage | Progressive | |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Complexity | Low | High |
| Precision | Best | Very good to excellent |
| Speed | Slow | Fast |
The single-stage shotshell reloader performs a single function. Also, you have to change the die prior to the next task.
Many single-stage presses are shaped like an O, such as the Lyman Orange Crusher or the RCBS Rock Chucker. This is the strongest design and is the best for accuracy. O-shaped presses offer the highest level of rigidity, which results in uniform ammunition.
Some are shaped like the “C” letter, such as the Lee Single Stage Reloading Press. These are usually more affordable, but they offer more flexibility and allow more variation.
Single Stage tool is a good option if you:
Progressive presses are the answer to providing large amounts of ammunition quickly and are a worthwhile choice for those who participate in gun games. They generally feature four or five “stations”, and multiple functions are performed each time the press handle is pulled.
A powder measure is part of the operation, which is activated when the empty case is pressed against the dispenser’s mouth.
I recommend you choose a Progressive Press if you:
Once the machine is properly adjusted, you can work on five cases simultaneously. A case can be resized and re-primed or flared and charged. The handle can also be used to insert a new bullet. But what about the downside?
It is possible for things to get out of alignment, as with all systems that have moving parts. An improperly sized or overcharged pistol case can lead to a jam or injury. A single-stage shotshell loader is only used for one purpose. You must also change the die before moving on to the next task.
A progressive shotgun reloader can either be manual or auto index. The difference is that you manually rotate the shell plate in the first, and it is automatic in the latter. They both do multiple tasks with the same pole of the handle. It is faster, therefore, easier to use too.
2. User Skill
A single-stage is simpler as you can load only one round at once. You can only put in one brass casing, and run it through every step of the loading process.
Before you start to learn how to load ammunition on a single-stage press, I suggest that you get familiar with all aspects of the operation. A powder dispenser can be dangerous if a primer is misaligned or crushed during the process.
While I don’t mean to scare you, the danger is real. That is why I recommend that progressives are left for more experienced reloaders.
You can easily and quickly make hundreds of rounds an hour once you have them properly set up. The RCBS Pro2000 Auto-Index is my favorite, as well as the Dillon RL550B. Both of these machines have been very useful to me.
3. Speed
There’s an upper limit on how fast you can load with a single-stage or turret press, but no lower limit on how slow you can go on a progressive one. What is the maximum safe ammo production you want to limit yourself to?
| Speed, rounds/hour | ||
| Single Stage Press | Progressive Press | Automated Progressive Press |
| Up to 100 | 300-600 | 400-800 |
How fast a reloader finishes shotgun shells is very important. Your experience and skill level have to complement the speed you want. The press’ shotshell mechanism is also a variant you need to check out.
4. Changing Calibers
In a single-stage press, you get one die at a time. If you want to do something else, you need to change the die. Even with the various “quick-change” mechanisms available, it’s a time-consuming process.
A turret or progressive press allows you to have all of the dies you need to be installed at once and process complete rounds of ammunition one after another. After you install and adjust your dies, you will only need to check regularly that they are still set correctly.
When you want to load a different caliber, you will change several dies at once, again often with “quick-change” mechanisms and tools.
5. Compatibility
A shotgun shell reloading press should be able to load 2 3/4 inches shells and 3-inch shells. Which one will work best for you depends on the caliber of your reloading gun. Some presses are capable of converting multiple gauges, while others can only work with one gauge.
6. Accuracy
Simply put, accuracy is what determines the quality and performance of a shotgun’s reloader. This is why you shouldn’t ignore it. Make sure you get one so that they can point out how accurate they really are. Although a small margin of error is inevitable, it should not cause any loss.
7. Versatility
Are you using different sizes of shotgun shells? If so, you should get a single shotshell press that can reload all your shells. You should consider a multi-purpose shotgun shell loader such as the Lee Precision II Load-All. You can still choose one if you have the same shotshells.
8. Station Design
There are many station designs available for shotgun shell reloading press. You have to choose the one that best suits your needs. It is important to select one that is resistant to spillage.
9. Durability
The most important thing is durability. The majority of reloaders are made from aluminum and steel. Some presses are also made from durable plastic. The shotshell reloader can withstand heavy use.
10. Reviews
Read the reviews of previous users before you buy a shotshell loader. It will give you an excellent overview of the product.
11. Capacity
Capacity refers to the number of reloading shotgun shells that you can reload in an hour. Some reloaders can be used to increase the reloading speed so that the capacity is greater. The progressive type of press will produce a greater capacity.
Conclusion
So, reloading is a nice way to get cheap and high-quality ammo for your shotgun. And you can choose a nice press, depending on your needs: a number of amm0 for reloading, skills, price, etc. However, do not forget to follow safety rules.
Our choice is reliable, user-friendly, and ambidextrous RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press!
FAQ
What Do You Need to Reload Shotgun Ammo?
The same equipment will be required for reloading any round. You will need powder, primer, showcases, and shots. The shot’s size and weight will depend on the type of weapon and the shell case you use, as well as your personal preferences.
Which Gauges Can You Reload With A Shotshell?
The most popular gauges are the 12 and 16 gauge. You can also use the shotgun shell press with smaller or larger gauges if you have the correct dies and fittings.
Is Reloading Ammo Cheaper Than Buying it?
Yes, although some ammo may be more expensive than others. In many cases, reloading your own ammunition can be significantly cheaper than purchasing commercially manufactured bullets.
Is Reloading Bad For Your Shotgun?
The basic principle is that the cartridge becomes weaker the more you refill it. It becomes more susceptible to malfunctioning or failing as it degrades. If you’re into competitive sports, reloads can be dangerous for your shotgun.
Is Reloading Safe To Shoot?
Reloads can be shot safely. They can actually be safer than ammo that is commercially produced. They are reliable and accurate. Reloads are handmade, which is the best thing about them. You can make it fit your shotgun.
How Many Times Can I Reload Brass?
You can reload them as many times as possible, as long as they work well and are safe. Brass casings can be reloaded no matter how many times. There are 5 to 10 reloads. You will get more reloads if you trim and anneal your brass after the fourth shot.
How Much Money Can You Save By Reloading Your Ammo?
Our round can help you save a lot of money. Between 20% and 50%. The answers will vary depending on the ammunition you are buying, what press you are using, and other factors such as gunpowder.
Which Are the Best Shotshell Reloader Manufacturers?
As I have already mentioned, there are many great brands and manufacturers that produce high-quality presses on the market. RCBS is my favorite. The manufacturer has a wide range of options, so no matter what stage you’re looking for, there are many options. Both novice and experienced shotshell reloaders will find the right alternatives.
