The Accurate Reloading Forums
RCBS VS Dillon
29 November 2011, 16:19
jemezsamRCBS VS Dillon
I currently have a Piggyback II mounted on a rockcrusher. I bought it used several years ago and for the most part, has been reliable. I load 5 or 6 calibers and don't like the hassle of setting up the dies for each change. I am considering the Dillon 650 as a replacement. Looks like the cost of a caliber conversion and tool head runs about 100.00 or so, but seems over time, the extra cost would be worth the ability to keep the dies set up and just change out the tool head and powder thrower
29 November 2011, 16:51
metal2meatEver consider the Redding T7?
29 November 2011, 17:14
Kevin RohrerOr look at the 550B. I prefer it over the 650 due to faster caliber changes and more control due to having to manually index the shellplate. It's also less expensive.
If speed isn't that important, also consider the Ponsness-Warren P200 or Metallic 2.
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29 November 2011, 18:57
butchloceven with the extra tool heads it still will take you at least 20-30 minutes to change the 650 to another caliber. i use the 650 alot, but only if i am going to lead at least 100 rds of whatever. if dies changes really bug you that much go get a co-ax
29 November 2011, 19:15
richjIt depends on what your time is worth to you. I bought a Dillon 650 2 months ago and went to town setting it up for pistol (9mm, 38super, 38spl, 40, 10mm, 45acp.) I bought a second priming system and extra primer tubes so now change over is even faster. I usualy wait till I can run at least 300 rnds at a time. I'm probably into it for $1500 (ex dies).
Rifle and the odd pistol are still done on a rockchucker.
29 November 2011, 20:02
jemezsamThanks to all. I usually load 1000 at a time and go in spurts. I load my 30.06 in a single stage so will do pistol only on the progressive. Will look at some other models and consider the 550 as well.
29 November 2011, 21:12
WstrnhuntrI recently picked up a Lyman T-mag II. I think it is a great bargian and a very well made turret. I havent had much time to work with it yet but it seems to be exactly as many reviews have described it. For changing out heads it is as easy as it gets. I checked out a lot of turret presses and I think the best is probably the Redding T-7 as far as pure strength, but the Lyman is very good on its own merits and is probably second only to the redding. If you like turrets those are two of the best IMHO.
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29 November 2011, 21:23
Idaho SharpshooterI own Dillon for a couple of reasons.
1. lifetime warranty. NO small print disclaimers.
2. 100% made and assembled in the US of A.
3. the catalog covers are just great. My wife just rolls her eyes each month when it arrives.
I have two 550B's on my bench. One set up for small primers, the other for large. They just work...
29 November 2011, 21:33
jeffeossopiggyback=contraption
dillion 550b - good device
dillion 650 or hornady LnL ap - these are the real deal.
cost?
hornady has the same features as the 650, but at a price point compared to 550.
your call
30 November 2011, 06:58
DuckearProgressives really shine and outdistance the pack when you add the casefeeder. Not touching pistol cases is a huge benefit. Place the bullet, pull the handle and a round tumbles into the bin.
I run a Dillon trimmer on my 650. Prepping .223 is so much faster when you don't have to touch the brass.
Auto indexing on the 650 is a safety feature in my mind. Too easy to double charge a case, esp a pistol case with some powders, on the 550.
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