9 Of The Best Reloading Dies (Reviewed 2021)
- November 30, 2020
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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- 9 Of The Best Reloading Dies (Reviewed 2021)
- 1. Hornady Series II Taper Crimp Die Set
- 2. LEE PRECISION 38-55 3 Die Set
- 3. Lyman 223 Rem Carbide Deluxe Rifle 3 Die Set (5.56-mm)
- 4. RCBS Carbide 3-Die Set
- 5. RCBS Die Set
- 6. Hornady CGND 4-Die Set
- 7. Hornady Match Grade New Dimension Bushing 2-Die Set
- 8. LEE PRECISION 300
- 9. RCBS 30701 Full-Length Die Set
- Buying Guide
- How to choose reloading dies?
- Types of reloading dies
- The material used in making the die
- Who makes the best reloading dies?
- Affordability
- How to set up reloading dies
- Conclusion
In this article, we’ll see:
- What are some of the best reloading dies available.
- Our reasons for picking the best dies for reloading.
- A buying guide covering everything to help you with what you should look for when choosing reloading dies.
- How to set up reloading dies
Best Overall
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Hornady Series II Taper Crimp Die Set
The Hornady series II is a set of three reloading dies: one full-size resizer, one expander, and one taper cramp eater die and it is one of our favorites! Since the dies are made from Titanium Nitride, which has the same effects as Carbide, you don’t need to apply lube every time you use the die to reload. It provides convenience and high quality.
From resizing, expanding to seating, and crimping, you can perform all actions using the Series II 3 die set from Hornady.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 3
- Material of the die: Titanium Nitride dies
- Form Factor: Made for 9mm, 10mm, and 45 auto cartridges
- Works with all standard presses
- The seater body is redesigned to perform the seating and taper crimping in one step
- The set includes a regular expander die, not a powder through expander die.
Best Affordable
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. LEE PRECISION 38-55 3 Die Set
Lee Precision offers this set of three steel dies for the .38-55 Winchester cartridges. The die set includes a full-length resizing die, a bullet seating dies, and one powder through expander die. The dies are made out of hardened steel, so you need to properly lubricate the cases before reloading.
The 3-die set from LEE precision is ideal for de-capping, sizing, powder charging, seating the bullet, and crimping all in one.
- No. of dies in the set: 3
- Type of die: Rifle
- Material of the die: Hardened steel dies
- Form Factor: Made for .38-55 Winchester cartridges
- Includes a storage box with Slip-Fit or Latching cover
- Includes shell holders and powder dipper
- Can be used in most standard presses
- You need to apply lubricant to your case each time before resizing
Best Beginner-Friendly
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Lyman 223 Rem Carbide Deluxe Rifle 3 Die Set (5.56-mm)
The Lyman 223 Rem Carbide reloading die set with 3 different reloading dies. The two basic dies are included in the set. The full-length resizing dies with de-capping functions, and the neck expansion button and seating die. The company also offers a neck sizing die in the set, which comes with a carbide expander.
The 3-die set is primarily meant for use in reloading jacketed bullets in bottlenecked cases for rifles.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 3
- Material of the die: Carbide die
- Form Factor: Made for 5.56 mm ammo
- Carbide dies, so you don’t need to lubricate the case every time
- Fits in almost all the presses using 7/8 thread pitch by any company
- Good for progressive loading operations
- Entry-level Carbide dies, so you still need properly lube them
Best Die for Carbide
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. RCBS Carbide 3-Die Set
It is an excellent carbide die set from the trusted name, RCBS. The die set is meant for straight-walled cartridges. The set comes with a seater die, an expander dies, and one full-length sizer die.
From de-capping to expanding and belling the case and finally seating the bullet, the carbide 3-die set from RCBS provides you the necessary dies for all the basic reloading operations.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 3
- Material of the die: Carbide dies
- Form Factor: Made for 30 carbine and 327 Federal Magnum cartridges
- Comes with both taper and roll crimp depending on the cartridge size chosen
- Affordable Carbide die set with the basic dies, and an expander die
- The brand warranty of RCBS
- If you are an expert reloader, you might need to buy a separate crimp die.
Best Basic
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. RCBS Die Set
It is one of the basic reloading die sets that RCBS makes. The set includes two dies; one expander-decapping die and another bullet seating die. RCBS used hardened steel to make the dies, so you need to properly lubricate your shells before resizing.
