Why a turret press?
- Thread starter flyrobb
- Start date
Your quote implies I was suggesting using a a powder check, which I wasn't, Again I was trying to tell him about setting one up if he wanted.
I stated he was wise for not going on with the LEE FCD, that's why.
Magload
US Veteran
With my turret LED lighting and the loads I load I can see the powder in the case. Can I tell if there is a few grains less or more well no. I can tell a no charge or a double charge. The way i sit at my press I am looking right in the case when it is in the seating station. I got to set a bullet on the case anyway so I am looking at it. I am a slow reloader so I have the time. Don
MasterTech1960
Member
Every body does what they are comfortable with doing.
I load 30 carbine , 223 and 308 on my Lee Classic Turret press, as well as several different hand gun calipers. As most know you can not see into a 223 or 308 easily and as you have stated can not detect a few grains one way or the other by eye. I am not comfortable with that , but I am anal and a little controlling as my son tells me. 
IMHO There is no reason not to use a powder check die on a turret press and if I was using a full progressive , I would opt. for a powder lock out die.Clovishound
Member
I have my powder check die set up between my expander/powder throw and bullet seat/crimp die. I prime on press. I currently just manually load a primer into the cup and then prime on the downstroke. I don't like the looks of the Safety Primer Feed. Looks awkward and clunky. At the price, I may try one sometime.
I made a small nearly flat, thin wooden bowl on my lathe that makes dumping primers and then picking them up one at a time very easy. This operation is quicker than removing the cases and going through the hand priming operation. Not for everyone, but it works for me.
OP
powder measures on the turret
Well, I have been out for a few days for the 4th and WOW there have been a lot of great posts on this thread. One caught my eye and raised a question about powder measuring on the turret. I noticed several pic's with them mounted on the press then this comment has me wondering why it would be a good or bad idea. Again, keeping in mind I'm loading .45 and 9mm.
One more vote for the Lee CTP. I bought mine as a "kit" with the scale, auto disk powder measure & all. I only load 380, 9mm, 38, 357, & 44 spl/mag right now and I seat/crimp in separate steps with a FCD for each caliber.
Using a separate 4-hole turret plate for each caliber with an auto disk powder measure and the riser for it, swapping calibers is a 2-3 minute operation.
Swap in the plate with the right set of dies, screw the auto disk measure & riser into the powder-through expanding die, and swap in the disk with the powder cavity you want/need, and you're all set. 3 simple operations.
At $10-$12 per plate buying extra plates and only having to set up the dies one time for each caliber is a no-brainer. Since it came with one plate, I only had to buy 4 more for less than $50 to be able to quick-change between 5 different calibers.
Using a separate 4-hole turret plate for each caliber with an auto disk powder measure and the riser for it, swapping calibers is a 2-3 minute operation.
Swap in the plate with the right set of dies, screw the auto disk measure & riser into the powder-through expanding die, and swap in the disk with the powder cavity you want/need, and you're all set. 3 simple operations.
At $10-$12 per plate buying extra plates and only having to set up the dies one time for each caliber is a no-brainer. Since it came with one plate, I only had to buy 4 more for less than $50 to be able to quick-change between 5 different calibers.
Boogsawaste
Member
No problem with mine on a turret. I don't go crazy on the handle and get the same variences wether the uniflow is on or off the press. I also use a powder check die.
Hasn't been a problem for me either. I too, am easy on the handle and take my time, but it seems like a non-issue to me. I've been pleasantly surprised at how much I like the Pro auto disk, it throws consistently time after time and I don't have any leakage either. I don't see a reason why it shouldn't be there....its all good.
Clovishound
Member
IME the powder measure mounted on the press is fine. The name of the game is consistency. You may notice a slight difference with some powders between a throw without the measure being disturbed at all, and a throw when the measure has made the rounds. If I am reasonably consistent with the process, I get consistent throws.
If I am processing ammo for plinking at the range, a tenth of a grain variation is fine. If I am loading precision ammo, I will weigh every charge anyway.
If I am processing ammo for plinking at the range, a tenth of a grain variation is fine. If I am loading precision ammo, I will weigh every charge anyway.
fredj338
Member
"Rarely" in this case could be Deadlyit only takes one mistake to wreck your day.
