Are you searching for the best reloading kit for 30-06? We will share some of the top options suitable for 30-06.
When it comes to long-range shooting, the 30-06 is one of the most popular rifle cartridges for multiple outdoor activities. Many hunters and competitive shooters prefer this cartridge because it has minimal recoil, is highly accurate, and retains wind drift quite well. For all your long-distance shot, this superior target shooting round will always get the job done well.
With its rising demand, this cartridge isn’t always readily available. If you frequently shoot with the 30-06, reloading your own ammunition will not only save you money but also save you from the frustrations of not having ready ammunition when needed. However, with the market offering many reloading kits, not all are ideal for reloading the 30-06. To help guide you in choosing the best kit, here are some of the best reloading kits for the 30-06.
Best Reloading Kit for 30-06
1) Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kit
Competitive shooters and hunters looking for a reliable 30-06 kit will find the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kit a perfect solution for their needs. This user-friendly reloading kit is not only easy to operate but also easy to set up.
Its simple operation process makes it ideal for beginners and professionals alike. It swaps out dies in seconds thanks to its 500 rounds per hour reloading speed. Featuring an EZject system, all complete rounds are automatically removed without jamming.
This makes the kit efficient and highly effective. To ensure neat and safe reloading, this kit has a powder drop feature that only lets out powder when a case is present.
Furthermore, the kit’s frame is designed to give the reloader better visibility and access to the cartridge. To ensure many years of use, the kit is made of high-strength steel alloy, which is sturdy and durable.
Pros
- Fast loading capacity-500 rounds per hour.
- Durable and sturdy steel alloy construction.
- Lock and load bushing design.
- High-stability base design.
- Self-aligning primer arm.
- EZject system.
- Power-Pac linkage reduces user fatigue.
- Ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
- Easy to use and set up.
- Quick change die system.
Cons
- Scale could be better
2) RCBS 9356 RC Supreme master kit
With the RCBS 9356 RC Supreme master kit, you can reload your 30-06 cartridge anywhere comfortably. Featuring a durable cast iron made, this high-quality reloading kit is not just sturdy, but highly versatile as well.
It has a large loading window to accommodate larger cartridges while making reloading more efficient. An ambidextrous handle makes it easy to operate, while the heavy-duty cast iron frame allows for stable reloading.
At the bottom of this press kit is a precision machine that allows for the tightest tolerances when reloading. With an addition of a piggyback 4, this kit can be easily upgraded to a progressive loader.
Pros
- Ambidextrous handle makes it easy to use.
- Heavy duty cast iron frame.
- Machined surface for sturdy and tight tolerance during use.
- Easy-use reloader system.
- Stable work surface.
- Suitable for loading high velocity ammo.
- Consistent powder charges.
- Easy to use priming tool.
- Accurate scale.
- Complete accessories for all reloading tasks.
Cons
- We recommend buying a digital scale
3) LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II
With LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II, you get compatibility with many calibers, including the 30-06. This versatile reloading kit produces a clean reloading action at a relatively affordable price.
It features a quick and convenient turret press that makes reloading fast and easy. With it, you can load 250 rounds per hour.
Furthermore, an automatic change turret makes changing caliber incredibly simple, while an included large and small safety primer makes press priming quick and straightforward.
This kit is made from heavy-duty, high-quality materials with a super strong steel linkage that guarantees the reloader of ultimate strength and reliable performance.
Get one and enjoy superior reloading speed and strength.
Pros
- Superior reloading speed.
- User-friendly design.
- Suitable for both left and right-hand users.
- In-built priming system.
- Relatively affordable.
- Loads 250 rounds per hour.
- Accommodates a wide range of calibers.
- Accurate powder measure.
- Great design for powder handling system
- Heavy-duty solid cast iron construction for ultimate durability.
- Automatic change turret
Cons
- None
4) RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit
Similar to the RCBS 9356 counterpart, this is another quality reloading kit suitable for reloading the 30-06. This kit has impressive user-friendly features ideal for reloading beginners and professionals alike.
Its setup process is quick and straightforward, and so is its operation process. Crafted from durable and sturdy materials, this kit is known to withstand the test of time.
A hand priming tool and an M500 mechanical scale are included, so you can easily reload your cartridges. Apart from the missing dies, all other accessories work well, and the kit is fairly complete.
Also included is a 4.25-inch loading window, which also includes easy and efficient reloading while accounting for longer cartridges. It has got everything a shooter will need to become a successful reloader.
Pros
- Ambidextrous O-frame handle.
- Remarkable strength and versatility.
- Suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
- Made of high-quality and durable materials.
- Consistent powder charges.
- Easy to use priming tool.
- Accurate scale.
- Complete accessories for all reloading tasks.
Cons
- Scale is not very accurate
5) Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press
Long range shooters looking for a reliable 30-06 reloading solution will find the Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press great to buy. This auto-progressive reloading kit features an automatic, five-station press with impressive user-friendly features, loads different calibers, and switches dies easily and quickly.
