First Impressions of MEC Resize Rings
The MEC Resize Rings might seem like a small, unassuming part, but they’re a vital component for any serious shotgun reloader using a MEC 600 Jr. I’ve spent over a decade reloading my own shotgun shells, primarily for competitive shooting and the occasional dove hunt, and I’ve learned that consistent resizing is absolutely crucial for reliable feeding and proper crimps. This review will explore why these seemingly simple rings can make or break your reloading process.
My journey to appreciating the MEC Resize Rings started with frustration. I was experiencing inconsistent crimps and occasional failures to feed with my reloads.
The MEC Resize Rings arrived in a small, no-frills package. My initial impression was, “That’s it?” They are simple metal rings, but holding them, I could feel the precision of the machining. Compared to trying to salvage worn-out rings, or worse, deal with shells that won’t chamber, this tiny piece of steel represents peace of mind.
Initially, I was more relieved than excited.
Real-World Testing: Putting MEC Resize Rings to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for the MEC Resize Rings is my reloading bench, which sees action at least twice a month, processing hundreds of shells. I tested the rings across various hulls: Remington STS, Winchester AA, and even some older Federal Gold Medals I had stashed away. Installation was simple, a quick swap with the old ring in my MEC 600 Jr.
The performance improvement was immediately noticeable. Hulls resized with the new rings felt more consistent, and the resizing process itself felt smoother. I saw no issues with hulls sticking or requiring excessive force to resize.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the MEC Resize Rings are holding up beautifully. There’s no visible wear or deformation, and they continue to deliver consistent resizing. This is a huge improvement over my previous experience, where I was constantly battling with inconsistent resizing due to worn-out rings.
Maintenance is practically nonexistent; I simply wipe them down with a clean cloth occasionally to remove any powder residue. Compared to fighting with swollen hulls and inconsistent crimps from worn rings, these rings are a godsend. They far outperform my expectations for such a small investment.
Breaking Down the Features of MEC Resize Rings
Specifications
- Function: Resizes shotgun shell hulls to factory specifications during the reloading process. This ensures proper chambering and consistent crimps.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the MEC 600 Jr. series of shotgun reloaders. This dedicated fit ensures optimal performance within the reloading machine.
- Material: Constructed from hardened steel for durability and longevity. The hardened steel is crucial for withstanding the repetitive stress of resizing hundreds or thousands of shells.
- Replacement Interval: Recommended to be replaced periodically based on reloading volume. This regular replacement helps maintain consistent resizing performance.
- Alternative Solution: The MEC Supersizer is suggested for persistent resizing issues. This is an alternative, more robust solution for more demanding reloading needs.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the consistency and reliability of your reloads. If your hulls aren’t properly resized, you’ll experience feeding problems, poor crimps, and potentially even dangerous pressure issues.
Performance & Functionality
The MEC Resize Rings perform their primary function – resizing hulls – exceptionally well. The resized hulls consistently met factory specifications, resulting in smooth chambering and consistent crimps. There are no functional weaknesses; they simply work as intended.
These rings exceeded my expectations, especially considering their low price point. The peace of mind knowing that my hulls are consistently resized is invaluable.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the MEC Resize Rings is simple and utilitarian. Their small size and straightforward design make them easy to install and use. There’s no learning curve involved; simply swap out the old ring with the new one.
The build quality is excellent, particularly considering the price. The rings are made from hardened steel and feel solid and durable.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel construction suggests that these rings will last for a considerable amount of time under normal reloading conditions. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed.
The ease of maintenance and the expected lifespan make these rings a worthwhile investment. You won’t be constantly fiddling with them or worrying about them breaking down.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MEC Resize Rings are a standalone product and do not come with any accessories. They are designed specifically for the MEC 600 Jr. and don’t require any further customization. Their compatibility is limited to the MEC 600 Jr. reloading press.
There is not much in the way of customization options, and the lack of accessories is not detrimental to its overall use and function.
Pros and Cons of MEC Resize Rings
Pros
- Consistent Resizing: Ensures hulls are resized to factory specifications, leading to reliable feeding and proper crimps.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install, requiring no special tools or expertise.
- Durable Construction: Made from hardened steel for long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: An inexpensive solution to common reloading problems.
- Improved Reloading Consistency: Noticeable improvement in the overall reloading process.
Cons
- Limited to MEC 600 Jr.: Only compatible with the MEC 600 Jr. series of shotgun reloaders.
- Requires Periodic Replacement: Needs to be replaced periodically based on reloading volume.
Who Should Buy MEC Resize Rings?
The MEC Resize Rings are perfect for any shotgun reloader who owns a MEC 600 Jr. and is experiencing inconsistent resizing, feeding problems, or poor crimps. If you’re a competitive shooter or avid hunter who relies on consistent reloads, these rings are a must-have. Someone using a different reloader or who is not reloading shotguns, should skip this product.
There are no must-have accessories; however, having a MEC Supersizer on hand for especially stubborn hulls might be beneficial.
Conclusion on MEC Resize Rings
The MEC Resize Rings are a small investment that can make a big difference in the quality and reliability of your shotgun reloads. For just $10.99, you can ensure consistent resizing, smooth feeding, and proper crimps. The price is absolutely justified by the improved performance and peace of mind they provide.
I would highly recommend the MEC Resize Rings to any shotgun reloader using a MEC 600 Jr. If you are experiencing problems with your reloads, these rings are the first thing you should replace. Don’t let worn-out resize rings ruin your reloading experience—get a set of MEC Resize Rings and get back to loading consistent, reliable shells!