The Dillon Square Deal B 9mm is a popular choice among reloaders, known for its speed and efficiency. But is it the right press for you? This in-depth review will explore the pros and cons, helping you decide if the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm is the perfect addition to your reloading bench.
What is the Dillon Square Deal B?
The Dillon Square Deal B is a single-stage reloading press, specifically designed for handgun ammunition. Unlike progressive presses, it completes one step of the reloading process at a time. While this might seem slower, it offers several advantages, particularly for beginners and those prioritizing accuracy and control. The "B" designation simply indicates that it's compatible with the standard Dillon shell plates and tools. This means you can easily adapt it for various calibers, increasing its versatility over time, should your reloading needs evolve.
Pros of the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm
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Ease of Use: The Square Deal B is renowned for its user-friendliness. The straightforward design and clear instructions make it ideal for beginners. The simple operation reduces the learning curve significantly, allowing you to start reloading quickly.
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Accuracy and Control: The single-stage process ensures precise control over each step. This minimizes the risk of errors and guarantees consistent, high-quality ammunition. You're in complete command of each case throughout the entire reloading process.
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Affordable Price Point: Compared to progressive presses, the Square Deal B offers excellent value for money. It's a significant investment for any reloader, but its cost-effectiveness is a strong selling point.
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Durable Construction: Dillon presses are known for their robust build quality. The Square Deal B is no exception; its solid construction promises years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.
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Versatility (with shell plate changes): Although primarily focused on handgun calibers, the ability to swap shell plates opens the door to reloading a variety of cartridges. While you'll need to purchase the appropriate shell plates separately, this versatility enhances the press's overall value.
Cons of the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm
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Speed: As a single-stage press, it's naturally slower than progressive presses. High-volume reloaders might find this limiting, especially when producing large batches of ammunition.
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Requires More Effort: The manual operation demands more physical effort than an automated progressive press. This can be tiring during extended reloading sessions.
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Separate Steps: Each step (resizing, priming, powder charging, seating the bullet) requires a separate tool and step which, while ensuring precision, increases the overall reloading time.
Is the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm Right for You?
The suitability of the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm depends largely on your reloading needs and preferences. If you:
- Are a beginner: Its ease of use and accuracy make it an excellent choice for learning the craft.
- Prioritize accuracy and control: The single-stage process ensures precision, crucial for those who demand high-quality ammunition.
- Reload in moderate volumes: It's ideal for those who don't need to produce large quantities of ammunition.
- Value durability and longevity: The robust construction guarantees years of reliable service.
Then, the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm is likely a good investment. However, if you:
- Need to reload large quantities of ammunition quickly: A progressive press would be significantly more efficient.
- Prefer automated processes: A progressive press would require less physical effort.
Then, you might want to consider a different type of press.
Conclusion
The Dillon Square Deal B 9mm is a reliable, accurate, and user-friendly single-stage press. Its ease of use, durability, and affordable price make it a compelling choice for many reloaders. However, it's crucial to consider your specific needs and reloading volume before making a purchase. Weighing the pros and cons carefully will help you decide if the Dillon Square Deal B 9mm is the perfect fit for your reloading journey.
