Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit

For years, the quest for efficient and accurate metallic cartridge reloading has driven innovation, and the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit sits squarely in that pursuit. As a gear specialist with over a decade of pushing equipment to its limits in diverse environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of tools, and this reloading press promised a blend of robust construction and advanced features geared towards serious volume shooters. My specific need arose from a growing demand for consistently loaded ammunition for competitive shooting disciplines, where minute variations can make all the difference.

Upon receiving the kit, the initial impression was one of solid engineering. The weight and feel of the primary steel frame speak of durability, a crucial factor when dealing with the stresses of repeated reloading cycles. Redding is a name synonymous with quality in the reloading world, and the initial tactile feedback of this particular press reinforced that reputation. I had briefly considered other high-volume progressive presses, but their complexity or perceived lack of long-term durability in my specific use-case led me back to Redding’s established performance. The unboxing offered a sense of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that a reliable and capable tool was now at hand.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit to the Test

My testing grounds for this progressive press have been my dedicated reloading workshop, a space that sees a fair amount of dust, occasional solvent exposure, and the constant hum of machinery. The initial setup of the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit was straightforward, though as with any precision equipment, a careful read of the manual is always recommended to fully leverage its capabilities. I began by loading .223 Remington and 9mm Luger, two calibers that I process in significant quantities.

The press performed admirably from the get-go. Its Case Activated Primer System (CAPS) was a standout feature, providing a consistent and secure priming process that immediately instilled confidence. The integrated RAM indicator light was surprisingly useful, offering a quick visual confirmation of the priming status, especially during longer loading sessions. Unlike some simpler presses I’ve used, the inherent stability of this model meant that the case alignment remained precise even as I increased my cycling speed.

After several months of consistent use, processing hundreds of rounds weekly, the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit continues to impress with its resilience. There are no discernible signs of premature wear on critical components, and the cycling remains smooth and precise, a testament to its robust build quality. Routine maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ram and linkage points, which are easily accessible.

Compared to some of the more budget-oriented presses I’ve operated in the past, this unit offers a significant upgrade in terms of both speed and precision. While some premium presses might offer even finer adjustments or additional bells and whistles, for sheer volume and consistent results, this Redding press strikes an excellent balance. The Power Prime powder lube feature, while a small inclusion, proved its worth in reducing static cling during powder dispensing, leading to more accurate powder charges.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit

The Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit is engineered with the high-volume reloader in mind, boasting several key specifications designed to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Its durable steel frame is the foundation of its robustness, designed to withstand the significant forces generated during the reloading process without flex. This rigidity is paramount for consistent cartridge dimensions and overall accuracy.

One of the most significant features is Redding’s exclusive alignment system. This system ensures that cases and dies are perfectly aligned from the moment you set them up, virtually eliminating runout issues right out of the box. The Case Activated Primer System (CAPS) is another critical component; it ensures that a primer is only seated when a case is present, preventing accidental discharges and ensuring proper primer seating depth.

The inclusion of the Power Prime powder lube is a subtle yet effective addition. This integrated system helps to reduce static electricity in the powder hopper and dropper, leading to more consistent powder drops. Static can be a significant issue, especially in dry environments, causing powder to cling to the hopper walls and resulting in inaccurate charges.

Additionally, the separate Primer Activation Die (PAP) offers a unique level of control. This die allows for a separate priming station or can be used to ensure a primer is properly seated even after the initial stage of the progressive cycle, adding an extra layer of assurance. The patented RAM indicator light, built directly into the press head, provides immediate visual feedback on the priming process, confirming that a primer has been successfully inserted.

Specifications

• Durable Steel Frame: Provides exceptional rigidity and stability, crucial for consistent reloading. This robust construction minimizes flex, ensuring precise alignment of dies and cases throughout the entire reloading cycle.
• Exclusive Redding Alignment System: Guarantees superior alignment of components right from the initial setup. This integrated system ensures that your cases are perfectly centered with each die, reducing variations in neck sizing and bullet seating.
• Case Activated Primer System (CAPS): This safety and convenience feature ensures that priming only occurs when a case is present on the shell plate. It’s a critical safety measure that prevents accidental primer seating and potential mishaps.
• Power Prime Powder Lube: An integrated system designed to reduce static electricity during powder dispensing. This leads to more consistent powder charges, as powder flows more freely and accurately into the case.
• Separate Primer Activation Die (PAP): Offers flexibility in your reloading process. It can be used for manual priming in between progressive steps or as a double-check for primer seating depth.
• Patented RAM Indicator Light: A built-in visual cue that confirms successful primer insertion. This simple yet effective feature provides immediate feedback, enhancing confidence during high-volume reloading.
• Progressive Operation: Capable of performing multiple reloading steps (e.g., resizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating) in a single pull of the ram. This significantly speeds up the reloading process compared to single-stage presses.
• High-Volume Design: Specifically built for enthusiasts who require the ability to load large quantities of ammunition efficiently. Its robust construction and design are suited for extended use.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit is to produce consistently and accurately loaded ammunition at a high volume, and it excels at this task. The progressive nature means that each pull of the ram accomplishes a significant portion of the reloading process, drastically reducing the time needed to load a batch of cartridges. The Case Activated Primer System (CAPS) operates flawlessly, ensuring a primer is always present and correctly seated when a case is in position.

