From Curiosity to Confidence: My Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set Review
The Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set represents a significant investment for any handloader, promising precision and longevity. As someone who’s spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits in diverse environments, from dusty workshops to meticulously controlled labs and demanding field applications, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly performs. My journey to this particular die set began with a growing need for more consistent and accurate reloads, especially when pushing the boundaries of case neck tension and overall cartridge concentricity. I’d been experiencing slight variations in my reloaded ammunition, and I knew it was time to upgrade from my older, more generic set. Alternatives like RCBS and Lee Precision were certainly on my radar, but Redding’s reputation for unparalleled quality kept drawing me back. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship.
Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set to the Test
My testing grounds for this die set were primarily my reloading bench, nestled within a well-ventilated workshop, and later, the shooting range. I focused on a popular rifle caliber known for its tight tolerances, where even minor deviations can affect accuracy. I tested the dies with brass of varying ages and conditions, from once-fired to those that had seen multiple reloading cycles, to gauge their resilience.
First Use Experience
My first real encounter with the Redding dies was on a crisp Saturday morning. After meticulously cleaning and preparing a batch of .308 brass, I began the resizing process. The initial setup on my press was straightforward, a testament to the standard threading and overall design. The dies slid into place with a satisfying, precise fit. I immediately noticed the substantial weight and feel of the steel, which hinted at their durability.
There were no immediate surprises or quirks; the process felt familiar yet refined. I experienced a slight learning curve in adjusting the seating die to achieve the exact desired overall cartridge length, but this was more a function of dialing in my specific load than an issue with the die itself. The expander ball, a critical component, moved smoothly without any hint of binding or excessive friction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, processing hundreds of cases, the Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set has proven its mettle. It’s become the go-to set for all my rifle reloading needs for that specific caliber. The precision remains remarkably consistent, with no noticeable degradation in performance.
Durability has been exceptional. Despite being handled frequently and occasionally subjected to the vibrations of the reloading press, there are no signs of premature wear. The steel construction has resisted any superficial scratches or scuffs, and the internal dimensions appear to be holding up perfectly. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth after use and a light application of oil have kept them in pristine condition.
Compared to my previous budget-friendly die set, the difference is night and day. The Redding dies offer a level of consistency and ease of use that makes the entire reloading process more enjoyable and, more importantly, yields a demonstrably more accurate final product. The premium price point is, in my experience, fully justified by the superior performance and anticipated lifespan.
Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set
Specifications
The Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set is a comprehensive package designed for serious handloaders. It includes a full complement of dies, typically comprising a full-length sizing die, an expander die, a seating die, and a crimp die, though the exact configuration can vary slightly by caliber. The manufacturer, Redding Reloading, has a long-standing reputation for utilizing first-class steel in their manufacturing process.
This commitment to material quality translates directly into the dies’ performance. The specific dimensions incorporated into the steel dies are crucial for achieving precise case resizing without deforming critical areas like the case neck. The set also features an exclusive steel ball deburring tool, a unique addition that aids in case preparation and finishing. This tool is designed to effectively clean and prepare cases, contributing to longer case life and more consistent neck tension, which is vital for accurate ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of these dies is to resize cartridge brass to its original dimensions and prepare it for reloading. The full-length sizing die does exactly that, restoring the case to factory specifications, making it ready for subsequent steps. The expander die, with its precisely formed expander ball, opens the case neck to the correct diameter for bullet insertion, ensuring consistent neck tension which is critical for both feeding and accuracy.
The seating die allows for precise control over bullet depth, a key factor in achieving consistent headspace and overall cartridge length. The included crimp die provides a means to secure the bullet firmly in place, preventing bullet setback during recoil or handling. What stands out is the unmatched reputation for quality Redding holds in precisely resizing without deforming the case necks. This level of control is paramount for handloaders who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design perspective, the Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set exudes robustness. The polished steel construction not only looks professional but also feels substantial in hand. The knurled sections on the dies provide an excellent grip, even with slightly greasy hands, which is a common occurrence during reloading sessions.
