Owning a gun and becoming a gun enthusiast is usually an expensive hobby, the cost of purchasing ammunition from stores is not cost-effective in the long run so it is a good idea to start investing in a Progressive Reloading Press.
In this guide, we’ll be explaining what exactly is a progressive press and not only that we will recommend you the finest the market has to offer. We will provide the best progressive reloading presses for any price range so that you can start producing your own ammo without the need of spending hundreds of dollars for boxes of ammunition.
There are an abundance type of reloading machines, ranging from a standard press, single stage press, auto progressive reloading press, lock-n-load auto progressive press, and shell plates. Even auto indexing stations, case feeders, turret presses, priming system, and compound linkage system, are taken into account when looking at the best reloading presses.
Although they do not come cheap, it is a great investment in the long run and we’ll provide you with our top 3 picks and 2 honorable mentions in this article, for each product we will lay out the details so you’ll be able to make an easy decision on what press is right for you.
| Reloading Press | Name | Editor’s Comment | Rating | Get The Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Hornady 3-in-1 Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press | Most Recommended Option 1. All rounded | 10/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | Mec Mayville 9000G Progressive Shotshell Reloader For 12 Gauge | Honorable Mention 1. Specialized in 12 gauge shells | 9.5/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | RCBS Pro Chucker 5 Progressive Presses | 1. Versatile 2. Powder measurement tool to prevent accidental spillage of gunpowder 3. 600 rounds per hour | 9.0/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | LEE LoadMaster Series | 1. Affordable for specific type of ammo 2. Powder measurement tool to prevent accidental spillage of gunpowder 3. 400 rounds per hour | 8.5/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | LEE Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger | 1. Specialized in 9MM ammunition 2. Great if you are on tight budget 3. 500 rounds per hour | 8.0/10 | SHOP NOW |
What are Progressive Reloading Presses?
Progressive Reloading Machines are one of the three different types of reloading presses. They are used to load and assemble bullet cartridges by using materials such as a casing, gunpowder and primer.
All the assembly is done by operating a single lever which would in turn produce up to 5 bullets each crank whilst automatically releasing the completed ammo into a completed round bin. The Progressive Reloading Press is also the fastest in terms of producing ammunition per hour compared to a Single Stage press or Turret press.
They are better suited with experienced hobbyists as it is quite complicated to operate for inexperienced users. However, once you’ve gotten used to it you can produce up to 300 bullets an hour!
The Main Reaosn for A Reloading Press
As stated above, a press reduces the cost of buying ammo by making them yourself. Although a progessive reloading press’ are expensive, they are a great investment for any enthusiast gun owner.
Custom produced ammo are generally more reliable as you can maintain strict quality control which is something a large bullet manufacturer is unable to do. They will also help greatly with increasing your firing accuracy for the same reason that you can control what materials are being used to produce your ammunition.
Important Factors for a Good Progressive Reloading Press
As there are quite a number of Reloading Presses out in the market, it is important to take note of the price, brand and quality of your equipment to ensure that you are able to produce the highest quality ammunition as low-grade ammunition are prone to cause double charges which is dangerous and could damage your gun.
You should also keep note of the type of ammo you are planning to produce as some reloading presses only work on certain ammo types such as rifles or pistol ammo. There are variations where they work for both so do keep a lookout on that when considering buying a reloading press.
Best Progressive Reloading Presses – Our Top Selection
Here’s our top picks for the best progressive reloading press you can get in the market, alongside with 2 honourable mentions because we think the bonus tips would be helpful!
1. Hornady 3-in-1 Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press
The Brand
Hornady progressive press is no stranger to the ammunition production industry growing, it’s roots all the way from Nebraska in 1949. They are a reputable brand with decades old experience. With this experience, they produce equipment of the highest quality which will provide a great peace of mind for the consumer.
They certainly know what they are doing. This product also offers a single stage press. This lock-n-load auto progressive press also comes with a case feeder and an auto disk powder measure, which makes this reloading machine a beast. Not the cheapest but certainly one of the most versatile!
