Do you have a hard time selecting the best 223 reloading kit? This article will help you make an informed purchase.
Over the years, the demand for the 223 ammo has increased. As a result, tactical shooters and hunters now opt to reload their own ammo because of the short supply. With materials to make your ammo readily available online and in the gun stores, you can also reload 223 ammunition. Doing so will save you time and money, but you can also find yourself having a new hobby.
You’ll need a quality reloading kit to start reloading 223 ammunition. With the market offering many quality reloading kits, you can easily pick up casings, primers, and a reloading press, and then start reloading your ammunition.
Whether you are looking for the first reloading kit or you are looking for an upgrade, here are some of the best reloading kits for 233.
Best 223 Reloading Kits
1) Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Kit
Expect impressive performance and convenience from the Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Kit. The setup process is quick and straightforward, and so is the operation process.
Its versatility makes it ideal for reloading a wide range of rifles and handgun cartridges. Furthermore, this kit enables you to use either the automatic indexing progressive or single-stage press.
It features 5 stations known to accept a wide range of reloading dies held by a detachable turret that easily removes and reinserts without any adjustments. This kit is made of solid-cast aluminum with a steel frame for total durability and strength.
Highlights
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Compatible with both rifle and handgun cartridges.
- Detachable turrets for dies.
- Use friendly features.
- Quick and simple assembly.
- Big stroke clearance.
- Uses either an automatic indexing progressive press or single stage press.
- 1 3/4 inch diameter ram.
2) Hornady 3-in-1 Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press
With a reloading speed of up to 500 rounds per hour, this 3-in-1 Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press from Hornady is all you need to reload your .223 ammunition.
This tool not only switches different calibers easily but also gives you the power to load more shells quickly. It gives you better leverage and impressive additional features that simplify the reloading process.
It also features an adjustable center plate, bullet feed wipers for smooth feeding, and a 5-station quick-change bushing system, which accepts a wide range of reloading dies. Its durable and sturdy construction ensures many years of use. Also included is an EZject system which ensures each cartridge is safely ejected upon completion without jamming.
Highlights
- Rugged and heavy-duty construction.
- 500 rounds per hour reloading speed.
- Well equipped for all your reloading needs.
- Intuitive and easy to operate.
- Reliable performance with a wide range of cartridges.
- Reliable ejection of cartridges without jamming.
- Automatic indexing and priming solution.
- Quick-change lock-n-load bushing system.
- Adjustable center plates and bullet feed wipers.
3) Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit
Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit makes the .223 reloading process quicker and more efficient. With 250 rounds per hour loading speed, this affordable reloading kit greatly benefits many competitive shooters and commercial reloaders.
It is easy to use and comes with many easy-to-follow instructions as well. Made of cast aluminum, the kit is 100% effective and sturdy. To add to your satisfaction, the sturdy O-shaped frame enables you to work on a wide range of calibers that you have or prefer.
The accurate safety tool included delivers accurate measurements and is made of solid phenolic metal that ensures many years of use. Also included are impressive accessories such as powder measure and a tube for a sizing lube purchased separately from other kits.
Highlights
- Super-fast reloading speed.
- Accurate safety tool included.
- Plenty of impressive accessories.
- Extremely cost-effective.
- Accurate and precise powder measure.
- Great design for powder handling system
- Easy to set up and operate.
- Heavy-duty solid cast aluminum construction.
- Reliable performance and highly durable.
- Automatic change turret.
4) RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press
The RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press is well-built, solid, and affordable. Its easy setup and simple operation make it a favorite among reloading beginners and professionals.
The results of this press kit are always impressive, consistent, and highly accurate. This kit features an easy-to-grip handle and is ideal for left- and right-hand users.
It has a large loading window that accommodates larger cartridges while making reloading more efficient. At the bottom of this press kit is a precision machine that allows for the tightest tolerances when reloading.
With the addition of a piggyback 4, this kit can be easily upgraded to a progressive loader. It occupies little space and is lightweight and easy to maneuver around. Being crafted from a cast iron frame, this kit is sturdy, and you can use it for a long time.
Highlights
- Ambidextrous handle design.
- Heavy-duty cast iron frame construction.
- Machined surface for sturdy and tight tolerance during use.
- Easy-use reloader system.
- Highly stable work surface.
- Suitable for loading high-velocity ammo.
- Consistent powder charges.
- Easy to use priming tool.
- Accurate scale.
- Complete accessories for all reloading tasks.
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Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best 223 Reloading Kit
Quality
Reloading press kits are available in a wide range of styles and models. Buying a reloading press kit is an important investment that you’ll be making. You should compare different kits and then go for one made of high-quality and durable materials. Many kits listed above are crafted from sturdy and durable materials to ensure many years of use. They also come with additional accessories that are high quality and durable.
Volume of production
It is also important to consider how much 223 ammunition you want to produce. The production volume largely depends on how much experience you have in reloading and the shooting activity you are engaged in. A progressive press will enable you to produce thousands of rounds every hour. Their downside is that they are quite expensive and would be impractical if you only shoot once a week or after a fortnight. For average shooters, the best option is a turret press that produces 100-500 rounds per hour. Such production is practical and more affordable. You can also equip the turret press with aftermarket accessories to increase production and diversify the calibers.
Price
How much the reloading press costs will largely depend on the type and how much skill you have. Although pricey reloading kits can work better, you can still find a cost-effective kit whose quality performance isn’t compromised. Generally, single-stage presses are the cheapest and the best option for beginners. They are also good at producing highly accurate ammunition. Turret presses are ideal for beginners and pros alike. However, they are more expensive than single-stage presses. The most expensive one is the progressive press. Professionals mainly use such press kits, and they have the highest output. For a beginner, a low-cost single-stage or turret press kit will do.
Brand and warranty
You’ll make a long-term investment when you buy a 223 reloading kit. As with the expensive models, getting one from a reputable brand that also offers a warranty would be best. This way, you are assured that the product is well-made and of good quality. Additionally, look for a brand with a reputation for excellent customers. This way, you’ll receive great feedback if something goes wrong with the kit.
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FAQs on the Best 223 Reloading Kit
1) Which is better, reloaded ammo or factory ammo?
Reloaded ammo is better than factory ammo. Factory ammo can be inconsistent, but when you reload your ammo, you’ll find that you can produce better and more consistent ammunition.
2) What will I need to start reloading my own ammunition?
First, you’ll need a quality reloading kit and correct knowledge of your caliber’s primer options. While reloading is an extensive and strenuous process, you’ll learn how to do it with practice and patience.
3) Which is the ideal place to mount a reloading press?
Mounting your press on a sturdy and stable workbench or table would be best. The workplace area should be spacious enough to allow easy foot and elbow movement. You’ll require plenty of space where you can store all components needed. Also, ensure adequate space above the press, so it can fully extend when needed.
4) What powder is recommended for reloading a .223?
There are a variety of powders produced by Hodgdon that will perfectly suit reloading a 223. One of the most popular is the Hodgdon Varget which is preferred by most shooters for the 223.
Conclusion
Buying 223 rounds becomes expensive, especially if you shoot a lot. Reloading your own 223 ammo is the best way to avoid unnecessary expenditure. While many reloading kits are suitable for the 223, some will perform better than others. All of the kits reviewed above are quality and will give you great value for your money. We hope that you’ll love them too.
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