Been using my lee presses for years. I will admit that there priming operation leades a lot to be desired. For a long time i have been priming with the RCBS hand held primer. I dont mind it so much, as it permits me with more time eye balling the brass. There are a number of times i see a flaw in the used brass that might have gotten by me if i didnt use the hand held primer. This inturn lead me to start checking my case length, before i prime. The rest of the press i think is decent, as far as quality. And i do like thier carbide dies. I have loaded thousands of rds with both. I do not have the pro 1000, i bought my first press before they started making them. I own one of thier Loadmasters. Also a single stage Lee Classic Cast, which i use for my Rifle brass. This is a very strong single stage press. 25 yrs ago, when i first got into reloading money was definetly a factor as to buying this equipment. At this moment in time all my equipment has paid for itself. As in time most likely any of the more expensive presses we are talking about will pay for themselves, reguarding thier owners. I am at the point in my life, where i would rather keep what i have and buy more guns, then to up grade my reloading presses. End result i now make ammo that is sufficent for my needs, i find i run out of supplys faster then my Lees can keep up with. My friends like my ammo, when i can spare it. I will say go with your gut feeling as to purchasing your new press. And dont let cost hinder you in making ones choice. Most likely what you buy is going to be with you for a long time. Especially once you are comfortable with the mechanics of the machine you purchase. I do believe it has more to do with the person behind the press, than the press itself. I dont know how many times i tried others reloads and after hearing of how much money they spent on thier equipment, finding out thier ammo was not dependable. As far as stove pipes, OAL, head spacing issues, feeding, continuity as far as powder issues. One rd mild, next rd hot. With the said reloads being of the same recipe. So most presses are up to the task, if thier operators are willing to do thier homework. Its a hobby that in time, most people get better at i think. Happy reloading and good luck with whatever Press you decide on. Take care, Jack