Took the plunge into the Dillon Blue Waters

[74_stingray]

My wife has a DAA case feeder on her 550. I did the setup, instructions could use some help, but it's doable. We get a case that falls on occasion, she has a lighter touch than I do and can sense when a case has fallen, I usually don't until I crush the case. We (generally she) load 9mm and .357 on the 550 ( if/when we decide to do other small primer calibers they will be done on the 550). I do all large primers on my 650. Changing primers is not a big deal on the 550 like it is on the 650, but it still is another step to go through in making a caliber change.

One other cautionary note on the case feeder, keep an eye on the feeder tube that is doing feeding, with 9mm they each hold 25 cases and they run out very fast, so watch out that you don't run the tube on empty before changing to the next full tube. We have both done that more times than we want to talk about.

Mike

Thank you for the case feeder information, appreciated.

 

[old codger]

I have the 550. Buy the roller handle from these folks: https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-roller-handle. It is very well thought out makes the operation of the machine better.

 

[PhilC]

shoulda got the 750. i dont load the whole progressive circuit on my 550 anymore because there are not enough die stations to run a powder checker. i seat and then crimp at different stations. 750 has one more station than a 550. its ok- gives you something to look forward to.

I went through the "do I really need a 750" thing when looking to buy a Dillon. Figured for the small difference in price I would eliminate the "damn, I shoulda bought the 750" afterward. No regrets at all.

I have the DAA case feeder, works great and a whole lot less expensive than the powered version which I most certainly do not need.

Edit to add - the LED light and powder cop are worth having, the powder cop has covered my backside more than a time or two.

 

[steve210]

I would suggest that you get some extra primer tubes. I usually will load 400 rds. per setting, takes about an hour, then i refill 4 primer tubes so I'm ready for the next time.

 

[74_stingray]

I would suggest that you get some extra primer tubes. I usually will load 400 rds. per setting, takes about an hour, then i refill 4 primer tubes so I'm ready for the next time.

Thanks, I ordered 4 addition small primer tubes with the order, so far I have only added the equipment for 9mm and 223.

 

[J.d. Popkes]

And a primer tube loader. I like the double alpha. Dillon makes a pricey one too.

 

[KMW 1954]

I do very much enjoy reloading and am retired so it's a good way to stay busy doing something fun.

I was at that point too a few years ago. My solution was I got a PT job working as an RO at a local outdoor range. It's been working out nicely. Get to meet some great people and see some really great hardware! Also the little pay supports my bad shooting habit.

I joke with everyone constantly that "when this becomes a job, I'm done!"..

 

[qec]

Frankford Arsenal also makes a nice primer tube loader. Much cheaper.

 

[Doug Casner]

Ive got a powder check die of somekind. Steel rod goes into the case and checks the level of the charge. Gives you some peace of mind. Doug

 

[Rick in Oregon]

Where my RL550 sits on my bench, the fourescent lighting above shines directly down, and I can plainly see the powder level in the case before it heads to the seating station. Never had a problem, and never have needed additional lighting to see the powder level.

I absolutely LOVE this machine!



I'm now pondering the roller handle......does it really make a difference and worth the cost?

 

[DirtySteve]

You'll love it. I've got two on my bench so I don't have to change primer size. How's that for being lazy!!!

I have to say that is lazy. A two minute change over... That being said I am equally as lazy.. I have two 550's as well for the same reason..

 

[rwj]

I'm now pondering the roller handle......does it really make a difference and worth the cost?

YES!!!

 

[74_stingray]

Where my RL550 sits on my bench, the fourescent lighting above shines directly down, and I can plainly see the powder level in the case before it heads to the seating station. Never had a problem, and never have needed additional lighting to see the powder level.

I absolutely LOVE this machine!



I'm now pondering the roller handle......does it really make a difference and worth the cost?

Nice setup

 

[jk80]

I have to say that is lazy. A two minute change over... That being said I am equally as lazy.. I have two 550's as well for the same reason..

Brothers in arms!!!

 

[G Man]

Be very careful with this new press. I started with one 35 years ago and now have 6 650/750 and a 450 and 2 550 I think I have a problem or just too lazy to do caliber changes Seriously good stuff

 

[74_stingray]

Be very careful with this new press. I started with one 35 years ago and now have 6 650/750 and a 450 and 2 550 I think I have a problem or just too lazy to do caliber changes Seriously good stuff

I sometimes roll the same

 

[hoz53]

Ive got a powder check die of somekind. Steel rod goes into the case and checks the level of the charge. Gives you some peace of mind. Doug

and this not only tells you if there is an over charge it also tellls you if there is no charge rite?

 

[DDRanch]

Looks like Dillon has stopped selling these powder checks. They where pretty pricey, $99.00. plus the pluses.

 

[rwj]

and this not only tells you if there is an over charge it also tellls you if there is no charge rite?

Mine does…

 

[rwj]

Looks like Dillon has stopped selling these powder checks. They were pretty pricey, $99.00. plus the pluses.

This?

Machine Parts | XL750 | Powder Check Assy | Manual Page 65

Individual replacement parts for the XL750 - located on page 65 of the manual. Important Notes: Many or our parts are used across our entire product line. If the part number matches the drawing but the description does not, the part is still the correct part. To order more than one part...

www.dillonprecision.com