For most shooters or hunters, being able to reload their own ammunition gives them a sense of fulfillment. The Dillon Precision RL550B 4 Stage Progressive Reloading machine is utilized by reloaders who want to find this fulfillment by producing many batches of reloads to use or sell later on in a relatively short amount of time. This review will focus on the main features of the Dillon Precision
Dillon 550b
Progressive 4 Station Reloader
The Dillon Precision RL550B has 4 stages that each brass casing has to go through, which will culminate in a bullet that is ready for use. The first station will resize the case, remove the spent primer and place the new prime; this prepares the brass for the next step where it will be filled with powder. The powder will come from the hopper than is automatically measured by the machine, simultaneously saving you time and providing safety.
The third stage will place the bullet on the brass. This is completed manually, meaning that when the shell plate is already loaded with 4 brasses following the previous stage, you will have to seat the bullets by pressing the lever. Lastly, the crimping station makes sure that the bullet is properly seated, and then automatically ejects the bullet to the tray.
Primer Magazine
The Dillon Precision RL550B 4 Stage Progressive Machine also includes the Primer Magazine where you house all of the new primers that you will be using. As the new primers are moved out from the box, some will be upside down and this is where you will have to use the pickup tube. The pickup tube is a great tool for you to sort through your primers in the right position before you load them into the magazine.
The priming system of this machine can work on both large and small primers, because there are two pickup tubes included in the package, one for a large primer, and another for a smaller size.
Removable Tool Head
Another feature that sets the Dillon Precision RL550B 4 Stage Progressive Reloading Equipment apart from the competition is its removable tool head. In order for you to reload different calibers using the same reloading equipment, you would usually need to get a new set of dies and install them to the holder. But with this specific model, the dies are instead attached to the tool head that can be removed easily by removing the pins that hold it and sliding it out of the frame.
This feature most notably gives you the ability to have a preset of die sets already in position with the tool head. You may get more tool heads from Dillon Precision so that you can have it ready if you need to change calibers.
Features & Specifications
• 4 Station Progressive Reloading Kit
• Heavy Duty Machine
• Sturdy Design
• Dillon’s Lifetime Warranty
Customer Reviews
Customer testimonials are helpful for any product you are considering buying.
An example of a negative review, which are very few, came from a customer who said, “the only problem we had been getting is the Primers to dispense from the Primer Tube properly every time”. However, they must not have realized that Dillon Precision includes an extra primer tip in the package.
On the other hand, most other customers seem to be very happy with their purchase and shared their experiences with reviews such as, “simply a fantastic reloading machine”, “they are easy to use and maintain” and “I highly recommend Dillon products”.
Pros:
- Can reload more than 100 kinds of calibers
- Can reload both Rifles and Pistols
- Produces around 400 -600 rounds in an hour, depending on the caliber
- Great Customer Service Support
Cons:
- Caliber conversion kit required – separate purchase
- Dies are not included
- Setting up the machine might be a little tricky
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this reloading kit comes with an Automatic Powder Measure?
Yes, it includes automatic powder measure
I am new to reloading, do I need to purchase a die for the powder as well as shell plates?
You are only getting the reloading equipment which means you have to purchase a caliber conversion kit as well as die sets for each caliber that you plan to reload.
Will other dies from RCBS and Lee work on this machine?
As long as they are standard dies, they should work on this machine.
The Verdict
If the Dillon Precision RL550B 4 Stage Progressive Reloading Machine does not come on the top of your list of reloading machines, it should definitely come in a close second. The features of this machine effortlessly delivers you the versatility and functionality that you need. It is highly recommended for users who desire both speed and quality in reloading their ammunition.
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