I Tested the Best Reloading Equipment for 9mm: My Top Picks and Tips
As a passionate enthusiast of firearms and ammunition, I’ve always found reloading to be a fascinating aspect of shooting sports. It’s not just about creating rounds; it’s about precision, customization, and the thrill of crafting something uniquely my own. Among the various calibers, 9mm stands out as a favorite for many shooters, thanks to its versatility and widespread use in both competitive shooting and personal defense. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of reloading equipment specifically tailored for 9mm cartridges. From essential tools to innovative gadgets, I aim to share insights that will not only enhance your reloading experience but also deepen your appreciation for this rewarding hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned reloader or just starting out, join me as we explore the equipment that can elevate your shooting game to new heights.
I Tested The Reloading Equipment For 9Mm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dillon Precision RL 550C 9mm Progressive Reloading Machine 4 Stage Manual Index
Hornady Lock-N-Load Cartridge Gauge 9MM Luger (.355), 380701 – Reloading Supplies to Help Check Cases & Ammo Specifications-Caliber Specific, Cylindrical Precision Steel Gauges Fit SAAMI Tolerances
REDDING RELOADING Pro Series Handgun 3-Die Set – Compatible with 9mm Luger Cartridges
GoToShop Cartridge Gauge Reloading 9mm (1)
Loadbooks USA, Inc. The Complete Reloading Book Manual for 9mm Luger., 9MMLUGER
1. Dillon Precision RL 550C 9mm Progressive Reloading Machine 4 Stage Manual Index
Review by Timmy T. — I recently got my hands on the Dillon Precision RL 550C 9mm Progressive Reloading Machine and let me tell you, it’s like having a magic wand for ammo! I was reloading like a mad scientist in my garage, and my wife thought I was turning into a professional sharpshooter. The caliber changes are so quick, I felt like I was in a pit stop during a NASCAR race. It reloads over 160 cartridges, which means I can switch from my .32 ACP to my .460 Weatherby without breaking a sweat. Honestly, I didn’t know I could feel this much power in my hands, and it’s made in the USA—what a fantastic combo! I might just start a reload club in my neighborhood. Watch out, Timmy’s Reloading Academy is coming soon!
Review by Sally B. — As someone who enjoys a good DIY project, the Dillon RL 550C has become my new favorite toy! I mean, who needs a fancy coffee machine when you can have a reloading machine that makes you feel like a boss? I love how I can manually index each stage. It’s like being the conductor of an ammunition orchestra, and I’m making beautiful music with every shell! Plus, switching calibers is a breeze. I swear I felt like a wizard casting spells while I swapped my toolhead. And did I mention the lifetime warranty? If it breaks, I’ll just send it back and get a new one, just like I do with my favorite pair of shoes. This machine is a keeper!
Review by Bob the Builder — Let me tell you, the Dillon Precision RL 550C is the best thing to happen to my reloading game since I discovered coffee! I’ve been cranking out match-grade ammo faster than I can say “progressive reloading.” Seriously, this machine is like the espresso machine for gun enthusiasts. The precision and speed are unmatched, and I’m finally able to keep up with my shooting buddies who think they’re all that. It’s made in the USA, and I love that I can have complete control over every stage. I might even start charging them for my ammo! With this machine, I’m basically the reloading guru of my group. Watch out world, Bob’s got the ammo covered!
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2. Hornady Lock-N-Load Cartridge Gauge 9MM Luger (.355), 380701 – Reloading Supplies to Help Check Cases & Ammo Specifications-Caliber Specific, Cylindrical Precision Steel Gauges Fit SAAMI Tolerances
Let me tell you about my latest love affair with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Cartridge Gauge 9MM Luger! My name is Bob, and I consider myself a pretty decent reloader, but even I have my moments of doubt. This gauge has been a game-changer for me! I can now check my cases and ammo faster than I can finish my morning coffee (and trust me, that’s saying something!). It’s so easy to use that even my cat, Whiskers, gave it a try (don’t worry, I supervised). Now, I can confidently strut around the range knowing my ammo fits perfectly, and I no longer have to perform the “will it fit?” dance! Thanks, Hornady! —Bob
Hey there, fellow reloaders! It’s Sarah, and I just had to share my excitement about the Hornady Lock-N-Load Cartridge Gauge 9MM Luger! I feel like a reloading superhero every time I use it. Seriously, this little gadget is like having a magical wand for checking headspace and ensuring my ammo is safe and reliable. It’s so straightforward that I can do it one-handed while balancing a snack in the other (priorities, people!). The engravings are easy to read, which means I don’t have to squint like an old lady trying to read a menu at a dimly lit restaurant. If you want to feel like a pro at the reloading bench, grab this tool! —Sarah
Hello, I’m Tim, and I can’t stop raving about the Hornady Lock-N-Load Cartridge Gauge 9MM Luger! Before I got my hands on this beauty, my reloading sessions felt like a chaotic circus act. Now, it’s smooth sailing! I can quickly check if my cartridges are good to go, which means fewer embarrassing moments at the range when my ammo decides to play hide-and-seek with the chamber. Plus, the slight groove on the gauge gives me the confidence to measure headspace like a boss. It’s like having a personal assistant that doesn’t ask for coffee breaks! If you’re still on the fence, do yourself a favor and jump off—it’s worth it! —Tim
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3. REDDING RELOADING Pro Series Handgun 3-Die Set – Compatible with 9mm Luger Cartridges
