Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B Review

Does the Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B Live Up to Its Name?

As an equipment specialist with over a decade navigating the demands of outdoor adventures, workshop tinkering, laboratory precision, and rugged field deployments, I approach any new tool with a critical eye, seeking authentic performance over marketing hype. My recent dive into the world of cartridge reloading led me to the Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B, a piece of kit essential for any serious handloader. This set, designed to precisely resize and prepare fired brass for their next life, promised precision and durability. My existing brass was showing signs of inconsistent sizing, leading to cycling issues in my rifle, a frustrating problem that necessitated a reliable solution. I considered some lower-tier brands, but the reputation of Redding Reloading for quality tooling ultimately steered me toward this particular set. Upon first handling, the weight and the precise machining of the steel were immediately apparent, offering a solid, reassuring first impression of quality craftsmanship.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B to the Test

My initial testing ground was my dedicated reloading bench, a space that has seen its fair share of tools come and go. The environment is controlled, but the true test comes with repeated use and the subtle nuances that only emerge over time. I focused on resizing a batch of once-fired .308 Winchester brass, a common cartridge that demands consistent dimensions for optimal performance.

First Use Experience

The setup process was straightforward, as one would expect from a die set designed for full-length resizing. I mounted the two dies into my reloading press, making the initial adjustments to achieve the correct headspace and case length. My first few strokes with the resizing die felt smooth, with a satisfying resistance that indicated the die was doing its job without excessive force. The decapping rod and expander worked as intended, seating primers and expanding the case necks cleanly without any noticeable runout. There were no immediate surprises or quirks; the dies performed exactly as their design intended, providing a consistent and well-formed case after the first pass.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks, I’ve processed hundreds of cases with this Redding Reloading die set. It has become my go-to for preparing .308 brass, and its reliability has been unwavering. Even after numerous cycles, the dies show no signs of wear; the steel remains smooth, and there’s no grit or stiffness developing. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with a clean cloth after use and occasionally applying a light coat of a rust-inhibiting oil, a standard practice for all metal reloading components. Compared to some generic dies I’ve used in the past, which sometimes felt rough or left slight imperfections, this Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B stands out for its consistent precision and its ability to maintain that precision over time.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B is crafted from steel, a testament to its intended durability and precision. This set includes two essential dies for full-length case resizing: the first die features a decapping rod with a specially ground seater bushing designed to eliminate run-out issues caused by excessively long case necks. The second die serves as the full-length neck turning and expanding die, which also incorporates the decapping rod and an integral expander. Also included is a powder-through hardened case neck brush, a valuable accessory for maintaining case cleanliness. The hardened case neck turning bushing is a standard feature across all Redding Reloading full-length die sets, underscoring their commitment to quality. It’s important to note that this set does not include a bullet guide, which must be purchased separately. This full-length die set is specifically intended for Rifle calibers.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The precision-ground seater bushing in the first die is critical for shooters demanding accuracy; it actively combats case neck runout, a common culprit in inconsistent bullet runout and reduced accuracy. The integral expander in the second die ensures consistent neck tension for seating bullets, a vital step in creating reliable ammunition. The included neck brush is a small but significant detail, promoting cleaner cases and preventing debris from interfering with the resizing process or damaging the die. The steel construction promises longevity, ensuring this set will be a reliable workhorse for countless reloading sessions.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this die set is to bring fired brass back to SAAMI specifications, ensuring it will reliably chamber and fire in a variety of firearms of the same caliber. The Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B performs this task with exceptional proficiency. The resizing die does a remarkable job of bringing the case body back to full diameter and setting the shoulder back correctly, which is crucial for proper chambering. The expander button returns the case neck to the correct diameter for bullet seating, providing just the right amount of tension.

One of the standout strengths of this die set is its consistency. Every case processed emerges with identical dimensions, a hallmark of high-quality tooling. There’s a noticeable lack of galling or sticking, even with cases that have been fired multiple times. The only minor point to mention is that, as with any full-length sizing die, a bit of force is required, but the smooth action of the Redding Reloading dies makes this manageable. It meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, delivering precisely formed brass ready for the next stage of reloading.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B is purely functional, prioritizing precision and durability over aesthetic flair. The steel construction feels robust and substantial, giving the user confidence in its longevity. The knurled exterior of the dies provides ample grip, even with slightly greasy hands, making adjustments and seating into the press simple.

Ergonomically, the dies are straightforward to use. Once locked into the press, their solid feel provides good tactile feedback as you work the lever. The inclusion of the case neck brush, while simple, is a thoughtful touch that makes the reloading process more efficient. There’s no real learning curve here; if you’ve used reloading dies before, these will feel familiar and intuitive. The absence of a bullet guide is a minor ergonomic consideration, as it requires an extra step or accessory to ensure perfect bullet alignment during seating if you’re not using a seater die with an integral alignment feature.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the reputation of Redding Reloading, these dies are built for a lifetime of use under normal reloading conditions. The steel construction is highly resistant to wear, and the precision machining means that crucial internal surfaces are unlikely to degrade quickly. Proper maintenance, which involves simply keeping them clean and lightly oiled, will ensure their continued accuracy and smooth operation for decades.

There are no obvious failure points I’ve encountered. The threads are clean and precise, and the decapping rod assembly is robust. The only potential concern for any reloading die user would be cross-threading or dropping the dies, which could damage the precision threads. However, with basic care, the durability of this set is exceptional.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessories included with the Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B are the decapping rod with its specialized bushing and the powder-through hardened case neck brush. While no additional dies like a seater or factory crimp die are included, these are typically sold separately, allowing reloaders to build a custom set tailored to their needs.

The dies themselves are designed to work with standard reloading presses that accept 7/8″-14 thread dies, a universal standard in the reloading world. This means they integrate seamlessly with most presses on the market. The absence of a bullet guide is a notable omission, but it’s common for full-length die sets to focus solely on the sizing and expanding functions, leaving bullet alignment and seating to a separate seater die or an aftermarket bullet guide.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B?

This die set is ideally suited for intermediate to advanced reloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their handloads. If you are a rifle shooter who demands the utmost precision from your ammunition, especially for disciplines like competitive shooting, long-range hunting, or even just consistently reliable plinking, then this set is an excellent investment. It’s for those who understand the importance of properly sized brass and are willing to invest in tooling that delivers that precision reliably.

Conversely, absolute beginners who are just starting their reloading journey might find a simpler, less expensive set adequate for their initial learning phase. Those who primarily reload for pistol cartridges may not require this specific type of full-length rifle die set. Users who need to resize a wide variety of rifle calibers would be better served by purchasing caliber-specific sets rather than seeking a universal solution. For those prioritizing extreme ruggedness for field reloading in harsh environments without access to proper cleaning, some might prefer a more basic set with fewer intricate parts, though this set is still very durable.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B

The Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B is a testament to the enduring quality and precision that Redding Reloading is known for. It effectively addresses the core need of resizing fired brass with exceptional accuracy, particularly by mitigating runout issues that plague less refined dies. The robust steel construction and smooth operation provide a satisfying user experience, and the consistency of the results makes it a valuable tool for any serious rifle handloader. While the price point is higher than some entry-level options and the lack of an included bullet guide is a minor drawback, the performance and longevity offered by this set justify the investment for those who demand the best for their ammunition. I wholeheartedly recommend the Redding Reloading Full Length Die Set, Series B to any rifle reloader seeking to elevate the precision and reliability of their handloads; it’s a tool that truly lives up to its distinguished name.