Investing in reloading dies is one of the surest ways to improve your shooting, regardless of the rifle caliber you use. This is one thing all rifle enthusiasts will agree on.
To ensure that you are reloading the brass in a precise and reliable manner, they come fixed onto a reloading press to perform critical functions.
You’ll use them with every cartridge you reload to uncap, resize, and expand the mouth of the case you are filling. They also help to crimp and seal the bullet so that the reloading process occurs in a more precise and reliable way.
Getting the best reloading dies will significantly simplify your shooting experience, making you a better gunner.
Best Reloading Dies Comparison in 2023
| Product | Cartridge | Die Style | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| REDDING – TYPE S | 17 Remington Fireball | Full Length Sizing Dies | Check Price > |
| REDDING – COMPETITION BUSHING | 20 Tactical | – | Check Price > |
| FORSTER – ULTRA™ | 223 WSSM | Bullet Seating Dies | Check Price > |
| LEE PRECISION – PACESETTER | 222 Remington | 3-Die Set, Full Length Die Set | Check Price > |
| REDDING – FULL LENGTH | 204 Ruger | – | Check Price > |
| LEE PRECISION – 4 DIE | Check | Check | Check Price > |
| RCBS – X-FULL LENGTH | 22-250 Remington | Full Length Sizing Dies | Check Price > |
| HORNADY – BULLET FEEDER | – | – | Check Price > |
| L.E. WILSON, INC. – BUSHING | 25-06 Remington | Bushing Full Length Die | Check Price > |
| L.E. WILSON, INC. – CHAMBER TYPE | 218 Bee | Bullet Seating Dies | Check Price > |
Top 10 Reloading Dies Review
If you spend a lot of time out on the range or hunting, then you are probably well aware that creating your own ammunition and being able to do so accurately and efficiently is a necessity. There’s no doubt that you want the very best reloading dies for accuracy, and this review will hopefully give you the information you need.
Redding – Type S Match Bushing Full Die Sets
Very few dies match up to the brilliance of this top-of-the-range piece. Encompassing interchangeable bushings that permit sizing and tension level regulation and peak neck case-control, you can’t do better than this.
Additionally, it features a micrometer, which is calibrated in fine increments and a floating seating stem system, which helps eliminate concentricity problems.
Now anyone with a standard reloading press can benefit from advanced benchrest techniques. The adaptable rod allows easier positioning of the bushing to resize only a portion of the neck length if desired. This is an especially useful feature for reloaders using commercial brass in its standard-sized button.
The featured adjustable decapping rod is highly desirable in this sort of operation. It makes it pretty handy for people who turn their case necks for uniformity. Also donned are the same interchangeable bushings as those used in their classic bushing style neck sizing dies.
The finest alloy is used to create this die kit, and they are machined using a patented precision lathing system that guarantees that you get the best quality kit. You’ll be impressed with how well this set maintains tolerance and guarantees that it’ll last a lifetime.
Also, the heat-treatment further enhances its durability, ensuring that you get a die set that is built to last.
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Redding – Competition Bushing Neck Die Sets
Designed for proper chambering without disturbing the case neck, this die supports the cartridge case completely and aligns it with the sizing bushing before the sizing process begins. Meanwhile, the micrometer adjustment of the bushing position delivers precise control to the desired amount of neck length to be sized.
Tighter manufacturing tolerances have been made possible due to the details of the floating seating stem system. Also featured is an adjustable decapping rod that allows adjustment of the bushing position and a decapping pin retainer.
This is useful in enabling neck sizing without the use of the size button for those who turn their case necks for uniformity.
You will not be disappointed by the industry standard of the highest quality in this piece. A guaranteed plus for most shooters will be the flexibility, especially in the neck size bushing system that most will appreciate.
Reloading has never been this simplified. It comes with the amenity to vary the bullet tension in the neck, which has proven critical for proper function in semi-auto reloading.
The standard die works even better with the bushing system for better efficiency. I would recommend the Redding series to anyone wishing to reload custom ammunition, especially when variables such as neck tension and total uniformity in seating alignment and depth is desired for reliable match quality.
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Forster – Ultra™ Micrometer Seater Dies
Enhance your seating experience with the simplifying features of this masterpiece die that allows full length resizing while maintaining precise control of the case neck. On top of that, interchangeable bushings permit you to determine your level of sizing and neck tension.
Some of the other exciting elements included are the famous straight line seating features popular among shooters.
To eliminate concentricity problems, it features an ultra-accurate calibrated micrometer and floating seating stem system.
After you have seated your bullet close to the desired depth and measured it, simply adjust the micrometer stem down to the desired depth. Thereafter, your cartridge will be exactly the length you need.
Fine-tuning your rounds for your rifle is simplified with this piece. If you use different brands and styles of bullets in the same rifle, make a note of your “optimal bullet depth setting” for each shot and save that information for future loading.
As the epitome of excellent quality, each die is manufactured from the finest quality steel carefully machined to very tight tolerances. This ultimately provides the reloader with the ability to produce concentric rounds time and time again.