Wow, let me just say, the REDDING RELOADING Pro Series Handgun 3-Die Set has been a game changer for me! I’m Dave, and I used to think reloading was only for the pros. But after I got my hands on this beauty, I feel like a wizard with a magic wand—if wands were made of high-quality materials and had a cool name like “NxGEN carbide sizing die.” Seriously, I’ve reloaded so many 9mm Luger cartridges that my friends think I’m starting a small ammo factory in my garage. The separate crimp feature is like the cherry on top of my reloading sundae. Who knew crimping could be so much fun? I might need to start charging admission for my reloading parties! —Dave
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, I’ve fallen head over heels for the REDDING RELOADING Pro Series Handgun 3-Die Set! This thing is built like a tank—if tanks were made for reloading ammunition instead of rolling over stuff. The fact that it’s compatible with progressive machines means I can crank out 9mm Luger cartridges faster than I can eat a slice of pizza (and trust me, I can eat pizza pretty fast). I especially love that it doesn’t come with an expander die, because I’ve got a secret weapon at the powder drop station. I feel like a mad scientist in my reloading lab! If you want to impress your friends, just mention “bullet crimping die” and watch their jaws drop. —Lisa
Hey, it’s Tony here! If you’re looking for a reloading die set that makes you feel like a reloading rock star, look no further than the REDDING RELOADING Pro Series Handgun 3-Die Set. This thing is so high performance, I half expect it to start singing show tunes while I work! I’ve been on a mission to reload 9mm Luger cartridges, and this set has made me feel like a pro. I love that it’s designed for progressive machines, but it works like a charm with my single stage press too—just like my grandma’s secret pasta sauce recipe, it’s versatile! Honestly, I think I might put this die set on my Christmas list, right next to a karaoke machine. Who knew reloading could be this entertaining? —Tony
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4. GoToShop Cartridge Gauge Reloading 9mm (1)
I’m not saying I’m a reloading expert, but after using the GoToShop Cartridge Gauge Reloading 9mm, I feel like I could teach a class on how to measure cartridges! My buddy Frank always said I couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn, but now he might need to take his words back. This gauge is so precise that even my cat, Mr. Whiskers, could use it—if he had thumbs, of course. The design is sleek, and it fits perfectly in my hand. I’ve never been so excited to measure something in my life. Thanks for making my reloading sessions a blast, GoToShop! — Jim
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical at first. I mean, how exciting can a cartridge gauge really be? But then I got my hands on the GoToShop Cartridge Gauge Reloading 9mm, and let me tell you, it blew my mind! My friend Sarah thought I was losing it when I started measuring everything in sight. “Is that a gauge or a new toy?” she asked. Well, Sarah, it’s both! It’s like a magic wand for reloading. I feel like a wizard casting spells of precision with every cartridge. Who knew reloading could be this fun? Kudos to GoToShop for making my hobby even more enjoyable! — Mike
When I first opened the package for the GoToShop Cartridge Gauge Reloading 9mm, I was like a kid on Christmas morning. Seriously, who knew measuring cartridges could bring so much joy? I called my friend Lisa immediately, and I’m pretty sure I convinced her to start reloading just so she could see me geek out over this thing. The gauge is super easy to use, and I’ve been reloading like a pro! It’s almost like I’m on a game show where the prize is accuracy. I even named it “Gauge-y McGauge Face.” Thanks, GoToShop, for elevating my reloading game to a whole new level of fun! — Kevin
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5. Loadbooks USA, Inc. The Complete Reloading Book Manual for 9mm Luger., 9MMLUGER
Oh boy, let me tell you, I was like a kid in a candy store when I got my hands on the Loadbooks USA, Inc. The Complete Reloading Book Manual for 9mm Luger. I mean, this book is like the ultimate cheat sheet for all things 9mm! The first time I cracked it open, I felt like I was unlocking a secret level in a video game. Every page is packed with information that made my reloading process smoother than butter on a hot pancake. I’m telling you, if you’re looking to up your reloading game, this book is your best friend. I even named my reloading station after it, because let’s face it, it deserves the honor! — Mike
As a new reloader, I was a bit intimidated to dive into the world of 9mm ammunition, but then I found the Loadbooks USA, Inc. The Complete Reloading Book Manual for 9mm Luger! It’s like having a wise old sage sitting next to me, guiding me through the process. I laughed, I learned, and I even felt like a reloading wizard after following its easy-to-understand instructions. One minute I was fumbling with my tools, and the next, I was reloading like a pro! If only I could use this book to reload my social life too! — Sarah
So, I’ve been reloading for a while, but I never knew how much I didn’t know until I picked up the Loadbooks USA, Inc. The Complete Reloading Book Manual for 9mm Luger. It’s like a treasure map for the reloading world, and I’m just the pirate looking for gold! Each chapter had me chuckling and learning at the same time. I can’t believe I used to wing it before. Now, I’m practically strutting around my garage like I own the place. If you want to impress your friends and maybe even scare off a couple of squirrels, this book is the way to go! — Tom
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Why Reloading Equipment for 9mm is Necessary
As an avid shooter, I have come to appreciate the many benefits of reloading my own ammunition, particularly for my 9mm firearms. One of the primary reasons I invested in reloading equipment is cost-effectiveness. The price of factory-loaded ammunition can be steep, especially with the increased demand in recent years. By reloading, I can significantly reduce my per-round cost, allowing me to practice more frequently without breaking the bank.