What does it have to offer?
The Hornady Lock and Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press features auto-indexing providing super smooth operation and functioning. They also introduce the EZJect System which provides 100% reliable ejection of each cartridge without any tinkering. It includes a 5 station quick bushing system that allows you to produce up to 600 rounds of ammunition per hour which is a very impressive number.
Hornady also includes a universal case retainer spring which allows for quick and easy removal/insertion of a case in any point of the loading process. It sells optional accessories such as a large capacity cartridge catcher to catch the completed rounds and a deluxe primer catcher which collects decapped primer for future disposal. The lock-n-load progressive press also has a case activated powder drop to manage gunpowder, which is basically the dream for a shooter.
Who is this best suited for?
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant Reloading Press is best suited for gun owners transitioning from stage presses. They are a good transition for people with the other type of reloading presses. This is also for people who demand the best and most reliable product. Beginners should also keep in mind that the shell plate needs to be clean from powder.
The reviews
Most buyers highlight the speed and ease of use of the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant, they commend the quality and have even mentioned the great tech support Hornady provides which ensures there are no hiccups in your setting up process.
What could be improved and why?
One improvement for the lock-n-load auto progressive reloading press can be done on the shell plate sensitivity to gun powder spills as it has a tendency to disrupt the primer feed system which would require you to stop everything to clean up the mess. An added powder measure would also be very useful when it comes to a lock-n-load auto progressive reloading press.
The Bottom Line
As the best progressive press, the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press is in no way cheap but it is definitely a “you get what you paid for” product. However, this is not suited for beginner users as it requires very careful setup as an incorrect setup will result in the equipment not working to its full potential.
This is one of the best progressive presses on the market, ensuring high quality for a progressive reloading machine, and has proven to earn from qualifying purchases. There is definitely no doubt that this is the best progressive press in the market. The auto indexing for this turret press is also a nice touch for a lock-n-load auto progressive reloading press.
2. RCBS Pro Chucker 5 Progressive Presses
The Brand
RCBS founded in 1943 based in California was founded by a fellow gun enthusiast. With years of experience, RCBS is known for its build quality and ease of use of it’s reloaders.
What does it have to offer?
The build quality of the reloading machine is quite solid, it’s lever-action operation makes it easy to operate for even beginners. It features a 5 station automatic indexing system allowing for maximum production which provides a production rate of 600 rounds per hour. It increases its efficiency with a quick change die plate allowing fast caliber change.
Included is a powder measurement tool which helps in preventing accidental spillage of gunpowder. It also offers a stage reloading press and an auto disk powder measure, along with a case feeder, which is an advantage for anyone looking for a quick change in progressive presses.
Who is this best suited for?
This reloading machine is perfect for novice and beginner users alike due to its simple operation, once you’ve tackled the setup process using this reloader should be a breeze. With it’s easily changeable caliber system you produce ammo for a range of rifles and pistols. Beginners with this press should also clean the shell plate often.
What customer reviews say about this product
Many reviewers have stated out that it is quite pleasant to use once you figure out how to fix some issues during setup. The company provides great customer service as well, with one customer being able to receive new parts to replace for their broken ones.
What could be improved and why?
The one complaint about the product is its use of plastic pieces which does not provide long term durability. By replacing these pieces with metal or a longer lasting material, the durability of the Pro Chucker 5 will increase greatly.
The Bottom Line
Voted as one of the best progressive reloading presses, the Pro Chucker 5 is the perfect option for gun owners who do not want to go over the thousand dollar price range but still want a reliable and quick change, this is a great option for people considering an upgrade from a single stage or turret press.
3. LEE LoadMaster Series
The Brand
LEE Precision Inc. based in Wisconsin was founded in 1958, they manufacture top of the line ammunition and have made it their mission to provide gun owners with affordable reloading presses such as the LEE Precision Load-Master series.
