Let’s Dive into Mec Primer Tray Spring
The Mec Primer Tray Spring is a seemingly small but critical component for any reloader utilizing MEC reloading presses. This unassuming spring ensures the smooth and consistent feeding of primers, a crucial step in the reloading process. It’s the kind of part you don’t think about until it fails, and then you realize how essential it is to keeping your reloading operation running smoothly. This seemingly insignificant part can bring your entire reloading process to a halt if it breaks or loses tension.
Like many reloaders, I’ve encountered the frustration of a malfunctioning primer feed. My old spring had lost its springiness, leading to inconsistent primer seating and frustrating stoppages. I was looking for a reliable, durable replacement that would restore my press to its former glory without breaking the bank.
Upon receiving the Mec Primer Tray Spring, I was struck by its simple yet robust design. The brass material felt solid, and the spring exhibited a reassuring level of tension. Compared to a generic replacement spring I’d once tried, the MEC part felt noticeably sturdier. Its compact form and classic design gives the impression of reliability that is expected of the MEC brand.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. The Mec Primer Tray Spring isn’t flashy, but it promises to solve a frustrating problem. It gave the impression of a quality part made by a trusted manufacturer. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Primer Tray Spring to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Mec Primer Tray Spring came during a large batch reloading session for my .223 Remington rounds. I installed the spring on my MEC 600 Jr. Mark 5 shotshell press, a task that took only a few minutes thanks to the straightforward design. I was loading on my covered but open-air workshop, with a slightly chilly temperature and the usual dust in the air.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The primer tray moved smoothly and consistently, feeding primers into the seating station without a hitch. It was a far cry from the jerky, unreliable operation I’d been experiencing with the old spring. I experienced no flipped primers, crushing or other issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and thousands of rounds reloaded, the Mec Primer Tray Spring continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or tear. The brass shows no signs of corrosion or fatigue.
Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth every few reloading sessions is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to the headaches and frustrations I experienced with the worn-out spring, this is a night-and-day difference. The reliability and performance of this spring far exceeds expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec Primer Tray Spring
Specifications
- Type/Color: Brass
- Size/Finish: Fits MEC primer trays
- Material: Brass
- Purpose: To apply controlled pressure to the primer tray, ensuring smooth primer feeding in MEC reloading presses.
These specifications may seem basic, but they’re crucial to the spring’s functionality. The brass construction provides the necessary strength and resistance to corrosion. The specific dimensions ensure a perfect fit in MEC primer trays.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec Primer Tray Spring performs its job admirably. It delivers consistent pressure to the primer tray, ensuring smooth and reliable primer feeding. The primary strength is its ability to maintain consistent tension over extended use.
One potential improvement might be a slightly thicker gauge of brass for even greater durability, although the current design has proven reliable. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a replacement primer tray spring. The part delivers the same high-quality performance as when it was first installed.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec Primer Tray Spring features a simple, functional design. It is a small, coiled spring made of brass. Its size and shape are perfectly matched to the MEC primer tray.
The design is inherently user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools or expertise. It is well-made and appears rugged and resilient.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass construction suggests a long lifespan. Brass is known for its resistance to corrosion and fatigue. With minimal maintenance, the Mec Primer Tray Spring should last for years.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth is sufficient to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec Primer Tray Spring is a standalone component and does not come with additional accessories. It is not intended to be customized. Its function is very specialized.
While there are no direct customization options, ensuring your MEC press is properly maintained with other MEC parts will enhance the spring’s performance. This could include a thorough cleaning of the primer feed assembly, or replacing worn primer feed shoes.
Pros and Cons of Mec Primer Tray Spring
Pros
- Reliable Primer Feeding: Ensures smooth and consistent primer delivery, eliminating frustrating stoppages.
- Durable Brass Construction: Offers excellent resistance to corrosion and fatigue, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Can be installed quickly and easily with no special tools or expertise.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money, especially considering its critical role in the reloading process.
- Direct Replacement Part: Ensures perfect compatibility with MEC reloading presses.
Cons
- Brass Material is Subject to Fatigue: Over time, the spring tension may diminish, requiring eventual replacement.
- Small and Easy to Lose: Care should be taken during installation and maintenance to avoid misplacing this small part.
Who Should Buy Mec Primer Tray Spring?
- Perfect for: Reloaders using MEC reloading presses who are experiencing issues with primer feeding.
- Perfect for: Reloaders who want to ensure the consistent and reliable operation of their reloading press.
- Perfect for: Anyone performing regular maintenance on their MEC reloading press.
Who should skip this product? If your primer feed is working flawlessly, and you don’t own a MEC press, you likely don’t need this product yet.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None are strictly required, but a set of small tools (screwdrivers, pliers) can make installation easier.
Conclusion on Mec Primer Tray Spring
The Mec Primer Tray Spring is a small but mighty component that can make a big difference in your reloading experience. Its reliable performance, durable construction, and affordable price make it an excellent value for any reloader using a MEC press. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone struggling with primer feeding issues.
The $2.49 price tag is more than justified given the frustration and time it saves. Reloading should be an enjoyable and precise process, not a battle against malfunctioning equipment. The Mec Primer Tray Spring helps ensure that’s the case.
If you’re tired of dealing with inconsistent primer feeding, don’t hesitate. Replace your worn-out spring with the Mec Primer Tray Spring and get back to reloading with confidence. You’ll be glad you did.