At a Glance: The Best Reloading Dies for 6.5 Creedmoor
- OUR TOP PICK: Redding – Type S Match Bushing Full Die Set
- MOST POPULAR: Redding – Competition Bushing Neck Die Set
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Hornady – Custom-grade rifle full length die set
Comparison of The Best Reloading Dies for 6.5 Creedmoor
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Our Top Pick
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Redding – Type S Match Bushing Full Die Set |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Redding – Competition Bushing Neck Die Set |
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View Latest Price |
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Hornady – Custom-Grade Rifle Full Length Die Set |
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View Latest Price |
Reloading dies are crucial pieces of equipment for the reloading process. They are things that actually do the work at every stage of the process. Therefore, it is worth investing in a good set of dies if you want precise and reliable rounds.
Our List of the 8 Best Reloading Dies
Picking out the right reloading dies for reloading 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges can be a little tricky, as each shooter’s specific use case determines what the best reloading die is. This is why I’ve tested, reviewed, and compiled this list of the 8 best reloading dies for 6.5 Creedmoor users, allowing you to get the most accurate and effective loads.
Redding – Type S Match Bushing Full Die Set
The Redding Type S match bushing set contains two dies; a type s bushing full-length sizing die and a competition seating die. This is one of the best 6.5 creedmoor reloading dies
The sizing die allows full length resizing while maintaining exact control of the case neck. This interchangeable bushing lets you determine your own level of sizing and neck tension. If you’re a serious shooter or competitor that is loading for precision, you will love the feature.
Additionally, the competition bullet seating die features a micrometer calibrated in .001″ increments and a floating seating stem system which helps eliminate concentricity problems.
Redding is a high-quality and credible manufacturer. They are renowned for their top-notch dies and offer a 100% lifetime warranty on their products. Because their products are high-end, they are more expensive than Lee’s or Hornady’s dies. In my opinion, the extra price is worth it as the concentricity and neck tension control of Redding dies is unbeatable.
Pros
- A great option for quality and accuracy
- Competition bullet seating gives incredible concentricity
- Full length resizing and neck tension control
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- More expensive than other brands
Redding – Competition Bushing Neck Die Set
This Redding competition bushing neck set contains three pieces; a competition bushing neck sizing die, a full-length body die, and a competition bullet seater. The neck sizing and seater dies feature micrometer adjustments.
The body die is designed for full length resizing of the case body as well as bumping of the shoulder position for proper chambering without disturbing the case neck. The micrometer adjustment of the competition bushing neck sizing die delivers precise control to the desired amount of neck length to be sized.
The competition bullet seater die has been made to be calibrated in .001″ increments. There’s also a handy zero set feature that lets you zero the micrometer setting to what your rifle’s seating depth is. This allows you to match rounds to a rifle that you already use. Moreover, the bullet guide to seating stem fit is so precise that the seating stem can be demonstrated to “float.”
This is a pricey option but it is also an extremely valuable set that’s been made with considerable care, has some great features, and offers the utmost precision.
Pros
- 3-piece set plus holder
- Extremely precise adjustments
- Both full length and neck resizing dies
- Handy zero set feature on the seater die
Cons
- An expensive option
- The set lacks an expansion die
Hornady – Custom-Grade Rifle Full Length Die Set
The Hornady custom-grade set includes a full-length sizing die and a bullet seating die. Hornady’s precise machining allows accurate reloading by offering easier adjustments, better alignment, and smooth functioning.
The full-length sizing die allows you to resize the whole cartridge case. Because of this, sizing rounds with this die allows use with any rifle type. I really liked the zip spindle decapping rod which I found made it very easy to make adjustments. The seating die is micrometer adjustable but unfortunately, I did find a little inconsistency with the seating depths.