Finally, the dies are hand polished both before and after the heat-treating process to guarantee an extra-fine finish.
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Lee Precision – Pacesetter Rifle Die Sets
For point precision and efficiency, this piece has a simple touch that makes it handy to use by all levels. The die includes various useful features like a full-length sizing die and bullet seating die; everything you could need to get the best performance out of your die set.
Also featured are the factory crimp dies and universal shell holders to produce factory-like ammunition with improved utility and accuracy. Included in the kit is a full-length sizer die, perfect for bottleneck cases, and contains vents to ensure that damage to the case does not occur due to moisture or air buildup.
Each die set piece is hardened to perfection and is then polished to ensure optimal performance. This die is built to give you full-length resizing and can be used in both autoloaders and pump-action rifles.
Moreover, it is compatible with all 7/8″-14 reloading presses, making it easy to use for both beginners and the experienced rifleman.
Their die sets and accompanying accessories are packed in the nicest storage box ever designed for visual aesthetics.
These are the most imitated dies in the world. All Lee dies are progressively machine honed to the smoothest possible finish with no waves or ripples.
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Redding – Full Length Die Sets
Made for those who enjoy handloading and use pistols and other small weapons, these dies are the best hobbyist option for reloading. They provide a very user-friendly way to get into reloading and also present you with a quality product at an attractive price.
Using the finest alloy steels obtainable, the dies are machined on Hardinge Super- Precision lathes capable of holding the tightest tolerances in the industry. They feature sizing dies with the standard seating die allowing both beginners and professionals to reload efficiently.
This is a fine product and serves a wide variety of needs. With plenty of features, functionality, and versatility, this set of dies will help you work well. It also comes with a decapping rod assembly and seating die with bullet guide, built-in crimping ring, and seating plug.
Finally, your dies are hand polished for smooth and flawless functioning, go through final inspection, and are ultrasonically cleaned and packaged. The die box is a handy cartridge loading block and storage package. Inside is a spare decapping pin, hex wrench, and even a place for your shellholder.
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Lee Precision – 4 Die – Deluxe Pistol Die Set
Combining the world’s most popular carbide three-die set with the signature crimp die at a great price, get ready to be impressed by this next die. No other die set at any price will produce more reliable or accurate ammo.
This die set consists of a hard diamond polished surface that eliminates the need for lubrication and will never wear out. An incorporated decapper clamp collet accurately centers the decapper in the die. Additionally, it has a 45-degree chamfer to allow for the mechanical feed fingers and improved operator clearance.
Also included is the Powder Through Expanding Dies, which charge the case while expanding the case mouth.
By separating the seating and crimping operation, they provide greatly simplified adjustment features. Packed in a new flat-four die box and airtight cover, your precision machined dies will be kept in perfect condition.
More importantly, the carbide factory crimp die post sizes your cases, thus assuring every round will chamber properly in your gun. This is an absolute must if you reload cases that have been fired in other firearms or for use in multiple guns.
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RCBS – X-Full Length Die Set
Made for the keen hobbyists who are passionate about reloading without sacrificing much, it holds a respectable and affordable market price. If you are a reloader who doesn’t want to break the bank with their first purchase, this would be the right set for you.
This set sticks out to us because not only is it cheap, but the quality of their products shows an impressive construction.
Inside, the die features a specially designed mandrel with an expander ball and decapping pin attached. This patented design eliminates the need for repeated trimming after an initial trim of the maximum case length to standardize the case.
The X-Die doesn’t shorten the length of the case. Instead, the mandrel reduces the growth rate as the case grows due to the case mouth contacting the mandrel during sizing.
Because of an extremely close tolerance between the mandrel and die neck wall, the neck wall of the case does not thicken as the case length is pushed back.
Cases repeatedly sized in the X-Die will initially grow a few thousandths of an inch, then stabilize below the maximum case length with no discernable loss of accuracy or case life.
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Hornady – Bullet Feeder Pistol Dies
These revolutionary pieces are the perfect addition to make to your package for better efficiency. Found to increase reloading speed to twice as fast, you’ll be unstoppable, maintaining great speed and productivity. You’ll be able to spend your time more constructively enjoying the range or in the field without the hassle of slow reloads.
These feeder dies are case activated, meaning a bullet will only be fed upon contact with the case. Additionally, the collets are precision fixated machines, constructed from solid steel, durable enough for years of reloading.
Designed as the perfect accessory for almost all die threads press, these reloading dies to help you get the most out of your feeder. The uncomplicated design makes it great for beginners. No special tools are required, and each die is threaded in the 7⁄8″-14 industry-standard manner, sure to be appreciated by most gunners.
Their compatibility with any lock-n-load feeder makes them very handy to have. An industry-approved tube and collet design hold the bullet securely in the die until a fresh case contacts the collet for a smooth workflow. With all these handy features, you’re in for a treat with this great die.
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L.E. Wilson, Inc. – Bushing Full Length Dies
Made with 225” of lock nut-thickness, this piece makes the perfect companion for even the fastest semi-automatic rifles with its durable and reliable design. This die will allow you to size the case neck to your desired neck tension along with sizing down the rest of the case body at the same time.
