I've been reading about this and have been coming up blank as to why they are eliminating the 650. one of the things that keep being mentioned is primers detonating on the 650...I have over 1m through (2) different 650's and have never had a primer go off...broken parts on both, but nothing major that I would think on warrant a new press.
And that's seems to be the experience of most....yet some have detonations. User error, impatience, whatever, it still happens and Dillon dutifully replaces the parts free.
Over on THR, there's a lot of discussion. Having carefully listened, I'm thinking Dillon just wants to go forward the best and least expensive way. They do have a popular press, but they have to make a profit. Several points have arisen.
- Dillon is making three primer systems, cutting that to one simplifies production and saves money....expecially helpful to pick the least expensive system, that still works.
- There are fewer detonations with a linear vs. rotational primer presentation so fewer mishaps will occur....and the added expense of replacement will disappear.
- Dillon is past due for a smoother shell plate rotation anyway...so they are fixing that. Powder jumping from short cases going around the plate has had several "fix" attempts from the aftermarket, and none worked that well according to some users.
- Finally, one thing they can't fix is users who just tend to break things, but they can pick from the systems least breakable.
I dont see no primer swage on it... diffrent priming system... and a roller index instead of plastic ring. Not much of an upgrade that would make me sell my 2 650's
I've read plenty of that from other 650 owners as well. People who can and have run 650's for years with no mishaps, will continue to.
Dillon did say that they will, in a few months, offer a stripped down version, mostly just the frame, ram, and original handle....minus the caliber kits, T handle, and other parts, that aren't necessary, in case a 650 owner wants to upgrade.....but there are enough changes on the frame casting, to prevent a cheaper upgrade.
If you want a swager you want the 1050.
Jmorris showed off the rotary primer system in the Mark 7. (safer because they are farther apart on the rotary feed). Go To THR and check it out. I can see why Dillon didn't to that.....and be thankful they didn't.....prices would have gone up a lot more than $50.
Good luck with the new move to the progressive side......something tells me you will love making completely finished ammo with every pull of the handle.....I know I did.