Its main strength lies in its smooth, repeatable operation. Once set up correctly, the press cycles with a satisfying mechanical feel, and the outputs are cartridges that consistently meet my precise specifications. The exclusive alignment system is not just marketing jargon; it’s a tangible benefit that translates directly into reduced cartridge runout.

However, like any mechanical device, achieving optimal performance requires a degree of user input and understanding. Initial setup can be time-consuming, especially for new users, as it involves calibrating each station precisely. While the RAM indicator light is helpful, it’s still wise to visually inspect each primer seat.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this progressive press is unmistakably utilitarian and robust, prioritizing function over form. The durable steel frame is the star of the show, providing a rigid platform that feels built to last for decades. Its substantial weight contributes to its stability, minimizing any tendency to wobble or shift during operation, even when applying significant force to the handle.

Ergonomically, the press is designed for efficiency. The lever action is smooth and requires a manageable amount of force, even for tasks like resizing tougher cases. The positioning of the primer feed and powder drop mechanisms is logical, allowing for a fluid workflow. The integrated RAM indicator light is a thoughtful touch, adding a visual confirmation without requiring the user to break their concentration on the primary reloading steps.

The finish is typically industrial, which is perfectly acceptable for a tool of this nature; it’s built for performance and longevity. The moving parts are well-machined, and there’s a pleasing lack of slop or play in critical areas like the ram.

Durability & Maintenance

The Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit is built for serious, long-term use. The durable steel frame and high-quality internal components suggest a lifespan measured in decades rather than years, assuming proper care. I’ve experienced no issues with premature wear, cracks, or stiffness even after extended periods of intensive use.

Maintenance is straightforward and relatively infrequent for a press of this caliber. Regular cleaning of dust and debris from the ram and linkage is essential, along with periodic application of a light lubricant to ensure smooth operation. The user manual provides clear guidance on lubrication points and recommended maintenance intervals.

One potential area to watch out for, common to all reloading presses, is the accumulation of primer debris. It’s advisable to clean out the primer collection system regularly to prevent jams and ensure the Case Activated Primer System (CAPS) functions optimally. Overall, the durability and ease of maintenance are major selling points for this press.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit comes as a comprehensive package for high-volume reloading, the core product focuses on the press itself. The kit provides the essential components for progressive reloading. Users will typically need to supply their own caliber-specific dies, shell plates, and powder measures, which are standard for progressive presses.

Redding does offer a range of optional accessories and dies that can further enhance the user experience and expand its capabilities. These might include specialized dies for certain cartridges, advanced powder measures, or case feeders. The press is designed to accept standard reloading dies, offering broad compatibility with most aftermarket manufacturers.

The separate Primer Activation Die (PAP) can be considered an accessory that adds a layer of customization to the priming process, allowing for greater control. The RAM indicator light is a built-in convenience feature that enhances the user experience without being a separate add-on.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit?

This press is ideally suited for dedicated rifle and pistol reloaders who process ammunition in significant volumes. It’s perfect for competitive shooters, those who own multiple firearms and shoot frequently, or individuals who appreciate the efficiency and consistency of progressive reloading. If you’re a hobby reloader who produces a few boxes of ammunition a month, this might be overkill.

Those who value precision, durability, and are looking for a press that will reliably serve them for decades should strongly consider this unit. It’s for the reloader who understands that investing in quality tooling pays dividends in terms of accuracy and time saved. If you are looking for a beginner’s press to “try out” reloading, a single-stage press might be a more appropriate and less costly entry point.

For optimal use, I highly recommend pairing this press with high-quality, caliber-specific dies, a reliable powder measure, and a case feeder if your volume warrants it. Ensuring a stable, dedicated reloading bench is also crucial to fully leverage the press’s stability.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit

The Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit stands as a testament to robust engineering and thoughtful design for the serious handloader. Its durable steel frame and exclusive alignment system deliver the precision and consistency demanded by those who process hundreds or thousands of rounds. The integration of features like the Case Activated Primer System (CAPS) and the helpful RAM indicator light elevate its usability and safety, making high-volume reloading both efficient and confidence-inspiring.

While the initial investment is substantial and requires the purchase of separate dies and powder measures, the value proposition is clear for those who prioritize longevity, repeatability, and speed. This press is not for the casual reloader but for the enthusiast who sees ammunition reloading as a craft demanding quality tools. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Redding Reloading BIG Boss II Press Kit to any experienced reloader looking to upgrade to a press that promises decades of reliable, high-quality service.