What Is The Best Progressive Reloading Press Reviewed In 2024

No matter you’re a seasoned hunter or a competitive shooter, if you’re often having missed shots, your ammo surely isn’t working right. We faced that problem long ago and ended up spending too much money on defective cartridges.

Quality calibrated cartridges certainly don’t come cheap and not many people have enough money to buy them in bulk. So what would be the best solution? Obviously, making your own cartridges.

Since we bought our primer progressive reloading press, our problems with defective ammo ended forever. Now we can control the quality of the cartridges we use. Also, we can reuse our old casings.

However, before choosing the best progressive reloading press, you should consider some important factors. Today, we’ll explain you each of these factors in a detailed buying guide. We’ll also give you a top 10 list with the best-selling models on the market.

Our 10 Best Progressive Reloading Press Reviews

01 Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit

Certainly, Lee Precision Load Master is an essential tool for any hunter. It has a 1 ¾-inch ram and wide stroke clearance to fit the largest cartridges. Also, the entire press body is sturdy and made of cast iron. So, it can withstand high pressure without deforming. It’s also resistant to rust and external agents.

In addition, you can use this tool as a single stage press or a progressive press. It’s also easy to use and the instructions are clear and easy to understand. This kit also includes other important elements, like:

• Carbide dies
• Primer catch tube
• Safety gunpowder scale
• Safety primer feeder
• Cutter & lock stud
• Primer pocket cleaner
• Chamfer tool

By far, Lee Precision Load Master is our favorite on the list. The mobile parts don’t require too much lubrication. Also, they move smoothly without friction. In addition, the bushing and the dies are very easy to adjust. From the beginning, we loved this tool because it’s very easy to assemble and the pieces fit together without applying pressure.

In addition, the casings holder is sturdy and keeps the cartridge on the right position when you apply pressure. Also, the primer catch tube is very useful because it prevents primers from falling to the ground during the depriming process.

Without a doubt, the Load Master model is by far the most-selling progressive press on the market. In terms of performance, it’s similar to other 5-station presses like Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650. But, this one is more resistant due to its sturdy design.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable and resistant
• Sturdy design
• Applies high pressure with little effort
• Easy to install
• Carbide dies included
• Easy to use

Cons

• The rotation mechanism of the shell plate may get stuck
• Primers may flip or crush during the priming process

Our Verdict

Certainly, Lee Precision Load Master is the perfect tool for frequent shooters. With this tool, you can reload more than 500 cartridges per hour. Also, it’s very easy to assemble and you don’t need fancy tools to do it. Definitely a worth-buying option.

02 Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load

Certainly, Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load is all about precision. This 5-station reloading press is much more efficient than a single stage press. Its patented Lock-N-Load system allows you to swap dies with a quick twist. So, in less than five minutes, you can setup your press to work with a different caliber.

Its casings retainer uses a strong steel spring to keep the cartridge in place. So, you can be sure it won’t move when you apply high pressure. Once the projectile is inserted, the EZject system automatically ejects the cartridge into a plastic container.

The design of this press caught our attention from the first moment. It’s compact and easy to install. Also, the lever moves effortlessly. So, your arms won’t notice the difference when applying pressure on your cartridges.

Another feature we like about this press is the case-activated gunpowder drop. This gadget doses gunpowder with precision. Also, it only works when a casing is present in the holder. This way, there’s no gunpowder waste and the work area remains clean.

Hornady 095100 has the same number of stations as Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 and Lee Precision Load Master. All these models also share the quick-switching die feature. However, Hornady 095100 uses a spring to hold the cartridges, which is exclusive from this brand.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Up to 500 reloads per hour
• Easy to use
• Durable and resistant
• Easy to install
• Smooth mechanism

Cons

• Gunpowder may obstruct the dispenser
• Primers may fall off from the primer press

Our Verdict

If you use to spend large amounts of ammo in a single week, you certainly need this. Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load is more efficient than other tools, reloading up to 500 cartridges in a single hour. In addition, it’s very compact. So, we recommend it to all hunters with small workshops and garages.

