Ammunition isn’t free. While many people are just fine with buying their ammo off the shelf, many everyday shooters choose to save money by reloading their old cases. If you want to take things a step further, you can purchase new cases as well, which means you’ll never again need to buy another box of commercial ammo.
With the rise in popularity of home reloading, we thought it was well past time to find the best reloading kit. Since there are many kinds of ammo reloading kits, we’ve looked for the best single stage press, as well as the best progressive reloading press. We’ve even looked at an automatic reloading press, for the most hardcore reloading enthusiasts.
We’ve also looked at a couple of smaller kits, which are designed for beginners to get their feet wet before they choose a larger, more expensive kit.
Best Reloading Kits
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Amazon.com
1. Hornady 085010
Hornady 085010
Features
- Everything You Need To Start Reloading – This Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit Deluxe (085010) is great to for anyone to get started with. Everything needed for fast and reliable reloading
- A Must Have Kit – If you are a new reloader you will love the ease of use the Lock-N-Load Classic Deluxe provides and all of the accessories that are packaged with the kit so you can start turning out accurate, consistent ammunition. If you are a seasoned reloader you will love the fact that this press kit is built to last a lifetime and is backed with Hornady's Lifetime Warranty
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press – The Classic Press is packed full of features, including an angled frame, easy grip handle, positive priming system, primer catcher, and Lock-N-Load Bushings for quick die changing
- Additional Items – In addition to everything you receive in the Classic Kit, the Deluxe Classic Kit includes: Lock-N-Load Straight OAL Gauge, Pistol Rotor & Metering Assembly, Powder Measure Stand, Shellholders 1,2,5,16,35, Kinetic Bullet Puller, Decorative Tin Sign, Six Sure-Loc Lock Rings, Steel Dial Caliper, Three Additional Die Bushings
- Kit Includes – Items from the Classic Kit that are included are: Lock-N-Load Classic Single Stage Press, Lock-N-Load Powder Measure (with rifle rotor), Digital Scale, Handbook of Cartridge Reloading, 3 Lock-N-Load Bushings, Primer Catcher, Positive Priming System, Handheld Priming Tool, Universal Reloading Block, Chamfering and Deburring Tool, Powder Funnel and Trickler, 5.5 oz One Shot Case Lube
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Deluxe allows you to change between dies without having to re-calibrate.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Powder measure
- Digital scale
- 3 Lock-N-Load die bushings and 6 case lock rings
- Handheld priming tool
- Chambering and deburring tool
- Powder trickler and funnel
- Removable bushings
- Primer catcher tray
- Includes calipers
- Includes a can of case lube
The biggest complaint most people have with single-stage presses is the inconvenience of switching between different types of dies. Whenever you want to switch from sizing to loading, you need to re-calibrate the die, which adds unnecessary time and headache to your reload.
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Deluxe tackles this head-on. Its innovative Lock-N-Load system has removable die bushings. Once a die has been calibrated for the first time, all you need to do is swap out the bushings, which makes it a snap to switch tasks.
This kit includes everything you need to reload, with the exception of the dies themselves. Get yourself a set of Hornady dies in your caliber, and you’re ready to start reloading.
Pros
- Very reliable
- Easy to change between dies
- Everything you need for reloading except for the dies
- Works with almost any rifle or pistol caliber
Cons
- A little pricey
This is a remarkably complete reloading kit; buy a set of dies and you’re good to go.
2. LEE PRECISION
LEE PRECISION Classic Turret
$276.55 in stock
1 used from $173.02
Free shipping
Features
- This kit and a set of Lee dies is everything you need to begin reloading
- Note: the Bench Plate system the Classic Turret Press is mounted to in the photo is sold separately.
- Made in USA
- The kit includes the Pro Auto-Drum powder measure and riser, perfect for all handgun and small rifle cartridges.
The Lee Precision Classic Turret is ideal for high-volume pistol or AR shooters who want to load a lot of cartridges quickly.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Powder measure
- Handheld priming tool with large and small drums
- Case conditioning tools
- Automatic index
- Includes a tube of primer lube, calipers, and a magnetic scale
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit is an indexing press, which means you load several cases at the same time. With each pull of the lever, it performs an action, then advances the turret so the next case is located under the die or powder measure. This speeds up your reload time significantly.
