The Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator: Not Just Another Review
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across demanding environments, precision and reliability are paramount. This led me to seek a tool that could accurately measure crucial case dimensions for my reloading endeavors. The Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator promised a streamlined approach to checking shoulder bump and bullet seating depth, a need that became critical after a batch of reloads produced inconsistent neck tension. While I considered other comparator systems, their complexity or higher price point steered me towards this simpler, press-mounted solution from Redding Reloading. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense construction; it felt purpose-built and ready for hard use. The immediate feeling was one of practical promise, a welcome relief from the trial-and-error of less precise methods.
Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator to the Test
My primary testing ground for this instrument was my reloading bench, a space familiar with precision tools and the pursuit of cartridge perfection. I subjected it to repeated use over several reloading sessions, checking fired brass from multiple rifles against sized cases to fine-tune my sizing die. The tool performed admirably, consistently providing clear comparative measurements without fuss or requiring extended setup time. I also took it to the range, using the optional “Range Adapter” to check shoulder bump on freshly fired brass before reloading, confirming its portability and utility outside the dedicated bench.
First Use Experience
From the moment I attached it to my RCBS Rock Chucker press, the operation was remarkably intuitive. The core function of comparing case dimensions required minimal instruction; the included documentation was clear and concise, serving more as a confirmation of my understanding than a necessary guide. I experienced no initial surprises or quirks, which is a testament to its straightforward design and Redding Reloading‘s reputation for quality. The feel of the components, particularly the contactors and bushings, immediately conveyed a sense of precision engineering.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of cases measured, the Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator has held up exceptionally well. There are no discernible signs of wear and tear; the contact surfaces remain smooth, and the mechanism functions with the same precision as day one. Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only a light wipe-down with a dry cloth to remove any stray powder or brass dust. Compared to other headspace gauges I’ve used, this particular unit offers a superior balance of speed and accuracy without the added complexity or bulk of dial indicators.
Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator
Specifications
The Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator is designed as a compact, press-mounted measuring tool. It includes one bore diameter bushing, one surface contactor, and one shoulder contactor for versatile measurement capabilities. The core functionality relies on a direct comparison of shoulder set-back or bullet seating depth against a reference point, typically a fired case or a go/no-go gauge. This method bypasses the need for a dial indicator, simplifying the measurement process significantly.
The inclusion of these specific contactors means the user can accurately measure shoulder bump by comparing fired cases to sized cases. The surface contactor is perfect for checking bullet seating depth uniformity, ensuring consistent overall cartridge length for reliable feeding. The bore diameter bushing is crucial for ensuring that the case is properly supported and centered within the indicator’s fixture.
Performance & Functionality
This indicator excels at its primary task: providing a fast and accurate comparison of shoulder position and bullet seating depth. It allows reloaders to definitively quantify the amount of shoulder bump applied during the sizing process, a critical step for case longevity and proper chambering. Its ability to compare sized cases directly against fired cases is invaluable for understanding case spring and optimizing the sizing die adjustment.
The main strength of this tool is its simplicity and speed. You can check multiple cases in the time it might take to set up a more complex gauge. Its primary weakness, if one can call it that, is its reliance on a reference point; it measures difference, not absolute dimension, which is precisely what many reloaders need.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator is robust and functional. It’s constructed from durable materials that feel substantial and built to last. The components are precisely machined, ensuring a snug fit and reliable contact.
Its ergonomic design is tied to its integration with a reloading press; when mounted, it sits intuitively within the press stroke. The tactile feedback from the contactors is clear, allowing the user to feel when contact is made. There’s virtually no learning curve; the process is straightforward and requires only a basic understanding of reloading principles.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid construction, this indicator is built for longevity in a reloading environment. It’s not designed for disposable use; rather, it’s a tool intended to be a permanent fixture on a press for years of service. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a cloth.
There are no obvious points of failure. The contactor surfaces are the only parts that would theoretically experience wear, but their robust design and the relatively light pressure involved in measurement suggest this would be a very slow process. Regular cleaning and avoiding dropping it are the only real maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator comes with the essential components for its core function: one bore diameter bushing, one surface contactor, and one shoulder contactor. These are the critical pieces that allow for the wide range of measurements described.
For enhanced versatility, Redding Reloading offers an optional Range Adapter. This accessory is crucial for those who want to check case dimensions at the range itself, eliminating the need to bring fired brass back to the bench. This adapter effectively transforms the press-mounted tool into a portable gauging system, a highly practical addition for diligent reloaders.
Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator
Pros
- Extremely fast and accurate comparison of shoulder position and bullet seating depth.
- Simple, intuitive operation requiring no specialized training beyond basic reloading knowledge.
- Robust and durable construction built to withstand consistent use.
- The optional Range Adapter significantly enhances field utility.
- Provides tangible measurements of shoulder bump for precise die adjustment.
Cons
- Price point may be a consideration for those on a very tight budget.
- Requires mounting to a reloading press (unless using the optional adapter), limiting immediate portability.
- It measures relative differences, not absolute case dimensions, which is a feature, not a flaw, but worth noting.
Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator?
This instrument is ideal for serious rifle reloaders who prioritize consistency and precision in their ammunition. If you reload for multiple bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles where case headspace is critical, this tool will be invaluable. It’s particularly beneficial for those who want to optimize their sizing die for a specific rifle or set of rifles to maximize case life and ensure reliable chambering.
Reloaders who are experiencing inconsistent ignition, extraction issues, or excessive case stretching would greatly benefit from this indicator. Conversely, someone who only reloads pistol ammunition or is just beginning and needs the most basic tooling might find it an unnecessary expense. For maximum utility, purchasing the Range Adapter is highly recommended if you frequently shoot and reload away from your primary bench.
Conclusion on Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator
The Redding Reloading Instant Indicator w/o Dial Indicator is a superb tool for any rifle reloader serious about cartridge precision. It delivers on its promise of speed and accuracy, offering a no-nonsense method for gauging crucial case dimensions. The build quality is excellent, reflecting Redding Reloading‘s commitment to producing durable, functional equipment.
At $149.99, it represents a significant investment, but for the accuracy and time-saving benefits it provides, the value proposition is strong. I would readily recommend this indicator to any reloader looking to take their brass preparation and headspace control to the next level. It’s a tool that earns its keep quickly and becomes an indispensable part of the reloading process.