Let’s Talk About Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is a seemingly simple, yet vital component for any serious reloader, especially those working with bottleneck cartridges or seeking added leverage. Manufactured by Redding Reloading, a name synonymous with precision and quality in the reloading world, this shellholder promises to improve the reloading process by providing a secure and extended grip on the case. I was drawn to this shellholder because I’ve struggled with standard shellholders slipping when resizing stubborn bottleneck cases.
I recently started reloading .308 Winchester, and the shoulder bump was consistently inconsistent with standard shellholders. This led to frustrating variations in my handloads and ultimately, inconsistent performance at the range. The promise of an extended grip and improved leverage with the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder seemed like the perfect solution to tame my .308 brass.
Upon unboxing, the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder felt solid and well-machined. The blued steel construction inspires confidence, and the extended base is noticeably wider than my standard shellholders. It felt heavier, too, further reinforcing my impression of quality construction.
I compared the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder to my RCBS and Hornady shellholders. The Redding offering’s extended base was the most significant difference, providing a more substantial area to grip during the reloading process. I chose the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder over the others because of Redding’s reputation for precision and the specific problem it promised to solve: inconsistent shoulder bump.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was hopeful that the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder would live up to its promise of improved leverage and consistent results, but I also knew that even the best equipment requires proper technique and attention to detail.
Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder was at my reloading bench, processing a batch of once-fired .308 Winchester brass. The brass had been fired in a variety of rifles, so the shoulder bump was crucial for reliable chambering in my precision bolt gun. I primarily use a single-stage press for rifle reloading due to the greater control it provides.
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder immediately felt more secure in the press. The extended base provided a noticeable increase in leverage when resizing the cases. The added stability translated to less flexing of the shellholder and a more consistent feel when bumping the shoulder. I did notice that the extra width took a bit of getting used to when inserting and removing cases, but it was a minor adjustment.
After the first few cases, I was already seeing a significant improvement in consistency. The shoulder bump was much more uniform than I had achieved with standard shellholders. I was impressed with how much of an impact this seemingly small change had on the overall reloading process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. It has consistently delivered improved performance compared to standard shellholders. There are no signs of wear and tear.
The blued finish has held up well to repeated use, and the shellholder still feels as solid as it did on day one. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. It definitely outperforms my previous shellholders.
I noticed a significant reduction in hand fatigue when resizing larger batches of brass. The extra leverage provided by the extended base makes the process less physically demanding. This is a welcome benefit for reloaders who process large quantities of ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder
Specifications
- The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is constructed from high-quality, hardened steel. This ensures durability and longevity, even with repeated use under high pressure.
- It features an extended base that provides increased leverage and stability during the reloading process. This design is particularly beneficial when resizing bottleneck cases or working with stubborn brass.
- The shellholder is blued for corrosion resistance. This finish protects the steel from rust and wear, extending the life of the tool.
- The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is designed to fit standard reloading presses and shell plates. This makes it compatible with a wide range of reloading equipment.
- It is specifically designed to handle a variety of cartridges, including popular calibers like .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, and .30-06 Springfield. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit.
Performance & Functionality
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder excels at providing a secure and stable platform for resizing cases. The increased leverage reduces the force required to resize even the most stubborn brass. This results in more consistent shoulder bump and improved accuracy in handloads.
Its primary strength is the improved leverage it offers. The extended base makes resizing easier and more consistent. The only area that might need improvement is a slightly smoother finish on the case insertion/removal area to minimize potential brass marring, though this has not been a significant issue in my experience.
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder exceeds expectations. The increased leverage and stability it provides have significantly improved the consistency and ease of my reloading process.
Design & Ergonomics
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is a simple, functional design. The hardened steel construction inspires confidence. The weight feels appropriate for the task, and the extended base provides a comfortable and secure grip.
The shellholder is user-friendly. There is no learning curve; it functions just like a standard shellholder. The only slight adjustment is getting used to the wider base when inserting and removing cases.
Durability & Maintenance
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is built to last. The hardened steel construction and blued finish ensure that it can withstand years of use. The maintenance requirements are minimal.
A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. This simplicity adds to its value as a reliable and long-lasting tool.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder does not require any accessories or customization. It is a standalone tool designed to function with standard reloading presses and shell plates. The compatibility with a wide range of cartridges is a significant advantage.
While there are no direct customization options, the ability to use it with various calibers enhances its versatility. This eliminates the need for multiple shellholders for different cartridges.
Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder
Pros
- Increased Leverage: The extended base provides significantly more leverage, making resizing easier and more consistent.
- Improved Consistency: The added stability leads to more uniform shoulder bump and improved accuracy in handloads.
- Durable Construction: The hardened steel and blued finish ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy to Use: The design is simple and functional, with no learning curve.
- Reduced Hand Fatigue: The increased leverage reduces the physical effort required to resize brass, making it ideal for processing large batches.
Cons
- Slightly Wider Base: The extended base can take a bit of getting used to when inserting and removing cases.
- Limited Cartridge Range: While it supports many common calibers, it may not be suitable for all cartridges, requiring additional shellholders for niche calibers.
Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder?
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is perfect for reloaders working with bottleneck cartridges, especially those who are focused on precision and consistency. This is also perfect for shooters who reload .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, or .30-06 Springfield. Anyone experiencing difficulty resizing stubborn brass or seeking to reduce hand fatigue during the reloading process will greatly benefit from this tool.
Those who primarily reload straight-walled pistol cartridges may not find the extended base necessary, as resizing these cases typically requires less force. Additionally, reloaders on a very tight budget might find standard shellholders sufficient, although the long-term benefits of the Redding offering justify the investment. A good set of calipers is a must-have accessory to properly measure the shoulder bump and ensure consistent results.
Conclusion on Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder
The Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder is a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader seeking to improve the consistency and ease of their reloading process. The increased leverage and stability it provides have significantly improved my own reloading experience, resulting in more accurate and reliable handloads.
At $29.99, the price is justified by the improved performance, durability, and reduced hand fatigue. The cost is relatively minor compared to the overall investment in reloading equipment and the potential benefits in terms of accuracy and consistency.
I would highly recommend the Redding Reloading Extended Shellholder to anyone looking to take their reloading to the next level. The benefits far outweigh the minor drawbacks, making it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. So go ahead, upgrade your shellholder and experience the Redding difference for yourself!