The powder measure on this press operates automatically, which once again increases your reload time over a manual powder measure. Be careful with a very fine powder, though. It will leak a lot of powder, and lead to wastage, mess, and a fire hazard. Stick with coarse grain powder and you’ll have no trouble at all.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Complete kit – all you need is a set of dies
- Works with all cases .223 or shorter
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not work with fine powder
This is quite affordable for a turret press.
3. Dillon Precision
Features
| Binding | Misc. |
| Brand | Dillon Precision |
| Product Group | Sports |
| Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
| Title | Dillon Precision 21131 223 Carbide Super 1050 Commercial Grade Reloading Machine |
The Dillon Precision 1050 arrives ready to load .223 cases right out of the box.
Key Features
- Automatic press
- Powered case feeder
- Automatic indexing
- Built-in primer pocket swager
- Automatic powder measure
- Case feeder and hopper
- Includes .223 dies
The Dillon Precision 1050 is an automatic press, and it’s the only one on our list. Truth be told, these presses are expensive, professional-grade machines, and most hobbyists are going to prefer something a little more economical. That said, it will reload cartridges 5 to 10 times faster than a kit that uses a single-stage or progressive press.
This press features a powered case feeder and loads a single cartridge with each turn of the handle. Just turn the crank, refill the case hopper and powder measure every few minutes, and watch as complete cartridges drop out of the machine. It comes with a set of .223 dies but will accept dies for virtually any caliber cartridge.
Pros
- Everything required to load .223 ammo
- Loads up to 2,000 rounds an hour
- Can load virtually any cartridge
Cons
- Very expensive
This reloading press is the fastest, easiest reloader on our list, but it’s also the most expensive by far.
4. Redding Reloading
Redding Reloading
Features
- Big Boss reloading press.
- Model 2 powder scale.
- Powder trickler.
- Pad style case lube kit (lube pad and 2 oz of Imperial Bio Green case lube).
- Deburring tool.
The Redding Reloading BIG Boss Pro Pak features removable bushings to make it quick and easy to switch between dies.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Powder trickler and funnel
- Case prep kit with a deburring tool
- Mechanical scale
- Includes a bottle of case lube
- Removable bushings
- Spent primer collector
The Redding Reloading BIG Boss Pro Pak is a single-stage press, which includes a powder trickler and funnel, a case prep kit, a bottle of case lube, and a mechanical scale for checking your results. It features a built-in collection chamber to keep your spent primers from dropping all over the floor.
This press features removable bushings, which allow you to switch between different sets of dies without recalibrating your machine. The bushing sockets accept oversized dies, so you can take the bushings out altogether and insert a die for .50 caliber if that’s how you like to roll.
This is just a partial kit, though. It doesn’t include a priming tool. You’ll also need to provide your own dies, although that’s fairly standard.
Pros
- Easy to change between dies
- Loads any centerfire caliber, including .50 caliber
Cons
- Does not include a priming tool
This is the best choice for reloading .50 caliber cases.
5. RCBS R S-5
Features
- Made in the USA
- RCBS Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Start reloading at an affordable price
The RCBS S-5 is a good choice for beginners who are buying their first kit.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Case loading block
- Mechanical scale
- Deburring tool and case neck brushes
- Powder funnel
- Includes a bottle of case lube
The RCBS S-5 uses RCBS’ Reloader special single stage press, which is a reliable, yet inexpensive reloading press that will accept almost any size of the cartridge. The kit also includes a powder funnel, a mechanical scale, and a case loading block to keep your cartridges upright after they’ve been filled with powder. Case neck brushes and a deburring tool round out the kit.
This kit is a great choice for someone who’s buying their first reloader. It’s safe, reliable, and affordable, although you’ll have to swap and re-calibrate your dies every time you want to alternate between sizing and loading. It also doesn’t include a priming tool, which you’ll need in order to get started.
Pros
- Sized to fit most calibers
- Good performance for the price
- Affordable
Cons
- Slow task switching
- Not a complete kit
This is an affordable reloading kit that’s still well-designed enough to get the job done.
6. Lyman Crusher
Features
- Crusher Press
- 1000 xp scale
The Lyman Crusher Expert Kit is designed to reload most sizes of cartridges.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Powder measure and funnel
- Digital scale
- Case prep kit including brushes
- Case trimmer with 9 pilots
- Includes a bottle of case lube
The Lyman Crusher Expert Kit begins with a reliable single stage press, which is designed to reload cartridges in most handgun and rifle calibers. It includes a powder measure and funnel, along with a digital scale to ensure you’re getting exactly the load you want.
