Redding Reloading Pilot Stop Review

Everything You Need to Know About the Redding Reloading Pilot Stop

As someone who has spent over a decade meticulously working with tools and equipment across diverse environments – from the dusty workshop and precise lab to the unforgiving outdoors and practical field – I’m always on the lookout for those small, often overlooked components that make a significant difference in accuracy and efficiency. My recent dive into reloading led me to discover the Redding Reloading Pilot Stop, a seemingly simple accessory designed to enhance the functionality of specific reloading tools. My journey to this particular piece of gear was driven by a desire for greater consistency when inspecting case neck runout, a critical step in achieving match-grade accuracy from reloaded ammunition. I was encountering slight variations in my measurements, which I suspected stemmed from inconsistent seating depth of the gauging mandrel.

The initial impression of this pilot stop is one of understated quality. Machined from stainless steel, it feels substantial and well-finished, exuding a sense of precision that Redding Reloading is known for. It’s a component that whispers competence rather than shouts for attention. While I briefly considered adapting generic stops or even trying to fashion my own, the specific design cues of this Redding offering suggested it was engineered to solve a particular problem. My immediate reaction was a quiet satisfaction, a feeling of having found a specialized tool that promised to refine a delicate process.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Pilot Stop to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing environment was my reloading bench, a space that has seen countless rounds processed and calibrated. I integrated the pilot stop with Redding’s new Case Neck Gauge and Flash Hole Deburring Tools. The primary scenario involved measuring the neck runout on a batch of .223 Remington brass, a task requiring repeated, consistent insertions of the gauge’s mandrel into the case neck.

The performance was immediately noticeable. The pilot stop’s design ensured that the mandrel consistently seated to the same depth on every case, regardless of minor variations at the case mouth or neck/shoulder junction. This resulted in smoother, more consistent indicator readings, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Initially, I found myself being a little more deliberate with each insertion, ensuring the stop made proper contact. However, within the first dozen cases, it became an intuitive part of the process, requiring no conscious effort beyond the standard reloading sequence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and processing hundreds of cases across various calibers, this pilot stop has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my reloading setup. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of wear, no burrs, no degradation in its polished finish, even after being repeatedly subjected to the subtle pressures of case insertion and removal. It has held up exceptionally well, maintaining its precise function without any drop in performance.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth or a touch of solvent is all that’s needed to keep it pristine. There’s nothing particularly complex to maintain, which is a significant advantage in a busy reloading operation. Compared to previous methods, where I relied on visual cues or felt “just right” seating, this dedicated stop offers a tangible, repeatable level of accuracy. It certainly outperforms any makeshift solution I might have considered, and it adds a layer of professional polish to the task.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Pilot Stop

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Pilot Stop is precision CNC machined from stainless steel. It is designed to work with the new Redding Case Neck Gauge and Flash Hole Deburring Tools. The pilot stops feature a unique, slightly undercut shape that prevents them from picking up imperfections at the case mouth or the neck/shoulder junction, ensuring smooth and accurate indicator readings. Two sizes are available: a smaller size (9/64”) designed for the mandrels used with .17 and .20 caliber cases and small flash holes, and a larger size (for standard 3/16” mandrels) that also works with tools from other manufacturers. Each unit is sold individually as a quantity of 1.

This attention to detail in material and design is crucial for reloading accuracy. The use of stainless steel guarantees longevity and resistance to corrosion, which is vital in a workshop environment where lubricants and cleaning agents are common. The unique undercut shape is a key feature; it means you aren’t relying on a perfectly clean case mouth to get an accurate measurement. For those reloading very small caliber rounds like .17 or .20, the specific smaller size ensures a perfect fit with the delicate mandrels used in those tools. The compatibility with other brands in the larger size also broadens its appeal significantly.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Redding Reloading Pilot Stop is to provide a consistent stop point for the mandrel of neck gauging or deburring tools. It absolutely excels at this. When used with the Redding Case Neck Gauge, the consistency in seating depth of the mandrel directly translates into more reliable and repeatable runout measurements. This allows for more precise identification of cases that might be causing accuracy issues downrange.

