Do you want to buy the best single stage reloading press kit? We will review some of the top options to help you make an informed purchase.
A single stage reloading press is a perfect choice of press for you if you are a newbie in reloading or if you simply want a cheap, no-frills, and simple way to produce your own ammo. It is a valuable addition to your reloading bench, regardless of whether you are a beginner or have much experience in reloading.
Single stage reloading presses are affordable and very easy to use, even for newbies. They let you focus on a single task at a time, allowing you to deeply understand each step of the reloading process. They are also durable and hence serve you for a long time.
Let’s have a look at the best single stage reloading press kits in the market that you can choose from:
Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit
1) Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kits
The Lock-N-Load Classic is dependable and precise with its uniquely angled, solid cast frame that provides greater visibility and easier access to the cartridge. It is made to guarantee perfect die, and shell holder alignment; its Lock-N-Load quick change bushing system also ensures that the process is easy and quick.
It has an alloy frame has a high strength to provide the rigidity and stability required for precision reloading and is assured to never break or fail. The frame has a unique angle that provides greater visibility for the reloader and easier access to the cartridge in the press.
In addition, the kit is ideal for the reloading novice and provides everything you need to get started.
The Lock-N-Load Bushings enable you to switch from one die to another in just a matter of seconds and also provide the quickest and easiest die setup on the market
Pros
- Strong angles frame that provides rigidity and stability
- Handheld priming Tool
- Positive Priming System
- Universal Reloading Block
- Chamfer and Deburr Tool
- Primer Catcher
- Shell holders in the most popular sizes
- Bushings and Sure-Loc rings
- Lock N Load Quick change bushing system
Cons
- Scale is inaccurate
2) RCBS Rebel Single Stage Press_9353
The RCBS Rebel press has an ambidextrous handle for both right and left-hand users, making it perfect for every hand loader. It has a solid cast iron frame is precisely machined to exact tolerances, and the surfaces are qualified to produce the tightest single press on the market.
The bottom of the ram primer ejection ensures no primers are spent on the workspace. The included zerk fitting is located conveniently for lubrication when needed. This press kit will for sure not let you down.
Pros
- Heavy-duty cast iron frame with a base that is wide to add stability
- Biggest O-Frame opening of any standard-size RCBS single-stage press
- Ambidextrous handle
- Bottom of Ram Primer Ejection
- Machine-qualified surfaces for tight tolerances
- Measures 19x 15x 15 inches
- Green in color
Cons
- You need to buy a scale
3) RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit
The Rock Chucker Supreme Press has been lengthened to enable easy loading of today’s longer cartridge designs. It is suitable for beginners and professionals and has an easy operation, brilliant strength, and an ambidextrous handle. Regardless of your skill level, you will get whatever you need from the Rock Chucker.
It ensures that you become a successful reloader.
Pros
- Case lube kit
- Universal Case Load Block
- M500 Mechanical Scale
- Powder funnel
- Hand Priming Tool
- Hex Key Set
- Includes nosler #7 reloading manual
- Outstanding strength
- Easy to operate
Cons
- Scale could be better
4) RCBS Rebel Master Reloading Kit_9251
This kit is a simple solution for beginners in reloading and pros. It contains more than 14 products to begin your reloading journey. It lets you save largely as you do not have to buy kit pieces individually.
Pros
- Versatile hence ideal for both beginners and pros
- 2 primer pocket brushes
- Universal case loading block
- 1500-grain digital scale
- Universal powder funnel
- Fold-up hex key set
- Accessory handle with case neck brushes
- Heavy-duty rebel single-stage press
Cons
- Inaccurate scale
5) Gogad Lee Reloader Single Stage Press-90045-CLASSIC PRESS
This is the perfect press for a reloader who wants to try reloading without spending much on a press. It has outstanding features like an exclusive balanced lever that will not drop down to pinch fingers. It also has a C-Frame that provides unlimited hand clearance built to last.
Pros
- Cast Aluminum Frame design
- C-Frame that is built to last
- Includes mounting hardware
- Backed by a 2 year unconditional warranty
- Exclusive balanced lever that doesn’t drop down to pinch fingers
- Lee Spent Primer Collection System
- 3-1/4” Ram
Cons
- None
6) RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press
The Rock Chucker has a durable cast iron construction, guaranteeing exceptional strength and versatility. It accounts for today’s longer cartridges as it has a 4.25-inch loading window making reloading more efficient.
This kit also has a press frame that offers a full four inches of ram-bearing surface to support the one-inch diameter main ram rigidly.
It is easy to use for anyone a sit and has an ambidextrous o-frame design. It is perfect for both beginners and pros.