We chose this kit because it includes a case trimmer with pilots for the 9 most popular calibers. This is a good feature if you’re reloading your cartridges several times since repeated reloading and firing can cause the brass to stretch. If it stretches even a few thousandths of an inch, it will no longer chamber properly. Trimming it down to the proper length means you can reuse it again and again.
That said, the single-stage press doesn’t have removable bushings, which means you’ll need to calibrate your dies every time you change them. It also doesn’t include a priming tool.
Pros
- Good choice for reusing old brass
- Fits almost any ammo
Cons
- Slow task switching
- No priming tool
This reloading kit is ideal if you intend on reusing your brass several times.
7. Lee Precision Load Master
Lee Precision Load Master 223
Features
- Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit
- Cast Aluminum
- 7/8"x 14
The Lee Precision Load Master .223 Remington is a complete kit that arrives ready to reload .223 cartridges.
Key Features
- Progressive press
- Automatic powder measure
- Built-in primer pocket swager
- Automatic indexing
- Turret includes pre-installed dies
The Lee Precision Load Master .223 Remington is a progressive press, which in many ways is similar to the automatic press. The difference is that the case feeder isn’t powered, so you’ll have to check between each load to ensure that the new case is properly seated in the die.
It features an automatic turret with five case holes. When you pull the lever, the case in the first station will have its primer ejected and neck resized. The case in the second station will have its new primer installed. The third will get loaded with powder, and the fourth station loads your bullet. The final station crimps the neck and ejects a completed cartridge.
This kit produces cartridges significantly faster than a single-stage press, at a fraction of the price of a truly automatic press. Be careful with your powder selection, though. The powder measure leaks if you fill it with ultra-fine powder. The kit also doesn’t include a scale, which you may want to check your results.
Pros
- Reloads most sized pistol and rifle cartridges
- Fast, easy operation
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not work well with fine powder
- Does not include a scale
This reloading kit includes a progressive press, which churns out cartridges far faster than a single stage press.
8. Hornady 085001
Hornady 085001
Free shipping
Features
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press – A single stage metallic press that's perfect for both beginners and those who want complete control over the entire process. A must-have for the reloading enthusiast
- Strong Angled Frame – The Lock-N-Load Classic has a high strength, uniquely angled alloy machine frame delivers both dependability and precision. Also offers greater visibility and easier access to the cartridge
- Quick and Easy – Designed to assure perfect die and shell holder alignment, its Lock-N-Load quick change bushing system also makes the process quick and easy. Switch from one die to another in a matter of seconds. Quickly remove and re-install without the need to readjust the die or keep a separate seater die for each of your pet loads
- Easy Grip Handle – The large, ball-style handle reduces fatigue. The long handle increases leverage and reduce effort. The Power-Pac linkage and solid steel arm multiplies the leverage you apply to the handle, making is easier to size cases and reduces fatigue
- How to Use – Simply set the die and tighten the Sure-Loc ring on the Lock-N-Load bushing. Quickly remove and re-install without the need to readjust the die or keep a separate seater die for each of your pet loads. Dies, bushings, and shellholders sold separately.
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic features the same press as the Classic Deluxe, without most of the rest of the kit.
Key Features
- Single stage press
- Removable die bushings
- Includes 3 sets of bushings
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic is a barebones press, not a kit, but it’s a darn good one. It has a single-stage design, with removable die bushings that allow you to switch between calibers without the need for re-calibration. It’s sized to fit most pistol and rifle cartridges, and costs a lot less than buying a complete kit.
That said, it’s not much use without a powder measure, case tools, or a priming tool. If you don’t already have these things from an existing kit, the Lock-N-Load Classic Deluxe is a better deal.
Pros
- Very reliable
- Sized for most calibers
- Quick die changing
- Affordable
Cons
- No priming tool, scale, powder measure, or case prep tools
This reloading press is a good way to upgrade an existing kit.
9. LEE PRECISION Breech Lock
LEE PRECISION Breech Lock
Free shipping
Features
- Includes a set of 11 Auto-Prime Shell Holders
- Kit includes the Breech Lock Challenger Press and one Breech lock quick change bushing
- This kit is perfect for those who prefer to prime off the press
The Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger includes everything you need except for the dies.
