Let’s Dive into Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is a simple yet ingenious device designed to make a tedious task much easier. It promises to streamline the process of boxing and stacking 20-gauge shotgun shells, saving reloaders valuable time and effort. From MEC, a trusted name in reloading equipment, this packer aims to eliminate the frustration of manually arranging shells into neat rows.
My introduction to reloading came from my grandfather, a dedicated skeet shooter. He painstakingly hand-packed every box, ensuring each shell was perfectly aligned. The repetitive nature of this task always struck me as something ripe for improvement, hence my interest in the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20.
Upon unboxing, the packer feels surprisingly lightweight due to its plastic construction. However, the plastic seems durable and well-molded, suggesting it can withstand repeated use. The simplicity of the design is immediately apparent, which I appreciate, hinting at ease of use.
Compared to manually packing shells or using improvised methods, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 offers a potentially significant upgrade. I’ve seen some reloaders use 3D-printed jigs, but those often lack the robustness of a commercially produced product like this one. I opted for the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 hoping its specific design would provide greater speed and consistency.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the lightweight construction raised a slight concern about long-term durability, but the design’s simplicity and promise of time-saving piqued my interest. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my reloading workshop, a dedicated space where I prepare ammunition for various shooting disciplines. I was loading up 20-gauge shells for an upcoming sporting clays competition. I decided to finally put the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 through its paces.
The packer performed admirably under dry conditions, as expected. It quickly filled with shells and the transfer to the box was smooth with minimal effort. The process was certainly faster and neater than my usual method of manually placing each shell.
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 proved easy to use right out of the box. The instructions were clear, and the operation was intuitive. I appreciated that I didn’t need any special tools or adjustments to get started.
One minor issue surfaced: shells occasionally jammed slightly during the transfer process, particularly if they weren’t perfectly aligned within the packer. However, this was easily remedied with a quick nudge. I was still impressed overall.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 has held up remarkably well. I’ve processed hundreds of 20-gauge shells with it. The plastic shows no signs of cracking or significant wear.
The packer has proven to be quite durable, despite its lightweight construction. It has withstood the repetitive filling and transferring of shells without any failures. I am pleasantly surprised by its longevity.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue or debris. I’ve encountered no issues with cleaning or upkeep.
Compared to my previous hand-packing method, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is a significant improvement. It not only saves time but also reduces hand fatigue, particularly during large reloading sessions. It definitely outperforms my old way of doing things.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20
Specifications
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotgun shells. Its primary function is to efficiently fill and pack 25 shells into a standard shotshell box.
The unit is constructed entirely of plastic and finished in black. It features a cam-operated mechanism to nudge the shells out of the packer and into the box. This simple design minimizes complexity and potential points of failure.
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 weighs only a few ounces, making it easy to handle and store. The lightweight nature is a trade-off between portability and ultimate robustness, but it’s a reasonable compromise for most users.
The fact that it is a Shotshell Pack Assembly means it is designed to work seamlessly with standard 20 gauge shell boxes. This is crucial for efficient reloading and storage.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the speed, ease, and reliability of the shell-packing process. The correct gauge, durable materials, and intuitive design contribute to a positive reloading experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 performs its job effectively, significantly reducing the time and effort required to box shotgun shells. It consistently aligns and transfers shells with minimal fuss. The cam action is smooth and requires little force.
The main strength is its simplicity and speed. A reload is made fast and easy. The weakness is that it is only for 20 gauge shells.
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 meets expectations and offers a tangible improvement over manual shell packing. It is easy to use and does the job it was designed to do.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is good, especially considering the plastic construction. The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use. Its light weight is a plus, making it easy to move and store.
The design is inherently user-friendly. The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 has a minimal learning curve. I was able to use it effectively within minutes of unboxing.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 should last for many years. The plastic is resistant to most common reloading chemicals and solvents. Its long lasting quality makes it an excellent choice for those who want to invest in a high-quality shotshell packer.
Maintenance is straightforward. A regular wipe down with a dry cloth will keep it clean and functioning properly. Disassembly for deep cleaning is not required, as the design is relatively simple and avoids trapping debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is a self-contained unit and doesn’t require any additional accessories. However, it is essential to use it with standard 20-gauge shotshell boxes for optimal results. It works directly with the box in question.
There are no specific customization options for this product. Its function is simple and well-defined. Some reloaders might consider modifying it for use with other gauges, but this would likely void any warranty and could compromise its integrity.
Pros and Cons of Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20
Pros
- Significantly reduces shell-packing time.
- Easy to use with minimal learning curve.
- Lightweight and easy to store.
- Durable plastic construction.
- Consistent and reliable performance.
Cons
- Only compatible with 20-gauge shells.
- Shells can occasionally jam during the transfer process.
Who Should Buy Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20?
Perfect for reloaders who frequently load 20-gauge shotgun shells. This product is also great for sporting clays shooters, hunters, and anyone who values efficiency and time-saving tools.
Those who load multiple gauges or only reload occasionally might not find this product as beneficial. They should skip this product. They might prefer a more universal solution, if one exists.
There aren’t necessarily must-have accessories, but a well-organized reloading bench and an ample supply of 20-gauge shells are essential for maximizing the benefits of this packer.
Conclusion on Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20
Overall, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is a worthwhile investment for reloaders who frequently handle 20-gauge shells. The MEC provides a reliable device that makes reloading an even easier task. Its simple design, ease of use, and time-saving capabilities make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench.
The price of $41.99 is justified by the time and effort it saves. The value makes it worth considering for all reloaders, even novices.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to streamline their 20-gauge shell-packing process. This product is perfect for seasoned professionals and novices alike.
If you’re tired of manually packing your 20-gauge shells, the Mec E-Z Pak Shotshell Packer 20 Gauge 15CA20 is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Add one to your reloading bench today!