'If I buy this' questions

#1 · October 30, 2008, 1:08 am

Hello there...

I've never re-loaded any rounds before and I don't know anyone that does so bear with me.

I was interested in reloading my .45 ACP and .300 Win Mag rounds. I was doing some research and found that the cheapest one that can do both would be the 550B.

Here are my questions:

1) For the re-loader: If I purchase the 550B for $395.99, What else would I have to purchase to actually start reloading .45 cal rounds? (examples: do I need a die set? do I need other parts to fit the machine? or can I just start going?)

2) For the rounds: Other than bullets, cases, primers, and powder, What do I need to actually start reloading my .45 cal rounds?

Basically, If I purchased the 550B and 1000 bullets/primers and some powder, What else would I need to buy to get started? (I've saved a lot of shell cases from the range.)

Thanks for any help or info!!

Also, is there a beginners guide to re-loading in general or purchase guide on this site anywhere?

#2 · October 30, 2008, 4:46 pm

At minumum, you would need the following:

45ACP die set #14404

Powder Scale, either digital, #10483 or beam, #13480

loading manual, suggest the Lyman #10330

primer flip tray #13606

dial calipers #13462

#3 · October 31, 2008, 1:09 am

You will also need a reloading manual. Lyman is a good one, because it covers many brands of bullets & powders. You will also need a scale. I use my old balance beam scale more then my electronic. My old scale looks a lot like Dillon's Eliminator scale. Buy what ever you think you would like better. You will need Die set(s) for each caliber. I would start out loading for just the .45. Buy the Dillion pistol "three Die set" they are the best you will find. You will also need Calipers, and I check my loaded rounds with my a case gauge. You shouldn't need any "parts" for the 550B machine, I have had my for 15 years and have not needed a part for it yet. Start Loading!

#4 · October 31, 2008, 3:36 am

Thanks for all the help!

I've seen a video on youtube that shows people using the RL 550B and the XL 650. It looks like I'd be better off with the 650 because it does more, faster.

What are the pros and cons for each machine? Is it worth the extra $110 to get the 650? Would I still need the $178.80 in stuff dillon mentioned to get started?

I think I'll order the "loading manual, suggest the Lyman #10330" before I decide on weather or not I can afford to do this.

Should I go with this setup or would you suggest anything else? Let me know if you guys have any other thoughts on getting started and/or what would YOU do if you had to start from scratch. So far, my shopping cart is at: Grand Total: $594.74 for all of this stuff:

Shopping Cart
Dillon Carbide Pistol Dies (Three-Die Sets) Dillon Carbide Pistol Dies (Three-Die Sets)
Stock #: dpd3ds
Price: $58.95

Die Type: .45 ACP/GAP - $0.00
Dillon's 'Eliminator' Scale Dillon's 'Eliminator' Scale
Stock #: 13480
Price: $49.95

Lyman 49th Edition Reloading Handbook Lyman 49th Edition Reloading Handbook
Stock #: 10330
Price: $24.95

Dillon Primer Flip Tray Dillon Primer Flip Tray
Stock #: 13606
Price: $16.95

Stainless Steel Dial Calipers Stainless Steel Dial Calipers
Stock #: 13462
Price: $28.00

RL 550B RL 550B
Stock #: 14261
Price: $395.95

Caliber Type: .45 ACP/.45 GAP - $0.00

Total Price: $574.75
Calculate Shipping
Standard ($19.99):
Grand Total:
$594.74

#5 · November 3, 2008, 1:06 am

You will need the things that Dillion suggested, I use all those things every time I load. I have never used a XL 650 , so I can not say much pro or con about that unit. I bought the 550 because it was simpler to run, and the caliber conversion kits cost less then the XL 650. And remember, either will pay for it's self.

#6 · November 16, 2008, 4:31 am

Hello demon646,

You seem to have most of what you need as far as Dillon equipment. I am partucular about seating and crimping my .45acp and use a separate taper crimping die along with the carbide 3 die set. It just gives me a little more comfort knowing I am not shoving the bullet into a seated position while crimping at the same time. Just my preference.

I also bought the VHS tape of the RL550 when I got mine back in the early '90's. That helped me setup and see all the steps and was able to pause and go back...ahead...etc.

I have loaded several different cartridges with my 550: .243 Win.; 7mm Rem Mag; .45 long colt; .375 Win Big Bore, 6.5 x 55 swedish mauser.

I am planning on getting the dies and conversion kit for a .380 auto soon.

Another thing down the line, you may want to consider is, a vibrator case cleaner. I have the Dillon Magnum FL-2000 and can clean my house with it... just kidding, if my house were brass. Meaning...it holds a pile of brass and cleans it real shinny and nice too.

I think you would be very happy with the 550. I have never needed more than the 550.