The Dillon 650 XL is a powerhouse in the reloading world, renowned for its speed and efficiency. But even this top-tier press can benefit from upgrades to further enhance its performance and tailor it to your specific needs. This comprehensive guide explores various Dillon 650 XL upgrades, categorized for clarity, helping you decide which modifications best suit your reloading goals and budget.
Improving Case Feeding and Primer Handling
One of the most common bottlenecks in high-volume reloading is case feeding and primer handling. Several upgrades directly address these crucial areas:
Case Feeding Enhancements
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Larger Case Feed Hopper: The standard hopper works well, but a larger capacity hopper significantly reduces the frequency of refills, speeding up your overall reloading process. Consider the various options available from Dillon and aftermarket manufacturers. Some offer improved design features for smoother case flow.
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Case Feed System Upgrades: While the standard case feed system is reliable, aftermarket upgrades focusing on smoother case movement and reduced jams can be worthwhile investments. These often involve tweaks to the case feed mechanism or the addition of anti-static components. Look for reviews that highlight improvements in case feeding reliability, particularly for challenging cases.
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Improved Case Activation Mechanisms: Experimenting with different case activation rollers or adjusting the case activation mechanism itself can dramatically reduce jams and improve case feeding consistency. A small adjustment can make a huge difference.
Primer Handling Upgrades
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Larger Primer Tray: Similar to the case hopper upgrade, investing in a larger primer tray drastically cuts down on interruptions for refilling. The time saved over a long reloading session adds up significantly.
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Primer Feed System Improvements: Aftermarket systems or modifications to the standard system can provide more consistent primer feed. Look for systems that address potential sources of jams or misfeeds. Consider reviews emphasizing reliability with various primer types.
Speed and Efficiency Enhancements for the Dillon 650 XL
Beyond feeding and priming, several upgrades target pure speed and efficiency:
Power and Automation
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Power Exchanger: While the Dillon 650 XL is manually operated, some consider adding a power-driven case feed system. This is a significant upgrade, requiring more investment and technical skill, but it dramatically increases the reloading speed. Thoroughly research this upgrade and its compatibility with your model before purchasing.
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Auto-Indexing System: While this isn't as common for the 650 XL as other presses, some aftermarket solutions and advanced setups offer automatic indexing for the press. This reduces the need for manual operation, leading to significant gains in overall speed. Weigh the cost and complexity of such an addition against your needs.
Ergonomic and Comfort Upgrades
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Adjustable Handle: An upgrade to a more comfortable and adjustable handle can greatly improve ergonomics and reduce fatigue during long reloading sessions. This seemingly small change can have a substantial impact on long-term comfort and productivity.
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Improved Tool Head: A replacement tool head with better material or a redesigned handle can improve comfort and accuracy. Pay attention to material quality and durability.
Precision and Bullet Seating Improvements
Accuracy is paramount in reloading, and several upgrades enhance bullet seating precision.
Bullet Seating Modifications
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Micrometer Adjustable Seating Die: This upgrade provides precise control over bullet seating depth, enabling consistent and accurate bullet placement. The ability for precise adjustments is crucial for optimal accuracy.
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Precision Bullet Seating Die: Invest in a high-quality bullet seating die from a reputable manufacturer known for accuracy and consistency. A premium die can dramatically improve the precision of your bullet seating compared to standard dies.
Maintenance and Durability Upgrades
Maintaining your Dillon 650 XL is critical for longevity and optimal performance.
Enhanced Durability & Longevity Upgrades
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Powder Measure Upgrades: For consistent powder charges, a robust powder measure is essential. Consider upgrades like an improved powder funnel or replacement powder measure for better dispensing and fewer issues. A quality powder measure is an investment in accuracy and consistency.
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Replacement Parts Made from Durable Materials: Replacing standard parts with those made from harder, more durable materials can significantly extend the lifespan of your press. Focus on parts that experience the most wear.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dillon 650 XL Upgrades
Upgrading your Dillon 650 XL is a highly personal endeavor, depending on your specific needs, budget, and reloading goals. Consider what aspects of your reloading workflow you want to improve. Prioritize upgrades that address major bottlenecks before focusing on smaller refinements. Thoroughly research each upgrade to ensure compatibility and assess whether the benefits outweigh the cost. Remember, incremental upgrades are often more effective than a single, large investment. Always prioritize safety when modifying your equipment.