Choosing the right reloading press can significantly impact your shooting experience and the efficiency of your hobby. For many, the Dillon brand represents a pinnacle of quality and performance. If you’re considering an upgrade or starting your reloading journey, the Dillon 650 and the newer Dillon 750 are likely at the top of your list.
Both presses are renowned for their durability and capability, but they also possess distinct differences that cater to varying needs and preferences. Understanding these nuances is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your reloading goals and budget.
This comparison dives deep into the Dillon 650 vs 750, exploring their features, benefits, and where each might excel. We’ll help you determine which of these workhorses will best serve your reloading bench.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | dillon 650 | 750 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Steel | Steel |
| Number of Stations | 5 | 10 |
| Automatic Indexing | Yes | Yes |
| Case Feeder Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Bullet Feeder Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Priming System | Dual | Dual |
| Tool Head Swapping | Tool-less | Tool-less |
| Powder Measure | Integral | Integral |
| Spent Primer Catch System | Included | Included |
| Dwell Time Adjustment | No | Yes |
| Case Retention Features | Spring Loaded Pins | Spring Loaded Pins |
| Overall Footprint | Medium | Large |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Capacity
- Dillon 650: Holds 500 bullets in the hopper. This is a substantial capacity, reducing the need for frequent reloads during a long session. However, it can be bulky.
- 750: Holds 300 bullets in the hopper. While smaller, this capacity is still adequate for most reloading sessions and makes the machine more compact.
- Winner: dillon 650
Indexing Mechanism
- Dillon 650: Features a 5-station indexing turret that automatically rotates with each pull of the handle. This provides a smooth and consistent process, reducing the chance of errors.
- 750: Also uses a 5-station indexing turret, but the indexing can be manual or automatic depending on the model and accessories. This offers flexibility but might require more user attention.
- Winner: dillon 650
Case Feeding
- Dillon 650: Utilizes a reliable automatic case feeder as standard. This significantly speeds up the reloading process by automatically feeding cases into the shell plate.
- 750: The automatic case feeder is typically an optional accessory. While effective when installed, it’s an added cost and not inherent to the base model.
- Winner: dillon 650
Priming System
- Dillon 650: Features an integral priming system that is generally reliable and easy to use. It’s designed to be robust for high-volume reloading.
- 750: Offers a priming system that is also effective, but some users report it can be slightly more finicky to set up for different primer sizes compared to the 650.
- Winner: dillon 650
Powder Dispensing
- Dillon 650: Comes with a highly accurate powder measure that integrates seamlessly. It’s known for its consistency and ease of adjustment for different powder charges.
- 750: Also includes a precise powder dispensing system. While good, the Dillon powder measure is often cited as having a slight edge in terms of repeatability and ease of dial-in.
- Winner: dillon 650
Toolhead Design
- Dillon 650: The toolhead design allows for quick changes of dies and setups. This is crucial for switching calibers efficiently.
- 750: Also features a swappable toolhead system for rapid caliber changes. Both are very good in this regard, offering convenience for reloaders with multiple calibers.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality & Durability
- Dillon 650: Renowned for its heavy-duty construction and bomb-proof reliability. It’s built for high-volume, long-term use and is often considered a lifetime investment.
- 750: While well-built and durable, it generally uses slightly lighter materials than the 650. It’s still a very robust machine, but the 650 has a reputation for being exceptionally over-engineered.
- Winner: dillon 650
Price Point
- Dillon 650: Typically has a higher upfront cost due to its advanced features and robust build. This makes it a significant investment for many reloaders.
- 750: Generally more affordable than the 650, making it a more accessible option for those on a tighter budget or looking for a solid entry into progressive reloading.
- Winner: 750
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Speed & Throughput | 750 |
| Versatility (Caliber Changes) | 750 |
| Ease of Use (Beginner) | dillon 650 |
| Durability & Reliability | Tie |
| Advanced Features | 750 |
| Footprint | dillon 650 |
What They Have in Common
- Frame Construction: Both the Dillon 650 and 750 utilize robust steel frames, ensuring stability and durability for years of reloading. This solid foundation is crucial for maintaining consistent accuracy and safe operation.
- Automatic Indexing: A key shared feature is their automatic indexing systems. This means that with each pull of the operating handle, the shell plate rotates to the next station, streamlining the reloading process and significantly increasing throughput.
- Tool-Less Tool Head Swapping: Both machines offer the convenience of tool-less tool head swapping. This allows reloaders to quickly change between different calibers or die sets without the need for specialized tools, making caliber changes much faster and more efficient.
- Integrated Powder Measure: Both presses feature an integrated powder measure, which dispenses powder directly into the case as it moves through the reloading cycle. This design simplifies the reloading sequence and helps ensure accurate powder charges.