It includes an adjustable depth decapping rod and an extra decapping punch. These dies, however, do not contain an expander. You can expect an impeccable performance from this high quality, heat-treated steel.
The dies mimic the neck sizing of Wilsons’ neck sizing dies and are designed to leave sufficient space at the bottom of the case neck unsized. And this is a practice many shooters prefer and find to be more accurate than sizing the full neck.
As such, it provides you with a premium experience for reloading that isn’t often seen on the market.
Made from high-quality material, this die stands out as one of the most well-made dies on the market today across all weapon sizes. If you are looking for something that’s going to last a very long time, this is a great bet.
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L.E. Wilson, Inc. – Chamber Type Bullet Seater Dies
A favorite among benchrest shooters, this bullet seater positively controls both bullet and cartridge case alignment. The die wholly captures the case and bullet before the shot is pushed straight into the case by a close-fitting seating stem.
This impressive style of equipment works more accurately than the typical 7/8 inch to 14 bullet seating dies. There’s no doubt that this is one of the most accurate bullet seaters ever made. Its consistent bullet seating depth maintains uniformity, giving you better accuracy.
With their consistent case length, which effectively and steadily holds cases, you’ll get the precision you need.
The dies align the bullet with the case before the seating operation. This type of seater counts on the die bore being in line with the die body. That is where L.E. Wilson puts a ton of work into the finishing process of the die.
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What to Look for Before Buying?
As a rookie, you may have heard about reloading dies as vital elements to effective reloading and how they’re used. The next big thing now will be deciphering what makes the best quality reloading dies to stand out.
We’re here to help you find the best one to maintain your safety, accuracy, and effectiveness by pointing out what features to look for.
Type of Die
For starters, you’ll have to settle for the type of die you’ll need. The kind of ammo you use and the end goal for that ammo will, for the most part, influence the type of die you should get.
Now, the market is filled with different types, each consistent with a different kind of ammo and facilitating a different outcome.
Additionally, the kind of die set you’ll need will depend on the type of case, as you may need a three die set option if you’re using a straight case. Familiarizing yourself with the type of die you need is going to be a beneficial piece of knowledge to know beforehand.
Material
Dies come in various forms of metal that you can choose from. Ranges from steel, carbide, among others, are typical in the field. Knowing this is important because this will determine if you need lubricants or not.
Each has its advantages, with some gaining you added longevity, affordability, or a mix of both. Make sure that your priorities are in order when it comes to the material your dies are made of.
Brand
While we encourage you to keep an open mind during the selection process for the best results, we also understand that people have different loyalties when it comes to brand. Sometimes, your trust has been built up with a brand, and you prefer only to buy their products.
This is understandable, especially when considering how much of an investment these dies often represent. You want to make sure you don’t have a bad experience, especially when you have had a lot of good experiences with your favorable companies.
Affordability
Affordability is certainly one of the most important factors when considering a set of reloading dies. The main determinant in this decision is going to be what your purpose for reloading is. Are you going to be doing this as a professional service or just as a way to save money?
Affordability generally corresponds with quality, and the number of features offered in any given set of reloading dies. How much you are willing to spend in reloading dies will generally determine the degree of quality and the range of jobs they can accomplish for you.
If you are a hobbyist who doesn’t make money from reloading, you can probably get away with not investing very much in a set of reloading dies. However, if you do this professionally for income, you might want to invest a bit more and ensure that you are delivering a quality service with quality equipment.
Frequently Asked Question
This may be a bit confusing at first, but it consists of a few steps to follow. Firstly, knock out the old primer and clean the cases, then size the case so it can fit a bullet and fit into your chamber. Next, press in a new primer, then pour in your powder and make sure you get it precisely correct. Seal the bullet, and you’re ready to go.
While this is usually determined by the kind of material that creates the die, you may find that there are other reasons why a lubricant would be necessary. If you don’t want the extra expense, you may want to look at using a type of die that does not require it.
Reloading dies allow you to be able to create your ammunition and ensure that it correctly loads into the weapon without losing accuracy or efficiency. This will not only provide you with big cost savings but gives you a fun way to be more in control when out hunting or taking target practice.
It also ensures that you get the same quality ground each time because of your ability to control the manufacturing process.
The primary difference between these two is related to the need for lubricant. Carbide is a little bit more durable in the sense that they last longer than your standard steel reloading dies. Part of the reason that
they have become so popular, beyond longevity, is the fact that a lubricant is not required.
The steel options are still outstanding in terms of quality. Many manufacturers provide lifetime warranties on their steel die sets because of the quality in terms of design and development. However, lubricants are needed for use, adding cost.
This may be present in the set you are purchasing, so be aware of the need for this die if the caliber weapon you are using requires it.
Final Words
There’s no denying the significance of selecting the best loading dies in shooting, so your choice of reloading dies should not be a casual one. Leisure and professional shooters alike will appreciate the assistance afforded by these pieces in improving one’s shooting experience.