It is a basic reloading die set that will get the job done for most operations. If you’re looking for high precision or better control, then you can go for other options.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 2
- Material of the die: Hardened Steel
- Form Factor: Available for various calibers
- Highly accurate unit
- Generally, works in presses from all brands
- Comes for various caliber rifles
- Does not come with a shell holder
Best Complete Set
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Hornady CGND 4-Die Set
The Hornady Custom Grade 4-die set is a set of four carbide dies and is an excellent offering from the company, especially considering its price. The die set includes the two basic dies: The full-length Sizer die and the seating die. Additionally, it includes an Expander die and a Crimp die. The Expander Die and the Crimp die gives you additional quality control and precision when reloading your guns.
If you are a veteran hunter or just a gun aficionado, you can get the 4-die set from Hornady and reload your weapons with more precision and accuracy.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 4
- Material of the die: Carbide dies
- Form Factor: Made for 450 Bushmaster or .45 caliber bullets
- Works in almost all standard presses offered by the renowned companies
- Comes with the Sure-loc die locking rings from Hornady
- Includes the Taper Crimp die much needed for the 450 Bushmaster bullets
- Does not come with Shell holders
Best Variety
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Hornady Match Grade New Dimension Bushing 2-Die Set
The Match Grade Bushing 2 die set offers you the two basic dies: a bullet seating die and a full-length resizer die. The bushing dies are made for reliability and delivering the maximum performance out of the firearm. The dies have interchangeable neck sizing bushings to offer you excellent accuracy.
Additionally, the dies come in a plastic storage box with two secure lock rings. If you’re looking for a reliable and high quality reloading bushing die set that can perform the basic functions, then you can easily go for this one!
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 2
- Material of the die: Hardened Steel die
- Form Factor: available for various caliber ammo
- The neck sizing bushing is self-centering and durable to tolerate strict forces.
- It includes a micrometer seating stem
- Usable in most standard presses
- The shell holders are not included and need to be bought separately.
Best Factory Crimp Dies
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8. LEE PRECISION 300
The first single-die suggestion in this list is a special die needed for added control over your reloading process. The factory crimp die offered by LEE Precision crimps the bullet inside the case more firmly than any standard seating die.
If you’re an expert hunter or just want more precision in the resizing and seating process, you should add one of these to your die collection.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 1
- Material of the die: Hardened steel dies
- Form Factor: Made for 7.62×35 mm or .300 AAC blackout ammo
- Works in any standard press
- Excellent customer service from LEE Precision
- As it is a factory crimp die, you’ll need other dies to perform the resizing and seating actions.
Best for Whelen Cartridges
Last update on 2021-04-15 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. RCBS 30701 Full-Length Die Set
The RCBS 30701 2 die set is another offering from RCBS. With a name like RCBS, you know you’re getting a high-quality product. The set includes one bullet seating die, and another full-length resizer die. The dies are made from Hardened steel, so you need to apply lubricant on the case for proper operation.
It is an excellent offering from RCBS for basic reloading operations. If you need additional control, you can buy neck sizing, and crimp dies separately.
- Type of die: Rifle
- No. of dies in the set: 2
- Material of the die: Hardened Steel
- Form Factor: Made for 35 Whelen cartridges
- Vent holes for trapped air or primer to escape preventing case damage
- Works in all the standard presses
- Does not come with shell holders
Buying Guide
There is a lot to unload when it comes to choosing the best reloading dies for your guns. From the die’s material to the Caliber to different usages, dies can be of various types. In this part of the article, we will tell you everything about how to shortlist the best reloading dies.
How to choose reloading dies?
When buying a set of reloading dies, many factors like the dies’ quality, the proper use case, and the manufacturer can be crucial factors impacting your decision. If you’re just getting started with reloading, we recommend buying a reloading die set rather than individual dies. Many dies sets offer two to four dies from different companies and are offered at various price points.
Choosing the best reloading die sets for you is crucial for your firearms’ impeccable performance.
Types of reloading dies
Generally, there are five different dies available in various die sets that you need to know. The die set selection will depend on whether you need all the five dies or just the basic two dies to resize and seat the cartridge bullet.
Resizing Die
It is one-half of the most basic die sets that comprise a resizing die and seating die. The reloading process commences with this die. The shape of the die depends on your chosen Caliber. The resizing die’s basic function is to resize the used cartridge into its original dimensions and push out the used primer with its de-capping pin.
Bullet Seating die
It is another essential die that comes in the most basic die sets. It performs the crucial function of seating the bullet inside the cartridge. The die’s core holds the cartridge in place, aligns the bullet, and finally puts the bullet in the cartridge with a stroke. No matter which dies sets you buy, you can expect the bullet seating die inside it.
