Dillon Press Question & 9mm Brass Question

[dzeke]

I looked through previous threads and didn't find what I wanted so if I missed it I apologize if my questions have already been answered.

I am considering purchasing a Dillion Square Deal 'B' progressive reloader and was wondering if anyone has any experience with this loader. I would be reloading 9mm only.

Also, I am a complete newb when it comes to reloading metallic cartridges, however I have reloaded shotgun shells for 15 years or so. One thing I learned real quick reloading shells is that some shells are awesome to reload and some are worthless and almost impossible to reload. Is this the case with certain brass or is it all pretty similar? And if so what brass do you recommend using.

Thanks!

[MarkCO]

Use the brass you can get the cheapest, and then watch it. Some WW has crimped primer pockets, and Amerc is crap. Also watch for the AmmoLoad with the internal ribs.

While I love my Dillons, if you are only going to load 9mm, I still think there is a lot of value in the Lee Pro1000 presses. They are problematic for large primers, and anything bottle-necked, but they do great with 9mm, .38 spl, .357Mag and .40S&W.

[Jamnanc]

I love the sdb for pistol, second on the brass, I run it mixed, do case inspections and get rid of anything w split necks.

[Robb]

You're on an AR website asking questions about 9mm, it won't be long before you want to reload for rifle. I know you have your eye on the SDB, but consider a 550B. It will do everything the SDB will I believe plus alot more.
Whatever brass you pick up is fine for pistol and rifle, untill you get pretty serious.

[dzeke]

I agree that I will expand to at least .223 eventually. I would get a second loader for rifle, I much prefer having a dedicated loader for specific calibers, within reason of course. The cost of factory ammo is just getting a little ridiculous. I'm a three gunner so 9mm & .223 are pretty much all I shoot on a regular basis.

Thanks Mark, I briefly looked at the LeePro1000 so I'll take a second look.

[MarkCO]

If you are going to load .223, get a 550 or a 650...well worth the up front cost. I load 14 calibers on the 650 with a 10 minute caliber change. I only use the Rock Chucker for the .260, hunting loads and working up test loads of less than 50 rounds.

[Tim K]

I used an SDB for years to load .45 ACP. I think it's ideal for a mid volume dedicated pistol press. I now use a 650 for .45 and .223, and I wish I has my SDB back.

[Mazin]

You're on an AR website asking questions about 9mm, it won't be long before you want to reload for rifle. I know you have your eye on the SDB, but consider a 550B. It will do everything the SDB will I believe plus alot more.
Whatever brass you pick up is fine for pistol and rifle, untill you get pretty serious.

^ This 110%

The 550B is just an awesome system if you go any lower you will just end up spending more in upgrades then it would be to just get the 550 now and call it a day. I have also had the Hornaday LNL progressive and it doesn't compare with the Dillion IMHO.

[Great-Kazoo]

I agree that I will expand to at least .223 eventually. I would get a second loader for rifle, I much prefer having a dedicated loader for specific calibers, within reason of course. The cost of factory ammo is just getting a little ridiculous. I'm a three gunner so 9mm & .223 are pretty much all I shoot on a regular basis.

Thanks Mark, I briefly looked at the LeePro1000 so I'll take a second look.

Here's the easiest way to decide which dillon to invest in. Because that's what it is, be it dillon or other mfg. The SDB is a great little pistol caliber specific unit. It's also Die specific. No dies for the SDB work any where but the SDB. That's going to hit you wallet wise., as you move up to other presses. Again Great pistol Only loader, just limited capability. YMMV

[HighCaliber]

As far as brass is concerned we do not reload these two types because it can damage the Dillon press: