I've seen discussions on the Interwebs about this issue, but they don't address some of the specific questions I have related to my needs. First of all, here's my current setup:
--I load for 9mm, .45 ACP, and .380 Auto using a Lee Classic Turret Press.
--I powder coat my boolits and size them .001 over bore size
--First I decap/size/prime the cases in a separate operation, then I do the following:
1) Station 1: expand using the plugs made by NOE Bullet Molds in the Lee Universal Case Expander die (so that it works like a Lyman M die)
2) Station 2: add powder using Lee Autodrum (modified with lighter spring so that it doesn't bell the case mouth)
3) Station 3: seat the bullet with they Lee die backed out a bit so that it doesn't crimp at the same time
4) Station 4: run it through the Lee Factory Crimp die (backed out a bit so that it doesn't actually crimp, but just removes the expansion at the case mouth)
When I first started loading, I was using store-bought bullets and following the directions that came with the press. Then I started casting my own, sizing them .001 oversize, and powder coating, and that necessitated certain changes (especially using the NOE plugs) so that the PC didn't get shaved off and the boolits would seat straight and chamber in my pistols (one of my 9mm's in particular has a tight chamber/throat). In other words, I have had to come up with a number of work-around solutions in order to keep using the Lee setup.
I also find that I am shooting more and more (not a bad problem to have). I'm averaging about 800 rounds a month, and I just joined a range that a) allows rapid fire and b) hosts a lot of shooting matches, so I expect that number to climb to 1000 or more. I am employed full-time and have three children, so that tells you how much "free" time I have.
From my research I have gathered that the 650 is great for cranking out a lot of rounds, but is a) considerably more expensive and b) harder to change calibers than the 550. Money IS an object, BUT I don't want to buy another press only to discover a year from now that I should have bought something else. With that in mind, here are my questions:
1) Which of these two presses would best allow me to accomplish the steps I enumerated above in order to reach a monthly production of, say, 500 rounds of 9mm, 300 rounds of .45, and 200 rounds of .380 Auto?
2) Can I keep using the dies I have been using, or would I have to use Dillon dies? Or is there a third option that would be better?
3) What optional equipment would I need? I know it's "optional," but I'm sure there are certain things that it would be stupid NOT to get.
Any and all help is much appreciated!
Thanks,
John