Which IMO, relying on the powder check die only, is just such a mistake. Batteries die, parts break or stick. Visually verify the powder charge, best way IMO. Powder checks are a nice backup though. Resist becoming a handle puller, pay attention to every facet of your reloading.
OP
Final List
After careful analysis of all the above posts I believe the Lee Classic Turret will be the best fit for me and my wallet at this time. There are compelling arguments for the progressive and some day if my shooting habits change I'll look in that direction.
Now to wrap this thread up here's the list of what I believe I need for loading 45 and 9. I have a 3 die set of RCBS dies for each caliber so I only listed a powder thru expander die to accomodate the powder measure. I guess I would have and extra spot for either a powder check die or seperate the seat and crimp operation. I'll list the check die for now.
LCT press $112, pro auto disk powder measure $42, powder thru expander dies for .45 & 9 $24, powder check die $30, extra turret $13, for a TOTAL of $221.
What did I miss? Thanks all for great input.
After careful analysis of all the above posts I believe the Lee Classic Turret will be the best fit for me and my wallet at this time. There are compelling arguments for the progressive and some day if my shooting habits change I'll look in that direction.
Now to wrap this thread up here's the list of what I believe I need for loading 45 and 9. I have a 3 die set of RCBS dies for each caliber so I only listed a powder thru expander die to accomodate the powder measure. I guess I would have and extra spot for either a powder check die or seperate the seat and crimp operation. I'll list the check die for now.
LCT press $112, pro auto disk powder measure $42, powder thru expander dies for .45 & 9 $24, powder check die $30, extra turret $13, for a TOTAL of $221.
What did I miss? Thanks all for great input.
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Gotta have a scale...
Consider the LCTP kit. It includes the press, pro disk, large & small safety prime, scale, case trimmer, and Lee's reloading manual.
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OP
I do have an RCBS 5-0-5 already. Just looked at the kit for $207, that may be the way to go. I forgot about the safety primer feed. I have seen a couple comments that they don't work very well.
swamprabbit
Member
I agree with BC38. Go with the kit. I paid $180.00 for mine. IMO it is the best deal to be had. To add: In my experience the safety prime works fine if it is adjusted correctly.
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X2 on the safety prime - and it isn't hard to get it adjusted correctly, since it really can only be mounted in one place!
ozo
Member
Ya gotta do what ya gotta do......
It ain't easy shelling out the bucks these days.......
But sometimes longevity comes into play, among other things.
Other important things that are hard to see through the wallet.
Old folks are set in opinions, but usually from experience, and
most old folks [today] come from a place where they understand
not only value, but what it requires to achieve it.
I grew up being taught to save for what I really wanted, and not compromise for having lesser faster......but we live in a different time now, a world of microwaves and fast food, and we want it NOW.
No slam meant, it just is what it is. The worst part, today, is you don't even get what you pay for in many instances.
It ain't easy shelling out the bucks these days.......
But sometimes longevity comes into play, among other things.
Other important things that are hard to see through the wallet.
Old folks are set in opinions, but usually from experience, and
most old folks [today] come from a place where they understand
not only value, but what it requires to achieve it.
I grew up being taught to save for what I really wanted, and not compromise for having lesser faster......but we live in a different time now, a world of microwaves and fast food, and we want it NOW.
No slam meant, it just is what it is. The worst part, today, is you don't even get what you pay for in many instances.
Just a question on powder checks. Aren't they mainly for a gross overcharge or a no charge situation?? T truly don't see them being so discriminating that they can tell a tenth..or even 2 tenths difference in charge weights. Not a statement of fact...just questioning
Boogsawaste
Member
I can tell a 2/10th very easily and 1/10th is not hard to distinguish either. Especially with a bulky powder. Ymmv.
OK..What kind of powder check are you using?? 2 tenths is acceptable to me in most of my mid range ammo. The right up at the top loads I weigh individually anyway... Full blown magnum loads are right next to baby bombs anyway. I also load them on a single stage. I have a couple of the Dillon powder checks but have never really used one. On my super 1050s I load powders that throw very consistently ...meaning no Unique Blue dot 800X. I also keep an eye on powder charges as much as possible. Just picked up a Dillon 650 and am going to try it on 9mm and 38 Sp. It came with a powder check...
