The Dillon 550 is a legendary name in the reloading world, renowned for its speed, efficiency, and reliability. Whether you're a seasoned reloader looking to upgrade or a newcomer taking your first steps into the hobby, understanding the Dillon 550 is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into its features, benefits, setup, and troubleshooting, providing everything you need to master this powerful reloading machine.
What Makes the Dillon 550 Stand Out?
The Dillon 550 is a progressive reloading press, meaning it completes multiple steps of the reloading process with each stroke of the handle. This dramatically increases your reloading speed compared to single-stage presses. But speed isn't the only advantage:
- Efficiency: The inline design minimizes movement and wasted time, maximizing your output.
- Reliability: Dillon presses are built to last, with a robust design and high-quality components. They're known for their durability and consistent performance.
- Versatility: While initially set up for a specific cartridge, the Dillon 550 can be easily converted to handle various calibers with the purchase of the appropriate dies and case feeder.
- Accuracy: With proper setup and maintenance, the Dillon 550 delivers consistently accurate ammunition.
- Automation: Features like the case feeder and powder measure significantly automate the reloading process, reducing manual labor and the potential for human error.
Setting Up Your Dillon 550: A Step-by-Step Guide
Setting up a Dillon 550 can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps simplifies the process. While detailed instructions come with the press, here's a general overview:
1. Gathering Your Supplies:
Before you begin, ensure you have all necessary components:
- Dillon 550 Press: The heart of your reloading operation.
- Dies: Specific to the caliber you'll be reloading.
- Case Feeder: A significant time-saver, especially for high-volume reloading.
- Powder Measure: Accurately dispenses the correct amount of powder for each cartridge.
- Primer System: Feeds primers into the press for consistent priming.
- Appropriate Calibers & Accessories: This includes cases, bullets, powder, and primers.
2. Press Assembly and Die Setup:
Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling the press and installing the dies. Proper die alignment is critical for accurate reloading.
3. Case Feeder Calibration:
Adjust the case feeder to ensure a smooth and consistent flow of cases into the press. This step requires careful attention to detail.
4. Powder Measure Adjustment:
Calibrating the powder measure to dispense the correct powder charge is crucial for safety and accuracy. Use a scale to confirm your settings.
5. Test Run and Adjustments:
Before loading large batches, perform a test run with a small number of cases. Inspect each round carefully to ensure proper seating, crimping, and powder charge.
Troubleshooting Common Dillon 550 Issues
Even with careful setup, you might encounter some challenges. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Double-Charging: This is a serious safety issue. Double-check your powder measure settings and ensure it's functioning correctly.
- Case Jams: This can be due to improper case feeder adjustment or case damage.
- Inconsistent Crimps: Verify die adjustments and ensure the case is properly sized.
- Primer Failures: Check for bent or damaged primers and ensure the primer system is functioning correctly.
Always consult the Dillon manual for detailed troubleshooting guidance. Safety should always be your top priority when reloading.
Conclusion: Mastering Your Dillon 550
The Dillon 550 reloading press is a significant investment, but its speed, efficiency, and reliability make it worthwhile for serious reloaders. By understanding its features, mastering its setup, and proactively addressing potential issues, you can enjoy years of consistent and accurate ammunition production. Remember, proper training and adherence to safety procedures are paramount throughout the entire reloading process. Happy reloading!
