How to Adjust the Dies on a Dillon XL650

The Dillon XL 650 is a five-stage progressive reloading press for ammunition. This type of press reduces the amount of manual loading requirements common with a conventional reloading press. The Dillon XL 650 is equipped to use a series of dies, and all need to be adjusted properly in order to effectively load the brass cases. Die adjustment is the first step in prepping to load ammunition.

Instructions

    • 1

      Screw the de-capping/sizing die into the stage-one collar located on the top of the reloading press. Loosen the small lock nut at the top of the die and turn the de-capping/sizing die in or out until the de-capping pin is protruding 3/16 inch below the bottom of the die. Tighten the lock nut to lock the die in position.

    • 2

      Screw the powder-measure/case-flare die into the top of the reloading press at the stage-two collar. Screw the die in until the metal ring is flush against the top of the reloading press. Lock the top lock-ring on the die.

    • 3

      Leave the stage-three collar empty unless you've purchased an optional powder measure checking system; this is sold separately from the Dillon XL 650 and isn't required for reloading.

    • 4

      Screw in the bullet seating die into the stage-four collar until tight. Place an empty brass case into the shell holder at the stage-four location. Lower the ram arm to raise the case to the top of the press stroke. Screw in the seating die until you feel the bottom of the die touch the top of the brass case. Back the die out one full turn. Lock the die in position.

    • 5

      Screw in the flare/taper-crimp die into the stage-five collar. Set an empty brass case into the stage-five shell-holder location. Lower the ram arm. Screw the die down until you feel it touch the top of the case. Back the die out one full turn. Lock the die in position.