Hey folks! If you’re into reloading ammunition, you know how crucial good dies are. They resize cases, seat bullets, and ensure accuracy and safety. But new dies from brands like Redding or RCBS aren’t cheap – from $50-60 for a basic set to $150-200 for premium models with micrometers. What about buying used? I do it often, and today I’ll share why it makes sense, when to take the plunge, and how to minimize issues. I’m keeping it real, no fluff: based on my experience and community feedback. The article is broken down into sections for easy reading. Let’s dive in.
Why Buy Used Reloading Dies?
First off, let’s talk about why you’d even consider second-hand dies. The big draws are saving money and getting access to hard-to-find options. New dies are a solid investment, but if you’re not cranking out thousands of rounds monthly, used can be a smart middle ground.
- Saving Money. The core rule: only buy used if the discount from the new price is 30-50%. Less than that? Not worth the risk. For example, a new Redding Type S for .308 Winchester runs about $100. If you spot a used one on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for $50-70 – grab it if it checks out. For a smaller discount, just pony up for new with full warranty. I always compare prices on sites like MidwayUSA or Brownells to avoid overpaying. Plus, it’s a low-risk way to test a model: if it doesn’t fit your setup, resell it without much loss.
- Access to Rare Calibers. Lots of older or exotic calibers (like .6.5 Carcano or vintage ones for collector guns) aren’t made new anymore. Makers focus on popular stuff like 9mm or .223 Rem. If you need dies for a rare round, used is often your only shot. I once hunted for 6.5 Carcano (an Italian caliber) and Schmidt-Rubin 7.5×55 Swiss – new ones were nowhere, so I snagged used on eBay for half price, and they perform great.
- Tool Durability. Quality dies from Redding, RCBS, or Hornady are built from hardened steel and last through thousands of cycles. If the previous owner didn’t abuse them (like reloading steel cases without lube or dropping them on concrete), a used die will keep going strong. From forums like Reddit’s r/reloading or AR15.com, 80-90% of used dies are in solid shape. The gun community is careful: folks clean, lube, and sell when switching calibers or upgrading.
But remember: it’s always a bit of a gamble. No one can guarantee it’s not worn inside. There’s no perfect way to verify how many rounds it’s seen – sellers often say “barely used,” and you have to take their word.
Hornady .38/.357/.357 Max Reloading Dies 3-Pack
When to Buy Used: Situations Where It Pays Off
Not every scenario calls for used dies. Here’s when it makes sense:
- Tight Budget. If you’re a beginner dipping your toes into the hobby on the cheap, start with used. But stick to common calibers where replacements are easy if something goes wrong.
- Rare Model Needed. As mentioned, for discontinued lines. Check the maker’s site (redding-reloading.com or rcbs.com) to see if they’re still produced. If not, hit the secondary market.
- Know the Seller or Group. In clubs, ranges, or local Facebook groups (like “Reloading Enthusiasts” or area-specific ones), people sell their own stuff. Reputation matters there, so folks are upfront.
- Testing Phase. Want to try a high-end like Redding Competition Seater? Buy used, give it a spin, then decide on new.
Skip used if:
- You reload heavily (thousands yearly) – new for reliability.
- Caliber demands precision (long-range loads) – wear could cause variance.
- You’re inexperienced: Newbies benefit from fresh gear to avoid troubleshooting mix-ups.
How to Buy Used Dies: Step-by-Step Guide
Now the meat: avoiding duds. I shop on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Reddit’s r/reloading, GunBroker, and sometimes Armslist. Here’s my process:
1. Find Reliable Platforms
- Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace: Local deals mean you can meet up and inspect. Search your area to save on shipping.
- eBay: Great for broader options, but vet seller feedback (rating over 98%, 100+ sales).
- Forums and Groups: Reddit’s r/reloading, AR15.com. Lots of pics and discussions there.
2. Vet the Seller
- History: Check sales count and reviews. New sellers? Higher risk.
- Chat: Ask: “How many rounds reloaded? Why selling? Any issues?” Evasive answers? Walk away.
- Reputation: In groups, poll others: “Anyone know this guy?”
- Red Flag: If they say “it was grandpa’s” or “no clue on history” – reliability drops, it’s 50-50. Could be mint, or junk. If they dodge on not reloading themselves, it’s iffy. Real reloaders spill details: cycles run, cleaning routine, case types used.
3. Inspect Before Buying
- Looks: Clean? No rust or thread scratches? Finish (nickel or chrome) even, no bubbles.
- Markings: Check laser engraving – model, caliber, brand. Match it to official site photos (Redding has crisp letters, no blur). Fakes aren’t common, but sometimes old dies get misbranded as another maker – verify engraving and labels.
- Function: At a meetup, bring a press or holder, thread it in. Should go smooth, no play. For seaters, turn the micrometer – easy motion.
- Case Test: If allowed, try a clean case – check entry/exit. No snags?
Forget “receipts” or “proof” – nonsense, no one does that. Trust is key.
4. Warranties and Brands
- RCBS: My top pick for used. Lifetime warranty, no receipt needed – break it, send it, they replace free (even vintage models). I live near Oroville, California, where RCBS is based, and sometimes swing by on hunting trips. Great chats, top-notch customer service – they swap old bad ones for new without hassle. I fixed a press that way – just called.
- Redding: Also lifetime warranty, but prove it’s a defect (not wear). They fix, but not always free on used.
- Others (Hornady, Lee): Shorter coverage, but still viable for used.
5. Price and Risks
- Aim for 50-70% of new. Cheaper? Suspicious.
- Risks: Internal wear (broken expander), misbranding. Minimize by sticking to big brands, not no-names.
- Online: Demand lots of photos, work videos. Use PayPal on eBay for buyer protection.
6. Post-Purchase
- Clean and lube it.
- Test on 10-20 cases: Measure neck diameter, shoulder – consistent?
- Issue? Try returning (tough on Craigslist, but report fakes if misled).
Real-life example: Snagged a used Redding for .223 on Marketplace for $40 (new $80). Seller said “500 rounds,” looked fresh. Been a year – groups are tight. Paid off.
Hornady 2-Die 6.5 PRC Rifle Set
FAQs: Quick Answers
- Used Without Risk? Nope, always some chance, but 90% pan out fine. Community’s honest.
- Die Breaks? RCBS warranty covers. Others: Repair or parts sale.
- Misbranding in Used? Rare, but check markings. Old dies sometimes get swapped labels – verify against official pics.
- Used Cost? $30-100 per set, based on brand and caliber.
- Where to Hunt? Craigslist, Facebook, eBay. Rares: GunBroker or auctions.
Wrapping Up: Buy Smart, Don’t Fear It
Used reloading dies are a killer way to save and score quality, especially with 30-50% off or for rare calibers. It’s a lottery, but vet sellers and inspect to cut risks. Don’t sweat it – reloaders are meticulous, issues are uncommon. Budget allows? Go new for peace. Start local, ask away, and get reloading! Questions? Drop in comments. Good luck at the range!
