Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool Review

What Makes the Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool Stand Out?

In the pursuit of precision and consistency in reloading, few tools are as critical yet often overlooked as a good inside chamfering tool. The Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool is one such piece of equipment that aims to elevate this fundamental step. Manufactured by Redding Reloading, this tool promises to deliver clean, concentric chamfers every time, a crucial element for accurate case neck preparation. My own journey into reloading, particularly with rifle cartridges where case neck uniformity is paramount for consistent ignition and bullet seating, led me to seek a tool that offered more than just a basic bevel.

I was specifically looking for a piloted tool, believing it would provide a level of accuracy and concentricity that simple hand reamers often struggle with. Generic, unpiloted chamfering tools were considered, but their tendency to wander and create uneven chamfers made them less appealing for the level of detail I strive for. My first impression of the Redding Model 15-P was its solid, utilitarian build; it feels precisely what it is—a tool designed for consistent performance, not for show. The initial reaction was a sense of quiet confidence, a feeling that this tool would quietly do its job without fuss.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool to the Test

My testing ground for this particular tool was my dedicated reloading bench, a space where countless cases have been prepped for everything from .223 Remington to .30-06 Springfield. I wanted to see how it performed across a range of popular rifle calibers, focusing on brass from various manufacturers and ages. The primary goal was to achieve a smooth, consistent internal bevel on the case mouths, preparing them for subsequent resizing and trimming.

First Use Experience

The initial setup was straightforward; the piloted design immediately gave a sense of control as it aligned itself within the case neck. I tested it on a batch of once-fired .243 Winchester brass, a caliber known for benefiting greatly from precise neck preparation. The hardened, precision-ground flutes on this chamfering tool chewed through the brass with surprising ease, producing a clean, chatter-free cut.

There was a slight learning curve in adjusting the pilot rod for different case lengths, but once set, it ensured that the chamfer was consistently applied to the correct depth. I experienced no immediate issues or surprises; the tool performed exactly as advertised from the very first case.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks, I processed hundreds of cases using the Redding Model 15-P. It became an integral part of my case preparation workflow, seamlessly integrating with my sizing and trimming operations. The tool consistently delivered the same clean, uniform chamfers, regardless of whether I was working with thicker-necked magnum brass or thinner .22 caliber cases.

Durability has been excellent; there are no visible signs of wear on the cutting flutes or the pilot. After repeated use, the action remains smooth and free of any stiffness. Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth to remove any brass shavings. Compared to some less expensive, simpler chamfering tools I’ve used in the past, this Redding model far surpasses them in terms of longevity and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool is designed for a specific, crucial task: creating a perfect internal chamfer on case mouths. Its primary specification is the 15-degree cutting angle, which is widely considered ideal for optimal bullet seating and preventing shaving of bullet jackets. This angle ensures that the bullet base seats smoothly without obstruction, a critical factor for ballistic consistency.

The tool features a piloted rod that rides within the case neck, ensuring that the cutting flutes are perfectly concentric with the case’s inner diameter. This pilot rod is adjustable for different cartridge lengths, a vital feature that allows for consistent chamfer depth across a wide variety of case sizes. The hardened, precision-ground flutes are engineered for clean, chatter-free cuts, which means no jagged edges or imperfections left on the case mouth. This tool accepts cases ranging from .22 to .45 caliber, making it incredibly versatile for most common reloading applications. The manufacturer is Redding Reloading, a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool is to create a precise internal chamfer. In this regard, it excels. The 15-degree cutting angle consistently produces a smooth, well-defined bevel that is crucial for preventing issues like bullet shaving during seating.

Its key strength lies in the piloted design, which guarantees that the chamfer is perfectly aligned with the case mouth, leading to greater concentricity. This directly translates to improved consistency in bullet seating depth and, ultimately, more accurate ammunition. Compared to freehand chamfering tools, the difference in precision is night and day. The only minor point to consider is that for very thin-walled cases, a lighter touch might be needed to avoid over-chamfering, though this is more about user technique than a flaw in the tool itself.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this chamfering tool is purely functional and robust. It’s constructed from what appears to be durable steel, with a clear emphasis on the hardened precision ground flutes. The finish is a practical, no-nonsense steel, built to withstand the rigors of a reloading environment.

Ergonomically, the attached accessory handle is comfortable to grip, even during extended reloading sessions. The ability to adjust the pilot rod is intuitive, though it requires a small hex key (not included) for adjustment, which is a minor oversight for such a precise tool. The overall feel is one of solid engineering; it’s a tool that feels good in the hand and inspires confidence in its ability to perform its task accurately.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and the materials used, the Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool is built to last. The hardened cutting flutes are designed to maintain their sharpness and integrity over thousands of cycles. There are no delicate parts that are prone to breaking under normal reloading stress.

Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after use to remove any brass shavings is usually sufficient. I have not encountered any specific failure points or wear concerns during my testing period. It’s the kind of tool that will likely be a fixture on a reloading bench for decades.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool comes with the tool itself, which includes the piloted rod and an accessory handle. The primary accessory that is essential for adjusting the pilot rod is a small hex key, which is not provided with the tool. This is a minor but notable omission.

There are no significant customization options for the tool itself. Its purpose is very specific. However, the versatility comes from its ability to handle a broad range of calibers. For those who reload a very wide array of cartridges, this single tool covers a significant spectrum.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool?

This tool is ideal for serious reloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their ammunition. If you load for precision rifle cartridges, competition shooting, or any application where small details matter, this tool is an excellent investment. It is particularly beneficial for those who reload a variety of rifle calibers due to its broad .22 to .45 caliber range.

Those who should probably skip this tool are beginners who are just starting with very basic handgun reloading where extreme precision might not be their initial focus, or individuals who only load a single, very common caliber and already have a functional, albeit simpler, chamfering tool. For maximum efficiency and ease of use, having a small hex key readily available on your reloading bench is highly recommended.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool

The Redding Reloading Model 15-P Competition Inside Chamfering Tool is a superb example of precision tooling for the discerning handloader. Its 15-degree cutting angle and, crucially, its piloted design work in perfect harmony to create consistently concentric and smooth chamfers. This level of refinement in case preparation directly contributes to more accurate and reliable ammunition.

Considering its robust build quality from Redding Reloading and its impressive versatility across a wide range of calibers, the price point of $41.39 represents exceptional value. It’s an investment that pays dividends in the quality of the final product. I would wholeheartedly recommend this tool to anyone who is serious about achieving the highest standards in their handloaded ammunition and wants a reliable, long-lasting solution for case mouth preparation.