This set lacks an expansion and neck sizing die but it does come with a storage box. Hornady’s dies are manufactured in the USA, promising high-quality reloading products. Although this set does not boast the features of others on the list, this is a great quality, affordable die for 6.5 Creedmoor shooters.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- High-quality constructed dies from a reputable manufacturer
- Easy to adjust
- Affordable price
- Comes with a storage box
Cons
- Does not contain an expansion or neck sizing die
- Some inconsistency with the seating depths
Redding – Type S Match Bushing Neck Die Set
This 3-piece Type S match bushing neck set by Redding contains a type S bushing neck sizing die, body die, and competition seating die. This set allows reloaders to precisely control case neck size and tension. It uses interchangeable sizing bushings available in .001″ increments.
There is an adjustable decapping rod that is supplied with a standard size button. This allows you to position the bushing to resize only a portion of the neck length if needed. Being able to resize the bushing to self-center on the case neck enhances the concentricity. I found this whole feature especially useful as I tend to use commercial brass.
What I like about these Type S bushing dies is how they solve common concentricity problems and stress distortion many reloaders experience from the excessive resizing of the cartridge cases.
Pros
- High quality dies
- Can precisely control the case neck size and tension
- Interchangeable sizing bushings
- Adjustable decapping rod
- Enhanced concentricity, consistency in every round
Cons
- Not the cheapest option
Lee Precision – Ultimate Rifle 4-Die Set
This die set from Lee Precision is the most versatile and the most beginner-friendly die set I found. The 4 piece set has it all, making it one of the best reloading dies for 6.5 Creedmoor. The set includes a full-length sizer die, a collet neck sizer die, an easy-to-adjust dead length bullet seating die and a factory crimp die.
The full length-resizing die helps to return brass to factory dimensions which is useful if you are reloading brass to be fired in multiple guns. The collet neck sizing die is for use on fire formed brass to give the best possible accuracy. The bullet seating die gives a fail-proof bullet seating adjustment, assuring perfect seating depth every time.
Lastly, the factory crimp die provides a secure crimp on bullets and can be used with or without a crimp groove. This helps improve accuracy by providing a uniform higher start pressure, which gives the finished cartridge factory-like accuracy and dependability.
Just like the name suggests, this is the ultimate set. As well as the 4 dies included, the set also comes with a shell holder, powder measure, and the famous Lee load data book that features all the common brands of powder. Overall, I would say this die set is the best starter set on the market and fantastic value for money.
Pros
- Set includes four different dies – one for each part of the process
- Ability to use brass in multiple guns
- Consistent seating depth
- Factory-like accuracy
- Additional extras included, shell holder, powder measure and load data book
- The best option for beginners
- Unbeatable value for money
Cons
- Locking ring moves when you set/unset them
RCBS – Full-length die set
This 2-piece set from RCBS includes a full-length sizing die and a seating die. Both dies are made from very high-quality steel that’s built to last and resist corrosion or rust. This is a great die set for bottleneck rifle and pistol cases.
The full length die bumps the shoulder of the case to spread the die up or down in the press. The full length die also sizes the body of the case so it will chamber easily for the next firing.
The seater die seat bullets correctly in full length sized cases or neck sized cases. It has a built-in crimp ring to enable you to crimp the case into the bullet. You can easily adjust it to crimp or not by raising or lowering the die position in the press.
The quality and performance of these two dies are great but it does lack an expansion or neck sizing die. Therefore, if you require these additional dies you will need to purchase them separately. However, considering the price of these two dies, this set is great value for money and a brilliant option for beginners and those wanting good quality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable price and great value for money
- Precision crafted and made from high-quality materials
- Micrometer adjustable seating die
- Built-in crimp ring on the seater die
Cons
- Basic die set without an expansion die
RCBS – AR series die set
The RCBS AR series die set features a small-base sizing die and a taper crimp seating die. This combination will suit AR-style or semi-auto shooters very well. The small base sizing die sizes brass to minimum specifications and guarantees that cartridges will chamber every time.
I found the taper crimp seating die very helpful as it’s a bit more forgiving for crimping cases that have variable case lengths. It’s great at helping to reduce the number of bulges and buckled shoulders when crimping in bullets with a cannelure.
