Let’s Talk About Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press represents a solid entry point into the world of handloading ammunition. Manufactured by Lyman, a name synonymous with reloading expertise, this single-stage press aims to deliver a robust and reliable platform for reloaders of all experience levels. Its key features, like the heavy-duty cast iron frame and straight-line primer feed system, promise precision and safety, making it an appealing option in a market saturated with choices.
My journey towards the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press stemmed from a need for greater control over my ammunition. Factory loads, while convenient, rarely matched the performance I sought for my precision rifles. The ability to tailor my ammunition to specific firearms and shooting scenarios was a driving force, pushing me toward the world of reloading.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press made a strong first impression. The cast iron “O” frame felt substantial and reassuringly sturdy. The powder-coated orange finish hinted at durability, and the overall design appeared simple and functional. It gave the impression of a tool built to last, a sentiment I always appreciate in reloading equipment.
Before settling on the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press, I considered the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme and the Lee Classic Cast. The RCBS is a legendary press, but the Lyman offered similar features at a slightly lower price point. The Lee Classic Cast is known for its affordability, but I opted for the Lyman for its perceived superior build quality and the innovative straight-line primer feed.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press seemed well-built and thoughtfully designed, but the true test would be in its performance. I was eager to see if it lived up to the expectations set by Lyman’s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press took place in my reloading room, a converted section of my garage. I focused on reloading .308 Winchester rounds, a common caliber for my precision bolt-action rifles. Conditions were dry and mild, providing an ideal setting to evaluate the press’s core functions.
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press proved surprisingly intuitive to use right out of the box. The leverage provided by the handle was substantial, making resizing cases relatively effortless. The straight-line primer feed system, although requiring careful setup, functioned smoothly and consistently once dialed in.
A minor issue surfaced during the priming process. Initially, the primer feed was a little finicky, occasionally requiring slight adjustments to ensure proper primer seating. However, with a bit of practice, I quickly learned to anticipate and correct these minor hiccups, turning them into a non-issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press has proven to be a reliable workhorse. The press has maintained its initial level of performance, showing no signs of diminished capabilities. It has successfully handled thousands of rounds of various calibers, including .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .300 Winchester Magnum.
The powder-coated finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and corrosion despite regular contact with solvents and lubricants. The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press requires minimal maintenance; a simple wipe-down after each reloading session is generally sufficient. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the ram to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper, less robust press, the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is a significant upgrade. It offers smoother operation, greater precision, and a noticeable increase in efficiency. It has instilled greater confidence in the quality and consistency of my reloads.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press
Specifications
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press features a heavy-duty, cast iron “O” frame, providing exceptional rigidity and stability during the reloading process. This is critical for maintaining consistent results and minimizing case stretch.
It utilizes a 1-inch diameter ram and compound linkage, contributing to smooth and powerful operation. This robust design reduces the likelihood of malfunctions and ensures long-term reliability.
The press includes a straight-line primer feed system with both large and small primer tubes. This system offers a reliable and convenient way to seat primers, enhancing both speed and consistency.
It offers a large 5-inch frame opening, easily accommodating even large magnum calibers. This versatility makes it a suitable choice for reloaders working with a wide range of cartridges.
For added safety, the primer feed features a heavy steel shield surrounding the primer tubes. This shield helps contain any potential primer detonation, protecting the user from injury.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press excels in delivering consistent and accurate results. Its rigid frame and smooth operation contribute to precise bullet seating and consistent crimps. It is a reliable tool for producing high-quality ammunition.
While the press is generally excellent, the primer feed system can occasionally be finicky. Fine-tuning the primer feed can be necessary for optimal performance, but once set, it functions reliably. It is a worthwhile trade-off for the increased safety and convenience of the system.
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press meets and often exceeds expectations. It offers a significant step up in performance and reliability compared to entry-level presses. Its robust design and user-friendly features make it a valuable asset for any serious reloader.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press features a simple, functional design. The cast iron frame provides a solid and stable base. The powder-coated orange finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
The press is generally user-friendly, although the primer feed system requires some initial familiarization. The handle provides ample leverage, making resizing and bullet seating relatively easy. The ability to set it up for both right and left-hand use adds to its versatility.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is built to last. The robust cast iron construction and durable finish ensure years of reliable service. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide decades of use.
The press requires minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the ram are typically sufficient to keep it running smoothly. Its simple design makes it easy to disassemble and repair if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press comes standard with both large and small primer tubes for the straight-line primer feed system. This provides immediate functionality for a wide range of cartridges. The primer feed also comes with a heavy steel shield for added safety.
The press is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies from various manufacturers. This allows for extensive customization and the use of specialized dies for specific reloading tasks. Most standard shell holders will work in this press providing a wide range of cartridge options.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press
Pros
- Heavy-duty cast iron frame provides exceptional stability and rigidity.
- Straight-line primer feed system is reliable, convenient, and safe.
- Large 5-inch frame opening accommodates even large magnum calibers.
- Ambidextrous handle design allows for right- or left-handed operation.
- Smooth and powerful operation ensures consistent and accurate results.
Cons
- Primer feed system can be finicky and requires careful setup.
- Some users may prefer a progressive press for higher-volume reloading.
Who Should Buy Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press?
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is perfect for reloaders who value precision, reliability, and safety. It is an excellent choice for those new to reloading or those who prefer the control and consistency of a single-stage press. It’s also ideal for reloaders who work with a wide range of calibers, including magnum cartridges.
Individuals seeking maximum reloading speed or those primarily focused on high-volume reloading may find a progressive press more suitable. Those on a very tight budget may consider a more basic, less feature-rich option.
A must-have accessory for the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is a high-quality digital scale for accurate powder measuring. A good set of calipers is also essential for precise bullet seating depth adjustments. The addition of a quality reloading manual can significantly enhance accuracy and safety.
Conclusion on Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press
The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is a well-built, reliable, and versatile single-stage reloading press. It offers a significant step up in performance and features compared to entry-level options. The Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press provides excellent value for its price.
The asking price is indeed justified considering the press’ robust construction, innovative features, and exceptional performance. Lyman has delivered a product that strikes a good balance between affordability and quality.
I would personally recommend the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press to anyone looking for a solid, dependable single-stage reloading press. If you’re ready to take control of your ammunition and achieve greater precision in your shooting, the Lyman Brass-Smith Victory Reloading Press is an excellent choice. Take the plunge and experience the rewarding world of handloading with this excellent press.