03 Lee Precision Pro 1000

Certainly, Lee Precision Pro 1000 is one of the cheapest reloading presses on the market. However, it’s as good and efficient as the more expensive models. This 3-stage tool can convert an empty casing into a fully loaded cartridge in a few minutes. With this beauty, you can reload up to 125 cartridges in an hour.

In addition, the dies and bushings are easy to replace. In less than 3 minutes, you can change the necessary pieces to work with a different caliber. Unlike other models, Lee Precision Pro 1000 includes the following dies:

• Decapping die
• Bullet seating die
• Gunpowder through expanding die

One of the things that impressed us the most about this press is its low price. For less than $200 you can take this beauty home. Also, it has a sturdy design and can withstand heavy duties without problems. All moving parts work smoothly. Also, they fit perfectly between each other, preventing friction.

Another interesting feature about Lee Precision Pro 1000 is its low weight. With just 13 pounds, it’s one of the lightest presses on the market. We use it frequently because it’s easy to carry. Also, the installation process is a breeze.

Lee Precision Pro 1000 and Lee Precision Load Master have a similar design. Both devices retain the characteristic red-paint finish of the brand. Also, both are made of cast iron and include the same dies and accessories. However, in terms of efficiency, Lee Precision Load Master is far superior.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight
• Low price
• Easy to use
• Up to 125 reloads per hour
• Durable and resistant
• Easy to install

Cons

• It may have problems when priming 223 ammo
• The powder may clog the dispenser

Our Verdict

If you don’t have too much money to spend on a reloading press, this is definitely what you need. Certainly, Lee Precision Pro 1000 is the best low-cost press you can find on the market. Also, it’s compact and lightweight. So, you can carry it with you wherever you want.

04 Lee Precision Load Master 45 Reloading Pistol Kit

Certainly, Lee Precision Load Master 45 lets you reload large amounts of ammo in no time. With this gadget, you can reload up to 500 cartridges in a single hour. Also, dies and bushings are very easy to change. So, you can setup the press to work with a different caliber in a few minutes.

The entire body of Lee Precision Load Master 45 is made of cast iron. Also, its glossy red-paint coating makes it resistant to rust and external agents. This kit also includes three different carbide dies for depriming, filling with gunpowder and seating projectiles.

Unlike other presses, this one has wide stroke clearance to better fit 223 cartridges and other big ammo.

We were very impressed to see how smoothly this press works. You don’t need to try too hard to apply the right amount of pressure. Also, the priming mechanism works quite well. In addition, the primer feeder makes things easier. With the push of a button, the primer is ready in position.

Also, the installation process is quick and easy. Just make sure to choose a strong and stable base so the press never moves.

Lee Precision Load Master 45 and Lee Precision Load Master are quite similar in design. Also, most of their features are the same. So, the differences aren’t many in this case. However, in this model, the priming tool works better.

Specifications

Pros

• Sturdy design
• Easy to install
• Carbide dies included
• Applies high pressure with little effort
• Durable and resistant
• Easy to use

Cons

• Primers may fall off during the priming process
• The rotation mechanism of the shell plate may get stuck

Our Verdict

Lee Precision Load Master 45 is certainly an improved version of the classic Load Master. The priming tool works great and the primer feeder makes the process easier. In addition, this model is durable and strong. So, it can last a lifetime if you treat it well.

05 Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650

Quick, clean and precise. Certainly, these are the best three words to describe this press. Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 can reload up to 600 cartridges in a single hour. In addition, its design is very striking and elegant. So, if you want to impress your friends, you definitely need this.

Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 also includes other cool gadgets, like:

• Gunpowder measuring tool and gunpowder bars
• Built-in priming system
• Primer catching tube
• Cartridge bin
• Gunpowder die
• 9mm Conversion kit

In addition, Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 has 5 different stations for depriming, filling with gunpowder, checking gunpowder, seating and crimping. Also, it has a sturdy and stable casings holder that keeps the cartridge in place during the whole cycle.

