Let’s Dive into RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes offer a simple and affordable way to streamline the bullet feeding process during pistol cartridge reloading. These caliber-specific tubes, manufactured by RCBS, are designed to integrate seamlessly with progressive reloading presses, promising to boost reloading efficiency. My initial draw to this product stemmed from a desire to speed up my reloading sessions for .45 ACP, a caliber I shoot frequently in IDPA competitions.
Unboxing the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes revealed a no-frills package containing two tubes, a feed die, a bullet finger, a bullet guide, and four tube caps. The plastic felt reasonably durable, though not exceptionally robust. The simplicity of the design was immediately apparent; there’s not much to it, which I hoped would translate to easy setup and use.
I considered other bullet feeding systems, including complete automated feeders and universal tube systems. However, the RCBS system’s caliber-specific design and lower price point swayed me. I was aiming for incremental improvement rather than a complete overhaul of my reloading setup. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t fancy, but if it did what it claimed, the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes would be a worthwhile addition.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes at my home reloading bench, using my Dillon XL650 progressive press. Setup was relatively straightforward, involving installing the feed die into a spare station and adjusting the bullet finger for proper bullet release. The first few rounds were a little fiddly, getting the timing right between the tube feeding and the press operation.
Performance was generally good but dependent on the bullet profile. Round-nosed .45 ACP bullets fed smoothly, while semi-wadcutter bullets occasionally snagged. The tubes worked adequately, even when the humidity in my reloading room was high; the bullets didn’t stick. I experienced a few instances where a bullet didn’t quite align correctly, requiring a manual adjustment before seating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of reloading sessions, the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes have proven to be a moderately reliable addition. The plastic tubes show no signs of cracking or significant wear, despite repeated loading and unloading. Maintenance is minimal, mainly involving wiping the tubes clean of any powder residue.
Compared to manually placing each bullet, the tubes definitely sped up the process, maybe not the “up to 50%” claimed, but a noticeable improvement. However, the occasional misfeeds and the need for fine-tuning with different bullet profiles are drawbacks. It outperforms hand placement in speed but falls short of a fully automated system in consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes
Specifications
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes are caliber-specific and designed for use with 7/8″-14 threaded progressive presses. Each tube holds approximately 20-25 bullets, depending on their size and profile. They are designed for .40-.45 caliber bullets, with the reviewed model being 82350. The tubes include a feed die, bullet finger, bullet guide, and two tube caps, and come in a quantity of two tubes per package. The Manufacturer is RCBS, and the Country of Origin is the USA.
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility of the tubes with your reloading setup. Caliber specificity ensures proper bullet alignment and reliable feeding, while the tube capacity determines how frequently you need to refill them.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes is to streamline bullet feeding during reloading. When properly adjusted, they deliver bullets consistently to the case mouth, ready for seating. They are a noticeable step up from manual bullet placement, but the system isn’t foolproof.
Strengths include increased reloading speed and reduced hand fatigue. Weaknesses include occasional bullet misfeeds, sensitivity to bullet profile, and the need for manual adjustments. It meets expectations for a low-cost, entry-level bullet feeding system, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes feature a simple, functional design. The plastic construction is lightweight, and the tubes are easy to handle. They add a degree of convenience and speed to the reloading process.
The system has a minimal learning curve; the setup and adjustment are straightforward. However, users should expect to spend some time fine-tuning the bullet finger and feed die for optimal performance with their chosen bullet profile.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic tubes appear reasonably durable and should last for a considerable time with proper care. Maintenance involves keeping the tubes clean and free from powder residue, which can be easily done with a cloth or brush. The design is simple, so there aren’t many parts to break.
The tubes are relatively easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts, such as tube caps and bullet fingers, are readily available from RCBS and other reloading suppliers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes come with a feed die, bullet finger, bullet guide, and tube caps. Extra bullet tubes are sold separately, allowing you to pre-load tubes for even faster reloading sessions. There are no other real customization options beyond adjusting the bullet finger.
The system is designed to work with RCBS progressive presses and other presses with 7/8″-14 threaded stations. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as it’s a closed system. Investing in additional tubes is probably the best way to improve workflow.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes
Pros
- Noticeably speeds up reloading compared to manual bullet placement.
- Reduces hand fatigue during long reloading sessions.
- Simple design makes it easy to set up and use.
- Affordable price point compared to fully automated bullet feeders.
- Works with jacketed, plated, cast, or swaged lead bullets.
Cons
- Prone to occasional bullet misfeeds, especially with certain bullet profiles.
- Requires fine-tuning for optimal performance with different bullets.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes?
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes are perfect for reloaders seeking to increase their reloading speed without investing in expensive, fully automated systems. This product is especially useful for high-volume reloaders who primarily load round-nosed pistol bullets. Casual reloaders who only load a few hundred rounds per year might not see enough benefit to justify the purchase.
Reloaders who primarily use semi-wadcutter or other complex bullet profiles should probably skip this product, as the misfeed rate may be too high. A must-have accessory is additional bullet tubes. Pre-loading several tubes will allow you to maximize your reloading speed and minimize downtime.
Conclusion on RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes
The RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes offer a budget-friendly way to improve reloading efficiency. While not without its limitations, the system delivers a tangible increase in reloading speed and reduces hand fatigue. The price is justified for those seeking a simple, affordable upgrade.
I would recommend it to reloaders who primarily use round-nosed pistol bullets and are willing to spend some time fine-tuning the system for optimal performance. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to streamline your reloading process, the RCBS Pistol Bullet Feeder Tubes are worth considering. Give them a shot and experience the faster workflow yourself!