Key Features
- Single-stage press
- Powder measure and funnel
- Mechanical scale
- Hand priming tool
- Case prep kit, including brushes and a case cutter
- Removable die bushings
- Includes a bottle of case lube
The Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger is a complete reloading kit, with a single-stage press, a powder measure and funnel, and a mechanical scale. It includes a hand priming tool, as well as a case prep kit which even includes a case cutter. All you need to get started is a set of reloading dies in your caliber.
The press is really the star of the show here. While it’s part of an inexpensive kit, it nonetheless utilizes removable die bushings, which make it easy to switch between tasks. On the other hand, the mechanical scale is made of cheap plastic, and the hand primer isn’t as rugged as it should be. It’s still a great value for the price, though.
Pros
- Everything you need except for the dies
- Quick die changes
- Reloads almost any size cartridge
- Affordable
Cons
- Low-quality scale and hand primer
This is a good choice if you’re buying your first reloading kit.
10. RCBS 9354 RC
RCBS 9354 RC
Features
- Includes nosler 7 reloading manual
The RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme is as rugged as its name implies.
Key Features
- Single stage press
- Powder measure and funnel
- Case loading block
- Mechanical scale
- Hand priming tool
- Deburring tool and case brush
- Includes a bottle of case oil
The RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit is a rugged kit, with a cast-iron press that will last for years. The cast aluminum scale and priming tool are also of good quality. The price is right in the middle of the road as far as reloading kits is concerned, so it’s a very good value overall.
Besides those tools, you also get a case loading block to keep your powder-filled cartridges from spilling, a deburring tool and case brush, and a reliable powder measure with a funnel. The press itself fits any caliber up to a .45 ACP.
The downside? The dies screw directly into the press, so you’ll have to recalibrate each time you switch tasks.
Pros
- Tough, durable construction
- Fits most caliber sizes
- Good value
Cons
- Slow task switching
Get yourself a set of dies, and this reloading kit will take care of the rest.
11. Lee Precision Load Master 45
Lee Precision Load Master 45
$339.38 in stock
Features
- Load Master Reloading Pistol Kit
- Cast Aluminum
- 7/8"x 14
The Lee Precision Load Master 45 arrives with a full set of .45 caliber dies.
Key Features
- Progressive press
- Automatic powder measure
- Built-in primer pocket swager
- Automatic indexing
- The turret includes pre-installed dies
The Lee Precision Load Master 45 is virtually identical to the LoadMaster .223 Remington. The progressive press features the same automatic powder measure, with the same automatic indexing turret
So what’s the difference? This one comes with .45 caliber dies, instead of .223 Remington dies. If you primarily shoot a .45, this is a better choice, since you won’t have to immediately turn around and buy a die set.
Pros
- Reloads most sized pistol and rifle cartridges
- Fast, easy operation
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not work well with fine powder
- Does not include a scale
This reloading kit includes a progressive press, which works much faster than an equivalent single stage press.
12. LEE PRECISION II
LEE PRECISION II
$65.99 in stock
1 used from $65.99
Features
- Package length: 9.4 cm
- Package width: 21.8 cm
- Package height: 49.0 cm
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
The Lee Precision II Shotshell Reloading Press has a unique design, with five separate stations.
Key Features
- Progressive design
- Built-in powder measure and shot dispenser
- Reloads 2 ¾-inch or 3-inch 12 gauge shotshells
The Lee Precision II Shotshell Reloading Press is a bit of an oddball, but we didn’t want to leave shotgun shooters out of the loop. This machine has a single, large handle, which operates both the powder measure and the shot measure. Both of these are fed from clear hoppers, so you have a visual indication of how much is left.
This machine features five stations. The first removes the primer, the second inserts a new one, the third dispense the gunpowder, and the fourth dispense the shot. The fifth and final station crimps the top of the shell. However, after each pull of the handle, you’ll have to move the shells from station to station manually.
This is a very affordable little machine and will pay for itself in a few weeks of clay shooting. However, reloading shotshells requires more know-how than reloading a standard rifle or pistol case. There’s a steep learning curve, but Lee’s customer service is very helpful at sorting out any –inevitable – issues.
