Precision Reloading Die Choice

TGScott · #1 12-02-2006, 03:05 PM

I posted this elsewhere so some of you have probably seen this, but I wanted the opinion of the LRH members. I'm looking to upgrade from "standard" dies for a couple of rifles and need some advice. I've been looking at what both Redding and Forester have to offer and like the looks of both. Redding seems to have some additional features like their custom shellholder sets (incremental length changes) and bushing dies allowing very fine adjustments to your load's dimensions, but to set up with Redding would probably cost twice as much as Forester. Is it worth it? I know it depends on your needs and use, and I'm not looking at competitive benchrest shooting, but I am looking to get the best I can out of a couple of custom hunting and varmint rifles. Any advice?

sniper2 · #2 12-02-2006, 03:22 PM

Bonanza* [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

BountyHunter · #3 12-02-2006, 06:17 PM

I use the redding comp shell holders but like the forester dies. I normally have mine converted to bushing by Jim Carstenson (JLC Precision) for $40.

Also heard a lot of very good things about the new Hornady custom dies. They are BR quality, come with bushings and they will make a custom for your chamber for under $100 and couple weeks turn around.

BH

CatShooter · #4 12-03-2006, 07:21 AM

The Redding match dies are very good.

The Forster Ultra seater is outstanding, and easier to setup and use than the Redding.

The Hornady dies are very good, and I don't know how they make them so cheap, you can get a complete set for $25-ish - I use them on my 50 BMG rifle, and love them.

RCBS seems to have fallen to the back of the line in the last ten or 15 years.

.

rotorhead · #5 12-03-2006, 06:14 PM

Tgscot, Here is my two cents worth. I really like the Forster ultra seaters and the price is right. I use redding bushing neck dies and the body dies. In the neck dies I use the carbide buttons from redding and i like them alot. I also use the comp. shellholder on some work. So as a result I buy the dies seperatley.

rotorhead · #6 12-03-2006, 06:16 PM

Bounty hunter , You had mentioned having the Forsters converted? Does this mean you just have the Forster bored out to accept the redding bushings?

Rh

BountyHunter · #7 12-03-2006, 07:37 PM

Yes that is all that is done. Jim Carstenson does it for around $40 and week turnaround. He is listed under Tools over on www.6mmbr.com. He does outstanding work.

He can also make ($75) a custom fit FL size die with bushings from a Redding body bump die ($24), honed to your chamber.

BH