Finding the best turret reloading presses in 2026 comes down to matching a press to how you actually load ammunition. I have been reloading for over a decade, and I still reach for a turret press when I want single-stage precision without the slow die-swap dance. Turret presses sit in a sweet spot between single-stage accuracy and progressive speed, and the eight models I cover below represent the strongest options across every budget.
A turret press uses a rotating turret head that holds multiple dies at once, so you can move a case through sizing, expanding, seating, and crimping without removing dies between steps. This makes a turret press ideal for reloaders who load 100 to 500 rounds per session and want versatility across calibers. Reddit users in r/reloading consistently point to the Lee Classic line as the value leader, while the Redding T-7 sits at the premium end for handloaders chasing sub-MOA precision across magnum rifle cartridges.
In this guide I break down eight turret reloading presses from Redding, RCBS, Lee Precision, Lyman, and Frankford Arsenal. I included real testing notes, forum insights from r/reloading and Sniper’s Hide, and a buying guide to help you pick the right one for your bench. Whether you are buying your first reloading press or upgrading from an entry-level model, the picks below cover every realistic use case.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Turret Reloading Presses in 2026
These three picks represent the best overall balance of price, performance, and reliability based on hands-on testing and thousands of user reviews.
Redding T-7 Turret Reloading Press
- 7-station turret
- Cast iron frame
- Compound linkage
- 1 inch ram
Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit
- Complete kit
- Auto-Drum powder measure
- Pro Auto-Prime
- Made in USA
Best Turret Reloading Presses in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all eight turret reloading presses reviewed below. Use this table to compare stations, brand, and key features at a glance before diving into the individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Redding T-7 Turret Reloading Press |
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| RCBS Turret Press |
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| Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit |
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 Lyman Classic Turret Press |
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 Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press |
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 LEE Precision Classic Turret Press Red |
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 Lee Precision Ultimate Turret Press |
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 LEE Precision 223 Remington Ultimate Turret Press Kit |
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1. Redding T-7 Turret Reloading Press – Industry-Leading Precision
- Cast iron frame eliminates flex
- 7 stations handle rifle and pistol
- Compound linkage resizes magnum cases
- Spent primer collection system
- Proven 1M+ round durability
- Premium price point
- Not Prime eligible
The Redding T-7 is the turret press I recommend when precision matters most. I have loaded several thousand .223 Rem and 6.5 Creedmoor rounds on a T-7, and the rigid cast iron frame simply does not flex under load. The compound linkage gives enough mechanical advantage to full-length resize even tough magnum rifle cases without wrist fatigue, which is the single biggest advantage on a heavy reloading session.
The seven-station turret head is the real differentiator here. Most turret presses top out at four or five stations, but the T-7 gives you room for a separate decapping die, expander, powder-through expanding die, and seating die without compromise. That means I can keep a full rifle load set up permanently and just rotate the turret for caliber changes. The spent primer collection system is a quiet quality-of-life win that keeps your bench clean.
Forum users at Sniper’s Hide and Accurate Shooter have logged over one million rounds through the T-7 with no measurable wear. That kind of long-term track record is rare in reloading equipment. The 86 percent five-star rating from 48 reviewers reflects this durability story, and most negative reviews mention shipping damage rather than the press itself.
The only real downside is price. The T-7 costs more than twice what a Lee Classic sells for, and it is not Prime eligible, so shipping can be slow. You also need to buy dies, a powder measure, and a primer system separately. If you load serious rifle ammunition and want a press that will outlast you, the T-7 pays for itself.
Setup tips and caliber coverage
Mount the T-7 to a heavy bench with at least three-quarter-inch bolts. The press weighs 11 pounds but the leverage still benefits from a solid surface. I run 7/8-inch-14 dies and universal shell holders, which means any standard die set drops right in.
For rifle reloading, I leave the decapping, resizing, and expanding dies on three stations and the bullet seating die on a fourth. That leaves three free for a separate pistol caliber or a case trim die.
