Let’s Talk About Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug
For years, I’ve chased the ultimate in precision reloading, seeking to wring every last bit of accuracy out of my handloads. That journey has led me to explore countless tools and techniques, and recently, it brought me to the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug. From Redding Reloading, a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment, this tool promised enhanced precision and ease of use, especially when dealing with the finicky nature of VLD (Very Low Drag) bullets.
I had grown tired of inconsistent seating depths with my standard seating dies, a problem that became particularly acute when I started experimenting with high-BC VLD bullets for long-range target shooting. These bullets, with their long, pointed profiles, are extremely sensitive to seating depth variations. I hoped the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug would provide the fine-tuning I needed to achieve consistent, repeatable results.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug arrived in a simple, functional package. The fit and finish were immediately impressive; the micrometer felt solid and well-machined in hand. The VLD seating plug looked precisely crafted, designed to cradle the delicate ogive of VLD bullets without causing deformation. It felt heavier and more substantial than the generic seating stems I’d used before.
I considered the Forster Ultra Micrometer Seater Die and the Hornady Custom Grade Bullet Seater Die, but I already owned a Redding Competition Seating Die. The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug promised to upgrade my existing setup, and the positive user reviews swayed me toward this add-on. Upgrading seemed more economical than replacing the entire die.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this relatively simple tool really deliver the dramatic improvements in seating consistency I was hoping for? Only time, and a lot of careful reloading, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug primarily at my reloading bench, preparing ammunition for a long-range shooting competition. The conditions were typical of my garage – well-lit but prone to temperature fluctuations. I loaded 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges with 140-grain Hornady ELD Match bullets.
The initial setup was straightforward. I replaced the standard seating stem in my Redding Competition Seating Die with the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug. The micrometer adjustments were smooth and precise. The VLD seating plug gently contacted the bullet ogive without leaving any marks. The process was simpler than anticipated.
After the first few rounds, I experienced slightly improved consistency in seating depth, as measured with my digital calipers. There were no unexpected issues during the initial loading session, and the tool felt comfortable and intuitive to use. The micrometer adjustments provided finer control than my previous methods.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my reloading setup. It consistently produces more uniform seating depths. There are no signs of wear and tear on the tool, despite its frequent use.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is easy to clean with a quick wipe-down after each reloading session. I occasionally apply a drop of light oil to the micrometer threads to ensure smooth operation. Maintaining the tool has been a breeze.
In comparison to my previous experience with standard seating stems, the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug has noticeably improved the consistency of my handloads. The increased precision has translated to tighter groupings at the range, exceeding my initial expectations. My standard deviations have dropped noticeably, especially with VLD bullets.
Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug
Specifications
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is designed for universal caliber compatibility. It is made by Redding Reloading. It comes in a quantity of one.
The tool features fine adjustment increments of one thousandth of an inch, allowing for extremely precise bullet seating depth adjustments. The micrometer is marked in both inches and millimeters for added convenience. The VLD (Very Low Drag) seat plug is specifically designed to accommodate the pointed profiles of VLD bullets without damaging their delicate ogives. This is crucial for maintaining ballistic coefficient and accuracy.
These specifications are critical for achieving consistent bullet seating depths. The fine adjustment increments allow for precise tuning of handloads. The VLD seating plug is essential for preventing bullet deformation. This ensures uniform ballistic performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug performs its job exceptionally well. It provides repeatable and consistent bullet seating depths. This directly translates to improved accuracy and reduced velocity spreads.
The main strength of the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is its ability to fine-tune bullet seating depths with extreme precision. The only minor improvement I would suggest is clearer markings on the micrometer sleeve for easier reading. However, this is a minor quibble.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug meets and exceeds my expectations. The consistent results and improved accuracy are well worth the investment. My group sizes have shrunk significantly, especially at longer ranges.
Design & Ergonomics
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is constructed from high-quality materials. It feels solid and durable in hand. The weight is appropriate for a precision tool.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The micrometer adjustments are intuitive. Anyone familiar with reloading equipment will find it easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest a long service life. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Maintenance is straightforward. The tool can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning. Replacement parts are readily available from Redding Reloading should they ever be needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug comes with a nut and spacer set. This allows the spacers to be set anywhere in the seating dies if a close fitting cylinder is not desired. It is designed as an upgrade for existing Redding Competition Seating Dies.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is compatible with a wide range of bullet calibers. There are no specific customization options beyond the included spacer set. The primary function of the tool is to enhance the precision of bullet seating depth.
Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat PlugPros
- Provides extremely precise and repeatable bullet seating depths. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced velocity spreads.
- The VLD seating plug prevents bullet deformation, particularly with high-BC VLD bullets. This maintains ballistic coefficient and ensures consistent performance.
- Easy to install and use, with intuitive micrometer adjustments. Even novice reloaders can quickly master the tool.
- Durable construction from high-quality materials ensures a long service life. This is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
- Compatible with a wide range of bullet calibers and designed as an upgrade for existing Redding Competition Seating Dies. This makes it a versatile addition to any reloading setup.
Cons
- The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug may be considered pricey compared to standard seating stems. However, the improved accuracy justifies the cost for precision reloaders.
- The micrometer markings could be slightly clearer for easier reading. While functional, slightly larger and bolder markings would improve usability.
Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug?
Pros
- Provides extremely precise and repeatable bullet seating depths. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced velocity spreads.
- The VLD seating plug prevents bullet deformation, particularly with high-BC VLD bullets. This maintains ballistic coefficient and ensures consistent performance.
- Easy to install and use, with intuitive micrometer adjustments. Even novice reloaders can quickly master the tool.
- Durable construction from high-quality materials ensures a long service life. This is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
- Compatible with a wide range of bullet calibers and designed as an upgrade for existing Redding Competition Seating Dies. This makes it a versatile addition to any reloading setup.
Cons
- The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug may be considered pricey compared to standard seating stems. However, the improved accuracy justifies the cost for precision reloaders.
- The micrometer markings could be slightly clearer for easier reading. While functional, slightly larger and bolder markings would improve usability.
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is perfect for precision reloaders, long-range target shooters, and competitive shooters who demand the highest level of accuracy from their handloads. It is also ideal for reloaders who regularly use VLD bullets and want to avoid bullet deformation. Hunters seeking consistent accuracy for ethical shots will also benefit.
Reloaders who are primarily focused on producing high volumes of ammunition and are less concerned with extreme accuracy may not find the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug necessary. Those using standard seating stems and achieving acceptable results may not see a significant improvement. Reloaders focused on pistol cartridges may not see as much benefit.
A Redding Competition Seating Die is a must-have accessory to use the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug. Having a quality set of calipers to measure seating depth accurately is crucial.
Conclusion on Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug
The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug is a worthwhile investment for any reloader seeking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their handloads, especially when working with VLD bullets. The Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug provides precise adjustments. These adjustments lead to smaller groups and lower velocity spreads.
The price is justified by the improved performance and the peace of mind knowing that each bullet is seated to the exact desired depth. The value it brings in increased precision and accuracy justifies its price.
I would highly recommend the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug to any serious reloader looking to take their handloads to the next level. If you are looking for a way to maximize the accuracy of your reloading process, this is the tool for you. Upgrade your reloading bench with the Redding Reloading Bullet Seating Micrometer w/ VLD Seat Plug and experience the difference precision makes!