- Spent Primer Catch System: A spent primer catch system is included on both models. This feature effectively collects spent primers, keeping your workspace cleaner and making post-reloading cleanup much easier.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Both the Dillon 650 and 750 are compatible with a wide range of Dillon’s popular accessories, such as case feeders and bullet feeders. This allows users to further customize and automate their reloading setup to suit their specific needs.
Dillon 650 Vs 750 Buying Guide
Frame and Construction
The Dillon 650 and 750 share a robust, cast-iron frame, a hallmark of Dillon’s durability. However, the 750 introduces minor aesthetic refinements and potentially slightly tighter tolerances in certain components. For most users, the practical difference in frame rigidity for standard reloading tasks is negligible. Both are built to last for decades with proper care and maintenance, making this a less critical deciding factor for the average reloader. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Toolhead and Die Compatibility
Both the 650 and 750 utilize Dillon’s Quick Change Toolhead system, allowing for rapid caliber changes. The toolheads themselves are largely interchangeable between the two machines. This means if you already own a set of toolheads for your 650, they will work seamlessly on the 750. This standardization significantly reduces the cost of switching calibers or setting up multiple die sets for different ammunition types across either press.
Automation and Features
The primary functional difference lies in the 750’s enhanced automation features. It offers a more refined case feeder with improved reliability and often comes standard with an auto-indexing feature that is more consistent. While the 650 can be retrofitted with many of these upgrades, the 750 presents them out-of-the-box. This translates to potentially faster and more hands-off operation for high-volume reloaders seeking maximum efficiency.
Price and Value Proposition
The Dillon 750 typically carries a higher price tag than the 650. This premium is justified by its slightly more advanced features and potentially more refined components. For a beginner or someone who reloads in moderate quantities, the 650 offers exceptional value and performance. However, for the dedicated reloader who prioritizes speed, automation, and the latest refinements, the 750’s added cost can be a worthwhile investment in their reloading workflow. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy dillon 650 If…
- You are a serious hobby reloader looking for a significant upgrade in speed and efficiency over single-stage presses.
- You primarily reload for a few common calibers and don’t anticipate frequent caliber changes.
- You want a reliable and proven progressive press with a large aftermarket support system.
- Your reloading space is somewhat limited and you prefer a more compact footprint.
Buy 750 If…
- You reload for many different calibers and frequently switch between them.
- You demand the absolute highest level of automation and want to minimize manual intervention in your reloading process.
- You are looking for advanced features like dwell time adjustment for more precise powder dispensing.
- You have the space and budget for a larger, more feature-rich progressive reloading press.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dillon 750 significantly faster than the 650?
While the 750 boasts some automation enhancements like a potentially more reliable case feeder and smoother auto-indexing, the fundamental reloading process remains similar. The perceived speed increase often comes from these refined features reducing manual intervention and potential stoppages. For experienced reloaders, the time saved might be marginal per round but can add up significantly over long reloading sessions, especially with high-volume calibers.
Can I use Dillon 650 dies and toolheads on the 750?
Absolutely. Dillon’s commitment to standardization means that toolheads and dies designed for the 650 are fully compatible with the 750. This is a huge advantage for existing 650 owners looking to upgrade, as they don’t need to repurchase their entire die collection. You can seamlessly transfer your existing setup to the new press, saving both time and money.
What are the main advantages of the 750’s case feeder?
The 750’s case feeder often features improved design elements that lead to greater reliability and fewer jams. This can include better alignment mechanisms and a more robust motor. While the 650’s case feeder is functional, the 750’s iteration aims to provide a more “set it and forget it” experience, reducing the need for frequent manual adjustments or clearing of misfed cases, thus improving overall throughput. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Is the 750 worth the extra cost over the 650 for a beginner?
For a beginner, the Dillon 650 often represents a more accessible entry point into high-quality progressive reloading. It provides all the core functionality needed to produce excellent ammunition efficiently. The 750’s advanced features are more beneficial for reloaders who have already mastered the basics and are looking to maximize speed and minimize manual effort. The 650 offers a fantastic learning curve and exceptional value.
What kind of maintenance is required for both presses?
Both the Dillon 650 and 750 require regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This typically involves wiping down excess lubricant, checking for any loose parts, and applying a light coat of oil to critical moving components. Dillon provides detailed maintenance guides for both presses, and adhering to these recommendations will keep your press running smoothly for years.
Final Verdict
The Dillon 650 and 750 are both exceptional progressive reloading presses, offering unparalleled reliability and performance for their price points. The 750 refines the already excellent 650 with slightly improved automation and features, making it a more user-friendly and potentially faster option for high-volume reloaders. However, the 650 remains a powerhouse, offering incredible value and a near-identical reloading experience for most users. For those prioritizing the absolute latest advancements and a smoother workflow, the 750 takes the lead.
Winner: Dillon 750