Certainly, if there’s anything that can compete with the famous Lee Precision Load Master, it would be this. If you’re an experienced ammo reloader, you certainly will love this machine. The rotating mechanism is smooth and doesn’t require much maintenance. Also, the casings holder automatically ejects the cartridge at the end of the cycle.

The first time we used this, we could reload 450 cartridges in a single hour. That’s too much, considering it was our first try. So, if you’re used to spending large amounts of ammo every week, you need to try this.

Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 and Lee Precision Load Master are quite similar in terms of performance. However, the rotating mechanism moves smoother in this case. Also, both devices have different designs and colors.

Specifications

Pros

• Eye-catching design
• Easy to use
• Lifetime warranty
• Durable and resistant
• Up to 600 reloads in a single hour
• Smooth mechanism

Cons

• Dies not included
• The gunpowder may obstruct the dispenser

Our Verdict

Certainly, Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650 has all the necessary features to compete with the best models. Also, its rotating mechanism is so smooth. So, you don’t need to apply too much pressure to get good results.

06 Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro Progressive Press

Certainly, Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro is another great alternative for low budget shoppers. The dies and bushings are easy to install. Also, the pieces are easy to change. So, it will take a few minutes to setup your press for a different caliber.

In addition, Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro is compact and lightweight. Also, you can adapt other components to completely automate the reloading process. Its built-in priming tool works perfectly. Also, the lever moves smoothly, so you don’t have to try too hard to apply pressure.

Also, the casings holder is sturdy to keep the cartridge in the right place all the time. After 4-stage cycle, the holder automatically ejects the cartridge.

Certainly, the first thing that caught our attention about this product was its low price. Although this tool is obviously not as great and sturdy as other, it does an excellent job. In addition, its wood handle is elegant and ergonomic.

In terms of ease of use, very few devices are comparable to this one. Everything moves smoothly. So, if you move fast, you can finish a single cycle in less than a minute. Obviously, all dies and the powder dispenser should be previously calibrated.

Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro and Lee Precision Pro 1000 have a similar design. In fact, at first sight they look like the same thing. However, Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro has 4 stations while its counterpart only has 3.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Lightweight
• Easy to carry
• Easy to use
• Elegant design
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• The primers may fall of during priming process
• You have to manually put the primers in the primer holder

Our Verdict

Certainly, Lee Precision Breech Lock Pro is another great money-saving alternative. It isn’t as expensive as the best models and it has an excellent performance. Also, it lets you adapt a small engine to completely automate the reloading process.

07 MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press

MEC 9000GN uses six different stages for depriming, resizing, priming, filling with gunpowder and seating. It’s also lightweight and compact. So, if you don’t have too much free space in your workshop or garage, this is the right choice for you.

It also has a modern design, very different from any other press you’ve seen before. This model also has a strong spring that keeps the lever in the same position all the time. However, in this case you should apply more force than normal. But, that’s not a big problem.

The whole reloading process is very clean. All removed primers go directly to a plastic container. Also, the gunpowder is only dosed if there’s a casing in the holder.

We recommend this product because of its sturdy design and durability. Although it’s smaller than other presses, it’s as resistant as the best ones. Also, the reloading process is fully automatic. If you have strong arms, you can reload more than 500 cartridges in a single hour.

Another feature we liked about this press is its cam-crimp feature. In this case you don’t need to manually adjust the applied pressure on the crimping die. The press is factory-calibrated to do this.

In terms of performance, this machine is comparable to Lee Precision Load Master and Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650. However, its design isn’t comparable to any other model on the market. And this fact certainly makes it a unique product.

Specifications

Pros

• Unique design
• No previous setup required
• Easy to install
• Compact
• Lightweight
• Easy to use

Cons

• The red painted base tends to scratch so easily
• You need strong arms to move the lever

Our Verdict

Certainly, MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press is the best shotgun shell reloader on the market. It has a modern design and it’s easy to use. In addition, the process is fully automatic. So, you just need to put the shell in place and pull the lever six times to get results.

