Best Ammo Reloading Kits Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Compatibility
Ammo loading kits are not universal bullet makers, so there will be calibers that just can’t be made. When compiling the top ten list, high compatibility was important since it also means saving money and space. No one wants to purchase a separate ammo kit for each caliber, as it would defeat the purpose of buying an ammo kit. Buyers want to save money and make the most of what they have, not spend more. Of the many choices on the list, when there is low compatibility from the start, the company tends to offer a conversion kit to enhance the usefulness of the equipment. These conversion kits can transform a 22 caliber ammo reloading kit to also take on 30 caliber bullets. These conversion kits played a big role in the inclusion of the brands on the list. Not only are the prices reasonable, but they fall in line with the rest of the optional accessories offered by manufacturers.
We took great care in finding kits that used the most popular ammo on the market. The more obscure ones are better suited for a different list, as this list is for users that plan on using their ammo reloading kits at least weekly. The high use of the product goes together with the use of popular ammo, so most of the kits on the list will equally favor single stage and progressive press kits. Both of these have kept up with using the most popular ammo, with the latter being the best for quick operation. So as an absolute must for all the brands on the list, they handle both 22 and 30 caliber without issues. This includes out of the box or with the addition of an optional converter.
Ease of Use
When choosing an ammo reloading kit, most users will default to looking at the price of the product. We took it in a different direction and prioritized ease of use. Even with the addition of a recipe cookbook with most ammo reloading kits, new users will often run into the problem of grasping it all at once and getting overwhelmed.
This can be troublesome, so by choosing ammo reloading kits that had most of the core accessories right out of the box, we eliminated one of the most intimidating factors about using one. There is nothing more frustrating than having to line up all the extra stuff that is needed to get started after you’ve spent a lot of money upfront. The items in our top ten list are ready to go out of the box, with the number of extras needed at a minimum.
Durability
Ammo reloading kits aren’t cheap toys, so buying one that can stand the test of time will be of great benefit. The repetitive mechanical nature of an ammo reloading kit has to resist user error and bad materials being pushed through it. High-quality materials can’t be guaranteed from the user's end when they’re making their own ammo, so we took it a step further and looked at ammo reloading kits that were built to take punishment. That also meant looking closely at warranties, and overall customer support. All of the ten items on the list are at the top of their class when it comes to durability. So if longevity has been an issue with a past ammo reloading kit you’ve owned, then it is time to update it with one from this list.
The quality of the bullets that come from your kit isn’t just tied to what materials you use, but to the instructions provided. As it was touched on before about the recipe books, their inclusion was important on this list. Companies that provide either a physical or digital copy of their recipe book have a higher buy rate than companies that offer thin books. The result of a well thought out book leads to much better bullet quality, which is the ultimate goal of ammo reloading kits. With the list focusing on high-quality kits, there was also a priority on the results of the ammo for beginners, intermediates, and professionals.
We found it necessary that the kits should not favor one group, but be balanced in their advanced language in the book so that everyone can understand it. Lumping beginners and intermediates into the same group as professionals will only cause confusion when going through the recipe book. Think of it as a way to please all levels without compromising on the output of the ammo that is created.
Safety Hazards
Cleaning an ammo reloading kit is as simple as dusting it off. The only thing that is required of the products on the list is the general upkeep and cleanliness of the area. There is higher importance on keeping the area clean of the dies, powders and other materials that will accumulate during the bullet making the process. Generally, any ammo loading kit is prepped for use each time you make a bullet.
The key to keeping the area safe is to prep afterward for the next time you are going to use it. Leaving materials lying around can cause dirt and other debris to accumulate in areas and degrade the quality of your ammo. Ammo kits are not so sensitive that a little mess will bother them, but their safety protocols will take a nosedive if you don’t take care of them. Most of the brands on the list even provide a maintenance kit as a separate purchase. It is worth investing in one of these to help with the pre/after prep of your ammo reloading kit. Not only will it keep the machine running longer, but it will also help your case if you ever need to call in the warranty.
10 Best Ammo Reloading Kits
1. Lee Precision II 90011
If you want an option that is totally affordable and least expensive on our list, then this Lee Precision II 90011 ammo reloader is for you. It is exclusively made to be used for reloading 12-gauge shotgun shells. The top of the press has a very convenient carrying handle, a noticeably lightweight feel to it and it is incredibly easy to use, too.
Shotgun shell loader
This re-loader kit only allows you to load up on shotgun shells, but if that is what you are in need of, then this is a great kit to purchase.
High-quality
This loader is high-quality. It has a durable construction and doesn’t feel cheap, although the price will shock you. You can reload in confidence with this kit.
Cost and Value
The Lee Precision II 90011 is perfect for your budget. It is impressively inexpensive for such a high-quality reloading kit. It will feel jaw-dropping that it is as high-quality as it is for the low price point, especially from a well-known and respectable brand in the field.
