Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D Review

Is the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D Worth It? Let’s Find Out

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, I’ve encountered my fair share of tools that promise precision but deliver mediocrity. My search for a consistently reliable full-length sizing die led me to the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D, a product with a reputation for quality in the reloading community. I needed a die that could consistently bring fired cases back to proper dimensions, ensuring reliable chambering and safe shooting. This meant dealing with brass that had been through various firing cycles and potentially slight variations in chamber dimensions.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid engineering. The weight and finish suggested a tool built for longevity and precision. I had previously tried a lesser-known brand that promised similar results but ultimately led to inconsistent neck tension and increased sizing effort. This Redding die, however, felt different from the moment I held it. It offered a sense of confidence that it would perform as advertised.

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

My testing grounds were my home reloading bench, a dedicated space where meticulousness is paramount. I loaded up batches of .223 Remington brass that had been fired multiple times and were showing signs of needing a proper full-length resize. The process involved carefully setting up the die on my press, ensuring proper alignment and depth.

First Use Experience

Setting up the die was straightforward, a testament to its standard 7/8-14 threading. The initial few pulls of the ram were smooth, with minimal resistance as the brass entered the die. I noticed an immediate difference in the effort required compared to my previous experiences. The die consistently returned the cases to within SAAMI specifications, and the resulting ammunition chambered flawlessly in my AR-15 platform.

I subjected the die to repeated use over several reloading sessions, resizing well over 200 cases in a single afternoon. It performed without any signs of sticking, binding, or inconsistent sizing. Even with brass that had been fired in different rifles, the die managed to correct any variances, returning them to a uniform dimension. This consistency is crucial for reliable feeding and ejection.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds resized, the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D continues to perform as if it were new. There are absolutely no visible signs of wear on the die’s interior or exterior, a testament to the heat-treated steel construction. The hand-polished interior remains exceptionally smooth, which significantly reduces sizing effort and extends the life of the die by minimizing brass-to-steel friction.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use and an occasional application of a quality gun oil on the exterior threads is all it requires. The ultrasonic cleaning process from the factory clearly leaves no residue, ensuring a clean start. Compared to some other brands where the carbide sizing inserts can eventually wear or become sticky, this solid steel die has shown no such degradation.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D

The core promise of the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D lies in its precision machining and material quality. This isn’t just a piece of steel; it’s a carefully crafted tool designed for a specific, critical task in the reloading process. Understanding the specifications helps demystify why it performs so well.

Specifications

The manufacturer, Redding Reloading, machines these dies on precision lathes, capable of holding tightest tolerances. This ensures that the die consistently produces ammunition that will properly fit any standard (SAAMI) chamber. The dies are made from fine alloy steels, offering significant durability and resistance to wear.

The hand-polished interior surface is a key feature, contributing to a reduced sizing effort and preventing brass galling. This attention to detail is evident in the flawless functioning the die provides. The industry-standard 7/8-14 threaded dies ensure compatibility with virtually any reloading press on the market.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a full-length sizing die is to return fired cartridge cases to their original dimensions, preparing them for resizing. This model excels at this task. It reliably brings cases back to SAAMI specifications, meaning the case neck diameter is reduced and the case body is reformed to its original diameter.

This ensures that reloaded cartridges will chamber reliably in standard firearms. The heat-treated steel construction and the surface hardness of Rc 60-62 contribute to its long-term performance. The die effectively handles cases from various firing conditions without imparting undue stress on the brass.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this sizing die is purely functional, with no unnecessary embellishments. Its robust build quality is immediately apparent. The heat-treated steel provides a substantial feel, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of repeated use without deforming.

The smooth, hand-polished interior finish is a significant ergonomic advantage. It allows the sized case to slide out with minimal friction, reducing the physical effort required by the reloader. This is particularly noticeable when working with larger caliber cases or when resizing a high volume of brass.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from fine alloy steels and the heat-treated process, the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D is built for a lifetime of use. Under normal reloading conditions, wear and tear should be minimal, with the sizing diameter remaining consistent for tens of thousands of cycles.

Maintenance is straightforward: keep the threads clean, apply a light lubricant to the exterior threads when storing, and ensure the interior is free of debris. The lack of complex internal mechanisms means there are few points of failure. The hand-polished surface will remain smooth, preventing brass from sticking or galling.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular product is a single component within a larger reloading system. As a full-length sizing die, it doesn’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. Its primary function is to work in conjunction with a reloading press and potentially other dies in a reloading set, such as a seating die and a crimp die.

However, its compatibility with the standard 7/8-14 thread is its key feature regarding integration. This ensures it works seamlessly with most reloading presses and die holders. No further customization is typically needed for its intended purpose, as its design is optimized for universal application.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D?

This die is ideal for the dedicated handloader who prioritizes precision, reliability, and longevity in their reloading equipment. If you reload for precision rifle cartridges, semi-automatic firearms where consistent chambering is critical, or simply want the best possible consistency from your reloaded ammunition, this die is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who reload high volumes of brass or cartridges that see significant case stretching.

Individuals looking for a cheap, disposable solution or those who only reload occasionally might find other options sufficient. However, for anyone serious about producing safe, reliable, and accurate ammunition, this tool is a worthwhile investment. It’s crucial to pair this with a quality reloading press and other dies from a reputable manufacturer for the best overall results.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D

The Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D stands out as a testament to superior engineering and material science in the reloading world. Its robust construction, precise machining, and the thoughtful inclusion of a hand-polished interior ensure a smooth, efficient, and highly accurate resizing process. For over a decade, I’ve relied on tools that perform without question, and this die delivers exactly that.

Considering its exceptional performance, build quality, and the longevity it promises, the price point of $86.79 is very reasonable. It’s an investment that pays dividends in consistent, reliable ammunition and a reduced risk of frustrating reloading errors. I wholeheartedly recommend the Redding Reloading Full Length Sizing Die, Series D to any serious handloader looking for a tool that will perform flawlessly for years to come.