imported post
I have that same press. I mostly reload for rifle though.
It seems to be an ok press, and for the money, its decent. Some things on it are a bit on the iffy/cheap side though, and it can be frustrating if everything isn't setup correctly. I'd suspect it'll take you about 100-200 rounds to get through the Lee learning curve a bit more if you've never reloaded before.
When learning, dont start out in full progressive mode. Setup all your stages of course, but only run one brass through at a time until you get the hang of it and quadruple check that all stages are working perfectly.
The powder drop can be a challenge, specially with such a small amount of powder. It really comes down to the type of powder you use, as with most powder drops of this type. The spherical powders seem to work best with a +- 0.2 gr margin. Extruded seem to be the worst.
The primer system seems to be the biggest complaint about it, in which I will fully agree with. I got to the point that when I reloaded, I'd do the priming in one batch, then after checking all the brass, do the powder and seating in another batch. I later got a hand primer, which I now use instead. Just too many upside down, sideways, and missing primers with the press. If you do use the priming system with this press, make sure to get extra pieces as you will crush/mangle the primer pusher arm eventually. The kit I bought did have a few extras though.
Once everything gets setup and you get through the learning curve, it will do pretty good for you.
That being said, for the reloading I'm doing lately, I prefer my single stage over the progressive, but I'm fine tuning some accuracy loads.
If I had the option to do it again, I think I would've saved up a little more and got a Dillon 650 instead. I think even the Hornady would've been a better choice.
There is a privately run forum for the loadmaster presses, including some videos and instructions on setting up the press. (the instructions that come with it are sub-par).
http://www.loadmastervideos.com/
Oh, and as far as a place to buy it if you do decide to go with the Lee, I got mine from
http://www.kempfgunshop.com/ for a little less than what you have listed. I would strongly suggest calling in your order though, as the person you're likely to talk to (Sue) is very knowledgeable and will be able to answer any questions you have and suggest other things you may not have thought of. (The shopping list to get started on reloading is pretty large after all)