Been loading on a 550 for a couple of years, and I like it, but it's time to upgrade.
I got a dozen quick change kits for it already, so maybe a case feeder is all I need, here's the problem.
I did all the research when I built my bench.
I ordered the 550, strong mount, bullet tray, did my research, built the bench STRONG!!, and it was exactly right for my height.
I stand up to load, use powders that fill the case 1/2 to 3/4 full, and look inside every case. The ball handle is exactly at my right shoulder.
I can easily load for 2 hours without fatigue at 450+ rounds per hour.
The bench top is 2" thick steelcase laminate, a 2x4 frame, full length support, the frame supporting the bench is mounted directly to wall studs.
I made a 2x4 frame and it's anchored into the cement floor with cement anchors. Then I have 2x4 studs coming up from the floor frame nailed to the frame under the laminate. The whole thing is heavily cross-braced. It's not going anywhere. THEN, once leveled, the laminate was installed on top with drywall screws from the bottom.
I have approx. 6" of vertical clearance above my powder measure due to heat distribution pipe that can't move. To the right of that, I have 12 inches of usable space, then the ceiling beams. I can't move the press due to spacing concerns to the left (heat pipes.) and I have a bigger problem to the right, a return air duct, that lowers the usable height by 8".
I am full of questions....
1. Which is taller, the 550 or 650?
2. Is there any way of installing a 550 case feeder on my bench without hacking it?
3. Would there be any way to get dillon to introduce a low profile case feeder upgrade for 550s, maybe including a lowered, specially braced case feeder, lower strong mounts, etc?
I bought all my stuff from brian, and it's been great. I really don't think I need anything better, but for some reason I'm compelled to upgrade, or at least try.
I DON'T want to hack my current 550, hack my bench, hack my new case feeder, and have the whole thing be awkward to use. And not covered by warranty.