Which Press to Get? Need Recommendations...

Armory » Reloading

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Which Press to Get? Need Recommendations...

Posted: 12/16/2016 12:24:32 PM EDT

I have about 200 bucks to spend on a new press but not sure which one to get, been looking at the following: (Single Stage)

Lee Classic Cast Breach Lock
Hornady Lock n Load Classic
Hornady Lock n Load Iron
RCBS Rock Chucker
RCBS Summit

I'll be upgrading from a Lee Precision cheapo Breach Lock, which has been good so far but looking for something that feel smoother and more precise.

I'll keep the Breach Lock for de-caping and priming, so don't need to worry about those features on the new press.

I'm looking for precision and not worried about speed so I'll stick with a single stage press and welcome any other recommendations you have.

Posted: 12/16/2016 12:50:52 PM EDT

[#1]

I like my Rock Chucker but I am fascinated by the new MEC single stage:

MEC

I especially like the shell holder lock and the way it rotates. Seems like a great addition to reloading..

Posted: 12/16/2016 1:04:36 PM EDT

[#2]

I have a Lee Classic Cast single stage. Very heavy duty and rugged. You can reload 50BMG on it if you so choose. I went with the non-breechlock version and instead purchased the conversion kit that lets me use the Hornady Lock n Load quick change bushing system. I also like that the spent primers go down the center of the ram into a collection tube. This one gets my vote.

Posted: 12/16/2016 1:22:08 PM EDT

[#3]

I use a Lee press which works great but I must say I am truly amazed by anything RCBS makes and their customer service cannot be beat.

Lee is more economical and good quality but RCBS is a step above. If you want it to last your lifetime and beyond..my $.02

Posted: 12/16/2016 1:28:02 PM EDT

[#4]

I would get the Rock Chucker.

Posted: 12/16/2016 3:04:37 PM EDT

[#5]

If my primary goal was precision I would be looking at a Fosters Co-Ax.

From your list I would pick the RCBS Rock Chucker.

I agree that the MEC is intriguing but MEC shotgun presses have disappointed me.

Posted: 12/16/2016 3:38:26 PM EDT

[#6]

Another vote here for the RCBS Rock Chucker.

Posted: 12/16/2016 6:49:42 PM EDT

[#7]

Any downside to the RCBS Summit? only reason I ask is because it would sit perfect on my bench and Sportsmans has it for 199.99

Posted: 12/16/2016 6:54:44 PM EDT

[#8]

Quote History

Quoted:
Any downside to the RCBS Summit? only reason I ask is because it would sit perfect on my bench and Sportsmans has it for 199.99

View Quote

No, it costs more than the Rockchucker right?

Posted: 12/16/2016 6:59:14 PM EDT

[#9]

The Rock Chucker at Cabelas right night where I'm at is about 145 and the Summit is 200

Posted: 12/16/2016 7:19:53 PM EDT

[#10]

Lee Classic Cast with lock and load conversion bushing

Posted: 12/16/2016 9:06:36 PM EDT

[#11]

go with the summit!

Or save just a little longer and get a forster coax. In the long run you will save money never buying shell holders.

Posted: 12/16/2016 9:54:54 PM EDT

[#12]

Quote History

Quoted:
Lee Classic Cast with lock and load conversion bushing

View Quote

Posted: 12/16/2016 9:55:44 PM EDT

[#13]

Quote History

Quoted:
Lee Classic Cast with lock and load conversion bushing

View Quote

Yup! I have a Rock Chucker, Partner, Hornady L-n-L and a Classic Cast. The best one is the Classic Cast with a few upgrades from Inline Fabrication (case kicker, strong mount and a roller handle).

B

Posted: 12/16/2016 10:15:20 PM EDT

[#14]

Gotta admit that MEC press looks mighty sweet. Taking a cue from Inline Fabrication, MEC also offers some interesting accessories including a strong mount, accessory tray, shellholder tray, and some other items (pics on MidwayUSA's site).

It's also about $75 less than the Hornady Iron Press. Don't see any "on-press" priming (maybe it doesn't have any) but pretty sure used primers are directed down a hollow ram and into a collection tray underneath.

I like it.

Posted: 12/16/2016 10:41:55 PM EDT

[#15]

I've owned and used Rock Chuckers for close to 50 years. No reason not to suggest one. Their bulletproof and RCBS has a good warranty so a used one from the bay or a show could be a good option.

Posted: 12/17/2016 6:08:43 AM EDT

[#16]

Forgot to post MEC's YT video on their new press:

MEC

Posted: 12/17/2016 11:00:58 AM EDT

[#17]

Quote History

Quoted:
I would get the Rock Chucker.

View Quote

I started on a rock chucker and never had issues with it.

Posted: 12/18/2016 11:56:09 AM EDT

[#18]

I ended up picking up a RCBS Rock Chucker, seems to be built solid and looks good. I appreciate the recommendations from ya guys.

Posted: 12/18/2016 2:05:54 PM EDT

[#19]

Quote History

Quoted:
go with the summit!

Or save just a little longer and get a forster coax. In the long run you will save money never buying shell holders.

View Quote

Reviews I've read on the RCBS Summit point to issues with excessive run-out.

Posted: 12/18/2016 11:00:16 PM EDT

[#20]

Quote History

Quoted:
I ended up picking up a RCBS Rock Chucker, seems to be built solid and looks good. I appreciate the recommendations from ya guys.

View Quote

Your welcome.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Which Press to Get? Need Recommendations...

Armory » Reloading

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