Which single stage kit?

[Jaeger62]

Looking at these 3 single stage press kits. I will be using it primarily for loading 30-.06 and 7mm-08.

The Lee Challenger Breech Lock kit

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/121744/lee-challenger-breech-lock-single-stage-press-kit

RCBS Rock Chucker
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/937051/rcbs-rock-chucker-supreme-master-single-stage-press-kit

Hornady
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/749997/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-kit


Or the RCBS Special 5
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/998666/rcbs-reloader-special-5-
explorer-single-stage-press-kit

Are the other press kits worth the extra money over the RCBS or Hornady?

 

[MThuntr]

I started with the Lee anniversary kit about 9 or 10 years ago and within about 2 weeks I had thrown away the scale and had to shell out another $150 for a new scale. I understand that the Challenger press has been revamped a little it since then but in my experience the Lee Challenger press is actually a decent press for the price. After 10 years of use my press isn't what it used to be and has been replaced with a Hornady Lock-n-load progressive.

If I were to start all the way over, I'd spend the money for a Hornady or RCBS Kit as I ended up spending an additional $150 for a new scale anyway.

 

[Southwind]

I've used a Rock Chucker for years and it has served me very well.

 

[Jaeger62]

Or would it be worth piecing together a kit on my own?

 

[jryoung]

I bought the Rock Chucker (Supreme with digital scale and automatic trickler) and really like it. After that I have been reloading a bit I'm a bit partial to Redding Dies, but I don't think you can really go wrong.

On 24hourcampfire there are often people selling presses and parts so you could put it together, but it may take some time and work....just buying a fully loaded kit could be far easier.

 

[Southwind]

The 505 scale is a good little scale and the rcbs priming tool works with your loader case holder. I think it's a pretty good kit I have never used that powder measurer but for a package and someplace to start I think you would be just fine.

I bought the rcbs primer for using with wsm cases because my old Lee auto prime wouldn't accept a wsm case. I believe they do now though.

Until you get into it and find out what you like or don't like and what you might like better I think the kit is a very good start.

I use a Lyman digital scale and powder dispenser but I always have my 505 scale around to use.

 

[tahoe2]

I have always had good luck with Lee (over 20 years with no problems), one of my buddies has used a Rock Chucker for at least 10 years. Just don't buy a "no name", I did that once. I sent it back the next day.

 

[Redwood]

I use a hornady and it works well. Used a Dillion for along time for handgun, it was ok. If you are just getting going, a number of friends use the lee hand held and it works really well. I was hesitant at first but they get surprisingly accurate loads with it. Long range sub moa accuracy loads.

 

[1_pointer]

I'd suggest the Rockchucker kit and Redding dies. I have the cheaper Partner press from RCBS and aren't unhappy with it, but wish it was a 'chucker! IMO, anyone who doesn't load their own should invest in setup to do so before ever contemplating a new rifle. It makes the ones you own all that much more interesting!

 

[deer_shooter]

I've used a Rockchucker for close to 15 years with no issues at all. I have recently become a fan of Hornady dies. RCBS dies are ok but I always strip the setscrew and end up buying the locking collars like the ones Hornady comes with.

 

[Kerryt38]

All three presses are good. I would lean towards the Hornady kit. The powder measure is more accurate. I wouldn't trust the cheap digital scales if you are trickling into them, at least get a second one to check it. The new Hornady dies are the easiest to set and adjust. Better than many of the bench rest dies. I just gave away my Redding 338lapua bench rest die and bought the hornady cheapo and am way happier with it.
The drawback of the Hornady press is that you need to buy lock and load bushings for each die set. They are handy once you have them but $12 extra for each die. You can switch them but it is a pain.

 

[TheShootist.41]

I would go with the Hornady. Since you are only going to start with two calibers the price of the adapters will be minimal. Hornady dies are at the top of the ladder in my opinion. I have tried most of the other dies over the last 30+ years and have never found any as easy to set up initially or any that are as well made. I will state, as earlier said, you are entering a very addicting area. Wish you well, and if you get stuck just ask here as these guys can be very helpful!!

 

[Ben Lamb]

Rockchucker. I bought my kit 7 years ago & every piece of it is still going strong. The 505 scale has been very accurate and the press itself is bomb proof.

I'd also get a case trimmer & vibratory cleaner.

 

[stillkickin]

Rockchucker. I bought my kit 7 years ago & every piece of it is still going strong. The 505 scale has been very accurate and the press itself is bomb proof.

I'd also get a case trimmer & vibratory cleaner.

I am with Ben on this comment!