What features can be readily observed to distinguish the 2 versions? Were the Progessive's only made for 38 & perhaps 45? I have read on ebay, by a regular seller, that the ID of the 2 versions are not easily deterimined.
I recently obtained what I judge to be an older machine in 38. Although horribly dirty, it had no serious rust, the machine cleaned up well. I ran sev cases thru it adjusting the dies and all is in order. The owner apparently believed in the use of lubrication which helped preserve it. There are minor differences from my 70's produced Universal (purchased new) so I have a machine for comparison.
The survivability of these machines is quite remarkable. I recently helped a new shooter set up a "blue" machine w/ all the options. After more set up time (2 working) , than it took to tear down, cleanup, & reassmble the old Star, it was returned for troubleshooting while the Star is ready to produce amunition. Setup for my original Star was securing to the bench, adding powder & primers, then adjusting bullet seating depth.
Thanks for information any of you provide.