Dillon RL-450

[entropy]

I'm watching a local auction on an RL-450, thinking of bidding; I have used a single stage press for 40 years, but them dang AR's eat 5.56 ball at a prodigious rate! I would set it up for my pet load, 28.5 gr. of BL-C(2) topped with 55 gr. FMJ. (I will still do my hunting loads on the single stage)
I know it's an older model, and the 550 and 650 are the standard, but for what it's going for, I'm willing to deal with difficult set up and less accurate powder measuring for my plinking loads.
Thoughts, advice are welcome.

 

[243winxb]

Been using the RL-450 for years. Only one available back in 1979. Bought to load for an M16A1.

The change over time to another cartridge is a pain. Screwing dies in and out. The M16 was sold in 2011, so press is only used to load 45 acp now.

Make sure all parts are included with the press.

http://s338.photobucket.com/user/joe1944usa/library/Firearms and Reloading/Dillon RL-450 Manual?sort=3&page=1 l had posted Dillon instructions at photobucket .

Case separations- my vintage 223 shell plate gave 4 different FL sizings, head to datum. If the FL die was adjusted on the 1 station, shoulder set back was .014"
Set fl die using a comparator.

 

[Kingcreek]

I loaded on a 450 for years then Dillon offered a 550 frame swap, maybe they still do?
Nothing wrong with the 450. For the right price I would buy one.

 

[entropy]

Been using the RL-450 for years. Only one available back in 1979. Bought to load for an M16A1.

The change over time to another cartridge is a pain. Screwing dies in and out. The M16 was sold in 2011, so press is only used to load 45 acp now.

Make sure all parts are included with the press.

http://s338.photobucket.com/user/joe1944usa/library/Firearms and Reloading/Dillon RL-450 Manual?sort=3&page=1 l had posted Dillon instructions at photobucket .

Case separations- my vintage 223 shell plate gave 4 different FL sizings, head to datum. If the FL die was adjusted on the 1 station, shoulder set back was .014"
Set fl die using a comparator.

I use SB dies, will that be a problem?

 

[243winxb]

I use SB dies, will that be a problem?

Not if set correctly.

 

[tallpaul]

Dont be afraid of buying a new 550 or above instead... the newest powder n primer systems are worth something... as a dedicated press if under 200 maybe but I would not go higher I dont believe. Treat yourself And if set up right many load accuracy and hunting loads on 550 and 650 presses every day!

 

[25-5]

I got my 450 new in 81. They were made from 80 to may of 85. I am somewhere north of 200K reloads. Over time I have upgraded it to a 500, but without the toolbar. I am really happy with the upgrades. SO, I would advise to save your money until you can get the 550.

 

[kerreckt]

450 is great. I have used one since the 1980's. There are newer and more convenient presses but this one is very good.