Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press Review

One Week with the Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press

My reloading bench has seen its fair share of presses over the years, but when faced with the challenge of forming cases for some truly gargantuan cartridges – think old Sharps Buffalo rounds and hearty British Nitro-Express – I knew I needed something special. My previous press, while capable for standard calibers, simply didn’t have the beef or the reach. This led me to the Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press, a machine that immediately strikes you with its robust construction and unique leverage system. From the moment it arrived, the heavy-duty cast iron frame and the sheer scale of the opening hinted at its purpose. I had considered a few heavy-duty single-stage presses, but none offered the specific geometry required for these oversized wildcats. A quick glance and a satisfying heft of the metal left me with a sense of cautious optimism.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press to the Test

First Use Experience

I set up the UltraMagnum on my reinforced reloading bench, a space that’s accustomed to the clatter and heft of serious tooling. My initial test involved case forming for .50-110 Winchester, a notoriously thick-walled cartridge that demands significant pressure. The 4-3/4 inch frame opening proved immediately advantageous, easily accommodating the oversized cases without any feel of strain. Operating the compound leverage system for the first time was surprisingly smooth, despite the immense force I was applying. There was a noticeable absence of flex, a testament to the unique linkage design. I did notice that the 4-1/8 inches of usable ram stroke allowed for ample die travel, preventing any top-out issues even with extended cases.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a week, I ran hundreds of cases through the press for various large-caliber projects. The UltraMagnum handled everything from initial forming to final seating with consistent precision. Its heavy-duty construction showed no signs of stress, even when pushed to its limits on some particularly stubborn case-forming operations. Maintenance has been straightforward; a light application of grease to the ram and pivot points every few hundred cycles is all it has needed. Compared to other presses I’ve used for magnum cartridges, this Redding model feels significantly more solid and less prone to binding. The sheer mechanical advantage of its long link system makes even difficult operations feel manageable.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press

Specifications

The Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press is engineered for serious reloading, particularly for those tackling large or unusually shaped cartridges. Its defining feature is the unique compound leverage system, which is mounted to the top of the press frame. This design is crucial because it directs leverage more effectively, minimizing frame deflection and potential misalignment under extreme pressure.

• Manufacturer: Redding Reloading
• Frame Opening: A substantial 4-3/4 inches, making it ideal for very long cartridges and large projectiles. This generous opening ensures that even the most ambitious wildcat cases can be accommodated without issue.
• Usable Ram Stroke: A full 4-1/8 inches of travel provides ample room for dies and case manipulation, especially important for complex forming steps.
• Leverage System: The long link compound leverage system is the heart of this press’s capability. It offers superior mechanical advantage over a greater distance than most other presses, making case forming and high-pressure operations significantly easier.
• Included Accessories: The press comes equipped with a press and shellholder, ready for immediate setup.

These specifications combine to create a reloading platform designed for brute strength and precision. The generous opening and stroke are not just numbers; they translate directly into the ability to work with cartridges that would challenge lesser presses. The placement of the leverage system is a genuine engineering advantage that mitigates common issues found in other heavy-duty presses.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press is to provide immense, controlled leverage for case preparation and bullet seating. It absolutely excels at this. When forming cases for cartridges like the .45-70 Government or even the massive .500 Nitro Express, the force required can be substantial. This press delivers that force with remarkable ease, thanks to its compound leverage.

• Strengths: The most significant strength is its unmatched leverage for large cartridges and case forming. It handles high-pressure operations with a stability I haven’t experienced elsewhere. The robust frame construction instills confidence, even when running tough jobs.
• Weaknesses: While undeniably powerful, its size might be overkill for someone only reloading common, smaller rifle or pistol cartridges. Its sheer mass also means it requires a very stable mounting surface.

This press doesn’t just meet expectations; it redefines what’s possible for home reloaders working with large-bore or unusual magnum cartridges. It turns potentially arduous tasks into straightforward operations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the UltraMagnum is purely functional, prioritizing strength and efficiency over aesthetics. The heavy-duty cast iron construction gives it a commanding presence on the bench. The large frame opening and the long, sweeping lever arm are immediately indicative of its purpose.

• Build Quality: The build quality is exceptional, as one would expect from Redding Reloading. Every component feels solid and precisely machined.
• Ergonomics: The long leverage arm is ergonomically designed to facilitate maximum force with minimal user effort. Its stroke feels smooth and consistent throughout its travel. Mounting this press requires careful consideration due to its weight and size, but once secured, it’s incredibly stable.

The thoughtful placement of the compound leverage system at the top of the frame is a design triumph. It avoids the potential stress points found in systems attached lower down, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction, the Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press is built to last for generations. The materials used are inherently durable, and the design minimizes areas prone to wear or stress.

• Longevity: This is a press that will likely outlast the reloader who buys it. Its heavy-duty cast iron frame and well-engineered linkage are designed for extreme longevity.
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance is minimal. A regular cleaning and a light application of quality grease on the ram and pivot points will keep it operating smoothly. There are no complex parts to wear out, making upkeep very simple.

The solid engineering behind this press means that potential failure points are virtually non-existent under normal, albeit heavy-duty, reloading conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press comes as a complete unit for its intended purpose. It includes the press and a standard shellholder, which is common for reloading presses.

• Included: The inclusion of a shellholder is a practical touch, allowing users to get started immediately after mounting.
• Customization: While the press itself isn’t highly customizable in terms of changing core components, it’s designed to work with standard reloading dies and accessories. Reloaders can choose their preferred die sets and shellholders to suit various large-caliber cartridges. The large frame opening means it can accept a wide variety of die combinations.

The focus here is on the press as a core component, with customization coming from the choice of dies and shellholders that will be used with it.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press?

This press is an absolute game-changer for a very specific group of reloaders: those who regularly work with large-bore rifle cartridges, vintage firearms chambered in powerful rounds, or engage in extensive case forming for wildcat cartridges. If you reload for calibers like the .45-70, .50 BMG, .450 Marlin, or anything in the “Express” line, this is the press you’ve been waiting for.

Anyone primarily reloading common pistol rounds like 9mm or .45 ACP, or standard rifle rounds like .223 Remington or .308 Winchester, will find this press to be significant overkill. They would be better served by a more compact and cost-effective press. For those who do need this level of power, I highly recommend pairing it with a heavy-duty workbench mounting system to ensure absolute stability. A solid, reinforced bench is not optional with this tool; it’s essential for safe and effective operation.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press

The Redding Reloading UltraMagnum Reloading Press is, without question, a specialized piece of equipment that performs its intended function exceptionally well. It’s built like a tank and provides the brute strength and leverage needed for the most demanding reloading tasks, particularly with oversized and wildcat cartridges. The unique top-mounted leverage system is a genuine innovation that sets it apart and ensures stability where other presses might falter. While its price and size might make it impractical for the average reloader, for those who face the challenges of large-caliber reloading, it offers unparalleled performance and reliability. If your reloading bench is begging for the power to tackle truly magnum cartridges, this Redding press is a worthwhile, investment-grade solution that delivers on every promise.