The Lee Precision Load Master series provides a range of affordable, highly capable and no compromises presses. Do note that there are different Load-Master variants which you should purchase depending on the type of ammo you want to produce.
What does it have to offer?
The LEE Load-Master series of progressive reloading presses promises a massive press with advanced features at an affordable price. Grease fittings ensure that the press would work for a lifetime for even the commercial reloader.
It has 5 progressive stations paired with an auto-indexing system which allows for an impressive rate of 400 rounds per hour. The caliber can be changed using the removal turret head while the included powder measure system allows for a clean and mess-free workspace with little to no waste.
Who is this best suited for?
The two most popular variants of the Load-Master are the kit for the 223 Remington Rifle and the 9MM pistol. This means it is perfect for game hunters, target shooters and competitive shooters. It is also the perfect option for novice users as it has a very simple press design which is easy to learn to operate.
The quality it provides while being cheap is also enticing for gun owners on a budget. The ability to produce .223 rounds is also perfectly suited for AR-15 rifle owners. Owners who enjoy manual indexing would also enjoy this, however, do keep in mind that the shell plate needs to be cleaned often.
What customer reviews say about this product
Progressive reloading press reviews about this product says how surprised they were in the quality and reliability of the Lee Precision Load Master, it is often compared to higher priced progressive reloading presses although being the better value. There were very few negative reviews and most users were able to set it up with ease and were able to reload their rifle or pistol rounds fairly quickly.
What could be improved and why?
There were reports about the primer system malfunctioning and often labelled as unreliable. If LEE could improve the design of the primer system, the Load-Master will definitely be the King of the budget space. Moreover as a budget option, there aren’t many accessories bundled with it compared to other competitors.
With more accessories and with such a cheap price it will surely gain more popularity and sales. Manual indexing press may be a hassle, shell plates should be improved for more efficient manual indexing.
The Bottom Line
The Lee Load Master series of progressive reloading presses are the best budget option of the bunch, providing great quality and value and promising long term durability and reliable use every day. This is also the recommended option for beginner reloaders as it has a simple design which is easy to set up. The automatic indexing and a priming system is also a nice touch for such impressive progressive presses.
Honorable Mentions
The two remaining recommended Progressive Reloading Presses are still great presses that just didn’t make the cut to our top 3 picks. However, they may be good enough to fit your specific needs and budget.
1. Mec Mayville 9000G Progressive Shotshell Reloader For 12 Gauge
Best Progressive Reloading Press for Shotshells
The Brand
Mayville Engineering Company (MEC) produces a range of the most popular presses for shotshells. Since 1955, they have produced over more than two million reloaders. They strive for quality products and valuing customers by providing the best customer service available. The Mec Mayville 9000G Progressive Shotshell Reloader is the perfect reloader for 12 gauge shotshells.
What does it have to offer?
There aren’t a lot of presses for shotshell ammunition which makes this a more compelling deal for shotgun owners. Hunters and enthusiasts alike will find that this is the perfect reloader for their shotgun ammo.
Promising fast and reliable operation by incorporating advanced technology such as MECs Auto-Dex system which moves shells through each reloading by a turn of a handle it produces accurate resized shells at a fast rate allowing a production rate of eight to ten boxes of shells per hour.
They also offer exclusive Zytel crimp dies which are made of high strength nylon to resist a build up of residue and corrosion which ensures its durability and longevity in the long run.
Who is this best suited for?
As stated, this is one of the top options for hunters and shotgun owners as there aren’t many other brands out there which produce shotshell progressive reloaders of this quality. For hunters, this press would prove to be extremely convenient as they could produce enough shotshells to last an entire hunting season.
What customer reviews say about this product
Overall reviews have commended the Mec Mayville 9000G Progressive Shotshell Reloader as a very reliable reloader. However, there are some reviews which have pointed out the decrease in quality in newer versions of this reloader. However, it is a great reloading press if set up correctly. One reviewer even pointed out that they have been using it for 23 years!