I found that this die seems to sieze more than regular dies. Because of this, you will need to have a good amount of high-quality lubricant to prevent stuck cases. These dies will work with any single stage-stage or turret press that will accept 7/8″-14 threaded dies.
Pros
- Reputable American made product
- Precision crafted and made from high-quality materials
- Eliminates chambering issues
- A great option for AR-style or semi-auto shooters
- Good value for money
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Cases easily stick and requires lots of lubricant
Hornady – Match grade rifle die set
Another great-value basic diet set. The match grade rifle die set from Hornady includes a full sizing die and a seating die. The full sizing die has a precision polished elliptical expander. This reduces friction and stress on the neck of your 6.5 Creedmoor cases.
Another feature I specifically liked was that the full sizing die has been built as a bushing type. This allows you to fine-tune your bullet reloading much more than with most other dies.
The seating die has an additional adjustment screw and a built-in crimper, meaning it serves both purposes. Moreover, it has a locking retainer spring which improves the stability as you seat and crimp your casings, a very helpful feature!
Both dies have some great highlights and the set even comes with a few extra accessories too, such as some extra decamping pins. For the low price you pay, you certainly get amazing value for your money with this set.
Pros
- Brilliant value for money
- Comes with a bushing sizing die
- Adjustment screw and a built-in crimper
- Locking retainer spring for stability
- Includes a few extra accessories
Cons
- Seating stems not marked, which can be confusing for beginners
What is a Reloading Die?
Reloading dies are crucial pieces of equipment in the reloading process. They do all the work in customizing your ammunition and let make all the difference in the quality of your reloading experience. The role of a reloading die is to resize and decap the mouth of the case, seat the bullet and crimp the neck. This results in a quality completed round, created safely, effectively, and offering outstanding accuracy.
Dies are used on a reloading press. They will precisely seat each bullet and prevent mistakes from occurring during the process. You place reloading dies in the reloading press and force your cases into them with teh lever, completing the various stages of the process. They expand case necks, decap cases, resize and crimp them, and, crucially, seat bullets.
How to Choose the Best Reloading Die for 6.5 Creedmore
When looking for the best reloading dies for 6.5 Creedmoor, there are specific factors that you should consider.
Precision increments for the seating die
- I would recommend choosing a seating die that has micrometer adjustments.
- Micrometer adjustments allow you to better shape each bullet, hugely improving your shooting accuracy.
Value for money
- The price of reloading dies can vary greatly.
- Typically higher price dies have better features and higher quality.
- However, price does not always equal quality. There are many high-quality basic 2-piece sets from reputable brands for a very affordable price.
Brand value
- Many brands specialize in making reloading dies.
- Buying from a reputable brand is more likely to guarantee a high quality product and a good experience.
Product reviews
- I would always recommend reading reviews before buying, even for products from reputable companies.
- Reading reviews will help you find the best reloading die for your specific needs and use case.
Size
- A full-length body die sizes the entire length of the round in the same process.
- Some don’t touch the neck of the cartridge, only affecting the base and shoulders.
- A neck-only die sizes the neck only.
- When choosing the size, consider what your intention for your ammunition is.
Carbide vs Steel Dies
Dies can be made of different types of materials. The quality of the metal used often determines its durability and overall quality. Most dies you will find will be either carbide or steel dies. Here are the main differences between the two:
Carbide
- I personally prefer carbide as it ensures you produce the best quality rounds.
- Offers better consistency than steel.
- More expensive than steel.
- Lasts longer than steel.
- If making pistol rounds, carbide dies will save you time as there is no need to lube cases.
- It is harder to find carbide dies that are suitable for rifle rounds.
Steel
- For rifles in particular, I find steel is not as accurate as carbide dies.
- Steel is the cheaper option.
- Lubricant is needed, making the process a bit more involved.
- Higher maintenance is required for steel dies.
