MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 Review

Let’s Talk About MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180

For years, I’ve been a die-hard proponent of hand-loading ammunition, recognizing the benefits in both cost savings and the ability to tailor rounds for specific firearms and hunting scenarios. The MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 is MEC’s entry into the single-stage metallic reloading market, promising precision and durability for reloaders of all experience levels. This press boasts compatibility with a wide range of calibers, from the diminutive .22 Hornet to the formidable .416 Rigby, making it a versatile tool for any reloading bench.

My quest for a new single-stage press stemmed from a desire for increased precision and reliability compared to my older, less robust model. I was specifically looking for a press constructed with durable materials and featuring a design that minimized cartridge runout. The MEC Marksman piqued my interest due to its cast iron construction and the claim of a patent-pending self-centering shell holder.

Upon unboxing the MEC Marksman, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the cast iron frame. The heft instills confidence in the press’s ability to handle even the most demanding reloading tasks. The finish was clean and smooth, and the ram moved with a pleasing, consistent action.

Compared to the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme and the Redding Big Boss II, the MEC Marksman appeared to offer a similar level of ruggedness, with the added appeal of the self-centering shell holder. I ultimately chose the MEC Marksman for its innovative shell holder design and the reputation of MEC in the shooting sports world. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to put the press through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the MEC Marksman in my reloading room, which is essentially a dedicated space in my garage, set up with ample lighting and ventilation. My initial project was reloading .308 Winchester rounds for my hunting rifle. The press performed admirably, even though it was a little stiffer than I expected out of the box.

I worked through about 50 rounds, and the process was smooth and efficient. The self-centering shell holder did seem to aid in reducing cartridge runout, though I’ll need more time and measurement equipment to truly quantify that. I tested the MEC Marksman during a particularly humid week.

After the first session, I found that there were no major issues with the press. The biggest challenge initially was getting used to the feel of the press handle and the amount of force required for different operations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the MEC Marksman has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve reloaded hundreds of rounds in various calibers, including .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .45 ACP. There are no signs of undue wear and tear on the press frame or ram.

Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining smooth operation; I typically wipe down the press after each reloading session and apply a light coat of oil to the moving parts. Compared to my previous, less sturdy press, the MEC Marksman offers significantly improved consistency and reduces the risk of damaging cases during resizing. It’s truly been a great upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180

Specifications

• The MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 is constructed from ductile cast iron, providing exceptional strength and durability. This is crucial for withstanding the high pressures involved in reloading.

• It is compatible with all standard 7/8-14 threaded dies, allowing for quick and easy caliber changes. This versatility is a significant advantage for reloaders who work with multiple calibers.

• The MEC Marksman is designed to reload cartridges from .22 Hornet to .416 Rigby. The wide caliber compatibility means fewer tools to buy.

• Its patent-pending shell holder self-centers each cartridge. This is designed to ensure proper alignment and reduce cartridge runout.

Performance & Functionality

The MEC Marksman performs its primary function – reloading ammunition – with a high degree of accuracy and reliability. Its robust construction ensures that the press can handle even the most demanding reloading tasks without flexing or distorting. The self-centering shell holder helps to minimize cartridge runout, which can improve accuracy and consistency.

The press’s main strength lies in its solid construction and consistent performance. A minor area for improvement is the initial stiffness of the ram, which requires some break-in. Overall, the MEC Marksman meets and even exceeds my expectations for a single-stage reloading press.

Design & Ergonomics

The MEC Marksman features a simple and functional design, with a focus on durability and ease of use. The cast iron frame provides a solid and stable platform for reloading. The press is designed with ergonomic considerations in mind, although some users may find the handle slightly less comfortable than those on presses with more contoured grips.

The press is relatively easy to use, even for novice reloaders, although some familiarity with reloading procedures is necessary.

Durability & Maintenance

The MEC Marksman is built to last, thanks to its durable cast iron construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning and lubrication are relatively simple tasks, requiring only a few minutes after each reloading session.

I expect the MEC Marksman to last for decades with proper care. Replacing the ram or handle should be simple.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 does not come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid and reliable foundation for reloading. Its compatibility with standard 7/8-14 threaded dies allows users to customize the press with dies from various manufacturers, tailoring it to their specific needs. While no specific customization options are offered by MEC, the press is compatible with aftermarket handles and other accessories designed for single-stage reloading presses.

Pros and Cons of MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180

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Who Should Buy MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180?

The MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 is perfect for reloaders who value durability, accuracy, and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to tailor their ammunition to specific firearms and shooting conditions. It’s also well-suited for reloaders who work with a wide range of calibers.

Those who prefer a press with a pre-installed priming system or a wider range of included accessories might want to consider other options. Must-have accessories for the MEC Marksman include a high-quality set of reloading dies, a powder measure, and a scale.

Conclusion on MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180

The MEC Marksman Reloading Press Cast Iron 1311180 is a solid and reliable single-stage reloading press that offers exceptional durability and consistent performance. Its wide caliber compatibility and self-centering shell holder make it a versatile tool for reloaders of all experience levels. At $299.99, the price is justified given the press’s quality and features.

I would definitely recommend the MEC Marksman to anyone looking for a durable and accurate single-stage reloading press. If you’re serious about reloading and want a press that will last for years to come, the MEC Marksman is an excellent choice. Invest in your reloading journey today!