What Is the Best Reloading Die?

A reloading die is the threaded piece that mounts to your reloading press to perform the critical functions of resizing and flaring case mouths and seating and crimping bullets. Dies are specifically calibrated for each cartridge and when used properly produce ammunition that is compatible with the firearms they will be fired in. 

Sizer Die 

The full-length sizing die performs a vital operation in the reloading process. By sizing the case neck to an accurate dimension, it helps to ensure that the bullet is seated correctly and that your handloads are as accurate as possible. 

The die is made from alloy steel and is heat treated to maintain tolerances. It also features a unique expander/decapping rod with an angled bottom that prevents the die from bashing the brass at the top of the case mouth (a problem that can ruin cases if not careful). 

It is designed to provide smooth resizing, minimizing case neck deformation and enhancing concentricity for superior accuracy. It is also easy to set up and use, with clear, user-friendly instructions to accommodate reloaders of all experience levels. This die set is ideal for competitive shooters and precision enthusiasts who take their reloading seriously. 

Seater Die 

If you want precision in your hand-loads, look no further. These RCBS dies are made from alloy steel, and machined to extremely tight tolerances. They have a lifetime warranty, and produce bullets that fit your chamber perfectly. They include a full length bushing resizing die, bullet seating die, and factory crimp die. They also include a universal shell holder that fits most presses, and a powder dipper. 

The reloading press seats the bullet by lowering the ram on it, so you need a seating die that is compatible with your cartridges. Most seating dies have adjustable stems that can be adjusted by simply screwing them up or down. This set has a micrometer-adjustable stem that allows you to seat the bullets with remarkable consistency. 

The seating die includes a sliding sleeve that centers the case in the die before the stem starts pushing it down on the bullet. This is designed to eliminate the concentricity problems that plague many other seating dies, and improve accuracy and consistency. 

Crimp Die 

A crimp die compresses the case neck to hold a bullet. This is the final step in making handloads that will fit your gun and function properly when fired. 

The most popular reloading dies are made by Hornady, Lee and RCBS. These three mainstream brands make functional products and are affordable. Their reloading die sets include the full-length resizing and flaring die, the seating die and a factory

crimp die. 

Some reloading supplies such as reloading dies have additional features that add value to the set. For example, the Lee crimp die has a small base that pushes the shoulder of the case back just a sliver to work with semi-automatic rifles. It also has a powder-through design so you can use a powder funnel with it. 

When you buy a reloading die set instead of buying them individually, you save money. Investing in a good quality set will ensure that your handloads are safe and accurate for target shooting, hunting, and home defense. 

Shell Holder 

Ultimately, the shell holder is what holds your case while you use the other dies to resize, expand the mouth, seat the bullet, and crimp. They are available in a variety of materials, including plastic, steel, and high-quality aluminum. Consider your reloading frequency and what level of accuracy you need before choosing a shell holder. 

There are a few companies who offer great quality shell holders, such as Redding, RCBS, and Lee. They all have their own unique features. For instance, Redding’s carbide sizing and seating dies feature a split lock ring that tightens via an Allen head, which provides more leverage than standard screw-type locks. 

It also allows for a larger, more accurate shoulder setback. This is beneficial for long range shooting and can help ensure your bullets are seated in the center of the case. This is a nice touch that sets them apart from other manufacturers. In addition, their crimp dies utilize a segmented crimp that is safe to use even with bullets without a cannelure.