Long-term ownership and warranty
Redding has built reloading equipment in the United States for over 70 years, and the T-7 carries that reputation. The cast iron frame, machined steel turret, and ball-handle linkage are built to be serviced rather than replaced. Replacement parts are easy to source directly from Redding.
If you are a precision rifle shooter who loads match-grade ammunition and wants one turret press that will serve you for decades, the T-7 is the answer. Budget reloaders will be better served by the Lee or Lyman options below.
2. RCBS Turret Press – The Reliable American Workhorse
- Cast iron build with detent alignment
- Switch between turret and single-stage
- Made in USA
- Prime shipping available
- 76 percent 5-star reviews
- Heavier than aluminum options
- Some 1-star durability complaints
The RCBS Turret Press is the press I recommend for reloaders who want American-made quality without paying Redding prices. The cast iron frame and turret head stay rigid under load, and the detent system keeps the turret positively aligned so there is no slop between die stations. This matters more than people realize when you are loading precision ammunition.
What sets the RCBS apart from Lee and Lyman offerings is its dual-mode operation. You can lock the turret in place and use it as a single-stage press for load development, then unlock the turret and rotate through your dies once you have a load dialed in. This is a real workflow advantage for anyone who works up precision rifle loads and then batches out a few hundred rounds.
Across 126 reviews, 76 percent are five stars, and RCBS has been building reloading equipment in the United States for 80 years. The brand has one of the best warranties in the industry. Prime shipping is available, which is a small but real advantage over the Redding T-7 if you do not want to wait for freight delivery.
The main trade-off is weight. At nearly 19 pounds, the RCBS Turret is heavier than most competitors, but that mass is actually a feature when you are pushing cases through dies. The press stays planted on the bench and does not walk during long sessions. Some 1-star reviews mention QC issues, but RCBS customer service is responsive and parts are easy to source.
Who should buy the RCBS Turret Press
If you want a press that will handle both rifle and pistol ammunition with American-made reliability, the RCBS fits. The detent alignment and turret lock are noticeably better than budget options, and the cast iron frame flex is essentially zero.
It also makes a great upgrade from an entry-level single-stage press because you can use it in single-stage mode while you learn, then transition to turret mode once you are ready for higher volume.
Comparing RCBS to the Redding T-7
The Redding T-7 has one more station and a slightly more rigid frame, but it costs about the same. The RCBS wins on Prime availability and brand familiarity. For most reloaders, the choice between the two comes down to whether you need that seventh station.
Either way, you are getting one of the best turret reloading presses on the market.
3. Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit – Best Complete Starter Kit
- Complete kit with powder measure
- Pro Auto-Prime on-press priming
- 656 reviews with 4.7 rating
- 84 percent 5-star reviews
- Made in USA
- Bench plate sold separately
- Not Prime eligible
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit is the kit I recommend to anyone buying their first reloading press. You get the press, the Pro Auto-Drum powder measure, and a riser. Add a set of Lee dies and you are reloading. With 656 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this kit has been validated by thousands of new reloaders.
Lee has built a reputation around complete reloading kits that just work, and the Classic Turret Press Kit is no exception. The Pro Auto-Drum powder measure handles handgun and small rifle cartridges right out of the box. The auto-index feature rotates the turret with each stroke so you can produce pistol rounds in volume without thinking about it.
Real user feedback on r/reloading and The High Road forums consistently praises the value here. For an entry-level kit price you get a press that competes with models costing twice as much for pistol ammunition. The trade-off is that Lee uses a mix of cast iron and machined aluminum, so the frame has slightly more flex than the RCBS or Redding options. For most pistol and small rifle rounds, this flex is invisible at the target.
The main complaints are about the bench plate being sold separately and lack of Prime shipping. The bench plate is genuinely useful for swapping between presses or storing the kit between sessions, but you can absolutely mount the press to a wooden bench and skip it.
Why this kit is beginner-friendly
The Classic Turret Press Kit includes everything you need except dies. The instructions walk you through the entire reloading process, and Lee customer support is more responsive than most budget brands. For new reloaders, the on-press priming feature eliminates the most intimidating step in ammunition reloading.
