The Dillon Square Deal B press is a popular choice for reloaders, and its compatibility with a wide range of dies makes it even more versatile. This guide focuses specifically on the 9mm dies offered for this press, delving into their features, benefits, and considerations for optimal reloading performance. We'll explore what makes Dillon 9mm dies stand out, and what you need to know before purchasing.
Understanding the Dillon Square Deal B Press
Before diving into the specifics of 9mm dies, let's briefly review the Dillon Square Deal B press itself. This single-stage press is known for its simplicity, affordability, and reliability. Its compact design makes it ideal for beginners and experienced reloaders alike. A key feature is its ability to handle a wide array of calibers with simple die changes, making it a highly adaptable reloading system. The robust construction ensures durability, even with consistent use.
Dillon 9mm Dies: Key Features and Benefits
Dillon's 9mm dies for the Square Deal B press are engineered for precision and ease of use. They are typically made from high-quality steel, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. Some key features include:
- Precision Machining: Dillon utilizes precise machining techniques to guarantee consistent sizing and crimping. This minimizes variations in ammunition quality and promotes optimal performance.
- Durable Construction: The dies are built to withstand the rigors of repeated use, minimizing wear and tear over time. This leads to a longer lifespan compared to some less durable alternatives.
- Ease of Use: The design prioritizes simplicity, making the reloading process straightforward, even for beginners. Clear markings and intuitive operation reduce the learning curve significantly.
- Compatibility: The dies are specifically designed for the Square Deal B press, ensuring seamless integration and optimal functionality within the system.
Types of 9mm Dies Available
Several types of 9mm dies are typically available within Dillon's lineup for the Square Deal B, catering to different needs and preferences:
- Sizing Die: This die resizes the brass casing to the correct dimensions, ensuring proper chambering in your firearm.
- Powder Die: This die accurately measures and drops the required amount of powder into the case. Consistent powder charges are crucial for safe and reliable operation.
- Seating Die: This carefully seats the bullet into the case, ensuring proper alignment and bullet depth.
- Crimping Die: This die crimps the case mouth, securing the bullet in place and preventing it from moving during firing. This is vital for ammunition reliability.
Choosing the Right 9mm Dies for Your Needs
While Dillon offers high-quality components, selecting the correct dies ensures optimal performance. Here are some factors to consider:
- Your specific 9mm firearm: Some firearms might require a slightly different sizing die for optimal chambering. Consult your firearm's manual or a reloading manual specific to your firearm.
- Type of bullet you're using: The bullet type can influence the crimping process. Selecting a crimping die appropriate to your bullet type ensures proper bullet retention.
- Powder type: While the powder die isn't directly tied to the bullet, the appropriate powder charge is crucial, and understanding its interaction with your chosen bullet is crucial for overall performance.
Setting Up Your Dillon 9mm Dies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Setting up your dies correctly is crucial for reliable and safe reloading. Dillon provides comprehensive instructions with their products; however, here's a general overview:
- Mount the dies: Carefully screw each die into its respective station on the press, following the Dillon instructions.
- Adjust the sizing die: The sizing die needs to be adjusted to correctly resize the brass. Too tight, and you risk case damage; too loose, and you won't get proper resizing. This requires careful adjustment and testing.
- Adjust the powder die: Use a scale to accurately measure the powder charge. You'll likely need to make small adjustments to the powder die to achieve the desired charge weight.
- Adjust the seating die: Set the bullet seating depth by using a case gauge or calipers. Adjust the die until the bullet is seated to the appropriate depth.
- Adjust the crimping die: Carefully adjust the crimping die to achieve a consistent and secure crimp on the case mouth. Over-crimping can damage the case; under-crimping can lead to bullet setback.
Case Studies and Troubleshooting
While generally reliable, occasional problems can arise. Below are some scenarios and potential solutions:
Problem: Cases are sticking in the sizing die.
Solution: Lubricate your cases properly before sizing. Check if the sizing die is correctly adjusted; it might be too tight.
Problem: Inconsistent powder charges.
Solution: Check the powder die adjustment and ensure there are no obstructions in the powder pathway. Use a scale to verify powder charge weights.
Problem: Bullets are not being seated properly.
Solution: Check the bullet seating die adjustment. Ensure the bullet is properly aligned in the seating die and that the bullet depth is correct.
Conclusion: The Value of Dillon Square Deal B 9mm Dies
Dillon Square Deal B 9mm dies, when used correctly, provide a reliable and efficient way to reload 9mm ammunition. Their precision machining, durability, and ease of use contribute to a consistently high-quality reloading process. By understanding the specifics of these dies and following proper setup procedures, reloaders of all skill levels can benefit from the quality and efficiency of Dillon's components. Remember to always consult the Dillon instruction manual and follow safe reloading practices.