Entering the world of ammunition reloading is a rewarding journey that enhances your shooting experience through precision, customization, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re a first-timer setting up a basic bench or a seasoned marksman seeking to streamline your process, the right reloading kit is the cornerstone of your setup. The market offers a diverse range of presses and accessories designed to meet every need and skill level.
This guide simplifies your search by presenting a curated selection of the top reloading kits available. We have evaluated options for single-stage precision, progressive speed, and essential supporting tools. Our goal is to help you identify the perfect equipment to build consistent, high-quality ammunition with confidence and efficiency.
Our Top Picks for Reloading Kits and Equipment
- Lee Precision Classic Turret Press (Red)
- RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit
- Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press Loader
- Dillon Precision RL 550C 9mm Progressive Reloading Machine
- REDDING T-7 Turret Reloading Press
- Lee Precision 90269 Classic 4 Hole Turret Press
- Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Media Separator
- Hornady 085001 Lock-N-Load Classic Ammo Reloading Press
- Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Case Prep Center
Lee Precision Classic Turret Press (Red)
This press is an excellent choice for reloaders who want a balance between the deliberate pace of a single-stage and the speed of a progressive. The Lee Classic Turret Press automates the indexing process, allowing you to complete a round with each pull of the handle without the complexity of a full progressive system. It’s a fantastic platform for beginners to learn the process and for experienced users to produce respectable volumes of pistol and rifle cartridges.
Built for durability, it features solid steel linkage and the industry’s largest ram, which is drilled through to accommodate a spent primer disposal system. Note that if you plan to use the Auto-Disk Powder Measure, the Auto Disk Riser is a necessary accessory to provide adequate clearance for the Lee Safety Prime system, ensuring a smooth and functional setup.
RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit
Often considered the gold standard for beginners, the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit provides everything you need to start handloading except for the dies and shell holders. The heart of this kit is the legendary Rock Chucker Supreme single-stage press, known for its outstanding strength and versatility. Its spacious loading window and central pivot design offer the leverage needed to handle even the toughest magnum rifle cases with ease.
This comprehensive kit surrounds the press with professional-grade accessories. You get the highly accurate Uniflow-III Powder Measure, which throws consistent charges reload after reload, a mechanical scale, hand priming tool, and case loading block. It’s a complete solution that builds a solid foundation for precision reloading and is built to last a lifetime.
Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press Loader
For the reloader ready to step up to high-volume production, the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press is a professional-grade, auto-indexing progressive press capable of producing up to 500 rounds per hour. Its five-station design allows you to perform multiple operations simultaneously, dramatically increasing your output for popular calibers like 9mm or .223.
This press is built for speed and convenience. The patented Lock-N-Load bushing system allows for instant die changes, making caliber swaps a matter of seconds. The quick-change metering inserts in the powder measure facilitate easy powder changes, while the EZ-JECT system ensures reliable cartridge ejection without constant adjustments, providing a smooth and efficient reloading workflow.
Dillon Precision RL 550C 9mm Progressive Reloading Machine
The Dillon RL 550C strikes a remarkable balance between precision and progressive speed. It is a manual-indexing press, meaning you control the advancement of the shell plate. This provides greater oversight at each stage, which is ideal for reloaders who want the output of a progressive but prefer to visually verify each step of the process.
This machine is renowned for its robust construction and user-friendly features. The removable toolhead keeps your dies and powder measure settings perfectly intact, making caliber changes quick and simple. The case-activated powder measure is a significant advantage, as it only dispenses powder when a case is in place, preventing spills and ensuring consistent charges for every round.
REDDING T-7 Turret Reloading Press
The Redding T-7 Turret Press is a powerhouse designed for the serious reloader who demands both speed and exceptional precision. Its cast iron construction and powerful compound linkage provide the strength needed for the most demanding sizing operations. The seven-station turret is its standout feature, allowing you to keep multiple die sets ready to go, which is perfect for reloaders who frequently switch between calibers or bullet types.
With over 3.8 inches of ram travel and a 1-inch diameter hollow ram, this press is built for high performance. It includes a “smart primer arm” and a spent primer collection system for a cleaner bench. For even greater efficiency, an optional automatic primer feeding system is available, making the T-7 one of the most versatile and capable turret presses on the market.
Lee Precision 90269 Classic 4 Hole Turret Press
This press is a fundamental tool for reloaders looking for an affordable and efficient turret system. The Lee Classic 4-Hole Turret Press is designed to make caliber changes quick and easy, which is a major benefit for those who load for several different firearms. Its durable design is built to withstand years of regular use.
The press uses a auto-indexing turret that rotates with each stroke of the handle, moving the cartridge through each die station automatically. This system allows you to complete a finished round with every pull, offering a significant speed increase over a single-stage press while maintaining a simple, manageable process that is well-suited for intermediate reloaders.
Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Media Separator
An essential accessory for any reloading bench, the Frankford Arsenal Media Separator streamlines the tedious task of separating cleaned brass from your tumbling media. This complete setup includes a bucket, a perforated sifter, and handles, creating an easy and reliable sifting process that saves time and effort.
Its versatility is a key advantage, as it is designed to work effectively with both wet and dry cleaning processes. The rugged rubber latch ensures the sifter stays securely closed even when handling heavy loads of brass and media, making the cleanup step of reloading faster and much more convenient.