You’ll notice how smoothly it operates with a single pull of the handle. Suitable for beginners and professionals alike, this press kit. You will be impressed by the reliability of the Lock-N-Load AP bushing system and the EZject system, which delivers 100% reliable cartridge ejection without jamming or making any adjustments.
Even as the loading process continues, a universal case retainer spring allows you to easily remove or insert a case quickly all the time. For added convenience, the case-activated powder drop dispenses a powder charge only when there is a present cartridge. At the same time, the quick-change metering inserts allow you to change powders with ease. The press kit boasts one of the quickest changeovers and loads 500 hourly rounds.
Pros
- Built-in priming system.
- Compatible with multiple calibers.
- Quick change metering inserts.
- Automatic indexing system.
- Rugged and sturdy construction.
- Fast loading of up to 500 rounds per hour.
- 5-station bushing system.
- EZject system for reliable cartridge ejection.
- Case-activated powder drop.
- Easy to set up and use.
Cons
- Learning curve
6) RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit
Lastly on the list is the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit. Crafted from heavy-duty steel alloy, this master kit is sturdy and hard-wearing.
This kit is suitable for high-volume shooters and delivers high-end custom accuracy and mass production. It comes equipped with impressive and user-friendly features that make it easy to use. It features a ball grip handle that’s easy and smooth to handle.
Additionally, the kit’s unique design ensures easy loading. For your convenience, this kit contains all gear you need to start reloading.
Pros
- Fully equipped reloading kit.
- Loads multiple calibers.
- Suitable for mass production.
- Single-stage supreme press.
- Ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Smooth and easy handling.
- Quick and simple setup.
Cons
- Takes some time to learn how to use it
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Reloading Kit for 30-06
If you are buying a reloading kit for the first time or looking to upgrade the current one, consider the important factors before settling on a specific model.
Quality
Reloading press kits come in a wide range of styles and formats. Purchasing a reloading press kit is an important investment that you’ll be making. Therefore, you must invest a significant amount of time looking for a kit made of high-quality and durable materials. Many kits listed above are crafted from sturdy and durable materials to ensure many years of use. They also come with additional accessories so you can use them longer.
Volume of production
It is also important to consider how many cartridges you want to produce. The production volume largely depends on how much experience you have in reloading and the shooting activity you are engaged in. A progressive press will enable you to produce thousands of rounds every hour. Their downside is that they are quite expensive and would be impractical if you only shoot once a week or after a fortnight. For average shooters, the best option is a turret press that produces 100-500 rounds per hour. Such production is practical and more affordable. You can also equip the turret press with aftermarket accessories to increase production and diversify the calibers.
Price
How much the reloading press costs will largely depend on the type and how much skill you have. Generally, single-stage presses are the cheapest and the best option for beginners. They are also good at producing highly accurate ammunition. Turret presses are ideal for beginners and pros alike. However, they are more expensive than single-stage presses. The most expensive one is the progressive press. Professionals mainly use such press kits, and they have the highest output.
Brand and warranty
You’ll be making a long-term investment when you buy a reloading kit. As with the expensive models, getting one from a reputable brand that also offers a warranty would be best. Additionally, look for a brand with a reputation for excellent customers. This way, you’ll receive great feedback in case something goes wrong.
Priming solution
Remember to check on the prime and priming solutions when looking for the best reloading press kit for your 30-06. While you can separately purchase the prime or priming solution if it doesn’t come with the press, looking for a reloading press kit with its own prime or priming solution is best.
FAQs on the Best Reloading Kit for 30-06
1) Which is the ideal place to mount a reloading press?
Mounting your press on a sturdy and stable workbench or table would be best. The workplace area should be spacious enough to allow easy foot and elbow movement. You’ll require plenty of space where you can store all components needed. Also, ensure adequate space above the press, so it can fully extend when needed.
2) Is reloaded 30-06 cartridge better than factory cartridge?
It would surprise you to learn that reloaded 30-06 cartridge is better than buying one from the factory. At times, factory cartridges are inconsistent, and reloading your own produces better and more accurate cartridges.
3) Which kind of press do I need?
Your ideal press kit largely depends on your reloading skills, budget, and the amount of ammo you’ll need. A progressive press is a better option if you need to reload thousands of rounds weekly. However, if you plan on reloading fewer rounds, get yourself a turret press.
4) Which is the best reloading press?
With reloading press kits, there is no ‘one size fits all’ model. However, different manufacturers are ensuring a wide range of reloading presses to suit the needs of different users. The right kit should be easy to use and made of high-quality components.
Conclusion
Reloading your own 30-06 cartridge can be tedious and time-consuming. However, with the right reloading kit, the process becomes easy and worth it. With multiple models, you must study your options keenly to select the best option. Also, make sure that your chosen kit is made for long-term use.
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