Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws Review

Let’s Dive into Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws

As a seasoned reloading enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours at my workbench, meticulously crafting rounds for everything from precision target shooting to preparing for that elusive elk hunt. Reloading is more than just a hobby for me; it’s a science, an art, and a necessity to ensure I have the specific ammunition tailored to my firearms and needs. So, when I began experiencing inconsistencies with my lower shell holder during case insertion, I knew it was time for an upgrade, leading me to the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws.

My main press is a Forster Co-Ax, a machine known for its precision and rock-solid performance. However, the original lower shell holder jaws, after years of dedicated service, were starting to show their age, causing a slight wobble and occasional misalignment. The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws promised a tighter, more secure grip on the cartridge cases, ultimately leading to more consistent reloading.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction of the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws. The black steel had a reassuring heft and a smooth finish. The build quality felt superior to the original jaws, with tighter tolerances and a more refined mechanism.

I considered options from RCBS and Hornady, both reputable names in the reloading world. However, I opted for the Forster product because I wanted to maintain the factory-original precision of my Co-Ax press. I was excited to see if these jaws would restore the consistent, reliable performance I had come to expect from my Forster press.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws at my reloading bench, focusing on several different calibers, from .223 Remington to .308 Winchester, to gauge their versatility. The weather was mild, providing ideal conditions for a focused reloading session.

The initial setup was straightforward, taking only a few minutes to remove the old jaws and install the new ones. I immediately noticed a significant improvement in the feel of the press. Case insertion was smoother and more consistent, requiring less effort and reducing the risk of case damage. There were no issues or surprises, only a marked improvement in performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of reloaded rounds, the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws have proven their worth. They have held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or tear.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s required. Compared to my previous experiences with worn-out jaws, the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws offer a substantial upgrade in performance and reliability. The consistency and precision they provide make the entire reloading process more efficient and enjoyable.

Breaking Down the Features of Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws

Specifications

• The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws are designed to provide a secure and self-acting grip on cartridge cases during the reloading process. This ensures proper alignment and reduces the risk of case damage.

• The jaws are constructed from durable steel, offering long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear. The steel material contributes to the overall robustness and reliability of the Forster product.

• Each package contains one set of Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws. This is ideal for replacing worn or damaged jaws in existing Forster Co-Ax presses.

• The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws are finished in black. The color provides a professional look and helps to prevent rust and corrosion.

• The jaws are self-acting, meaning they automatically close and hold the cartridge case in place when the press handle is down. This simplifies the reloading process, especially for high-volume reloaders.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the precision and reliability of the reloading process. The steel construction ensures durability, while the self-acting design enhances ease of use, contributing to a smoother and more efficient reloading experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws perform their job exceptionally well. They provide a secure and consistent grip on cartridge cases, which translates to more accurate and reliable reloads.

The primary strength of these jaws is their ability to maintain proper case alignment, minimizing the risk of bullet runout and improving overall accuracy. One potential area for improvement might be offering different jaw sizes for specific case head diameters, further optimizing the grip for certain calibers. The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws meet and exceed my expectations, providing a noticeable upgrade over my previous worn-out jaws.

Design & Ergonomics

The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws boast a simple yet effective design. The steel construction gives them a solid feel and instills confidence in their durability.

These jaws are exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install and operate. The self-acting mechanism further enhances the ergonomic experience, allowing for a more efficient and less fatiguing reloading process.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their robust steel construction, the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws are built to last. With proper care and minimal maintenance, they should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving keeping the jaws clean and free from debris. The ease of maintenance contributes to the overall longevity and value of the product.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws do not come with any additional accessories, as they are primarily a replacement part for existing Forster Co-Ax presses. However, their compatibility with the Co-Ax press allows for a wide range of customization options using other Forster reloading accessories.

These jaws are designed to work seamlessly with other Forster components, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. While there are no specific customization options directly related to the jaws themselves, the modularity of the Forster Co-Ax system allows for extensive personalization of the reloading process.

Pros and Cons of Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws

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Who Should Buy Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws?

The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws are perfect for serious reloaders who demand precision and consistency from their equipment. This includes competitive shooters, precision rifle enthusiasts, and anyone who values crafting high-quality ammunition tailored to their specific firearms.

Those who should skip this product are individuals on a very tight budget or those who are only occasionally reloading a small number of rounds. A must-have modification would be pairing these jaws with other high-quality Forster reloading dies and accessories to maximize the performance of the Co-Ax press.

Conclusion on Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws

The Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws are an essential upgrade for any serious reloader using a Forster Co-Ax press. They provide a noticeable improvement in precision, consistency, and overall reloading efficiency.

The price of $45.79 is justified considering the enhanced performance and durability they offer. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Forster LS Lower Shell Holder Jaws to anyone looking to elevate their reloading game. Upgrade your Forster Co-Ax press today and experience the difference!