08 Lee Precision 90937

Above all, Lee Precision 90937 is a versatile tool, adapting to a wide list of ammo calibers. In this case, the shell plates are removable. So, you can choose the most convenient for you. This press also has a strong and sturdy lever. That way, you can apply a large amount of pressure without the risk of deforming it.

Also, the whole body of this press is made of cast iron. The external finish of red paint protects the inner material from rust and other external agents. In addition, you can use your Lee Precision 90937 as a single stage or progressive reloading press. Its primer retaining tube prevents primers from falling to the ground during the depriming process.

We like this device because we can adapt it to different calibers by simply changing the shell plate and the dies. To do it you just need an Allen key and strong hands. The process is very simple and takes no more than 3 minutes.

Like the rest of reloading presses from this brand, this one has a sturdy design. However, you need to install it in a strong base so it doesn’t move while you apply pressure. In addition, this product includes three different carbide dies, which is a big pro.

Lee Precision 90937 retains the same features of the classic Load Master. It just implements some improvements to the overall design. However, the performance of both products is the same.

Specifications

Pros

• Easy to use
• Sturdy design
• Durable and resistant
• Easy to install
• Carbide dies included
• Applies high pressure with little effort

Cons

• The primers may fall off during the priming process
• The powder may clog the dispenser

Our Verdict

If you don’t have enough money to pay for a Lee Precision Load Master, don’t worry. This alternative has the same features and costs less. Also, you can easily adapt it to different ammo calibers by simply changing the shell plate and the dies.

09 RCBS 88911 Progressive Press Pro Chucker 7

Pro Chucker 7 uses seven different stages for resizing, depriming, filling with gunpowder and seating the projectile. Despite having more stages, it’s much cheaper and lighter than most-selling models. Its entire body made of cast aluminum is resistant enough to withstand high pressure.

It also has a built-in priming mechanism that prevents primers from falling to the ground. The casings holder is sturdy, to keep the cartridge always in the right position. Its quick-change die plate lets you swap dies in less than three minutes.

This reloading kit also includes a precise gunpowder hopper. This gadget only doses gunpowder when a casing is placed in the holder.

Certainly, the low price of this press will impact you. We could hardly believe it, considering how much accessories it has. If you think that the low price can affect the durability of the press, don’t worry. After years of frequent use, we can ensure that it can withstand the heaviest duties.

Unlike other reloading presses, this one isn’t prone to rust. In addition, its green paint coating is scratch resistant and helps disguise any surface imperfections.

In terms of design, this device can be compared to Pro Chucker 5 model. However, it has the same performance of other 5-stage reloader presses like Lee Precision Load Master and Dillon Precision 16944 XL 650. So, the extra stages don’t help you go faster.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable and resistant
• Sturdy design
• Up to 600 reloads per hour
• Easy to use
• Easy to install
• Lightweight

Cons

• Not as resistant as cast iron models
• The primers may fall off during the priming process

Our Verdict

Certainly, Pro Chucker 7 takes the concept of working stages to a whole new level. Its seven different stages will help you have better quality control of your ammo. Also, this press has a low weight. So, you can easily carry it wherever you want without much effort.

10 RCBS 88910 Pro Chucker 5 Progressive Reloading Press

Pro Chucker 5 retains the same features as other presses from RCBS brand. Its complete body is made of cast aluminum. So, this press is lighter than many on the market. However, it isn’t as resistant as cast iron models.

As other 5-stage models in this list, Pro Chucker 5 can reload up to 600 cartridges in a single hour. Its die plate is very easy to replace. So, you won’t spend more than three minutes to adapt your press to a different ammo caliber.

This press also has built-in primer catching tubes to keep the working area clean during the depriming process. All the removed primers go directly to a trash container. This device also has a precise gunpowder hopper.