- Steel dies are suitable for both pistols and rifles.
Types of Reloading Dies
There are five different dies that you may find in a die set. Each die does a specific job that you need to fully understand before you choose and purchase your reloading dies. Let’s take a look at the five dies and how they function.
Resizing/depriming die
- This is the die that you’ll need to use first in the reloading process and it is a vital die.
- The job of the resizing die is to resize the spent case back to its proper form.
- It also usually comes with a decapping pin. This pushes out the old primer while resizing.
Case trimming die
- This is an optional die that can help you resize your case quickly and effectively.
- This die is used to trim the brass at the neck so that the length comes back to the specified size.
- This is a useful die to have in your set as your brass will stretch and lengthen over time, especially if using them regularly.
- It’s quick and easy to use this die. Just a few turns in the cutter of the die will bring your elongated case back to shape.
Powder-through expanding die
- This is another optional die and is usually seen as an “add-on” item in sets.
- This die is traditionally found in progressive presses.
- Its function is to help funnel the powder into the resized case.
- It’s needed mostly in automatic presses.
- If you are reloading with manual presses such as a single-stage, there is probably no need for this die.
Bullet seating die
- This die plays a key role in the reloading process.
- You use this die after resizing.
- Its job is to align the bullet and seat it into the case.
- It comes with a floating element at its core that firmly holds the cartridge in place to provide support.
- You will find this die in all die sets including 2 or 3-piece sets.
Crimping die
- Using a crimping die is the final step of the reloading process.
- The process of crimping means the neck of the case is tightened around the bullet.
- This die protects the integrity of the round by preventing any movement of the bullet in the neck.
- It is more commonly used with pistol bullets. If you are reloading rifle rounds you may not need to use this die.
3-die sets versus 4-die sets
- A 2-die set will generally include just the two mandatory dies; a resizing die, which could be either full length or neck length, and a bullet seating die.
- If you want the additional dies it is best to purchase a 4-die set. This is because many 3-die sets contain both a full-length and a neck sizing die, plus a bullet seating die, and do not usually include a crimping die or expanding die.
- A 4-die set also tends to include both a full-length and a neck sizing die, but many include a bullet seating and factory crimp die too.
Therefore, choosing whether to buy a 3-die or 4-die set comes down to whether or not you want a factory crimp die. If you do not need this die, for example, if you reload rifle rounds, then my recommendation would be to go for a 3-die set.
If you do need a crimping die, either opt for an ultimate 4-die set or purchase the crimping die separately. If you’re looking for the best value for money, you may find that it’s cheaper to purchase a good quality but low price 2-die set, and buy a factory crimp die separately.
How to install your reloading dies
- First, ensure the die has been cleaned and lubricated.
- Make sure that your press is clean and that there is no debris build-up.
- For a sizing die, loosen the lock bolt enough so that the ring can be moved around freely.
- Place the lockable ring in the press with the hole facing you.
- Screw the die upward, then push the press down.
- Lastly, screw it back down until everything feels secure. This makes sure the die doesn’t move too much in the process. It should feel secure but not too tight.
- Once secure, you can lock the lock ring once more and place it into the press where it will be ready to receive its first case.
So, which is the best 6.5 Creedmoor dies?
All of the die sets I reviewed and tested were great, high-quality products that can improve your reloading experience. It’s hard to choose one set as the best reloading dies for 6.5 Creedmoor because the set you’ll go for will be based on your reloading needs.
Personally, I love the Lee Precision ultimate rifle 4-die set as it ticks all the boxes for me. It’s a complete set containing everything a serious reloader needs and is the most beginner-friendly option too. As well as the 4 high quality dies, the set includes additional extras. Considering this and the low price, it’s a no brainer.
If I were looking for a simple ‘no frills’ set I would go for the RCBS full-length die set because of it’s precision crafting and high-quality materials. Whichever set you decide, choosing one from this list will guarantee you top quality and performance.