Pros
- Designed with the highest quality materials
- Hunting reloading presses
- Handle is made of solid steel and has a ball-type handle grip that is comfortable
- Has outstanding strength and versatility
- Perfect for beginners and pros as well
- Can be upgraded to a progressive loader with the addition of a Piggyback-4
- Specifically for heavy-duty reloading, bullet swaging, and case forming
Cons
- Scale sold seperately
7) Hornady 095100 Lock-N-Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press
This high-performance reloading press gives you a smooth feel of responsiveness. It also has a rugged construction and is very powerful. The Power-Pac Linkage System multiplies and accelerates the leverage you apply to the handle.
The AP has automatic indexing, priming, and ejection, ensuring you get a precisely loaded round with every handle pull.
The press also has a reliable EZject System that always delivers 100% reliable ejection of each cartridge without any adjustments.
It nonetheless has a case retainer spring that lets to remove or insert a case at any point in the loading press easily and quickly. Case-activated powder drop dispenses a powder charge only in the presence of a cartridge.
Pros
- EZject system that is reliable
- Universal Case Retainer Spring
- Automatic indexing
- Quick Change Lock-N-Load Bushing System
- Quick Change Metering Inserts
- Case Activated Powder Drop
- Built-in priming system
- Hopper with a large capacity
- 5 station bushing system allows you to change from 223 to 45 in less than 5 minutes
- Auto-progressive reloading press for loading other calibers and switching dies quickly
Cons
- Learning curve
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit
Cost
Take the price of the kit into account, as you have to fit the cost of the reloading press into your budget. Some models are more expensive than others but may provide extra features that may not be found in cheaper models.
If you are looking for a pistol reloading single-stage press, you do not need a reloading press that works with longer cartridges, as it will save you money.
Durability
Reloading your ammo saves you money, but that will not be the case if you buy low-quality presses that will not last long. It is thus important to get a reloading press from a famous and reputable brand, as such brands already have a proven track record of making long-lasting products. Nevertheless, they are known to honor their warranties.
Ensure you get a sturdy frame that provides the structural support you need. A good reloading press should be made from either cast iron or steel.
Handle
The handle is one of the components that you will often use. It should therefore be comfortable for you to use. Some people prefer having a smooth ball grip on the handle as, over time, it minimizes hand cramps as they pull on the lever hundreds of times. The handle should also be ambidextrous, especially for left-handed users.
Ease of use
The frame of the reloading press should provide enough space for your hands to work more easily and quickly. Also, ensure that the kit has features that keep it stable.
Look for a die-changing system that allows you to efficiently switch dies as you will do so often. That means you will not have to make too many adjustments during the reloading.
The easier the reloading kit is, the more rounds you are able to reload over some time. It is less frustrating for beginners and more relaxing for long-time shooters.
Style of press
An O frame press is a single stage press that encases the ram and die, providing ample support on both the front and back of the die. This offers a much sturdier frame for the press to work in. If you decide to go with an O frame press, the construction material may not be of so much importance.
Another style is the C frame which only supports the die in the shape of a C, meaning that both the front and back are not supported. The construction material and design are much more important if you choose a C frame press, especially if you will be loading magnum rifle rounds.
Brand and warranty
You will want to consider customer reviews, warranties, and brand longevity. A reloading press is a long-term investment, and you want to be able to buy accessories when you are ready to upgrade.
In addition, a warranty is not a warranty unless it has customer service to back it up. You may find a product with a lifetime warranty, but when a piece breaks, it takes you years to get a response from customer service; hence, that warranty doesn’t mean much.
Advantages of Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit
Cost effective
Firing rounds of ammo is pretty expensive, especially if you keep purchasing factory-made ammo. You can save much money reloading the ammo yourself with a reloading press. Some shooters find they can cut their expenses by as much as half.
Greater understanding
A reloading press enables you to do things one task at a time. If you are a beginner in reloading, you better understand how everything works regarding your ammo. It helps you understand shooting as a whole.
Even shooters who have reloading experience use the single stage press often. They can focus more on each stage of the process, minimizing errors and letting them come up with more accurate ammo.
Accurate
Single stage reloading presses are usually a more accurate way to load ammunition as they have less moving parts to affect the round being loaded.
Cheaper
They are cheaper in price compared to a progressive stage press and are also a great way for newbies in reloading to learn the steps involved in hand loading their own ammunition.
Disadvantages of Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit
Speed
You can only do one thing at a time when using these presses, and it takes a few steps to create a loaded round that is ready to shoot.
FAQs on the Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit
1) Is reloaded ammo better than factory ammo?
Reloaded ammo is surprisingly a better option than purchasing ammo that is factory assembled. Factory ammo can be inconsistent and expensive. You will find that producing your own ammo produces better results.
2) Do I need to tumble the cases?
Some people do not bother tumbling cases before they begin reloading. However, if your casings have debris in them or scorch marks, they may lead to reloading malfunctions in rifles and pistols after reloading. Tumbling before resizing and lubing is always the best reloading practice.
Conclusion
Single stage reloading presses are usually the easiest to operate. Both newbies and professionals will find themselves in need of one form time to time. They are also cheaper compared to other presses. The ones elucidated above are great options to pick from for those in search of single stage reloading press kits.
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