The Lock-N-Load Classic Kit is a one-box stop for the beginner or anyone looking for a second press. The kit includes a single-stage press with a primer catcher, a powder measure, an electronic scale, a powder trickler, a funnel, three die bushings, a manual priming tool, a reloading block, a deburring tool, case lube and the ninth edition of the Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading. (http://www.hornady.com; 800-338-3220)
Lyman’s Deluxe T Mag Expert Kit is ideal for the beginner who plans on high-volume reloading and includes the T-Mag II press, a universal case trimmer, a digital scale, a #55 powder measure, a priming arm and tray as well as an automatic primer feeder and catcher, deburring tool, funnel, case lube and the 49th Edition Reloading Handbook. (http://www.lymanproducts.com; 800-225-9626)
Standard presses are reliable, but they can be slow since you have to swap out the dies for each step. The 4-Hole Classic Turret Press from Lee Precision can really speed up reloading. You can keep all of your dies ready to go, and the press automatically indexes the turret to the next station. The open design of this press and longer lever allow the user to reload cartridges up to 4 inches in length. The press includes the Lee Safety Prime tool that loads new primers quickly, and the ejected primers are captured in a PVC tube, greatly shortening the cleanup process afterward. (http://www.leeprecision.com; 262-673-3075)
If you need a case trimmer (rifle cases especially get stretched after firing and need trimming) the Lyman Universal Trimmer Power Pack Combo has everything you need. The Universal Chuckhead system allows the user to easily switch between calibers without the need for different caliber collets. You also get nine pilots to hold the case in place, and if you are tired of trimming cases using elbow grease, the power pack allows you to connect your trimmer to a hand drill for super-fast operation. (http://www.lymanproducts.com; 800-225-9626)
The Boss Reloading Press from Redding is a great starter reloading press built tough and priced right. This cast-iron press is solid and easily mounts onto a sturdy workbench. The rubber-coated loading arm makes reloads simple and fast and is sensitive enough to properly seat your primers. There is a convenient drop box on the side to catch spent primers, and this press is also available as a kit for additional savings with shell holders and full-length dies in your choice of caliber. (http://www.redding-reloading.com; 607-753-3331)
Precise powder measurements are essential, not just for reliability and accuracy, but also for safety. Redding’s Model 3 Powder Measure is fast and extremely easy to use. Just fill it with your selected powder and set the micrometer metering chamber located on the front. The cast-iron frame will hold up for repeated use year after year, and the interior measuring unit features an extremely sharp surface to cut just the correct amount of powder each and every time. (607-753-3331; http://www.redding-reloading.com)
RCBS has been in the reloading business since the 1940s and provides everything reloaders need. For the beginner, one excellent starter set is the RCBS Explorer Plus Reloading Kit. You get the Special-5 single-stage reloading press; a Uniflow powder measure, which you set to drop a specified amount of powder into each of your primed cases; a 1,500-grain digital pocket scale; a Nosler reloading manual; a hand priming tool that can hold 100 primers; a loading block to hold your cases; a deburring tool; a powder funnel; case lube; a powder trickler; a dial caliper; a bullet puller and more. All you need is a bench and your dies. (http://www.rcbs.com; 800-379-1732)
Whether you are a serious reloader or a beginner, the one tool you must have is a press. This single product will be your most important purchase when you get into reloading, and it will be the core of the reloading system that you use.
But man does not get by on a press alone. You need all of the accompanying reloading accessories, including the right dies for your cartridge as well as scales, trimmers, funnels and deburring tools. These can be had individually or, for many manufacturers, as one complete kit. Here are some of the best products currently on the market to help get you started.
