The Dillon 550 reloading press is a stalwart in the reloading world, known for its speed, efficiency, and robust construction. This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about the Dillon 550, from its features and benefits to troubleshooting and maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting out, this article will equip you with the knowledge to harness the power of the Dillon 550.
Understanding the Dillon 550's Advantages
The Dillon 550's popularity stems from its unique design and capabilities. Unlike single-stage presses, which perform one operation at a time, the Dillon 550 is a progressive press. This means it completes multiple steps in a single press stroke, significantly increasing reloading speed.
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Progressive Reloading: This is the hallmark feature. Each press of the handle completes several steps, including sizing, priming, powder charging, and bullet seating. This makes it incredibly fast, allowing you to load hundreds of rounds in a short time.
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Durable Construction: Built to last, the Dillon 550 is made from high-quality steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear. It can handle thousands of rounds without significant issues.
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Precise Reloading: While renowned for speed, the Dillon 550 also provides exceptional accuracy. The consistent operation of the press minimizes variations in powder charges and bullet seating depth, leading to reliable and safe ammunition.
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Versatility: The Dillon 550 can handle a wide range of calibers with simple die changes. This adaptability makes it a valuable investment for reloaders who work with multiple cartridges.
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Large Capacity: The included powder measure is designed for smooth operation and consistent charges. Its large capacity reduces the frequency of refills.
Case Studies: Real-World Dillon 550 Performance
Many reloaders report incredible production rates with the Dillon 550. For example, experienced users can easily produce over 500 rounds per hour, depending on the caliber and their experience. This speed is particularly advantageous for high-volume shooters and competition participants.
Setting Up Your Dillon 550 Reloading Press
Proper setup is critical for safe and efficient operation. This involves several key steps:
1. Choosing the Right Dies
Dillon offers a wide selection of dies specifically designed for their presses. Make sure to choose the correct dies for your chosen caliber. Incorrect dies can lead to damage to your cases or malfunctions.
2. Die Adjustment
Each die performs a specific function, and proper adjustment is crucial for consistent results. Dillon provides detailed instructions for setting up your dies, and it's recommended to follow them carefully. Using a case gauge is also crucial for verifying the proper sizing.
3. Powder Measure Calibration
Accurate powder charges are paramount for safety and consistent performance. Dillon powder measures are highly adjustable but require careful calibration using a scale. Never guess at powder charges; always measure.
4. Bullet Seating Depth Adjustment
Precise bullet seating is crucial for reliable functioning and accurate shot placement. Careful adjustment of the seating die is necessary to ensure proper bullet seating depth.
Maintaining Your Dillon 550
Regular maintenance is vital for ensuring your Dillon 550 continues to function optimally and safely.
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Lubrication: Keep moving parts lubricated using a high-quality gun lubricant. This minimizes friction and wear.
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Cleaning: Regularly clean the press to remove powder residue and debris.
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Inspection: Periodically inspect for signs of wear or damage.
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Replace Parts as Needed: Dillon provides replacement parts, so damaged or worn components can be easily replaced.
Troubleshooting Common Dillon 550 Problems
Despite its robustness, occasional problems can occur. Here's a guide to troubleshooting some common issues:
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Powder Charges Inconsistent: Check for clogs, debris, or improper powder measure calibration.
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Cases Not Sizing Properly: Verify die adjustment and check for lubrication.
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Bullet Seating Depth Inconsistent: Recheck the bullet seating die adjustment.
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Primer Issues: Ensure proper primer seating depth and check for primer feed problems.
Conclusion: The Dillon 550 - A Reloader's Best Friend
The Dillon 550 reloading press represents a significant investment, but its speed, efficiency, and reliability make it a worthwhile purchase for serious reloaders. While the initial setup requires patience and attention to detail, the resulting rewards in speed and consistent ammunition far outweigh the effort. With proper care and maintenance, your Dillon 550 will provide years of reliable service. Remember to always prioritize safety and adhere to all manufacturer instructions.