StarReloaders.com Discussion Forum

Star Reloaders Discussion Forums => Star History => Topic started by: rbwillnj on March 01, 2005, 11:26:25 am

Title: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on March 01, 2005, 11:26:25 am
I recently aquired a December 1958 catalog/price list for Star Machine Works.  It shows the price of a Star Universal with Lifetyme Carbide Die to be $190.   An Extra Tool Head with Carbide die was $70.  The Lubricator Sizer was $40.

What I really found interesting was the inclusion of prices for 4, 6, and 10 cavity Hensley Gibbs bullet molds.  Does anyone know the relationship between Hensley Gibbs and Star?
Title: Star/H&G
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on March 15, 2005, 12:25:44 am
Bought my first star in probably 1975.  Bought numerous other Star's from them over the next several decades.  One day they suggested that if I wanted the best reloading presses (theirs) why didn't I also buy the best moulds (H&G's).  Up until then I had never heard of them.

In any event, I took their advice and for the next twenty years (almost exactly) I bought H&G moulds as well.

I think that Star just appreciated the quality of H&G's mould but I ask Wayne Gibbs if there was anything more to it than that.
Title: Connection between Star and H&G
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on March 18, 2005, 05:50:11 pm
Well Wayne Gibbs answered that question.  Now let's see if I can get this right.

When both Hensley and Star were in San Diego, Wayne's father knew Ellard Mott.  The two were very good friends.  Because of that friendship, H&G recommended Star progressives and Star progressives recommended H&G moulds.  Also both thought very highly of the other's work so it was as simply as recommending a friend.  They were both recommending what they thought was the best equipment around.

Ellard, of course, hand build every Star progressive made during his lifetime.  Every single one.  For a long time he also assembled the lubricator/sizers though that task was eventually handed off.

The claim that Star had very few orders in its final days is probably true but it is also probably true because once Ellard died no one else had ever put a machine together.  Thus whomever tried undoubtedly had a very hard time.

I don't remember the name of that person.  It was, I'm pretty sure, an American Indian but I just don't remember who.  Of course they had a nearly impossible job.  Building a Star was as much an art as anything else and when Ellard died all that skill died with him.

I think that it is sad that someone like Magma didn't buy the Star Progressives because whomever has it now certainly isn't up to the task and because of that this grand old machine is facing certain death.
Title: Star Price History
Post by: TDO'NEILL on March 18, 2005, 08:28:54 pm
Mr. Walters
And where would the Star Progressive be today if the present owner didn't buy the company? There was probably a good reason why no one else bought it.
I am very thankful that the current owner has tried to keep the business going. At least we have some place to get parts if needed.
How many Star presses do you think could be sold in a months time? Is a high quality $1000+ reloading press in that much of a demand today?
With the cost of health ins. ,OSHA regulations, taxes, materials etc. do you  really think that someone could make a living today selling Star Loaders?
Title: Star Price History
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on March 18, 2005, 08:45:46 pm
Star raised prices twice that I know of, from $250 to $450 and then from $450 to $950.  Might be slightly off but close.  They did that to slow down business, not because the cost of manufacturer had gone up.  I'm absolutely certain about that because I talked to them about it.

So could you make a Star today for $250.  Almost certainly not.  But could you make one for less than $950.  I suspect so.

The top of the line dillon is $1500.  Mike is famous for his comment that you need one third to cover costs, one third for advertising and one third for profit.  Do the math.  A Star could be made for less BECAUSE if it were a quality product as the old machine were you wouldn't have to do much advertising.

Sure Star's quality at the end of their run was bad.  Ellard was dead.  But Star has a reputation that is unequalled.  Who else has 50 year old machines that are still in working order.

Star deserved better than it got and I am NO (ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, NO) fan of the current "manufacturer!"
Title: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on March 18, 2005, 10:44:33 pm
Actually, I have two price lists, one from 1958 and one from 1979.

As mentioned above, in 1958, a Universal with Lifetyme Carbide die was $190.00.  In 1979, the same press was $710.  

Interestingly, in 1979, the lead time for a press was 24 months.  While that says something about the demand for a Star, it also explains why it was so easy for Dillon to enter the business.
Title: Star Price History
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on March 18, 2005, 11:51:47 pm
"Interestingly, in 1979, the lead time for a press was 24 months. While that says something about the demand for a Star, it also explains why it was so easy for Dillon to enter the business."

Mike's first product was called the Super Star kit, a set of parts that, when fitted to a Star, would allow it to load 223 rounds.  Ellord actually helped Mike with that.  I'm sure about that because I wrote something about it for a Gun Digest piece at the time.  Don't remember the article but I do remember having that kit on loan.