2. RCBS 9354 RC Supreme
The RCBS 9354 RC Supreme ammo loader lets you reload easily and with precision. This brand is not a stranger on the market and is one of the best. The kit comes with an updated case loading block, deburring tool, and even an accessory handle. Factor all of that in with the press, reloading scale, hand priming tool, uniflow powder measure, hex key set, case lube kit, reloading manual and powder funnel and you have everything you could ever want.
Long lasting
This kit is extremely durable and built to last a long time. It can take a pounding with every reload it does. It should last many years without any trouble.
High-quality construction
The high-quality of this ammo reload kit makes it worth every penny. It is built to last and is overall powerful and sturdy. You won’t feel worried that you will bust it quickly and have to replace it.
Cost and Value
This kit is definitely more expensive than our first option, but the added durability and quality overall plus the extras that you get with the kit make it worth it. It is a very compelling offer even if it is at an added cost.
3. Lee Precision Anniversary II
The Lee Precision Anniversary II kit is another popular and highly rated choice. Like the previous Lee Precision option, you can count on quality with this one. This 50th-anniversary series kit comes with the Lee Safety Scale and is considered one of the most sensitive out there. It also offers a chamfer tool that is able to chamfer both the inside and outside of the casing mouth. Its overall performance is notable.
Perfect starter kit
This Lee Precision Anniversary kit is the perfect starter kit for reloading your ammo. It is inexpensive yet durable and attractive all in one. You will feel like you are getting a great first go at it with this kit.
Easy to use
One of the most attractive qualities of this re-loader and accessories set is that it is easy to use. That is super important overall, but especially if you are just starting out. Everything is durable and balanced and ready for you to use.
Cost and Value
Similarly to the earlier Lee Precision option, this 50th Anniversary kit is one of the least expensive on our list and out there altogether. If you want a re-load kit that will perform well and is high-quality all for a low price, this is the one.
4. Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press Kit
Next on our list is the Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press. So, get ready to lock and load your pistols, people. This kit is affordable and similar to a few of the others on this list. It includes a single-stage press that is speedy, efficient, precise and versatile along with an electronic scale. It also features a powder measure to ensure you are using just the right amount of powder when loading each bullet. The included Hornady Handbook will help you along the way if you are first starting out on your new reloading hobby.
Included accessories
This kit includes everything that you need to start reloading your ammo. It features a handheld priming tool, primer catcher, positive priming system, chamfering and deburring tool, universal reloading block, primer turning plate, and three die brushes. That is all included alongside the single-stage press, powder measure and electronic scale listed above.
Easy to use
Whether you are intuitive to this ammo-loading hobby or not, this kit is easy to use. If you are an expert already, you will be able to get going right away. But, if you are just starting out, it comes equipped with a handbook that will help guide you through.
Cost and Value
The value of this kit is incredible. It covers all of the basics of ammo reloading, so if you are a beginner it is a great starting kit as much as it is for a seasoned re-loader. It is moderately priced for someone starting out, so you won’t feel too guilty if you decide to upgrade to a more professional choice down the road.
5. Hornady 050068
When it comes to speed and efficiency the Hornady does not disappoint. Built with a lock and load design this ammo reloading kit was designed, to help you reload easily, quickly and without missing a beat. Intended to be a bit more unique this reloading kit is a high-precision powder measuring kit. This means you can measure the powder for your ammo accurately every time you use this kit. Having tweaked their system enables you to have secure read time and time again.
Easy to Understand
While most reloading kits do not have a digital aspect and learning curb to them, this one does. Offering a large easy to read display paired with automatic and manual dispense options this reloader comes prepared to be the one tool you will use over and over again. Additionally, to provide ease, there are three different setting types to choose from. Furthermore, by already having these integrated features the dispenser is prepared to be as precise as possible without missing a beat.
Highly Accurate
As stated above, due to having smart features integrated into the system the dispenser is highly accurate. Having the capacity of measuring between 0.1 grains, and even on a larger scale of 1000 grains. It can do all these things without clogging up or missing a beat. The reason why many gun owners stay away from a powder reloader has always been how easy they are to clog. The reason why the brand considered all these things and created a non-clogging, easy to clean system.
Cost and Value
As a result of how improved this ammo reloading kit is, it only made sense for it to be on the pricier end. Moreover, the price is not as high-end if you take into consideration all that you are getting. You are getting a piece of mind, accuracy, and quality all for a single price. Furthermore, this reader makes cleaning it a breeze.
6. Lyman T-Mag with 1500 Micro-Touch Scale
The Lyman T-Mag Expert Kit Deluxe with 1500 Micro-Touch Scale has absolutely everything you would need all rolled into one convenient package. Lyman is known for producing high-quality ammo reloading tools, and they’ve decided to put it in a single kit. An excellent blend of classic design and cutting-edge technology, this kit has you covered.
Very precise
When it comes to the right amount of powder, this kit gives you two different tools to ensure precision. You have the #55 powder measure, which Lyman is known for. Then you have the inclusion of a digital scale, making sure that you produce high-quality ammunition each and every time.
Whatever you need
The name says it all. The Lyman T-Mag Expert Kit Deluxe with 1500 Micro-Touch Scale is a complete ammo reloading kit. It contains everything you need from beginning to end, including their reloading handbook.