We can guarantee the high durability and efficiency of this device. All its moving parts work smoothly. Also, you don’t need to apply too much force to the lever. So, if you don’t have strong arms, this is an excellent choice for you.

We also love this press due to its low cost. These days it’s very difficult to find a good quality press for less than $300. Also, this product has a limited warranty that covers some important parts like the primers and the priming mechanism.

Pro Chucker 5 and Pro Chucker 7 have the exact same design. Both presses have a sturdy structure and the characteristic green-paint coating of the brand. However, Pro Chucker 7 have two additional work stations.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight
• Compact
• Easy to use
• Up to 600 reloads per hour
• Durable and resistant
• Sturdy design

Cons

• The primers may fall off during the priming process
• Not as resistant as cast iron models

Our Verdict

If your budget is too short to buy a Pro Chucker 7, Pro Chucker 5 is all you need. The performance of both machines is the same. So, the number of cartridges that you can reload depends on your experience and skill. So, more stages don’t mean more ammo.

What Is The Best Progressive Reloading Press: Buying Guide

To choose the best progressive reloading press it’s recommended to have a certain level of experience. It’s also important to know the parts that make up a single cartridge. That way, you’ll get more familiar with the reloading process.

1. Material

Cast iron and cast aluminum are the most common materials for progressive reloading presses. Among these two, cast iron is far better, due to its high resistance and stiffness. If you’re a frequent shooter, you’ll certainly need to reload your ammo with the same frequency. So, choosing cheaper and less resistant materials won’t be a good idea.

However, cast iron is prone to rust. So, it isn’t recommended to expose cast iron presses to humid environments because the moving parts may get stuck. In this case, it’s recommended that iron is protected by a layer of waterproof paint or thermoplastic.

On the other hand, cast aluminum is more resistant to rust and can be exposed to high humidity without problems. Also, it’s much lighter than cast iron. So, you can easily carry an aluminum press without effort.

In conclusion, the final decision is up to you. If you’re looking for high pressure resistance and durability, choose cast iron. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something lighter, cheaper and rust-resistant, choose aluminum.

In the case of dies, make sure they’re made of tungsten carbide. This material has twice the stiffness of steel. So, it won’t scratch or wear with friction.

Fortunately, cartridges aren’t a problem for dies because they’re made of lead, copper and brass. However, friction with cast iron may be a risk if the dies are made of steel or a less resistant material.

2. Number of stations

Many people believe that the number of stations affects the performance. In simple words, the more stations, the more reloaded cartridges. However, they’re wrong. Performance depends on other factors such as ease of use and user experience.

In fact, having more stations will help you have better quality control. For example, some models include an additional station to seat the projectile on the loaded casing. That way, the human error is eliminated.

Other models include an extra station to check if the quantity of dosed gunpowder is correct. Usually, models with more stages can perform the following actions:

• Resizing
• Depriming
• Priming
• Filling with gunpowder
• Checking powder level
• Seating the projectile
• Crimping

3. Type of ammo

Not all progressive reloading presses are compatible with all ammo types. For example, most presses on the market are designed to reload solid brass casings. On the other hand, a little group of presses (like the MEC 9000GN) are designed to reload shotgun shells.

It’s also important to consider the caliber of the cartridge. All presses have a range of compatible calibers. If the one you use isn’t on that list, you’ll have to consider other options.

Also remember that you’ll have to buy additional shell plates and dies to adapt your progressive reloading press to different calibers.

4. Included Accessories

In this case, the rule is simple: The more accessories, the better. For example, best models include the necessary dies to reload your ammo. This is a great advantage because buying dies separately could be more expensive than you think.

Things like a casings tray, a gunpowder scale and a funnel are other items that add extra value to your purchase.

5. Price

The price is perhaps the factor that most concerns buyers. More than $400 dollars for a press is an expense that not many could afford. So, if your budget is limited, it’s convenient to look for offers on shopping websites and hunting stores.

If your budget is less than $200, you should consider a second-hand reloading press. On the Internet you can find hundreds of them. Some are in such good condition that it’s difficult to note the difference.