The tolerances are exceptionally tight, meaning the dies thread smoothly into a standard reloading press without any wobble or binding. This precision is evident in the uniformity of the resized cases. The smooth operation reduces fatigue during extended reloading sessions, and the clear markings on each die minimize the chance of using the wrong die for a particular step.
Durability & Maintenance
As mentioned, the first-class steel construction of these dies points towards excellent long-term durability. These are not consumables; they are tools designed to last for decades with proper care. The exacting tolerances also mean that internal wear should be minimal over time, provided they are kept clean and lubricated appropriately.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each session removes any lubricant or brass shavings. Periodically, a light application of a quality gun oil or CLP can help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. It’s important to store them in their original container or a dedicated die box to protect them from dust and potential damage. Any signs of corrosion or grit ingress could compromise their precise dimensions and smooth operation, so vigilant care is rewarded.
Accessories and Customization Options
The standout accessory included with this set is the exclusive steel ball deburring tool. This small but vital component simplifies case neck preparation, ensuring a clean and uniform internal neck surface. It’s a thoughtful addition that streamlines the reloading process.
While the die set itself is comprehensive for its intended purpose, further customization within the Redding ecosystem is readily available. For instance, if you require alternative expander ball sizes for specific bullet types or neck tension preferences, Redding offers a range of options that can be swapped into the expander die. Similarly, for bullet seating, while this set provides a standard seating stem, Redding also offers micrometer-adjustable seating dies for those seeking even greater precision and repeatability.
Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set
Pros
- Exceptional Precision: The manufacturing tolerances are incredibly tight, resulting in highly accurate and consistent case resizing and bullet seating.
- Superior Materials: Constructed from first-class steel, these dies are built for longevity and resistance to wear.
- Smooth Operation: The dies thread easily and operate smoothly on the press, reducing effort and improving the reloading experience.
- Exclusive Steel Ball Deburring Tool: A valuable included accessory that simplifies case neck preparation.
- Reliable Neck Sizing: The neck sizer die ensures necks do not expand unnecessarily when resizing, critical for consistent bullet tension.
- Unmatched Reputation: Redding Reloading is synonymous with high-quality reloading equipment.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: The premium quality comes with a premium price tag, making it a significant investment.
- Potential for Damage if Neglected: While durable, the precision components require proper care and maintenance to prevent damage from grit or corrosion.
- Initial Learning Curve for Fine-Tuning: Achieving the absolute perfect settings for your specific loads may require some trial and error, though this is common to all high-quality dies.
Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set?
The Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set is an ideal choice for experienced handloaders who prioritize accuracy, consistency, and the long-term reliability of their reloading equipment. If you are looking to extract the highest possible performance from your rifle cartridges and are willing to invest in tools that will last a lifetime, this set is for you. It’s particularly well-suited for those who reload for precision shooting disciplines, competitive target shooting, or simply demand the utmost in ammunition quality.
This set might be overkill for the absolute novice who is just starting out and experimenting with basic loads, or for someone who only reloads a few dozen rounds per year for casual plinking. In those cases, a more entry-level set might suffice. However, even for a less experienced reloader who is serious about learning the craft and wants to start with the best, this die set is a worthy long-term investment.
Essential complementary items would include a sturdy reloading press, a good quality scale, case trimming tools, and reloading dies for other calibers if you reload more than one. For those using this set, investing in quality brass preparation tools will also ensure you’re getting the most out of the dies’ capabilities.
Conclusion on Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set
The Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set is, without question, a premium product that lives up to its name and the Redding Reloading brand’s esteemed reputation. The precision engineering, combined with the use of first-class steel and thoughtful accessories like the steel ball deburring tool, makes this set a joy to use and a highly effective tool for producing exceptionally accurate ammunition. While the initial investment is substantial, the performance gains, the assurance of consistent results, and the promise of decades of reliable service make it an excellent value proposition for dedicated handloaders.
For anyone serious about maximizing the accuracy and reliability of their handloaded rifle ammunition, I would wholeheartedly recommend this die set. It’s a tool that will not only meet your expectations but likely exceed them, becoming an indispensable part of your reloading arsenal for years to come. If you’re ready to elevate your reloading game, the Redding Reloading Premium Series Full Length Die Set is an investment that pays dividends in every shot.