Boogsawaste
Member
It's a hornady powder cop. I've spent a lot of time with it so it's easy to spot. Once you get comfortable with it you should be able to see the same. Anything funny gets thrown on the scale.
bananaman
Member
flyrobb,
I have the Lee Classic Turret, an upgrade from my original Lee 3 hole turret press. I still use my RCBS Reloader Special single stage (circa 1978). My shooting volume is about the same as yours 100-200/week between 9mm, 40 S&W and 45 acp.
I have each caliber set up in it's own turret ($10-$12 each) and a Lee Auto Disk Powder measure installed on each caliber ($24 each). Caliber change-overs take 1 minute or less, fill powder hopper and primer feed and done. I DON'T RELOAD FAST OR IN A HURRY. 100-150 rounds an hour is achievable on the Lee, maybe even more. What I like most, is I have complete control of each round from start to finish and can remove at any time, for any reason.
I've been tempted over the years to try a progressive, but low volume and cost of new equipment just doesn't make sense for me. I've used Lee equipment for years and it has worked well for me. Lots of choices and lots of good suggestions, best of luck in your search
Classic Turret works fine for me! Never had any load problems. Load .38, 9mm, .40, 45ACP, & 45 LC. I do not use a powder disc for each caliber though. Bob
BigBill
Absent Comrade
I have many presses but plan on a indexing octagon table for the presses.
1. RCBS rockchucker (custom target ammo short runs)
2. Lee open sided press $17 for decapping
3. Lee Pro 1000 38spc/357mag/9mm luger
4. Lee Pro 1000 41mg/44spec/44mag/45 LC
5. Lee Pro 1000 45acp
6. Lee Master Reloader 308/30-06
7. Lee turret. 6.5 Swede, 7mm mauser, 7.5 French, 8mm mauser, 303 Britt.
8. Open space.
I have most of the die plates, shell plates. I need the powder dispensers for every die plate next. Less setup tIME.
I been using the rockchucker since the 70's. I was given a free Lee pro1000 progressive in 45cap. What a blessing it is. It's so much faster to reload. I'm not handcuffed to my reloading bench 24/7 every night.
Now I want to setup the presses for each caliber. Make it easy for the kids to do it. The powder measures will be set on each die plate.
1. RCBS rockchucker (custom target ammo short runs)
2. Lee open sided press $17 for decapping
3. Lee Pro 1000 38spc/357mag/9mm luger
4. Lee Pro 1000 41mg/44spec/44mag/45 LC
5. Lee Pro 1000 45acp
6. Lee Master Reloader 308/30-06
7. Lee turret. 6.5 Swede, 7mm mauser, 7.5 French, 8mm mauser, 303 Britt.
8. Open space.
I have most of the die plates, shell plates. I need the powder dispensers for every die plate next. Less setup tIME.
I been using the rockchucker since the 70's. I was given a free Lee pro1000 progressive in 45cap. What a blessing it is. It's so much faster to reload. I'm not handcuffed to my reloading bench 24/7 every night.
Now I want to setup the presses for each caliber. Make it easy for the kids to do it. The powder measures will be set on each die plate.
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snowman
Member
Sir,
I'm experienced enough to know that some of Lee's products are less than stellar in the longevity department, but that is not true of the Classic Turret Press. It is a well-built machine and will last. I've run many thousands of rounds thru mine now without an issue, and there's no sign of early wear and tear. I'm sure other owners here have had the same experience. It is an outstanding value, and will serve flyrobb well. I'm not a 'fanboy'; just presenting my view as an experienced user.
Respectfully,
Andy
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snowman
Member
flyrobb,
A few suggestions from an experienced user:
-Even if you get the kit, I would highly recommend that you continue to use your RCBS scale. The Lee scale is accurate, but I've found it a real pain to set up and adjust. But. . .you may like it, who knows?
-I can recommend the Lee Safety Prime Attachment. It isn't difficult to install and adjust, but there is just a bit of an art to using it, to avoid hiccups. This is a bit too difficult to describe in the little time I have right now, but if you get one, I'm available to try and assist -just PM me. The jury is still out on the longevity of this particular tool, but it has worked well for me in the thousands of rounds on which I've used it.
-I also highly recommend that you grease the turret plates periodically with a lightweight grease on the surfaces which slide around the top of the press. This reduces wear on the indexing components and makes for smooth and quiet loading.