Hornady 085001 Lock-N-Load Classic Ammo Reloading Press
This single-stage press is an excellent entry point into the Hornady Lock-N-Load ecosystem. It offers the simplicity and robust construction ideal for beginners learning the fundamentals or for experienced reloaders working on precision rifle ammunition. Its O-frame design provides solid support and consistent operation for every cartridge.
A major benefit is the inclusion of three Lock-N-Load die bushings. This system allows for quick and easy die changes without the need to readjust the die depth each time you switch calibers. It comes with a primer catcher to help keep your workspace clean, making it a well-thought-out tool for building a solid reloading foundation.
Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Case Prep and Trim Center
Consistency in case preparation is critical for accuracy, and the Frankford Arsenal Case Prep and Trim Center automates the most labor-intensive steps. This all-in-one station handles trimming, deburring, chamfering, and primer pocket cleaning, saving you significant time and effort, especially when processing large batches of brass.
With six different stations and a powerful motor, it ensures each case is uniform and ready for reloading. The precision depth stop and case gauge provide consistent trim lengths, which is vital for reliable chambering and optimal performance. This tool is a major upgrade for any reloader looking to improve efficiency and the quality of their finished ammunition.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Reloading Kit
Stepping into the world of reloading can feel like a big move, whether you’re a beginner trying to save on ammo costs or a seasoned shooter chasing that perfect, consistent load. I’ve been there, and the most important first step is choosing a reloading kit that matches your experience level and goals. A good kit bundles the essential tools, saving you the headache of piecing everything together yourself. Let’s break down what you should be thinking about before you buy one of the 9 best reloading kits for beginners and pros in 2025.
First, consider the press type. For most beginners, a single-stage press is the way to go. It’s simple, incredibly strong, and forces you to focus on one step at a time, which is perfect for learning the fundamentals and building good habits. A turret press is a fantastic middle ground; it holds multiple dies that you can rotate into place, offering a nice speed boost over a single-stage without the complexity of a progressive. For the high-volume shooter, a progressive press is the ultimate machine, often loading a round with each pull of the handle. They are faster but have a steeper learning curve and higher cost.
Next, look at what’s actually in the box. A complete kit should include the press, a scale, a powder measure, a case lubricant, and priming tools. Don’t underestimate the importance of a good, reliable scale—it’s critical for safety and accuracy. Some kits are truly “all-in-one,” while others are more like “starter sets” that require you to buy additional components like dies, shell holders, and the actual reloading components (brass, primers, powder, bullets) separately. Always check the kit’s contents list carefully so you know what you’re getting into.
Your intended caliber is another huge factor. If you’re mainly reloading for a high-power rifle like a .308 or .300 Win Mag, you’ll need a press with plenty of leverage and a robust frame, like the classic RCBS Rock Chucker. If you’re a pistol shooter going through thousands of 9mm rounds, a progressive press from Dillon or Hornady will save you countless hours. Finally, think about your budget. You can find a solid beginner single-stage kit for a few hundred dollars, while a top-tier progressive setup can easily run into the thousands. Remember, the initial kit cost is just part of the investment; you’ll also need to budget for those ongoing components.
FAQ
Is reloading ammunition actually cost-effective?
It can be, but it depends on your shooting volume and goals. The initial investment in a reloading kit and components is significant. Where you see real savings is over the long term, especially if you shoot a lot or use expensive calibers. For example, reloading for a magnum rifle or a obscure vintage cartridge can cut your per-round cost dramatically. For common calibers like 9mm, the savings per round are smaller, so it takes a higher volume to justify the startup cost. Many of us also do it for the consistency and customization, not just the money.
As a complete beginner, what type of press should I start with?
I always recommend a single-stage press for anyone new to reloading. It’s the best teacher. The process is slower and more deliberate, which allows you to master each step—depriming, resizing, priming, charging, and seating—individually. This builds a solid foundation of safe practices. Starting on a fast, complex progressive press can be overwhelming and increases the risk of making a dangerous mistake, like a double-charge of powder. You can always upgrade to a faster press later, but the fundamentals you learn on a single-stage are priceless.
What essential items are usually NOT included in a beginner reloading kit?
This is a crucial question. Most kits are missing the specific items you need to actually make ammunition for your particular gun. You will almost always need to purchase dies and a shell holder for your specific caliber separately. The kits also do not include the consumables: spent brass, primers, gunpowder, and bullets. Furthermore, you’ll need a reliable caliper for measuring your overall cartridge length and a sturdy bench or table to mount your press on. A good reloading manual is also an absolute must-have that is rarely included.
How much space do I need for a reloading setup?
You don’t need a massive workshop, but you do need a dedicated, solid space. A sturdy bench or desk that’s about 4 to 6 feet wide is ideal. The key is stability; your press needs to be bolted to something that doesn’t flex or shake when you use it. Good lighting and ventilation are also important. Many people set up in a corner of their garage, basement, or a spare room. It’s also wise to keep the area organized and free of clutter to maintain a safe working environment.
Are these kits suitable for reloading both rifle and pistol cartridges?
Yes, absolutely. The press itself in most kits is universal. The difference comes from the dies and shell holders you use. To switch from loading a .223 rifle round to a 9mm pistol round, for instance, you would simply change out the dies in your press and swap the shell holder. This versatility is one of the great benefits of reloading. When you’re looking at the 9 best reloading kits for beginners and pros in 2025, know that they can handle a wide variety of calibers, you just need the correct accessories for each one.