Actually I believe that Ellard helped Mike get started.  Mike, of course, was a TWA co-pilot at the time and this was his hobby.

I don't think that it was common knowledge at the time that Star had, at the Army's insistence, already made a rifle tool.  Of course that machine was vastly different from their pistol unit.  (Kind of which I had kept my Star collection including that rifle unit and a straightline.)

For all the help Star willingly extended to Mike, something must have gone wrong between them.  What happened I never knew.
Title: Thanks!
Post by: bummer7 on March 20, 2005, 11:11:04 pm
Ken,
I read your posts and find the Star history very interesting. Its fills in many of the blanks I have about the company and product.  Thanks very much for sharing.  
FYI - I chekced my invoice from 1976 and see I paid $575 plus tax and SH for a new Star Universal Loader.  Price includes 1 set of dies and a  powder charge bar.  
Regards,
Steve
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on October 04, 2006, 09:46:33 pm
Recently I was able to pick up a few more original Star price lists.

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945? ? ?$ 120.00? ?(no mention of carbide sizing dies)
December 1, 1958? ? ?$ 190.00? ?(with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968? ? ? ? ? ?$ 248.00? ?(with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968? ? ? ? ? ? ? $ 262.50? ?(with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970? ? ? ? ? ? $ 287.50? ?(with carbide sizing die option.? data from Jet22)
May 15, 1975? ? ? ? ? ? $ 450.00? ?(invoice from Kenneth L. Walters)
February 1, 1977? ? ? ?$ 525.00? ?(from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1979? ? ? ? ? ?$ 760.00? ?(carbide sizing dies are standard)
March 1, 1980? ? ? ? ? ?$ 925.00? ?(from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981? ? ? ? ? ? ?$1110.00? ?(pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)

I would be iterested in hearing from anyone who has an orginal price list with different dates and/or prices.

Above list has been edited to include information from Kenneth Walters and Jet22.? ?Any additional data would be appreciated.

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on October 05, 2006, 12:12:08 am
May 15, 1975 (from invoice) $450
February 1, 1977 (from price sheet) $575  - came with long cover letter explaining increase
March 1, 1980 (from price sheet) $925

Also found invoices for a 32 ACP tool head and another in 475 Wildey.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on October 05, 2006, 05:10:40 pm
Thanks Ken,

I edited my list to include your data.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Jet22 on October 09, 2006, 04:22:44 pm
Dec 1, 1968           $ 262.50   (with carbide sizing die option)
July 15, 1970           $ 287.50   (with carbide sizing die option)
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on October 09, 2006, 04:29:14 pm
Jet22,

What is the source of your data.  Is it a "Star" price list or invoice?   The December 68 price doesn't seem consistant with other data.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Jet22 on October 09, 2006, 04:42:18 pm
They are both Star dated price lists. I have both the March 1 and December 1, 1968 price lists and the March is the same price as your March price list. I also have January 1, 1952 and July 22, 1963 price lists but they do not include complete loaders. The tool heads were $34.50 with dies and shell plate (not carbide) in the 1952 list and $60.00 in 1963. A carbide die tool head with shell plate was $77.50 in 1963. I have a few more catalogs but I will have to locate them. I believe I have them filed away with other loader instruction manuals. I do not remember them being dated but I have not looked at them in some time so I guess I should find them.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on October 09, 2006, 04:52:19 pm
Thanks Jet22,

I edited the list to include your data.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Jet22 on October 09, 2006, 05:44:44 pm
Found the other two parts list/diagram manuals I have. They are undated and unpriced however there is a price list dated April 1, 1981 with them. The price is as follows:

Universal Reloader $1110.00
Extra tool head $425.00 (with Carbide dies and shell plate)
Set of Carbide dies $185.00

This matches your info already posted.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on February 23, 2009, 12:11:10 am
I picked up a few more original price lists, so I have updated my previous list/

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00   
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)




Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: NYKenn on March 26, 2009, 10:43:31 am
Found an original 1984 invoice.  Fits right in line with  rbwillnj's listing above.
Price list is dated 1983.  Shows the price of a reloader [no e-mail]@ $ 925.00  Like the 1988 list, says "new lower prices".
"OO" powder slides were $ 14.00 each at the time.

Interesting to note, was that the price list included a piece of paper noting order and delivery time. The number for months was handwritten in blue ink to say that orders for all items (presses, toolheads, parts, lubrisizers) each was one month, upon receipt of payment.

