The Lyman 6 Turret Press is a popular choice for reloaders seeking a balance between affordability and functionality. This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you determine if it's the right press for your reloading needs. We'll cover everything from setup and operation to common modifications and upgrades. Let's dive into the world of the Lyman 6 Turret Press.
Setting Up Your Lyman 6 Turret Press: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your Lyman 6 Turret Press up and running smoothly is crucial for efficient and safe reloading. Proper setup minimizes frustration and ensures consistent results.
Tooling and Components
Before you begin, gather all the necessary components: the press itself, the included turret, shell holders (appropriate for your chosen cartridge), dies (sizing, powder, bullet seating, and crimping), a case feeder (optional but highly recommended for increased efficiency), and lubrication.
Mounting the Press
Securely mount the press to a sturdy workbench. A bench-mounted vise is ideal, ensuring stability during the high-pressure operation of reloading. Proper mounting prevents wobbling and ensures consistent die alignment. Improper mounting can lead to damage to your equipment and potentially dangerous malfunctions. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Die Setup and Adjustment
The Lyman 6 Turret Press uses a simple turret system for switching between different reloading operations. Precise die adjustment is vital. Each die's position must be carefully calibrated to ensure proper case sizing, consistent powder charges, and accurate bullet seating. Consult your reloading manual for specific instructions on die setup and adjustment for your chosen cartridge.
First Reloading Session
Your first reloading session should be a learning experience. Start with a small batch of cartridges to familiarize yourself with the press's operation and the feel of each die's function. Pay close attention to case alignment and ensure smooth operation throughout each stage. This practice run allows for adjustments before you tackle a larger quantity of ammunition.
Lyman 6 Turret Press: Advantages and Disadvantages
The Lyman 6 Turret Press, like any piece of equipment, presents both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these is crucial for making an informed decision.
Advantages:
- Affordability: The Lyman 6 Turret Press is significantly more budget-friendly than many other turret presses on the market. This makes it an accessible option for beginners and hobbyists on a budget.
- Simplicity: Its design is relatively straightforward, making it easy to learn and use, even for first-time reloaders. The simple turret system facilitates quick changes between reloading operations.
- Durability: Lyman is known for building reliable equipment, and the 6 Turret Press is no exception. With proper care, it can last for many years of consistent use.
- Versatility: While designed for turret operation, it can be adapted for single-stage operations if needed, offering flexibility to the reloader.
- Large Community Support: The popularity of the Lyman 6 Turret Press means there's a wealth of online resources, forums, and videos to help with troubleshooting and modifications.
Disadvantages:
- Capacity Limitations: The turret's capacity is limited compared to some larger capacity turret presses. This means more frequent turret changes when reloading larger quantities of ammunition.
- Potential for Misalignment: Improper die setup and alignment can lead to inconsistent reloading results. Care and attention to detail during setup are paramount.
- Limited Adjustability: Some reloaders may find the press's adjustment mechanisms somewhat limited compared to higher-end models. Precise adjustments may require patience and fine-tuning.
- No built-in case feeder: While a case feeder can be added, it's not included in the basic package, impacting efficiency for high-volume reloading.
Lyman 6 Turret Press: Modifications and Upgrades
Many reloaders enhance their Lyman 6 Turret Press through modifications and upgrades. These can boost efficiency, precision, or overall functionality.
Case Feeder Integration
Adding a case feeder significantly accelerates the reloading process. Several aftermarket case feeders are compatible with the Lyman 6, drastically reducing manual case handling.
Improved Handle
Some reloaders replace the standard handle with a longer, more ergonomic handle for increased leverage and comfort during extended reloading sessions.
Enhanced Turret
While not a common upgrade, some skilled machinists have created custom turrets with increased capacity, although finding these may require searching specialized reloading forums.
Precision Dies
Investing in high-quality dies from reputable manufacturers can improve the precision and consistency of your reloading.
Lyman 6 Turret Press: Is it Right for You?
The Lyman 6 Turret Press is an excellent entry-level reloading press offering a good balance of price and performance. It's well-suited for beginners and those seeking a reliable press for moderate-volume reloading. However, high-volume reloaders or those needing ultimate precision might find its limitations frustrating. Careful consideration of your reloading needs and budget will determine if the Lyman 6 Turret Press is the right choice for you. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages discussed above to make an informed decision.