Case trimming die
The case trimming die is an optional die you can add to your die set. The die gives you some additional control over your entire reloading operation. The case of the cartridge gets elongated with prolonged use. The case needs to be trimmed to regain its original shape. The case trimming die performs the trimming operation to resize the case effortlessly.
Expander die
The Expander die is also an additional die included in some four to five die sets. For a single-stage press, you don’t need this die. The die sees use in progressive presses where it funnels the powder into the case. If you’re working with an automatic press, you might consider buying an expander die.
Factory Crimp Die
If you’re looking at a three-die set, chances are the third die is the factory crimp die. For a two-die set, you need to buy the crimp die separately. The crimping die provides additional control of the seating process. It crimps the seated bullet for increased effectiveness and precision.
The material used in making the die
Dies are made from a lot of materials. The material quality directly translates to the durability and overall quality of the ammunition. The die’s material is an important factor to look out for when considering buying a reloading die. Primarily there are two types of materials used to make reloading dies, hardened steel and Tungsten Carbides. If you’re using a steel die, you need to properly lubricate your shells before the resizing operation. It requires a huge amount of force. (1, 2)
On the other hand, the Carbide dies being slicker and harder than steel, do not require you to lubricate the shells before you can resize them. The dies’ material also drives their prices, with the steel dies being cheaper than Carbide dies.
Who makes the best reloading dies?
If you want your first reloading experience to go smoothly, you should consider the market’s well-known brands. Well-known brands like Lee Precision, RCBS, Lyman, etc. offer an excellent customer experience with proper communication and great quality products. Even if it costs you slightly more, go for well-known brands.
Affordability
Budget is always a crucial factor when buying any product. The selection of the die set highly depends on your reloading needs. If you’re just reloading to save money and using the basic reloading dies, going for an expensive five die set is practical. But suppose you’re using the dies in a business setup, running a reloading business. In that case, you can invest in some expensive die sets, with specialized dies covering all your potential reloading needs.
How to set up reloading dies
Quite a few people face a problem with reloading process. So, we offer you some basic instructions on setting up your reloading dies (resizing and seating).
RCBS, Lyman, Redding
- The lock nut present at the top needs to be loosened
- Adjust the de-capping pin in either direction by turning the screw
- Re-tighten the nut
Lee Precision dies
- Attach the resizing die to your press
- Use a ¾ and ½ inch box wrench to loosen the collet of the de-capping rod by placing the ¾ inch wrench on the body and the ½ inch wrench on the rod collet.
- While the collet is loose, adjust the de-capping pin
- Making sure to retain the adjusted length of the pin, tighten the collet, so it doesn’t slip during a resizing operation
Setting up the resizing dies on your press
- Start with placing the proper shell holder that comes with your die set.
- The ram needs to be raised all the way to the top.
- On your die’s body, you will find a lock ring; loosen it.
- Screw-in the die in the press till you feel it touching the top of the shell holder.
- Lower the ram and screw the die a little more to properly fix it into the press
- Lower the ram once again and lock the ring till it touches the top of your press
- Tighten the screw present in the lock ring to fine-tune your adjustments
- Test your setup before starting the operation by raising the ram. Ensure the shell holder is touching the bottom of the die before the press’s handle is down. If it touches, you should be able to lower the handle further to perform the camming action.
Setting up a seating die on your press
- Start just like the resizing die by placing the proper shell holder
- Place a new or reshaped case inside the shell holder
- The lever needs to be raised up
- Screw-in the die on your press till you feel it touching the shell holder
- Slightly loosen the die and secure the lock ring
- Adjust the seater plug by loosening the locknut enough to make sure you don’t seat your first bullet too deep in the shell
- Put a ready case with the bullet inside the shell holder, raising the lever
- Check if you got the right length for your calipers.
- Alternatively, adjust the seater plug and check the length of your calipers to get the desired you want, and finally tightly secure the lockring.
Conclusion
From many offerings, we’ve found the Hornady Series II Taper Crimp Die Set is the best overall. The die set is made out of Titanium Nitride, which doesn’t need much external lubrication. The seater comes with a taper crimping function. The company also makes the dies for all the popular form factors, 9mm, 10mm, 45 auto cartridges.
That said, it is not the ultimate reloading die set, and depending on your needs, you might find some other reloading dies the best for you. All the reloading die sets provided on the list are best in what they do and can be the ones you need.
References
(1) hardened steel – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/hardened-steel
(2) Tungsten Carbides – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LjdVVjY-Y4