The primary strength of this unit is its ability to eliminate user-induced variability in mandrel seating depth. It consistently stops at the same point, offering a repeatable reference. A minor point for consideration, though not a true weakness, is that it requires the user to actively seat the tool until the stop makes contact. For some, this might be a slight learning curve, but for most, it will quickly become second nature. It meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its modest price point relative to the accuracy it helps achieve.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this pilot stop is elegantly simple yet highly effective. The precision CNC machining results in a perfectly uniform component with a smooth, burr-free finish. The stainless steel construction gives it a solid, durable feel that inspires confidence. Its slightly undercut shape is a clever ergonomic consideration, preventing it from snagging on minor imperfections, which could otherwise lead to erroneous readings.

From an ergonomic standpoint, it’s comfortable to use. The size and weight are appropriate for its function, and it integrates seamlessly with the compatible reloading tools. There’s no real learning curve beyond understanding that you are to seat the tool until this stop makes contact. The visible machining marks are minimal and speak to the quality of the manufacturing process, rather than being a functional flaw.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction and the absence of moving parts, the Redding Reloading Pilot Stop is built for the long haul. I anticipate it lasting indefinitely under normal reloading conditions, showing no signs of wear or degradation. There are no obvious failure points to worry about.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A quick wipe down is all that’s necessary. I store mine in a small parts organizer, ensuring it doesn’t get lost amongst other reloading components. Unlike some plastic or softer metal accessories, its robust build means it can withstand the occasional bump or drop on the bench without issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Pilot Stop is designed as a standalone accessory and doesn’t typically come with other accessories. Its primary function is to enhance the use of specific Redding reloading tools. However, the availability of two distinct sizes – one for smaller calibers and mandrels and another for standard 3/16″ mandrels (which also accommodates many aftermarket tools) – offers a form of “customization” by allowing users to select the precise fit for their specific needs. This compatibility with other manufacturers’ tools is a significant plus for reloaders who may not exclusively use Redding products.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Pilot Stop

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Pilot Stop?

This pilot stop is an invaluable addition for any serious handloader who prioritizes precision and consistency in their ammunition. If you are using Redding’s Case Neck Gauge or Flash Hole Deburring Tools, this accessory is practically a must-have to maximize their effectiveness. It is particularly beneficial for those who reload for precision rifle cartridges or competitive shooting, where even minute variations can impact accuracy.

Individuals who shoot smaller calibers like .17 or .20 will find the specific smaller size a perfect fit. Reloaders who appreciate well-engineered, durable components that solve specific problems will also find great value here. Those who are looking for the absolute simplest, most repeatable way to ensure consistent tool insertion depth should definitely consider this.

If you are new to reloading and not yet focused on extreme precision, or if you don’t use the compatible gauging tools, this might be an accessory to revisit later. For those who already own the compatible tools, I’d recommend ensuring you have the correct size pilot stop for your most-used calibers. No specific mandatory accessories are needed, as its function is integrated with the tools it’s designed for.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Pilot Stop

The Redding Reloading Pilot Stop is a testament to how small, precisely engineered components can significantly elevate the reloading process. For its modest price, it delivers a substantial improvement in the consistency and accuracy of neck gauging and deburring tasks. The stainless steel construction ensures it will be a reliable tool for years to come, and the thoughtful, slightly undercut design addresses potential sources of error effectively.

This isn’t a flashy gadget; it’s a functional enhancement that directly addresses a need for precision in handloading. It meets and exceeds expectations by providing a simple yet critical repeatable reference point. I would wholeheartedly recommend this pilot stop to any handloader using the compatible Redding tools, especially those striving for the utmost accuracy in their ammunition. It’s a small investment that pays dividends in the form of more consistent, reliable reloading data.