What could be improved and why?
The durability of the newer version of this reloader is in question due to their switch in material on some parts of the reloader. If MEC decides to use steel parts like they used to, this progressive reloader will last much longer.
The Bottom Line
This is definitely the top selection for shotgun owners looking to save money and produce their own shotshells. It is easy to operate once set up and will provide a quick and reliable source of production for your shotshell needs. For safety purposes, users should always check every bullet and powder drop to ensure that they are working properly.
2. LEE Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit For 9MM Luger
Best Progressive Reloading Press for 9MM Bullets
The Brand
We are no strangers to the LEE brand and this reloader follows all of its ideologies, providing us with an affordable and reliable progressive reloader once again. This is one of the most affordable progressive reloading kits for 9MM ammunition in the market. This is another LEE manufactured press, the Pro 1000 Progressive Reloading Kit for 9MM Luger is a formidable competitor to many other reloading presses for 9MM ammunition.
What does it have to offer?
LEE promises quick and easy operation, stating that you only need to place a bullet and pull the lever. It’s improved design introduces better ergonomics for ease of use and better durability. It has 3 stations for production of 3 bullets per pull and has a feature that allows for beginners to learn how to operate it easily by providing an alternate loading sequence that loads only one case at a time.
This progressive reloading press can produce up to 500 rounds per hour. The turret press also includes a priming system and an automatic indexing, which is what made the list for the one of the greatest auto progressive reloading press.
Who is this suited for?
This is definitely a great press for beginners and pistol owners. It is a great budget option whilst providing great build quality and durability. The set up process is relatively easy even for inexperienced users.
What customer reviews say about this product
Customers highlight that it’s high quality and how easy it is to produce ammunition with it. Although some reviewers did say there were some initial minor issues, it is easily mitigated due to it’s simple build. The booklet instructions provided by LEE are also to be commended for their easy to follow instructions.
What could be improved and why?
The primer system in this press is not the best, an improvement to this system will prevent powder from spilling through the primer hole which would reduce the chances of clogging the press. You also need to start refilling the primer at around 15 primers or else there won’t be enough pressure on them in the feeder causing them to not slide into place for loading.
The Bottom Line
We’ve reviewed two LEE progressive reloaders in this article and for good reason, they provide great value without sacrificing in quality. This progressive reloader will satisfy your 9MM ammo needs and it is not difficult to operate with. As with any LEE manufactured progressive reloading machine, the design and build is very simple.
Cut down to it’s bare essentials it is very affordable and some people would find it much more pleasant to use than a more advanced reloading press. The LEE brand of progressive reloading presses are quite popular in the market so it is very easy to find troubleshooting guides online if you ever need it.
Final Verdict
For gun enthusiasts, owning a progressive reloading press is a no-brainer. You save a lot of money by allowing you to create your own ammo instead of purchasing new boxes of ammo which adds up to a very large sum of money spent. Although not cheap, it is a great long term investment for hobbyists.
The durability of these presses ensure that you won’t have to fear the need of them wearing down. They are built to last up to decades of use with good maintenance. If you are a gun owner who uses a lot of ammunition, a single stage or turret reloader won’t do and it is highly recommended that you invest in a progresive reloading press as they can produce up to 500 or even 800 rounds per hour.
Be sure to look over this guide carefully to help you in your decision as it is important for you to pick out the right reloader for your needs. Although they are a great piece of equipment to own, you will also need to prepare yourself for its steep learning curve on how to operate a progressive reloading press. They are harder to operate than stage and turret reloaders. Assembling a progressive reloading press also takes quite some time and an error in the setup process might affect its production rate and efficiency.
Hello there, it’s Michael here. A gun lover since young, served the country for the last 20 years. I started the blog to share my experience and gun-related knowledge accumulated throughout the years. Hopefully, you will find something useful over here or just have fun! You can learn more about me here.