Now that I know you have a technical background and are good with your hands I'd say go for it and buy a decent progressive. Once again, I'd steer you towards the Dillon 550 B or the Hornady Lock-n-Load progressive. Having a single stage will never be a waste, so there is no problem with going the way you have suggested. You can always use it for a dedicated station in the future. That said, if you buy a progressive from the get go you'll never have a need to upgrade and there would never be a duplication of expense. A mechanic will have no issues mastering a progressive press. Stepping down from my soap box. Good luck and good reloading.

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