Two reloading presses sit on opposite ends of a spectrum. One champions deliberate control, the other prioritizes efficient output. The Lyman All-American 8 and the Dillon Precision RL550C represent fundamentally different philosophies in ammunition crafting. Your choice isn’t just about a tool; it’s about your workflow, your goals, and your budget.
This comparison cuts through the noise. We’ll pit the classic turret press design against the manual-index progressive press to see which machine delivers the best value for your bench. Speaking honestly, the right press can transform your reloading experience from a chore into a passion.
Head-to-Head Overview: Turret vs. Progressive Design
At their core, these presses operate differently. The Lyman All-American 8 is a heavy-duty turret press. Its extra-large 8-station turret rotates, bringing each die into position over a single shell. You complete all operations on one cartridge before moving to the next. It’s a methodical, controlled process.
The Dillon RL550C is a manual-index progressive press. Multiple stations work simultaneously. As you manually advance the shell plate, a different operation occurs at each positionsizing, priming, powder charging, seating, and crimping. This design is built for reloading speed while maintaining a high degree of oversight.
Detailed Feature Breakdown & Specifications
Let’s examine what each press brings to the table, feature by feature. This is where the design philosophy becomes tangible.
| Feature | Lyman All-American 8 Turret Press | Dillon Precision RL550C Reloading Press |
|---|---|---|
| Core Design | 8-Station Turret Press | Manual-Index Progressive Press |
| Frame & Build | Heavy duty cast iron frame and turret with durable powder coat finish. | Built for durability & smooth operation with a greaseable lower pivot pin. |
| Caliber Conversion | Turret is easily removed to make swapping turrets simple. Holds two complete 4-die sets. | Quick & easy caliber changes via removable toolhead that keeps dies and powder settings intact. |
| Primer System | Comes with straight line primer feed with large and small primer tubes. | Integrated priming system (implied by progressive design). |
| Powder System | Not specified in core features. | Case-activated powder measure dispenses powder only when a case is present. |
| Indexing | Manual turret rotation. | Manual shell plate indexing for greater user control. |
| Key Advantage | Simplicity, flexibility for load development. | Speed with precision, efficient batch processing. |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
My honest assessment is that the Lyman excels in setup simplicity. Swapping the entire turret is brilliantly straightforward. The Dillon’s toolhead system, however, is legendary for a reasonit locks in your entire die and powder setup, making caliber swaps a two-minute affair. For those wondering about the cost of ownership Dillon RL550C vs Lyman turret, remember that Dillon’s toolheads and conversion kits are separate purchases, while Lyman’s system is more self-contained.
Performance Comparison: Speed, Precision & Versatility
This is where the rubber meets the road. How do these machines perform under actual use?
Reloading Speed and Production Rate
The Dillon RL550C is built for volume. A manual-index progressive press like the 550C can easily produce 300-500 rounds per hour once you find your rhythm. Each pull of the handle potentially completes a finished round. The turret press is inherently slower, as you’re performing each operation sequentially on a single case. For high-volume pistol shooters, the Dillon is the clear winner in raw output.
Reloading Precision and Control
Precision isn’t just about tight tolerances; it’s about consistency and repeatability. The Lyman’s single-stage-like operation allows for intense focus on each step. You inspect every case, every charge. This makes it fantastic for meticulous rifle load development. The Dillon, while progressive, is engineered for reloading precision. Its manual indexing ensures you have complete oversight at each station, and the case-activated powder measure promotes remarkable consistency. Honestly speaking, both are capable of producing highly accurate ammunition, but the Lyman’s process is more conducive to obsessive load tuning.
Versatility and Caliber Conversion
Both presses handle caliber conversion well, but differently. The Lyman’s 8-station turret holds two complete 4-die sets, allowing you to switch between, say, a rifle and a pistol caliber by simply rotating the turret. For more permanent changes, you buy additional turrets. The Dillon uses its quick-change toolhead system. You can find a wealth of setup information in the Dillon RL550C manual and online communities. A common question is, can you use Dillon case feeder on Lyman All-American 8? The answer is no; they are incompatible systems from different manufacturers. For automating the Dillon, a case feeder is a popular add-on, while the Lyman’s design doesn’t support one.
Cost Analysis: Initial Investment & Long-Term Value
Price is a major factor, but true cost includes accessories, conversion kits, and your time.
The Lyman All-American 8 typically has a lower initial purchase price. It often comes ready to load with its primer system included. You buy dies and a turret, and you’re largely set. The long-term cost is relatively predictable.
The Dillon RL550C has a higher entry point. to get it running for a specific caliber, you need to purchase a conversion kit (shell plate, buttons, powder funnel) and a toolhead. My honest take is that while the initial outlay is greater, the value manifests in time saved during high-volume loading and the unparalleled ease of switching calibers mid-session. Dillon’s famous “No BS Warranty” and customer service also add significant long-term value, a factor often missing from competitor comparisons.
Warranty, Service, and Aftermarket Support
This is a critical differentiator. Dillon Precision is renowned for its lifetime warranty and stellar customer servicethey famously fix or replace presses regardless of age. Lyman offers solid support, but Dillon’s policy is an industry benchmark. Aftermarket support is also stronger for the Dillon, with companies like Inline Fabrication producing mounts, handles, and accessories to enhance the platform. Availability of aftermarket parts and accessories for the Lyman is more limited.
Target User & Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which Press?
So, which press earns a place on your bench? The answer depends entirely on your profile as a reloader.
Buy the Lyman All-American 8 Turret Press If:
- You are a beginner seeking a simple, forgiving press to learn on. The Lyman All-American 8 review consensus highlights its ease of use.
- Your focus is on precision rifle loading or small batches of pistol ammo.
- You value a lower initial investment and a straightforward, all-in-one package.
- You prefer the tactile, controlled process of a turret press.
For the question of which is better for beginner reloader Lyman 8 or Dillon 550C, I honestly believe the Lyman’s simpler, less intimidating operation gives it a slight edge for pure novices.
Buy the Dillon Precision RL550C If:
- You shoot high volumes of pistol or rifle cartridges and need efficient production.
- You frequently switch between multiple calibers and value a rapid, repeatable changeover system.
- You want the speed of a progressive but with the manual control to visually verify each stage.
- You prioritize legendary customer service and a robust aftermarket ecosystem.
- You’re loading for competition or any discipline where volume matters.
For dedicated pistol shooters, the debate over Lyman All-American 8 vs Dillon 550C for pistol calibers leans heavily toward the Dillon. Its progressive design is simply built for that high-volume, repetitive task.
The Hopnion.com Verdict
Both are exceptional tools built for different purposes. The Lyman All-American 8 is a superb, robust turret press perfect for methodical loaders and those starting their journey. Its strength is focused control and simplicity.
The Dillon RL550C is a productivity powerhouse. It blends the reloading speed of a progressive with the hands-on verification that serious reloaders demand. It’s an investment that pays dividends in time and convenience.
In my honest opinion, there is no single “best” press. There’s only the best press for you. Consider your primary calibers, your annual round count, and your reloading temperament. For more insights on achieving the highest levels of consistency, explore our comparison on precision in reloading tools. And if you’re weighing other turret options, our precision analysis between Lyman and Lee offers another valuable perspective.
Remember, the best information comes from multiple sources. Always consult your reloading manual from an official source like Hornady or RCBS, and follow all safety protocols. At the end of the day, your Honest Opinion about what works for your bench is the one that matters most. Now, get out there and make some ammo.