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Kenneth L. Walters on March 26, 2009, 11:13:10 am
Saved all my Star invoices.  Prices from them were

Star Universal with carbine die 5/15/75 $450
Star Universal 223/pistol tool 12/3/85 $1050

Also found that I ordered a 32 ACP and 475 Wildey tool heads

All the others must not have been bought from Star directly.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: CHAWKI44 on March 30, 2009, 01:33:11 pm
They were friends, Star would make sizeing dies in relationship to special ordered H&G molds.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on August 03, 2009, 05:00:54 pm
I picked up a few more original price lists, so I have updated my previous list/

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00  
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00    
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: ARTINCT on September 18, 2009, 03:09:45 pm
Guys...  On Friday September 18, 2009 a nice Star Universal with 38 Cal Perfection dies and a taper crimp die has just sold for $1,925.00   I was in contact with the seller when it was first listed.  There were no tools (for example the primer deck nut wrench), no primer pick up tubes or any spare parts, springs bushings or charge bars being provided along with this reloader.  The reloader was very well cared for.  All parts that could be, were buffed and polished to a mirror finish. 

In my opinion, this sale sets an all time high water mark for a single Star Universal equipped with the most common tool head.   I suspect this may draw some other machines out of the closet.

To find this listing and the pictures it is item 250499235832 

The Ebay advanced search with the completed items check box will probably return this listing on ebay.

That has got to be ONE HAPPY SELLER.

The high price means that there was at least one other potential buyer who was willing to pay $1900 or there abouts.

Sheesh....
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: starman on September 18, 2009, 05:09:55 pm
it look like it was repainted  too and the star decal was upside down I think I will come out of the closet oh I mean one of my stars
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: pcmacd on May 31, 2011, 04:49:46 pm
I picked up a price list for Star products from 4/88 and 1/93.  Would 'yall like me to scan them in and post them?

mac
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on May 31, 2011, 09:41:47 pm
The price list for 1993 would be interesting.   That was getting pretty close to the end of production.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: pcmacd on June 01, 2011, 02:58:29 pm
The price list for 1993 would be interesting.   That was getting pretty close to the end of production.


As requested.

S1 attached  is flyer p.4 (left)  p 1 (right)

S2 attached is flyer p.2 (left)  p 3 (right)

I have a much higher quality PDF that would not fit here due to size restrictions.

I also have the 25 cent Star Machine booklet from a time I'd have to check on.  Likely the seventies; it has the loader, options, and lubesizer in it.  I can scan in the pages (they will be fairly low quality) or produce and distribute a PDF.

 Ping me with a message if you would like to have either.



mac
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Sherwood Arms on November 02, 2011, 02:35:10 pm
To the list you can add October 15, 1975. The prices were the same $450.00 for the Progressive Reloader and $495.00 for the Universal Reloader as the November 1, 1975 prices.

Apparently price changes were coming as a few items had handwritten price changes (dies went from $92.50 to $100 and shell plates went from $37.50 to $50.00).

Strangely of three October 15, 1975 price lists only one had the handwritten price changes.

Perhaps of interest the Reloader delivery dates were:
October 15, 1975 - 11-12 months
March 1, 1978 - 22-24 months
March 1, 1979 - 24 months
April 1, 1981 - 30 months

Jerry Mc
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: varmintpopper on November 03, 2011, 03:31:06 am
(9/1/91 crossed out) and then new hand written date of 1/1/93, Universal Reloader $925,  Extra tool head $345, set of Dies $155, Lubricator & Sizer with Die and bullet punch ($ 150 crossed out) hand written $157.50

Good Shooting

Lindy
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on November 17, 2011, 01:55:22 pm
I picked up a few more original price lists, so I have updated my previous list/

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies) See Note*
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00  
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00    
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: tguntrader on January 12, 2012, 03:53:32 pm
Tguntrader.
                   Bruce, you don,t have a price for 1969, in your listing, A good place to check price is Shooter,s bible I am looking at 1969 edition 60, here we go with the prices,

                     Univ. Prog. with stanard. dies-   $236.50
                     Univ. Prog. with Carbide- dies-    248.00
                     Extra tool head with std. dies-      77.00
                     Extra tool head  with car. dies-     88.50
                     Progressive reloader Std, Dies      203.50
                     Progressive reloader Carb. dies     217.50
Bruce Hope this helps. This should be in back of every edition
               
                           
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: tguntrader on February 12, 2012, 04:44:26 pm
Guy,s 

         Bruce, I just found my book that was dated Jan. 1 1961.
                  Progressive                     $160.00

                  Prog, w Carbide               $170.00
                 
                  Universal                        $180.00

                  Universal w/ carbide         $190.00

              Tguntrader

       

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on February 12, 2012, 11:09:48 pm