Best wishes as you go forward,
Andy
A few suggestions from an experienced user:
-Even if you get the kit, I would highly recommend that you continue to use your RCBS scale. The Lee scale is accurate, but I've found it a real pain to set up and adjust. But. . .you may like it, who knows?
-I can recommend the Lee Safety Prime Attachment. It isn't difficult to install and adjust, but there is just a bit of an art to using it, to avoid hiccups. This is a bit too difficult to describe in the little time I have right now, but if you get one, I'm available to try and assist -just PM me. The jury is still out on the longevity of this particular tool, but it has worked well for me in the thousands of rounds on which I've used it.
-I also highly recommend that you grease the turret plates periodically with a lightweight grease on the surfaces which slide around the top of the press. This reduces wear on the indexing components and makes for smooth and quiet loading.
Best wishes as you go forward,
Andy
OP
No slam taken ozo. I can relate to what you are saying. I have always gone for the good equipment weather it be fly fishing and tying equipment, tools, golf clubs, guns, stereo equipment, whatever and have never regretted waiting and buying quality. I'm a pretty particular and patient guy which is why reloading and fly tying are the type of things I really enjoy so if I feel it's worth waiting for till I can afford it, I'm all in.
In this case it just seems the LCT will do everything I need it to do right now and I haven't gotten the impression it is junk. It seems a lot of users like it and are happy with the quality. I can only go off what I am reading. I other words I don't mind waiting for say, the 550b but if the LCT works I don't mind saving several hundred dollars either.
It's kind of like fly rods to me. I have $200 rods and $700 rods and each have their rolls. The $200 dollar rod is a good piece of equipment and does everything I need it to do for that particular purpose but for another application the $700 rod could not be replaced with a cheaper one.
For now I will continue on my SS Lyman Spartan and digest all I have read in this thread, which went WAY beyond my expectations but I enjoy each an every post.
I pretty much understand and agree with these posts but I'm thinking I want to add another aspect to this discussion. I have never once bought a Lee press or product but 35-40 years ago won a press and die set, scale, etc in a drawing at the SHOT show in Vegas. Well I already owned a nice Pacific single so I figured I'd mount my new Lee next to it on the bench and double my output. Wrong. The Lee was a flimsy bench companion to the Pacific and keeping the dies set properly was troublesome. I guess if I had not had the Pacific next to it I may not have been so disappointed initially but I gave it away for some binoculars and never looked back
The gentlemen that taught me to load and shoot would not tolerate Lee anything back in the 60-70's and I won't mention the term they used for the presses. Needless to say no matter how much better the Lee line has gotten there is still a stigma attached with generations of reloaders who learned otherwise. Lee had to get better cause back then they weren't selling squat to any of the shooters I knew. So no matter how much better their design and quality is today you are going to run into insurmountable resistance from guys like me. Price seems to pretty well drive the market these days with new shooters and I can certainly understand why with the economy and non-shooting world being so unaccommodating if not hostile. Like the man said ' you do what you gotta do ' . But the more I think about it if the new shooters do stick around and really learn to love this sport and all of the aspects, science and variables that go with performance then perhaps years down the road they will look back on their little Lee and thank it for opening the door. For those that hopefully do stick around and are still loading I'll bet most will have stepped up to the next level.
sarg1c
US Veteran
I also use turrent press's. I bought a used Lee three hole press at a LGS for $10.00,removed the auto advavce. Did buy 5 three hole plates. Also found a Lyman turrent press used for $15.00 and use it mostly to prime but did use it before buying the Lee. It's a six hole model.
I disagree with garbler on the Lee, I mostly use Lee equipment and have for 40 years.. I also always crimp rifle loads with the LF C dies. Only my. 204 is not crimped only because I don't have a crimp die in. 204.
The good thing about a Lee turrnt press is you only have to set up dies once. Just change plates when changing calibres
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Badquaker
Member
I check every powder charge on a scale. Depending on powder type, it can vary by 2 tenths of a grain or more during a run. I like Unique powder, but it does not meter worth a darn.
A turret allows me to do things in batches. My old school lee 3 hole turret works great. I have 7 plates currently set up, but want to pick up a few more.
A turret allows me to do things in batches. My old school lee 3 hole turret works great. I have 7 plates currently set up, but want to pick up a few more.
