Lee or RCBS Single Stage Press?

[VAdoublegunner]

I've always been a RCBS guy for single stage. My old RS-2 is still going strong, after many decades. For auto presses I am a strong Hornady L-N-L fan and have 2.

I think today, if I were looking for a good single but possibly thinking of faster loading capability in the future, I agree with Smith Crazy that the Classic Turret Press is an option I would definately consider. It seems to be the best compromise of both worlds.

 

[Maximumbob54]

If you must single stage then the Rock Chucker is a tank. But I highly recommend the Lee Classic Turret. I haven't even touched the RC since I started using the turret. I keep it at the ready for rifle reloading only.

 

[Plstu]

The weekend warrior can't wear either out. Get the one that has the best deal.

 

[sean79]

Used presses are a dime a dozen right now.

I'm not finding any good deals on used presses around here. Maybe I'm not looking in the right places.

p.s. try kempfgunshop.com. Their prices are usually the cheapest and they have special kits put together. No, I'm not affiliated with them.

They do have a special Classic Turret kit, but it doesn't come with all the stuff the Lee kit has... It seems to have the better steel and iron press, and it comes with a die set and an upgraded priming system (I think). But, it looks like it's missing a few tools (chamfer tool, primer pocket cleaner, trimmer cutter and lock stud) and a powder scale. I'm just learning about reloading, so I don't really know how important some of those "missing" parts are or how much better some of the "upgrades" are.

 

[Skip Sackett]

I'm just learning about reloading, so I don't really know how important some of those "missing" parts are or how much better some of the "upgrades" are.

The only thing you cannot live without, at least in my opinion, is the scale. Now, Lee's isn't the best BUT it is better than nothing. Measuring volumetrically is fine but setting up you need a scale.

 

[sean79]

Thanks. Not to hijack the OP's thread any further, but I'm guessing this info. is probably useful for anyone getting into reloading... What are the:

1) chamfer tool,
2) primer pocket cleaner,
3) trimmer cutter and lock stud?

I know that, all together, they only cost 11 dollars, but are they tools a new reloader doesn't really need? Honestly, the 11 dollars isn't the issue - just not sure how important these tools may be in the process (after all, they're not included in the Kempf kit).

 

[Skip Sackett]

The primer pocket cleaner is just what it says. A tool to clean out the primer pocket. Something not needed for range fodder handgun loads. Benchrest rifle? Yes.

The other two items have to do with case trimming. The chamfer tool is to remove the burr that comes from using the trimmer cutter with locking stud (setting and maintaining length). Again, something not needed for the average handgun shooter.

If you purchase new brass, they might have a place in your arsenal of tools. If so, all one has to do is spend the extra $11 and get them.

My suggestion is to get a good manual before you take off reloading. The Lee, Lyman are both good for the new reloader. The most important thing about them is in the front though. Make sure that gets read before you start loading! A word to the wise.

 

[Bullseye Smith]

I have a Cheap Lee single mounted to a 2"x6"x16" that I take to the range along with a set of scales , power trigger to work up loads for the rifle or pistol. Set up on the bench and go for it.

 

[Cpo1944]

I have an old RCBS single stage and I thought it was just fine until I saw a video on youtube;

Hickock45 reloading on a Dillon progressive .

Do your self a big favor and watch him load those 9mm`s and listen as a completed shell falls into the hopper with each step.

And to think I am still placing a single primer at a time -What`s wrong with me???

 

[rck281]

I haven't read all of the posts, so this may be a repeat. I really don't like the new RCBS Supreme. This press is significantly larger than the old Rock Chucker and was enlarged for todays large magnum rifle cartridges. The extra ram throw makes a very long stroke for reloading handgun cartridges. So, unless you reload the long magnum rifle cartridges, look for one of the older Rock Chucker presses.

 

[firearmsunlimited]

Cabelas currently has a rebate offer posted:

$10.00 Mail-in Rebate with the purchase of $50 in RCBS products. Valid through Mar. 31, 2011.

 

[olskool]

i have been loading from 1969 to present day, you get what you pay for. on a scale of 1-10 lee is 1 rcbs is 10+ i have a rock chunker it was made 1973 and a rcbs 2a it was made from 1959-63 it is a large scale rock chunker. they will out last me.

 

[imakmst]

I guess I'll be a little different even though it wasn't in your list, but, I got a Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Single Stage Press for Christmas and I love it. Very solid and I like the bushing setup for multiple calibers.

 

[wheelgun1958]

Lee Classic Cast is made from surplus US steel (railroad rails) in Wisconsin. RCBS I believe is cast in China.

 

[loubrody]

RCBS In California

I own some RCBS equipment. It is some good stuff. But until they decide to leave California for a more gun friendly state, I can not in good conscience buy anything more from RCBS. I don't want my money contributing to fill the coffers and tax base of a bunch of gun hating liberal politicians. But that is just me. As goes California, so goes the nation.

 

[longaction]

RCBS for sure.

 

[Targetslayer]

Lee makes good stuff.

Targetslayer

 

[RidgwayCO]

After I bought a Lee Classic Turret to speed up my reloading, I liked the way it handled spent primers so well that I bought a Lee Classic Cast single stage for rifle reloading chores. Ended up liking it so well that I sold my used RCBS Rock Chucker at the local gun show for what I had paid for it. I like that the Lee's are made in America from American steel.

 

[Sully]

Lee Classic Cast is made from surplus US steel (railroad rails) in Wisconsin. RCBS I believe is cast in China.

I thought it was in low gravity on the backside of the moon!!!....geeze!

 

[Sully]

After I bought a Lee Classic Turret to speed up my reloading, I liked the way it handled spent primers so well that I bought a Lee Classic Cast single stage for rifle reloading chores. Ended up liking it so well that I sold my used RCBS Rock Chucker at the local gun show for what I had paid for it. I like that the Lee's are made in America from American steel.

It does matter to me if the cast iron is cast in lower Slobovia...its a better product and will outlast the stamped Lee loaders ten fold. I have both brands...with a Dillon 550 alongside