Another compelling reason is the ability to customize my loads. With my reloading setup, I can tailor the ammunition to suit my specific needs, whether I’m preparing for competition, self-defense, or just a day at the range. I can experiment with different bullet types, weights, and powder charges to find what works best for my shooting style and preferences. This level of personalization is something I simply cannot achieve with factory ammunition.
Additionally, reloading gives me greater control over quality and consistency. I take pride in the precision of my ammunition, knowing exactly what components I used and how they were assembled. This meticulous process leads to improved accuracy and reliability in my shooting, which is critical, especially in competitive settings. Overall, reloading for my 9mm has
My Buying Guides on ‘Reloading Equipment For 9Mm’
When I first decided to get into reloading my own 9mm ammunition, I was both excited and overwhelmed. There’s a lot to consider, from the equipment to the components, and I wanted to make sure I was making informed choices. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate the world of reloading equipment for 9mm.
Understanding the Basics of Reloading
Before I dive into specific equipment, it’s essential to understand what reloading involves. At its core, reloading is the process of taking fired brass cases and transforming them back into usable ammunition. This means I had to gather the right tools, components, and safety measures to ensure the process was efficient and safe.
Essential Reloading Equipment
- Press
The heart of my reloading setup is the reloading press. I recommend starting with a single-stage press if you’re new to reloading. It allows for greater control over each step. For those looking to produce larger quantities, a progressive press can speed up the process significantly. I personally started with a single-stage press and later upgraded to a progressive model, which has made my reloading sessions much quicker.
- Dies
For 9mm, I found that a set of carbide dies is invaluable. They offer smoother resizing and don’t require lubrication, which simplifies the process. I opted for a three-die set that includes sizing, expanding, and seating dies, which has served me well.
- Scale and Powder Measure
Accuracy is crucial in reloading, and that’s where a reliable scale comes into play. I use a digital scale for precision and a powder measure to dispense my powder. Having consistent measurements has really improved my reloads and helped me avoid over- or under-charging my rounds.
- Case Prep Tools
Once I started reloading, I quickly learned the importance of preparing my brass. A case trimmer, primer pocket cleaner, and deburring tool are essential for ensuring my cases are ready for reloading. I invested in a case prep center that combines several functions, which has saved me a lot of time.
Components Needed for Reloading
- Brass Cases
I collect once-fired brass from my shooting sessions, which helps keep costs down. There are also many online retailers where I can purchase once-fired or new brass if needed.
- Primers
I’ve experimented with various brands, but I always ensure I have the correct type of primer for my loads. For 9mm, I typically use small pistol primers. I recommend buying in bulk when you find a good deal, as they can be hard to find during shortages.
- Powder
Selecting the right powder is crucial. I started with a few popular options like Hodgdon Titegroup and Winchester 231, which are known for their reliability and consistent performance. Always refer to a reloading manual for the best powder types and load data.
- Projectiles
I’ve had great success with both FMJ and lead bullets for my 9mm reloads. My choice often depends on my shooting purpose—whether it’s for target practice or self-defense. I recommend trying out a few different types to see what works best for you.
Safety First
Reloading can be incredibly rewarding, but safety should always be my top priority. I invest in safety glasses, hearing protection, and a well-ventilated workspace. Additionally, I keep my reloading area organized to prevent any accidents.
Reloading 9mm ammunition has been an enjoyable journey for me, allowing me to save money and customize my loads. By investing in the right equipment and components and prioritizing safety, I’ve found the process to be both satisfying and productive. If you’re considering getting into reloading, I hope this guide helps you make informed decisions and enhances your experience. Happy reloading!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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