how long does it take to crank out a can full?
Reloading is an evolutionary process that progresses on a learning curve. I have had 3 Dillion RL450's, two Dillon RL550b's, a Texan 12 gauge and three MEC 600jr's over the years since I stated loading in 1966. I like the progressive and turret presses and use them but we were talking about a STARTING point for learning the craft.
By learning on a single stage press then graduating to a progressive later, you still have the single stage unit to load the low volume rifle rounds like .270, .243 or 30-30. I agree that the multi stage is the way to load pistol rounds. I have 11 caliber conversions for the Dillon 550B presses but still load things like 32 S&W long on the Rock Chucker.
The main thing is to learn the craft and learn about the dies and the best way to do that is on a single stage press. I'm a retired teacher so images of the teaching profession creep into my posts. Learning reloading on a single or multistage press is like learning swimming by being thrown in deep water unprepared OR by having some instruction and practice first before entering the water. Either way, you will learn to swim.
That being said, Thumbs up to all of you! I don't care what you use to reload just so you reload. We are all brothers in that regard.
AKMike...If you can get to Baytown, we'll have classes! I'm retired so I have plenty of time!
Flash
My recommendation.....new loaders use single stage presses then when they learn the craft, graduate to a progressive or turret press then use the single stage unit for lower quantity large rifle cases.