Page 233 - The Lost Ways

to move automatically as the handle is raised or lowered, depending on the
manufacturer.

Progressive presses have numerous safety features that
can be installed to ensure safe operation. Some feature a
powder warning, alerting the user to the presence of too
much or too little powder in the case.

On presses that feature a feed system for primers, a low

primer sensor can be installed to let the user know that
the primer tube will soon be empty.

Advanced and more expensive presses can have case
feeding stations and bullet feeding stations attached so
all the reloader needs to do is keep these feeders full of
components. Some of these presses will allow the
reloader to load as many as 1,200 rounds in an hour.

Reloading Dies

The most critical piece of reloading equipment for the
progressive or single-stage press is a set of reloading dies.
Each of the dies performs one or more specific functions
during the reloading process, and each set of dies is made for a specific caliber. Some sets

of dies will work on similar calibers, but this is not universal.

For example, a typical set of dies for 38 Long Colt will work with 38 Special and 357
Magnum because all three cartridges have the same external dimensions apart from
length. It is the same with 44 Special and 44 Magnum or 45 Colt and 45 Schofield, although
the latter two have different rim diameters. In a similar vein 45 ACP dies will work with
45 Auto Rim, aside from the shell holder.

Magnum handgun dies marked “357 Magnum Only” or “44 Magnum Only” will not work
on the shorter calibers due to the internal dimensions with regard to setting the crimp.
These dies cannot be adjusted to sit lower in the press.

Reloading Bench

The loading bench is vital for all single-stage and progressive presses as well as keeping

all of the other equipment organized. You should look at mounting a press to a bench as

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