Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set Review

What Happened When I Tried the Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set

For reloaders seeking absolute precision, managing headspace is paramount, and that’s where the Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set steps into the spotlight. This set from Redding Reloading offers granular control over case-to-chamber fit, a critical factor for consistent accuracy and safe operation. I found myself reaching for this set after a particularly frustrating reloading session where slight variations in case neck-to-shoulder dimensions were impacting my chambering.

The issue wasn’t with my resizing die; it was the subtle, almost imperceptible differences in fired brass length that even a standard shellholder couldn’t fully compensate for. My existing shellholders, while functional, lacked the fine-tuning capability I needed to optimize my reloads for a specific competition rifle. I had considered a more basic set of interchangeable shellholder bodies or even a custom-machined option, but the allure of the Redding’s precision increments made this set an immediate contender.

Upon first impression, the shellholders felt solid and precisely machined, exhibiting that hallmark of quality associated with Redding Reloading. The black finish is understated and professional, and the inclusion of a sturdy plastic storage box immediately felt like a win for organization. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism and a keen anticipation to get them onto my press.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set to the Test

My testing grounds for this shellholder set were primarily my reloading bench, situated in a climate-controlled workshop, and subsequently, the shooting range with the cartridges I produced. I focused on a .223 Remington caliber for this evaluation, a cartridge where headspace control is particularly critical for bolt-action precision rifles.

First Use Experience

The initial integration of the Redding Competition Shellholders onto my press was straightforward. I selected the shellholder that promised the smallest decrease in headspace according to its marking and proceeded with the resizing of a batch of fired brass. The process was smooth; the brass seated properly, and the ram’s action felt consistent.

I experienced no immediate surprises or quirks during this first use; the set performed exactly as advertised. The precision with which these shellholders adjust headspace was immediately apparent, allowing me to fine-tune the shoulder setback to achieve a perfect fit for my rifle’s chamber.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks of reloading, encompassing several hundred rounds for both practice and competition, have passed since I first introduced this set into my routine. The Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set has proven to be exceptionally reliable. Each shellholder has maintained its precise sizing without any discernible wear or change in performance.

Durability is clearly a strong suit for this set. Despite repeated cycles of brass insertion and ram actuation, there are no signs of cracking, stiffness, or any reduction in the sharpness of their markings. I’ve even accidentally dropped one on the concrete floor, and it emerged unscathed with no impact on its function.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond a quick wipe-down with a cloth to remove any brass shavings or lubricant residue. The black finish remains intact, and the storage box keeps them protected from dust and accidental damage. Compared to the generic shellholders I’ve used in the past, the longevity and consistent performance of these competition-grade units are vastly superior.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set

The Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set is designed for reloaders who demand the utmost control over their cartridge dimensions, particularly headspace. This set provides a systematic way to adjust the shoulder setback of fired brass, ensuring optimal fit for specific chambers and maximizing accuracy potential.

Specifications

This specific set includes five Redding Competition shellholders. Each one is meticulously sized in 0.002-inch increments, allowing for exceptionally fine adjustments to case-to-chamber headspace. These increments are crucial for micro-tuning brass for a particular firearm.

The shellholders are clearly marked with the amount by which they will decrease case-to-chamber headspace. This direct indication eliminates guesswork and allows for precise dial-in adjustments. The set comes housed in a heavy-duty plastic storage box, ensuring they are kept organized and readily accessible.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set is to provide precise control over headspace. It excels at this task, offering a level of adjustment that is significantly more refined than standard shellholders. This capability directly translates into more consistent ignition and ejection, leading to tighter shot groups.

Its main strength lies in the 0.002-inch increments. This level of granularity is invaluable for handloaders working up loads for precision shooting or for dealing with a variety of brass from different firing sessions. A potential weakness, if one can call it that, is that its advanced functionality might be overkill for casual plinkers or those not focused on extreme accuracy.

For its intended purpose, this set performs exceptionally well, exceeding the capabilities of basic shellholders and providing a valuable tool for serious handloaders. It meets, and often exceeds, expectations for a precision reloading component.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these competition shellholders is focused on precision and durability. They are constructed from robust materials, evident in their weight and the solid feel when seated in the press. The black finish not only looks professional but also provides a good grip surface, which is important during the reloading process.

Ergonomically, they are designed to fit standard reloading presses without issue. The markings are clear and easy to read, even under less-than-ideal lighting conditions on the bench. There is no real learning curve; if you know how to use a shellholder, you can use these.

Durability & Maintenance

These shellholders are built for longevity and repeated use in a reloading environment. They are made from hardened steel, designed to withstand the considerable forces involved in resizing brass. Under normal use, it’s reasonable to expect decades of service from these units.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove any debris. There are no complex parts to wear out or specific lubrication points to worry about. The potential failure points would likely be extreme misuse, like deliberate damage, as they are robustly constructed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set comes with its own dedicated heavy-duty plastic storage box. This is a significant accessory, as it keeps the five individual shellholders organized and protected.

While the set itself is not customizable in terms of color or material, its compatibility is key. These shellholders are designed to fit standard reloading presses that utilize interchangeable shellholder systems, making them broadly applicable. The true “customization” comes from the ability to choose the precise shellholder for the exact headspace adjustment needed, effectively customizing each case’s shoulder setback.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set?

The Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set is an ideal tool for serious handloaders, particularly those involved in competitive shooting disciplines like precision rifle, benchrest, or High Power. It is also an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize the accuracy and consistency of their reloaded ammunition for hunting or general target shooting. If you are meticulous about case preparation and understand the critical role of headspace in rifle accuracy, this set will be a significant asset.

Conversely, individuals who primarily load for semi-automatic firearms for general plinking or self-defense, where minor headspace variations are less critical, might find the precision and cost of this set unnecessary. Those on a very tight budget or new to reloading might want to start with a more basic set of shellholders before investing in specialized competition components.

For those who do purchase this set, ensuring you have a quality reloading press that accepts interchangeable shellholders is a must. Complementary items like a good quality caliper for measuring fired brass and a headspace gauge can further amplify the benefits this set provides.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set

The Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set is a precision instrument for the dedicated handloader. It delivers on its promise of granular control over headspace, providing a tangible benefit for those striving for the utmost accuracy and consistency in their reloaded ammunition. The quality of the machining, the clarity of the markings, and the thoughtful inclusion of a durable storage case all contribute to a product that feels premium and performs exceptionally well.

Considering its capabilities, the price point, while higher than standard options, is justified by the level of control and the potential accuracy gains it offers. For competitive shooters or anyone deeply invested in the science of handloading for precision firearms, this set is a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in the form of tighter groups. I would absolutely recommend the Redding Reloading Competition Shellholder Set to any reloader who prioritizes fine-tuning their ammunition for peak performance.