Thanks Willie, I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies) See Note*
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961...........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00    
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: peten on March 05, 2012, 03:37:06 am
I am new to this forum but do have some knowledge regarding Star Machine Works.  I knew a person who was related to the owner of Star.  He introdluced me and I visited Star in the late 70's.  What most people do not seem to realize is that the reloading tools was a part time portion of the Star Maching Works.  They were only made on Saturdays by one person (I cannot recall his name).  During the week the company machined many other items, one of which was brass coupling devises for sali boat lines and ropes. I still have one he gave me.  I had 2 presses and 4 heads, 9mm, 38/357, 40 and 45ACP.  They were fantastic and I sure wish I had not sold them.  Also have a Star sizer with 8 dies, each ordered for a specific Lyman mould.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on March 30, 2012, 01:23:35 pm
I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
May 1, 1952 ...............$  130.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961...........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00    
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Marshal Kane on May 02, 2012, 09:33:01 am
Hi Bruce,

More updates to your Star price list:

November 1, 1972  

Progressive Reloader w/steel resizing die  $310
Progressive Reloader w/carbide resizing die  $320

Universal Reloader w/steel resizing die $350
Universal Reloader w/carbide resizing die  $360

January 1, 1993

Universal Reloader w/carbide resizing die  $925
Extra tool head  $345
Set of dies w/carbide resizing die  $155

April 1, 1999  (Bill Cunningham is the owner of Star)

Universal Reloader w/carbide resizing die  $925
Extra tool head w/shell plate  $356
Set of dies w/carbide resizing die and shell plate  $166

  

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on September 01, 2012, 02:25:04 pm
I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
January 1, 1952 ......................Parts price list only, Includes price for carbide sizing dies
May 1, 1952 ...............$  130.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961...........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966................$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option)**
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00   
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"

**  July 15, 1970 Brochure with stamp on the front cover indicating that lead time for a Reloader is 5-6 months and for a Lubesizer 1-2 months.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: G. Deming on September 23, 2012, 08:15:34 pm
Gentlemen,
      I may be able to help you fill in a gap in the pricing history of Star. I bought my Universal progressive  model with both .38 and .45 heads with carbide dies and other extras in May of 1969 for $375.00. At that time, I received a Star catalog and price sheet dated January 20, 1965 listing the price of the universal progressive model at $215.00 with carbide dies at $225.00. The standard progressive tool was $185.00 with the carbide die at $197.50. Extra tool heads were $65.00 with carbide dies adding $20.00. H&G molds were listed for sale also and the lubrisizer was $47.50........I loaded about 500 rounds of .38 special a couple of months ago with the usual flawless reliability. I wish I continued to work as well after 43 years!
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on September 26, 2012, 09:28:08 am
Thanks G. Deming

I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
January 1, 1952 ......................Parts price list only, Includes price for carbide sizing dies
May 1, 1952 ...............$  130.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961.......... $ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 20, 1965.........$ 225.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966...............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option. data from Jet22)
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option)**
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00    
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
July 8, 1996 .................$925.00    (from Welsh Rifleman)
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"

**  July 15, 1970 Brochure with stamp on the front cover indicating that lead time for a Reloader is 5-6 months and for a Lubesizer 1-2 months.
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Welsh Rifleman on December 30, 2012, 10:02:21 am
Hello Bruce......

I have some Star Machine Works parts lists that were included with the Star Universal Reloader that I recently acquired.

The one that is dated 7/8/96 isn't on your list....so here is the information.

Universal Reloader......................925.00
Extra Tool Head..........................345.00
Set of Dies.................................155.00

"Above items with carbide shell resizing die"

Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on December 30, 2012, 11:07:56 am
Thanks George.

Anyone have a price list that pre-dates 1945?
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on March 02, 2013, 01:25:21 pm
I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
January 1, 1952 ......................Parts price list only, Includes price for carbide sizing dies
May 1, 1952 ...............$  130.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1955 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961.......... $ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
May 21, 1963 ............. $ 210.00    (with carbide sizing die option) courtesy of Larry Lawson
January 20, 1965.........$ 225.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966...............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option)  Courtesy of Larry Lawson
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option)**
December 1, 1971 .......$320.00     (with carbide sizing die option) courtesy of Larry Lawson***
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters)
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00   
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
July 8, 1996 .................$925.00    (from Welsh Rifleman)
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    (looks like an original Star price list, but maybe from Bill Cunningham?)

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"

**  July 15, 1970 Brochure with stamp on the front cover indicating that lead time for a Reloader is 5-6 months and for a Lubesizer 1-2 months.