If you want to reduce expenses to a minimum, it’s convenient to look for different options to buy. Then, choose the device with the price closest to your money limit. Never choose the cheapest product if you don’t want to regret after buying.

6. Differences among the types of reloading presses

In general, there are three main types of reloading presses:

a) Single stage press

The single stage press is the most basic model of all. It can hold a single cartridge at a time. Also, you need to change the die every time you need to perform a different action. It has very few moving parts, so it doesn’t require too much maintenance. Also, it’s cheaper than a turret or progressive reloading press.

b) Turret press

As single stage presses, a turret press can handle a single cartridge at a time. However, you don’t need to change the dies. In this case, the cartridge rotates on a circular plate, passing through a different die each time the user pulls the lever.

c) Progressive Reloading Press

A progressive reloading press can handle multiple cartridges at the same time. Usually, the number of stations (or dies) is equal to the number of casing holders. Several cartridges rotate on a circular plate, passing through the different stations. Usually, the cartridge is ejected once the process ends.

Why Do You Need a Progressive Reloading Press?

Certainly, you can get many benefits from using a reloading press. Bellow, you’ll find a list with some of them:

a) They help you save money

Buying factory-loaded ammo is much more expensive than making your own cartridges. So, using a progressive reloading press can help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.

b) Easy to use

To use a progressive reloading press you don’t need to be an expert. Usually the instructions are clear and easy to understand. You just need a little common sense and some practice to become an expert.

c) Easy to maintain

Keeping a progressive reloading press in good condition isn’t so difficult. You only need to lubricate the mobile parts periodically or replace them when necessary. In addition, the spare parts aren’t expensive.

d) They help replenish your ammo inventory

If you’re a professional shooter, you can’t run out of ammo. Fortunately, a progressive reloading press is all you need to replenish your ammo inventory.

Care & Maintenance Tips

Certainly, your progressive reloading press requires frequent maintenance in order to keep operative. Here are some maintenance tips that you can’t never forget:

• Lubricate the moving parts periodically. If you wait too long, the moving parts will rub between each other.
• Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from the surface. Abrasive particles in the powder tend to scratch the surface.
• Remove all gunpowder residues from the working area. Static energy and heat could accidentally ignite those residues.
• Replace damaged parts with new ones. Defective parts make the press less efficient.

It’s Time to Wrap Up

As you can see, there are many things to think about before making the final decision. Never forget to consider your kind of ammo and available budget before choosing a certain model. Make sure of carefully follow all the tips in our buying guide. That way you’ll avoid a big disappointment after buying.

If you don’t want to take risks, choose any model in our top 10 list!

FAQ

1. How accurate is a progressive reloading press?

Ans. Progressive reloading presses are partially accurate. So, getting the perfect ammo size, weight and powder quantity isn’t a permanent guarantee.

2. How do I use a progressive reloading press?

Ans. To use a progressive reloading press you have to place the casing in the holder. Then, you have to pull the lever so the casing passes through the different stations. Once the cycle ends, the reloaded cartridge is ejected.

3. How does a progressive press reload ammo?

Ans. On a reloading press, the casings rotate on a circular plate. While the casings rotate, they go through the different stations. Each station performs a different action.

4. What is the limit of times you can reload brass?

Ans. You can reload a brass casing as many times as possible. Just make sure the casing is still in good conditions.

5. Is it necessary to tumble brass before reloading?

Ans. If the brass wasn’t fired by a stranger, you don’t need to tumble it.

6. How many times can I reload 556 brass?

Ans. As many times as possible as long as the brass shows no visible damage.

7. How many times can I reload 9mm brass?

Ans. Usually 9mm casings are more prone to damage. In this case, 5-6 times is enough.

8. How much money can I save by reloading 223?

Ans. A reloaded 223 cartridge is 10 cents cheaper than a single factory-loaded cartridge. If you use to shoot thousands of bullets every year, that means saving several hundreds or thousands of dollars.