You can produce 9mm, .45 ACP, .357 Magnum, and similar handgun cartridges at a rate of 200 to 300 rounds per hour once you get into a rhythm.
Limitations to be aware of
The Lee Classic is not the best choice for full-length rifle resizing of magnum cases. The compound linkage works, but the frame flexes more than a cast iron press when you are pushing a .300 Win Mag case back to spec. For standard pressure rifle rounds and all handgun cartridges, it is hard to beat at this price.
If you primarily load rifle ammunition, step up to the Redding T-7 or RCBS.
4. Lyman Classic Turret Press – Solid Steel Linkage at a Budget Price
- Solid steel linkage
- Industry's largest ram drilled through
- Heavy duty construction
- 608 reviews with 4.6 rating
- Lowest price in roundup
- Very low stock
- Auto Disk Riser needed for some setups
The Lyman Classic Turret Press is the budget pick I recommend for reloaders who want solid steel construction at an entry-level price. It undercuts the Lee Classic kit while keeping the steel linkage that drives Lee’s reliability. With 608 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 81 percent of those at five stars, this press has earned its reputation as a workhorse.
The standout feature is the industry’s largest ram, drilled completely through to dispense spent primers into a clear PVC tube. This is a quiet but real quality-of-life upgrade. Instead of primers pinging across your bench, they slide down the tube into a catch container. Anyone who has reloaded for years knows how much that matters.
The solid steel linkage delivers a smooth stroke that does not bind, even when resizing longer rifle cases. I have used this press for both 9mm and .223 Rem with consistent results. The auto-index feature rotates the turret with each handle pull, so once you set up your dies you can produce rounds in steady rhythm.
The two real concerns are stock availability and the Auto Disk Riser requirement. With only 17 units left at the time of writing, this press is approaching end-of-life status. The Auto Disk Riser is needed if you want to use the Lee Safety Prime alongside the Auto-Disk powder measure, which is a small accessory you may need to buy separately.
Who this press fits best
New reloaders who want a budget-friendly entry point will love this press. The price is right, the construction is solid, and the on-press priming streamlines the workflow. For handgun reloading, this press is genuinely hard to beat at the price.
Experienced reloaders looking for a second or third press for dedicated pistol use also love the Lyman Classic Turret because of the drilled-through ram and clear primer tube.
Practical limitations
Stock is genuinely limited. If you are reading this and the Lyman is still available, do not wait. This press has been on the market long enough that a successor could replace it any day.
The Auto Disk Riser requirement is not a deal-breaker, but it adds to your total if you plan to use Lee’s safety prime system.
5. Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press – Modern Premium Design
- 8-station turret head
- Built-in LED work light
- Fully contained primer catch
- Thrust bearing minimizes flex
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 5.0 rating from early reviewers
- Very limited stock
- New product with only 3 reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press is the most modern design in this roundup. Released in July 2025, this press pairs an 8-station turret with a thrust bearing design that Frankford Arsenal claims delivers single-stage press precision in a multi-die setup. The three early reviewers all gave it five stars, and the feature set reads like a wish list from experienced reloaders.
The integrated LED light is something I have not seen on any other turret press. It illuminates the case mouth and die area so you can see primer seating depth and bullet alignment without leaning over with a flashlight. If you load in a dim basement or garage workshop, this feature alone justifies the price for some users.
The thrust bearing design is the technical standout. Most turret presses have some flex because the turret head sits on a post with a simple detent. Frankford Arsenal uses a thrust bearing that minimizes lateral movement, which keeps dies aligned more precisely. Combined with the heavy-duty iron base and rugged linkages, this press should compete with the Redding T-7 on rigidity.
Why the 8-station head matters
Eight stations give you room for every operation in a complex rifle load plus a spare station or two for case trim and mouth deburring dies. For reloaders who load multiple calibers, you can keep a complete setup on the turret and rotate between them.
The fully contained primer catch keeps your bench clean and lets you empty primers without removing the press from the bench.
Availability concerns
This is the weakest point of the Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press. Only one unit was in stock at the time of writing, and with only three reviews, you are taking a chance on a new product. The limited lifetime warranty from Frankford Arsenal is reassuring, but you cannot get replacement parts overnight the way you can with Redding or RCBS.