*** December 1, 1971  9mm Carbide Die $41; .30 Carbine Die $71; Two Stage Carbide Die $41; All other Carbide Dies $22.50
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: DDStraitwell on April 24, 2014, 09:54:48 pm
Hi, just ran across the price list and instructions for my first Star Universal. CATALOG AND PRICE LIST - January 1, 1956.
Progressive Reloading Tool 38 special  $150.00  Universal Progressive Reloader   $170.00   Extra toolhead for one caliber including shell plate  $50.00   HENSLEY AND GIBBS moulds - 2 cavity $12.50 4 cavity $22.50 6 cavity $37.50 10 cavity $62.50.
Star Lubricator and Resizer  $38.00. This was bought through the Houston Police pistol range by Lt. Swearingin for me. At the time the waiting period was very long and usually when the machine came in the buyer was no longer interested so they would offer them to members of our Bayou Rifles pistol shooters who used the police range on Wednesday nights for Bullseye competition. I now have ten stars and two Phelps including the Star 223 machine. Still looking for others. It's a disease with no known cure.   DDStraitwell
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: Buckhunter on June 24, 2014, 02:06:02 pm
 I have a letter to Star Machine Works of San Diego, Inc. Attn: Rob Wilkinson
 418 Tenth Avenue, San Diego, California 92101,  Dated:February 7, 1990
 concerning the price of a Star Rifle Reloader, 30-06 that was being bought
 by SPEEDWAY SUPPLY, 915 Viola Avenue, Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54901.
 1. Star Rifle Reloader, .30-'06                  $1.500.00
     Remington 30- '06 case
     Winchester WLR primer
     46.5 gr DuPont 4895 powder
     Hornady #3050  168 gr .308 BTHP NM Bullet

 1. 27A Powder slide 00 for  4.5 gr  BE       $14.00
 I have not seen any prices on the Star Rifle and thought that I would share
 this information with the members on Star Rifle History prices.
  :)Buckhunter         
Title: Re: Star Price History
Post by: rbwillnj on September 02, 2015, 10:11:40 am
I have updated my previous list

For a Universal Reloader, I can share the following price history;

December 1, 1945........$ 120.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
January 1, 1950.......................   Parts price list only, Includes price for carbide sizing dies, Steel Resizing Die, $4.50, Carbide, $18.50
January 1, 1952 ......................   Parts price list only, Includes price for carbide sizing dies
May 1, 1952 ...............$  130.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
July 1, 1953................$  150.00     (no mention of carbide sizing dies)
August 1, 1954 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1955 ...........$                Parts price list only.  Includes price for carbide sizing dies.
January 1, 1956 ......... $  170.00
December 1, 1958........$ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
January 1, 1961.......... $ 190.00     (with carbide sizing die option)
May 21, 1963 ............. $ 210.00    (with carbide sizing die option) courtesy of Larry Lawson
January 20, 1965.........$ 225.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
April 1, 1966...............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
March 1, 1968.............$ 248.00    (with carbide sizing die option)
Dec 1, 1968................$ 262.50    (with carbide sizing die option)  Courtesy of Larry Lawson
July 15, 1970...............$ 287.50    (with carbide sizing die option)**
December 1, 1971 .......$320.00     (with carbide sizing die option) courtesy of Larry Lawson***
November 1, 1973........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard)
November 1, 1975.........$ 450.00    (Carbide Dies are Standard
February 1, 1977..........$ 525.00
March 1, 1978..............$ 660.00
March 1, 1979..............$ 760.00   
March 1, 1980..............$ 925.00    (from Kenneth L. Walters
April 1, 1981................$1110.00    (pricing for "Progressive" Reloader no longer given)
January 10, 1983.........$  925.00    (Says New Lower Prices)
April 1, 1988.................$ 925.00    (Says New Lower Prices!)
May 1, 1990.................$ 925.00
September 1, 1991........$ 925.00
January 1, 1993............$ 925.00
July 8, 1996 .................$925.00    (from Welsh Rifleman)
May 1, 1997.................$ 925.00    Final Star "San Diego" Price List

*  July 1953 brochure/price list includes a note that "During the present emergency and labor shortage we will only attempt to carry in stock those parts necessary to load the 45 ACP and 38 Special"    Also says the Universal will adapt to the popular hand gun calibers "except 45 Auto Rim"

**  July 15, 1970 Brochure with stamp on the front cover indicating that lead time for a Reloader is 5-6 months and for a Lubesizer 1-2 months.

*** December 1, 1971  9mm Carbide Die $41; .30 Carbine Die $71; Two Stage Carbide Die $41; All other Carbide Dies $22.50