Im gonna invest in a magnum sized press. Im looking at the Redding Ultramag and the RCBS Ammomaster (edited,didnt realize the Big Max was discontinued). Should I just flip a coin or is there a reason to choose one over the other. Note: The longest cartridge I load for is the 470 NE.

I've been an RCBS fan for a long time....they stand behind their stuff very well.....I'd honor them for their past history with me with new business.

The Big Max hs been out of production for a very long time. I'm of the impression that used ones are expensive.

I don't know what kind of capacity you want or what kind of use you will be putting it to. If you just want a huge, heavy press, CH4D's Champion might fill your needs. If the UltraMag will do the job, it might be your best choice. Presses can be kinda' personal, though.

If the cartridge I wanted to load was too big for a Forster Co-Ax, the UltrMag would be my choice.

Andy

I think the RCBS Big Max is out of production. I picked up the RCBS Ammomaster to load 470Ne and 505 Gibbs. So far so good, it's works great.

No, don't flip a coin! The RCBS AmmoMaster 2 is bigger, better, and stronger. Go with the AmmoMaster 2!!!!

I like my Redding Ultramag.

I wouldn't get a press any larger than I needed unless I needed some horsepower for case forming, etc. What do you plan on using it for other than your Nitro cartridge? A big press will work you with its long handle throw.

A press design utilizing standoffs invites alignment issues, and I recall some posts from a couple of years ago addressing that problem.

The UltraMag is an excellent design strengthwise, but may present ergonomic issues for higher volume reloading. It is very well made and has a ram stroke a little over 4". The Big Boss is a better general purpose press (ergonomics), but has 5/16" less ram stroke. If you have a smaller, general purpose press, the UltraMag would be my choice.

Lee clasic cast will load up to 50 BMG and is a great press. I have no gripes with mine and for $80 wow.

quote:

Lee clasic cast will load up to 50 BMG and is a great press.

As good a single stage press as any in its class. And a LOT less expensive, if money matters to anyone.

I use the Ammomaster 2 for my reloading my 505 Gibbs. You will like the extra working room for the 470 NE.

My opinion: buy the new model Corbin www.rceco.com that is compatible for both reloading ammunition and swaging bullets. They are about $400 shipped and insured to your front door. You may decide to stop paying a couple bucks a shot for store-bought jacketed bullets and begin swaging your own. Amortizing the cost of dies and a supply of wire and cups, you can make them for less than a dollar apiece.
I say this because I bought a set of .458 dies and can make solids or soft points for about sixty cents a bullet.

Rich
Buff Killer