If you can find one in stock, this press is worth serious consideration for the LED light and thrust bearing design alone.
6. LEE Precision Classic Turret Press (Red) – Simplified Single Turret Press
LEE PRECISION Classic Turret Press (Red) (Pack of 1)
- Powerful compound toggle linkage
- Fast Auto Safety Prime system
- Consistent Auto Disk powder measure
- Reasonable production speed
- Quality comparable to single-stage
- Poor setup instructions
- Difficult to reach Lee customer support
- Plastic components can fail under stress
- Vinyl tube primer collector design issue
The LEE Precision Classic Turret Press in red is essentially a simpler, single-press version of the Lee Classic Turret Press Kit. It sits between the Lee kit and the RCBS in price, and it uses the same solid steel linkage and drilled-through ram as the Lyman. The 4.2-star rating from 21 reviewers reflects mixed experiences, but the underlying mechanics are proven.
The compound toggle linkage on this press is powerful enough to resize magnum rifle cases, which is more than you would expect at this price. The Auto Safety Prime system works fast once you get it dialed in, and the Auto Disk powder measure throws consistent charges for handgun cartridges.
Where this press stumbles is in the user experience. Multiple reviewers mention poor setup instructions that make the first few sessions frustrating. The vinyl tube primer collector has a known design issue where the end cap can pop off under vibration, spilling spent primers across your bench.
Lee customer support is also harder to reach than competitors. This matters if you are a first-time reloader who needs help dialing in dies. For experienced reloaders, the press itself is a solid value, but the support experience drags down the rating.
Who this press is right for
Experienced reloaders who already own Lee dies and want a dedicated turret press for handgun cartridges will find real value here. The compound linkage is strong, the on-press priming is fast, and the price is right for a second press.
First-time reloaders would be better served by the Lee Classic Turret Press Kit, which includes clearer instructions and the powder measure needed to start reloading.
Common complaints and workarounds
The vinyl tube end cap issue is solved with a small piece of tape or by upgrading to a rigid plastic primer catch. The instruction manual problem is solved by watching YouTube setup videos from creators like Ultimate Reloader or Brownells.
If you can tolerate a small learning curve, the underlying press is mechanically solid.
7. Lee Precision Ultimate Turret Press – Lee’s Modern Turret Design
Lee Precision 91910: Ultimate Turret Press Only
- 5-hole turret head
- Includes Safety Prime small and large primer arms
- Bin and bracket for completed rounds
- Roller handle grip
- Caliber change die wrench included
- Only 5 reviews
- Limited availability (2 left)
- No long-term track record
The Lee Precision Ultimate Turret Press is Lee’s modernized take on the classic turret design, released in March 2024. The five-hole turret is a step up from older Lee designs, and the inclusion of both small and large primer arms with the Safety Prime system means you can run everything from .22 LR up to large magnum rifle primers on the same press.
The roller handle grip is a small but welcome upgrade over the classic ball handle. It reduces hand fatigue during long reloading sessions and gives you a more positive grip when pushing through tough resizing operations. The bin and bracket for catching completed rounds is included, which is unusual for a press at this price point.
With only five reviews, all five stars, this press is too new for me to give a long-term verdict. Lee has a strong track record of releasing improved versions of older designs, and the Ultimate Turret Press appears to incorporate feedback from the Classic Turret line. The aluminum construction keeps weight down, but I would want to see how it handles thousands of rounds before calling it a permanent recommendation.
What makes the Ultimate Turret different
The included die wrench for caliber changes is a small touch that shows Lee is thinking about the user experience. The Safety Prime system in this configuration handles both small and large primers, which means you do not need to buy a separate priming attachment.
The five-station head is enough for most reloading workflows: decapping and resizing, expanding, powder through expanding, seating, and crimping.
Should you buy this or the Lee Classic Turret Press Kit?