Cost and Value
This is expensive, as are most ammo reloading kits, there’s no getting around it. This one happens to cost more, but it also contains so much more than most. For everything it gives you and allows you to accomplish, the value is very obvious.
7. Lee Precision 90945
If you are in the market for pistol-only ammo reloading, then this Lee Precision kit is for you. The Lee Precision 90945 is a high-end and popular selection for a good reason. It is durable, efficient and overall quality made. It is made out of cast aluminum so it is lighter than traditional steel but without sacrificing the same durability. You’ll likely have this on your hands for years.
Easy to learn and use
Okay, some of the reviews say that it was a little tricky to figure out at first, but overall it was easy to do once they got it down. If you are a beginner, it could take a minute to be easy, but know that after a few go’s you should get it down pat.
5-hole re-loader
This Lee Precision comes with a 5-hole reloading kit for 45 ACP. It is full-length and gets its power through expanding and bullet seating dies.
Cost and Value
The price for this kit is considerably low for the great quality, included items and longevity that it offers. In no time you will feel like a pro loading your own pistol ammo. All of the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, so you know that this is definitely going to be a great option for you.
8. RCBS 9046
If you are in the market for something like the next one on our list, an option from Redding, but you are hoping for a lower price tag, then this RCBS RS-5 Reloading Starter Kit should definitely be at the top of your shopping list. It is exactly that: low cost and good quality. This particular kit is made in the United States and comes with the RCBS limited lifetime warranty. In this kit you get a single-stage press, 505 mechanical scales, RCBS’s own Universal Case Loading Block, a powder funnel to keep your ammo powder organized and secure, a .17-.60 chamfer/deburr tool, neck brushes and so much more.
Impressive kit
This starter kit is impressive, especially with its price point and so many items included. Everything you get is good to fair quality and will get you learning to reload your ammo in no time.
Full-featured kit
This whole kit includes so many components that you need and they are all good quality. Since it is so affordable and all together in quality packaging, too, you won’t feel like you went wrong with this ammo reloading kit.
Cost and Value
With this starter kit from RCBS, you will get everything you need to learn and begin reloading your own ammo. The lower price difference between this one and the next Redding option shows in some of the quality, but overall this kit’s value is impressive.
9. Redding Reloading 40000
Great options packed with quality tools. First of all, the frame that’s included for the main reloaded is rated to be incredibly sturdy and durable for years. Plus, thanks to a longer ram stroke, reloading magnum cartridges is not only possible but easier than ever before.
Smooth performance
The BIG Boss Pro-Pak Reloading Kit comes equipped with a 1-inch diameter ram and more than 3.8-inches worth of stroke. Plus, thanks to the company’s exclusive Smart Primer Arm, the whole act of reloading is much smoother than you’re going to find on a lot of similar kits.
Keeps your space clean
When it comes to the reloading process, the included primer catcher helps to make sure that your reloading station stays as neat and clean as possible. Many other reloading kits come with this feature as well, but little others work well as Redding’s one does.
Cost and Value
This is a big, powerful, and expensive kit. If money isn’t any sort of concern, then this is going to be one of the best options that you’ve got. It’s one of the most durable and heavy-duty reloading kits on the market, and it’s got a lot of impressive features to boot as well. The cost is easily the biggest downside here, but despite being so much more expensive than other options, the price is well-justified when you take into consideration everything that's included in this kit.
10. Lyman Brass Smith
Lyman is not an unknown brand in the ammo reloading work, in fact, they are celebrating their 140 years in business anniversary. They are not only a reputable brand, but they create quality products with superior materials that get the job done. Featuring their new turret press, Lyman Brass Smith created their All-American 8 Reloading Kit to ensure you have a quality product that works exceptionally well precision for pistol shooters.
Complete Kit
Instead of only having a reader or ammo holder you are getting an entire kit. The All-American 8 Reloading Kit includes a heavy-duty press that is large enough to handle large rifle cartridges, a smooth operating 8-station turret, and brand-new straight-line Auto Primer Feed. Furthermore, the kit comes with new brass smith powder measure, a universal trimmer, touch screen scale along with other goodies that ensure you get the most out of purchasing this item.
Magnum Bullet Puller
As stated above, this kit comes with additional goodies to ensure you get the most out of your purchase, one of those goodies is their magnum bullet puller. Having a magnum bullet puller makes it easier to put in and replace your ammo once they are reloaded. Furthermore, it completes the kit giving you everything you need in one single set.
Cost and Value
Though this is a pricey kit, you are getting a whole lot of products with exceptional quality. Furthermore, you are getting what you pay for, thus very item is useful and makes sense to have in your home when you want a quick, effective ammo reloading kit.
Sources
- Recommended Products for the Beginning Reloader, Website ,
- Cleaning Cases - Part 1: Dry Tumbling, Website ,
- Handloading/Reloading Ammunition, Website ,
- Reloading: Want To Reload Your Own Ammo? Basic Questions to Consider, Website ,
- How to weigh the costs and benefits of reloading your own ammunition, Website ,