Redding Competition Pro Carbide Die Set 38 Special 357 Mag
Redding Reloading Equipment
The Redding Carbide Pro Series Die Set for .38 Special/.357 Mag is purpose-built for shooters running progressive reloading machines who want a no-fuss, low-maintenance reloading solution. Redding's carbide construction uses titanium carbide—the hardest readily available carbide material—which eliminates the need for case lube and delivers a slick, non-galling surface that lets cases flow smoothly through the sizing die. If you reload high volumes on a progressive press and are tired of fighting case lube residue and setup hassles, this die set trades a bit of initial cost for genuine operational simplicity.
The Pro Series design is optimized for progressive machines that expand the case mouth during the powder metering station. Because of this, the set does not include a traditional expander die. Instead, you get a carbide sizing die, a bullet seater (non-crimp type), and a separate crimp die. This three-die configuration matches the workflow of modern progressive presses and lets you control sizing, seating, and crimping as independent operations—critical when you're running high-volume .38 Special or .357 Mag loads.
Redding's carbide dies are built for centerfire pistol cartridges where consistent, repeatable results matter. Whether you're loading .38 Special target rounds or .357 Mag hunting loads, the carbide surface resists wear and maintains sizing consistency across thousands of rounds. No lubrication requirement means cleaner press work and faster cleanup after reloading sessions.
| Cartridge | .38 Special / .357 Mag |
| Die Set Type | Pro Series (3-die, progressive machine configuration) |
| Material | Titanium Carbide |
| Die Components Included | Carbide sizing die, bullet seater (non-crimp), crimp die |
| Expander Die | Not included (designed for progressive press powder station expansion) |
| Lubrication | No case lube required |
Yes—the Pro Series is specifically designed for progressive machines. The set omits a traditional expander die because progressive presses expand the case mouth during the powder metering station. Confirm your press has this feature before ordering.
No. The titanium carbide surface is slick and non-galling, so lubrication is not required. This saves setup time and cleanup hassle.
This set is for .38 Special and .357 Mag only. Do not attempt to use it with other calibers.
These dies are designed for progressive machines. If your press does not expand cases at the powder metering station, this set may not be compatible—check your press manual or contact Redding directly to confirm.