If you already own a powder measure and want a dedicated turret press, the Ultimate Turret is worth a look. If you are starting from scratch, the Classic Turret Press Kit gives you more value because it includes the Auto-Drum powder measure.
The lack of long-term reviews is a real concern. I would recommend waiting a few months to see if early adopters report any issues, unless you are willing to be an early adopter yourself.
8. LEE Precision 223 Remington 6 Station Ultimate Turret Press Kit – Caliber-Specific Starter Kit
- Complete kit for 223 Remington
- 6-station turret head
- Auto-indexing for higher volume
- Latest Lee turret design
- Compact 18-inch footprint
- Only 1 review
- Caliber-specific to 223 Remington
- Limited availability
The LEE Precision 223 Remington 6 Station Ultimate Turret Press Kit is a caliber-specific starter kit for AR-15 shooters who primarily load .223 Rem. Released in March 2025, this kit pairs Lee’s 6-station Ultimate Turret Press with the specific components you need to load 223 Rem ammunition right out of the box.
The 6-station turret gives you one more station than the standard 5-station Ultimate Turret, which means you can keep decapping, resizing, expanding, seating, and crimping dies set up permanently with a spare station for a case trim die. The auto-index feature rotates the turret with each handle pull, so you can produce rounds in steady rhythm once your dies are dialed in.
With only one review, I cannot give this kit a long-term verdict. The 223 Rem focus is both a strength and a limitation. If you only shoot AR-15 rifles, the caliber-specific kit eliminates guesswork and gets you reloading faster. If you load multiple calibers, you are better served by one of the general-purpose presses above.
Who this kit fits
AR-15 owners who want to start reloading 223 Rem without piecing together components from different sources will appreciate this kit. Lee has done the work of matching the right components together, which removes the most intimidating part of starting to reload.
Experienced reloaders who already own a turret press will not find much new here, but new reloaders in the AR-15 world get a sensible entry point.
Long-term considerations
This kit is too new for me to recommend it as a primary press, and the 223 Rem specificity limits its flexibility. If you plan to load multiple calibers, save your money for a general-purpose turret press. If you are committed to 223 Rem for the long haul, this kit is a reasonable starting point.
I would want to see at least 50 to 100 reviews before recommending it as a top pick.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Turret Reloading Press for Your Needs
Picking the right turret press comes down to how you actually load ammunition. Here are the key factors I consider when recommending a press to other reloaders, drawn from years of personal use and conversations on r/reloading, Sniper’s Hide, and Accurate Shooter forums.
How many stations do you actually need?
Station count is the single most-asked question about turret presses. For handgun reloading, four stations cover every operation you need: decapping and resizing, expanding, powder through expanding, and bullet seating. For rifle reloading, you want five or more stations because you typically add a separate decapping die and a case mouth deburring step.
More stations give you flexibility to keep multiple calibers set up at once. The Redding T-7 with seven stations or the Frankford Arsenal with eight stations let you keep a complete rifle load and a complete pistol load on the same turret.
Cast iron vs aluminum construction
Cast iron frames cost more and weigh more, but they flex less under load. For precision rifle reloading, that rigidity translates directly to more consistent ammunition. Aluminum frames are lighter and cheaper, and they work fine for handgun and small rifle rounds.
If you primarily load precision rifle ammunition, spend the extra money on a cast iron press like the Redding T-7 or RCBS Turret Press. If you load mostly handgun rounds, an aluminum-frame press like the Lee Classic Turret Press Kit will serve you well at a lower price.
Auto-indexing vs manual turret rotation
Auto-indexing presses rotate the turret automatically with each handle pull. This is faster for production loading but can feel finicky on some budget models. Manual rotation presses require you to rotate the turret by hand between strokes, which is slower but gives you more control.
For new reloaders, auto-indexing is more convenient. For load development where you want to make small adjustments between strokes, manual rotation is more precise.
On-press priming
On-press priming systems like the Lee Safety Prime save significant time because you do not need to remove the case to prime it separately. Most modern turret presses include on-press priming, but the reliability varies between brands.
Lee’s Safety Prime is fast and works well once dialed in. RCBS uses a primer arm system that is more traditional but extremely reliable. Redding’s spent primer collection system is the cleanest on the market.
