Tennessee Firearms Assoc. Inc.

I am very new to reloading. Are there manufacturers that make progressive presses that can operate in a single stage mode without having to "rig" it in an unconventional manner?

Most progressive presses will not function well as a single stage. Normally, I suggest that a novice start on a single stage set up, and then graduate to a progressive as their knowledge and proficiency grows. Progressives are set up for feeding projectiles in a different location than deprime and size is staged for.

A quality single stage set up is affordable, and the dies purchased to function will lend themselves to crossover use, so it is not like you can not move them over. Plus for working up loads, a single stage is almost a must. I would suggest both, the single stage first, the progressive to follow.

Do you have any suggestions as to what brand I should buy? I've been told Hornady and Dillon, but I haven't seen a Dillon single stage press for sale.

For single stage, RCBS, Lee, Lyman, Hornady, and Redding are a some of the more recognizable names. Searches of their online sites will afford the user the opportunity to view the different attributes. Each has their died in the wool proponents and detractors. The "Gold Standard" of single stage is the RCBS Rock Chucker, I personally own and use the Redding Boss as I load some larger calibers, and it allows manipulation of those larger cases with more ease. Dillon does not now supply a single stage press.

For what it is worth, I still have the very first press I ever bought, a RCBS JR., it will, and has over the years loaded every caliber that I own, pistol and rifle. It now rides to the range with me for working up loads. Quality presses can be gifted to your grandchildren if properly cared for.

For Progressives, I am a drinker of the Blue Cool aid, (Dillon, their service and warranty are second to none). RCBS and Hornady are the other big names out there.

A single stage such as RCBS is the best way to begin reloading. Mistakes are less likely to happen and easier to correct using a single stage press. Although I use a Dillon progressive for large amounts of 45 acp, I still use the RCBS to develop loads.