Pros
- Reloads virtually any 2 ¾ or 3-inch 12 gauge shotshell
- Good customer service
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Steep learning curve
This is the best reloading machine on the market for reloading 12 gauge shotshells.
13. Lee Precision Shotshell
Lee Precision
1 used from $69.91
Free shipping
Features
- Convenient Handle Easy to Carry
- Easy to Carry
- Easy to Operate
The Lee Precision Shotshell reloads almost any 16 or 20 gauge shotshell.
Key Features
- Progressive design
- Built-in powder measure and shot dispenser
- Reloads 2 ¾-inch or 3-inch shotshells
- Available in 16 and 20 gauge versions
The Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press is one of the few options available for reloading your 16 or 20 gauge shotshells. It’s virtually identical to the Precision II, so we won’t waste a ton of time going into its unique features. Suffice it to say that this is a solid choice, but you should expect a steep learning curve.
Pros
- Reloads virtually any 2 ¾ or 3-inch 12 gauge shotshell
- Good customer service
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Steep learning curve
If you shoot a 16 or 20 gauge shotgun, this is the best reloader for you.
14. LEE PRECISION 38
LEE PRECISION 38
Free shipping
Features
- Made in USA
- Includes everything needed to reload 38 SPL. except a rubber mallet
- Please note: the Classic Lee Loader neck sizes only
- This is not recommended for semi, pump and lever action guns
The Lee Precision .38 Special Loader is an ideal choice for reloading your revolver cartridges.
Key Features
- Full set of dies
- Primer pocket swager
- Locknut and flaring tool
The Lee Precision .38 Special Loader is a true handloading kit, which means it doesn’t include a traditional press. It’s essentially a set of dies, with a lock nut base that secures your case while you work at it. Instead of applying pressure with a lever, you simply bang on the top die with a mallet to remove your primer, install a new one, size the neck, and insert the bullet.
The downside here is that there’s no crimper. As a result, the finished cartridges will only be usable in a revolver, not in a pump, lever, or semi-automatic.
Pros
- Everything you need, except a rubber mallet
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Only recommended for revolvers
This is an affordable option for reloading your .38 caliber cartridges with a good reloading press.
15. LEE PRECISION 90263
LEE PRECISION 90263
Free shipping
Features
- Cartridge: .45 Colt
- Material: steel loader parts and plastic powder dipper
- Complete instructions
- Includes everything needed to reload 45 Colt except a rubber mallet
- Please note: the Classic Lee Loader neck sizes only
The Lee Precision .45 Colt Loader is inexpensive and only requires a rubber mallet to complete the kit.
Key Features
- Full set of dies
- Primer pocket swager
- Locknut and flaring tool
The Lee Precision .45 Colt Loader is an upsized version of their .38 Special loader, designed for .45 Colt cartridges. We won’t waste your time going over all of the features, which are the same as the last kit we looked at. However, we should point out that the .45 Colt cartridge is not the same as a .45 ACP. It’s a longer cartridge, designed for revolvers only.
Pros
- Everything you need, except a rubber mallet
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Only recommended for revolvers
If you shoot a revolver and don’t want to spend a lot of coin on a full-sized reloading kit, this is a good choice.
Bottom Line
In our search for the best reloading press, we’ve covered a lot of ground. But we should address the elephant in the room; there’s a lot more to reloading than just saving money.
To begin with, reloading allows you to customize the charge of your load. Prefer a 39 or 41-grain charge instead of 40 grain? You can do that. You can also alter the profile of your cartridge to get exactly the performance you want. Want a slightly longer neck for more stability? You can crimp your cartridge as desired.
Depending on your needs, you can create a virtually endless array of custom cartridges. Not only that, reloading is a fun, relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
The Review
Best Reloading Kits
We've rated and reviewed the top 15 options just for you.
Review Breakdown
-
Hornady 085010
-
LEE PRECISION Classic Turret
-
Dillon Precision
-
Redding Reloading
-
RCBS R S-5
-
Lyman Crusher
-
Lee Precision Load Master 223
-
Hornady 085001
-
LEE PRECISION Breech Lock
-
RCBS 9354 RC
-
Lee Precision Load Master 45
-
LEE PRECISION II Shotshell
-
Lee Precision Shotshell
-
LEE PRECISION 38
-
LEE PRECISION 90263
Best Reloading Kits DEALS
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