Let’s Dive into Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A
The Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A is a seemingly simple, yet critical component for any serious reloader using MEC reloading presses. It’s a small, silver-colored, aluminum bushing designed to precisely meter powder charges for shotgun shells. This little piece of metal can make or break your reloading consistency, which directly impacts accuracy and performance downrange.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily for competitive trap shooting and the occasional dove hunt. I’ve always strived for consistent loads to minimize variables and maximize my scores. I had been using a universal adjustable charge bar, but it never felt as precise as I wanted, especially with finer powders. This led me to the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A, hoping for increased consistency and more accurate powder drops.
Upon opening the package, the bushing appeared simple but well-machined. The aluminum was smooth and free of any burrs or imperfections. It felt solid for its size, a testament to the quality MEC is known for.
I considered other options, including adjustable bushings from other manufacturers and even sticking with my universal charge bar. Ultimately, I chose the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A for its reputation for consistency and its compatibility with my existing MEC 9000GN press. The price point, at $8.99, also made it an easy decision to try it out.
My first impression was positive, albeit not overwhelmingly exciting. I was more hopeful than anything, eager to see if it would deliver the consistency I was looking for. I anticipated a learning curve in determining the exact powder drop weight for my preferred load, but I was ready to put in the work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A took place at my reloading bench, in my climate-controlled workshop. I was loading 12-gauge shells for an upcoming trap shooting competition. The conditions were ideal: consistent temperature and humidity, allowing for optimal powder metering.
The bushing dropped powder smoothly and consistently during the first few cycles. It required no fiddling or adjustments beyond the initial setup of my MEC press. I used a digital scale to verify the powder charge weight with each drop and was pleased to see very little variation.
The only initial issue I encountered was determining the exact powder drop weight. The bushing designation (13A) doesn’t directly translate to a specific grain weight. I had to run several test drops and weigh them to find the right powder for my desired load, which is normal for any bushing change.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A has proven to be a reliable and consistent component of my reloading process. I’ve reloaded thousands of shells with it, and the powder drops remain remarkably consistent. The aluminum construction has held up well, with no signs of wear or corrosion.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I occasionally wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any powder residue. I haven’t needed to use any solvents or lubricants.
Compared to my previous experience with the universal charge bar, the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A is a clear winner. The consistency is significantly better, leading to more uniform shell performance and tighter patterns on the trap field. It’s a noticeable improvement that has boosted my confidence and scores.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A
Specifications
- Manufacturer: MEC
- Color: Silver
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum
- Compatibility: All MEC charging bars
The aluminum construction is important because it is durable, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. MEC’s reputation for quality control and precision machining ensures that the bushing dimensions are accurate and consistent. This directly translates to consistent powder drops and improved reloading accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently meters powder charges with minimal variation, leading to more uniform shell performance. It is easy to use, requiring no special skills or tools beyond a standard MEC reloading press.
The primary strength is its consistency. This is crucial for achieving accurate and reliable reloads. The only potential weakness is the need to determine the exact powder drop weight for a given powder, which requires some initial testing and weighing.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a simple powder bushing. It has improved my reloading process and contributed to better scores on the trap field.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The aluminum is smooth, free of imperfections, and appears durable. The weight is negligible, as it is a small component.
It is extremely user-friendly. There is no learning curve beyond understanding how to install and remove it from a MEC charging bar.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A should last for many years with proper care. The aluminum construction is resistant to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A doesn’t come with any accessories. It is designed to be used with standard MEC reloading presses and charging bars. There are no real customization options, as it is a fixed-size bushing.
It is compatible with any MEC reloading press that utilizes interchangeable powder bushings. This is a major advantage for reloaders who already own MEC equipment.
Pros and Cons of Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A
Pros
- Extremely consistent powder drops, leading to more accurate reloads.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple to use with any MEC reloading press that uses bushings.
- Affordable price makes it an easy upgrade for any reloader.
- Improves reloading efficiency by eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
Cons
- Bushing number doesn’t directly correlate to powder weight, requiring initial testing to determine the actual drop weight.
- Not adjustable, requiring the purchase of multiple bushings for different powder charges.
Who Should Buy Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A?
Perfect for: Reloaders who prioritize consistency and accuracy in their shotgun shells. This includes competitive shooters, hunters who demand reliable loads, and anyone who wants to improve the quality of their reloads.
Who should skip this product? Reloaders who only load occasionally and don’t require precise powder metering. Those who prefer adjustable charge bars may also find this product unnecessary.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality digital scale is essential for verifying powder drops and ensuring accuracy. A bushing chart or reference guide can also be helpful for estimating powder drop weights for different powders.
Conclusion on Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A
The Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A is a small but mighty component that can make a significant difference in the quality of your reloads. Its consistent powder drops, durable construction, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader. The aluminum construction guarantees years of trouble free use.
The price of $8.99 is more than justified by the improved consistency and accuracy it provides. If you value precise powder metering and want to take your reloading to the next level, the Mec Powder Bushing Number 13A 5013A is an excellent choice.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to any reloader looking for a simple and effective way to improve their reloading process. Upgrade your reloads today and experience the difference!