I don't beleive auto-index starts making a practical difference in speed until a case feeder is used (not a planned option for the SDB). The key is good technique when using a 550. 500 rounds per hour is reasonably possible for both the 550 and SDB if the operator has everything well located and is focused just on reloading. It is for this reason that most experienced dillon users will not recommend buying a 650 press without the case feeder if you really need the speed. If you don't need the higher speed, the 550 or SDB are lower cost and will load close to the same speed as a stripped 650.
Another factor that will affect speed is how well a press is mounted. A solidly-mounted press (where the frame doesn't move at all during the loading cycle) can be used faster and easier. There's no wasted time supporting the press or table during certain parts of the handle motion. My current press (550) is mounted to a light-weight table using C-clamps and a board. Having to deal with the table movement/board flex limits me to about 400 per hour; mainly I've had to slow down during primer seating to seat consistently. 500 per hour was not a problem in the past when it was mounted well.
I think both are good presses and have good points. I do beleive the SDB will not hold up as well for the high volume pistol reloader. They just aren't built as sturdy, but they don't cost quite as much either. If you wear one out, Dillon will send rebuild parts or you can ship it to them and they'll rebuild it as part of the warranty. I've heard of quite a few SDBs getting a rebuild after heavy, long-term use. I have not heard that about the other dillon presses.
I'd recommend used if someone was buying an SDB, they don't seem to hold their value quite as well as the larger presses. Resale value is still pretty good compared to other presses and most of the "dillon resale value" is because of the warranty and service.
Another factor that will affect speed is how well a press is mounted. A solidly-mounted press (where the frame doesn't move at all during the loading cycle) can be used faster and easier. There's no wasted time supporting the press or table during certain parts of the handle motion. My current press (550) is mounted to a light-weight table using C-clamps and a board. Having to deal with the table movement/board flex limits me to about 400 per hour; mainly I've had to slow down during primer seating to seat consistently. 500 per hour was not a problem in the past when it was mounted well.
I think both are good presses and have good points. I do beleive the SDB will not hold up as well for the high volume pistol reloader. They just aren't built as sturdy, but they don't cost quite as much either. If you wear one out, Dillon will send rebuild parts or you can ship it to them and they'll rebuild it as part of the warranty. I've heard of quite a few SDBs getting a rebuild after heavy, long-term use. I have not heard that about the other dillon presses.
I'd recommend used if someone was buying an SDB, they don't seem to hold their value quite as well as the larger presses. Resale value is still pretty good compared to other presses and most of the "dillon resale value" is because of the warranty and service.
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