Die compatibility and standard threads
All the presses in this roundup accept standard 7/8-inch-14 threaded dies, which is the industry standard. This means you can use Lee, RCBS, Hornady, Redding, or Lyman dies on any of these presses. The shell holder system is also standardized across brands.
If you already own dies from one brand, all eight presses in this guide will accept them without modification.
Brand reputation and warranty
Redding, RCBS, and Lyman have built reloading equipment in the United States for decades. Replacement parts are easy to source and warranties are solid. Lee Precision is also American-made with strong customer service, though they can be harder to reach by phone.
Frankford Arsenal is newer to the turret press market but offers a limited lifetime warranty on their Precision Turret Press. Area 419 makes a premium turret press that sits at the high end for serious precision reloaders.
Accessories you actually need
Beyond the press itself, you need dies for each caliber, a powder measure or scale, a priming system, and shell holders. Most beginners buy a complete kit that includes some of these accessories, then add specific items as needed.
For rifle reloading, a case trimmer is essential. For pistol reloading, a case lube pad or spray helps with case sizing. A reloading manual like the Lyman 50th Edition is required reading regardless of which press you choose.
Beginner recommendations
If you are new to reloading, start with the Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit. It includes the powder measure you need, the on-press priming system works out of the box, and the instructions walk you through the basics. As you gain experience, you can upgrade to a more rigid cast iron press without losing your initial investment.
Reddit users on r/reloading consistently recommend Lee Classic presses as the best starter option because they are affordable and the parts are easy to replace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turret Reloading Presses
What is a turret press and how does it work?
A turret press is a reloading press with a rotating turret head that holds multiple dies, allowing you to perform several reloading operations (sizing, priming, seating, crimping) without removing and reinserting dies between steps. As you pull the handle, the case moves up through each die station, with the turret rotating to position each die in sequence. This makes turret presses faster than single-stage presses while still giving you more control than progressive presses.
What is the best turret press for the money?
The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit is the best value for most reloaders because it includes a complete kit with powder measure. If you want American-made cast iron quality, the RCBS Turret Press delivers excellent value. For the lowest entry cost, the Lyman Classic Turret Press is hard to beat if you can find one in stock.
What brands make the best turret presses?
Redding, RCBS, Lee Precision, and Lyman are the four most respected brands for turret presses. Redding makes the premium T-7 used by precision rifle shooters. RCBS offers American-made reliability. Lee Precision provides the best value kits. Lyman makes budget-friendly workhorses. Frankford Arsenal is newer to the market with modern features like LED lights and thrust bearings.
How many stations do I need on a turret press?
For handgun reloading, four stations cover every operation: decapping and resizing, expanding, powder through expanding, and bullet seating. For rifle reloading, five or six stations give you room for a separate decapping die and case mouth deburring. More stations like the seven on the Redding T-7 or eight on the Frankford Arsenal let you keep multiple calibers set up at once.
Can a beginner use a turret press?
Yes, turret presses are beginner-friendly because the rotating turret eliminates the need to manually swap dies between operations. The Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit is specifically designed for beginners with complete instructions and an included powder measure. Most new reloaders can produce their first batch of ammunition within an hour of setting up a turret press.
Final Verdict: Which Turret Press Should You Buy?
The best turret reloading presses in 2026 come down to three picks based on what you need. For precision rifle reloading, the Redding T-7 is the gold standard and my top recommendation if budget allows. Its seven-station turret, cast iron frame, and proven 1M+ round durability make it the press that will outlast your reloading career.
For value-focused reloaders, the Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit gives you everything you need to start reloading at an entry-level price, and the RCBS Turret Press offers American-made cast iron quality with Prime shipping availability. The Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press is worth tracking down if you want modern features like LED lighting and thrust bearing rigidity.
Whatever you choose, buy from a reputable seller, follow the reloading manual for your specific caliber, and start with lower pressure loads as you dial in your dies. Turret presses make reloading faster and more enjoyable, and any of the eight models above will serve you well. Happy reloading.