How long to reload a box of shells?

[Ceapea]

My fastest time with the powder measure preset, was 200 38's in 2.5 hours. That is the full deal...decap/resize, bell, prime, powder charge and seat bullet. This, with weighing every tenth charge dropped. I did that on two separate occasions. Usually, it takes me about 1.5 hours to load 100 rounds at a comfortable rate. It all comes down to preparation and following a sequence or technique.
My press is a manual RCBS2.

 

[kreativecid]

My friend reloads rifle on a single stage but will do 45acp once in a while. As others have stated it takes quite a bit of time to get a 50 count.

So he has me reload pistol on my 550b which does rifle, but should the day come I get into long guns he'll be the first I call for reloads.

 

[jon9]

I have a Lee Breech Lock Challenger Press that I still use. If you have not reloaded before, take your time and learn the basics. A single stage press is slower and forced me to concentrate and focus on each step of the loading process.
Safety is paramount in reloading! In my opinion its quality of each reload and not quantity.

I like the Lee press because it has what Lee calls Breech Lock bushings. These are fittings into which you insert and set their dies. In this manner, all you have to do is pop the die into the press, there is no wasted time fiddling with adjustments.

 

[Wee Hooker]

Thanks, everyone. I think I remember seeing that those progressive presses were a lot more money. I'll check out the turret press and the quick-change bushing option. Depending on price, I may just stick with the single stage press - at least for starting out. Appreciate all the input.

Progressive presses do cost allot more. Especially the "blue ones". More importantly though, a progressive is not the best way for a new reloader to start. too much going on at once can lead to accidents.

I would suggest a turret press . Takes about 20 min a box, gives better control than a full progressive, is less troublesome and can be had for well less than $200. ( Read: Pays for itself in 10 box's or so.)

 

[Bullseye Smith]

I would start with the single stage first, learn the real basic's first. Do that for a year then move on to a Dillon. When you start - you will load around 50 rounds every two to three hours because you will check yourself two three times to see if you done it right. Go with the single stage and enjoy yourself.

 

[jag312]

I have a Lyman single stage press that I bought many years ago. I have never felt a need for anything else. For me, reloading is a form of relaxation. One day I may feel like casting bullets. Another day I may feel like lubing and sizing them. Another day I may feel like depriming brass. Another day I may feel like priming the brass. Eventually, when I finish all the steps, I'll have some reloaded ammunition. How long did it all take? Don't know, don't care. All I know is that it is time to head for the range to have fun unloading the ammo so I can have a relaxing time loading it again.

I guess this is why it is called a hobby.