Let’s Dive into Mec Super Sizer 12ga.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is a vital tool for any serious shotshell reloader, designed to bring those once-fired hulls back to their original glory. Manufactured by MEC, this robust piece of equipment tackles the common issue of shotshell bases expanding after firing. Its standout feature is the Power Ring collet resizing device, promising consistent and reliable resizing for years to come.
My journey into shotshell reloading started with a simple desire: to tailor my loads for specific hunting scenarios and save money in the process. The frustration of feeding slightly bulged shells into my semi-automatic shotgun pushed me to seek a dedicated resizing solution. This need for perfectly sized shells is what ultimately led me to the Mec Super Sizer 12ga.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. arrived in a no-frills package, but the first impression was solid; the weight and the red powder-coated steel construction screamed durability. The eight-finger collet looked like it could withstand some serious pressure, and the overall design felt like something built to last. It’s a single-purpose machine, and that purpose is clear from the moment you take it out of the box.
I considered a few other options, including universal resizing dies that attach to a reloading press. Ultimately, I chose the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. for its dedicated design, specifically targeting the base of the shotshell, an area often missed by universal dies. Also, the MEC name carries weight in the reloading world; their reputation for quality and reliability helped sway my decision.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension. I was eager to see if it would solve my feeding issues, but also a little intimidated by the setup and operation. However, the solid construction and focused design inspired confidence that this tool would get the job done and last.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Super Sizer 12ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. was my reloading bench, processing a batch of once-fired hulls collected from a local shooting range. I wanted to see how it handled shells from different manufacturers and varying degrees of expansion. The environment was a typical garage setup, with moderate temperatures and humidity.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. performed admirably, even with slightly corroded or dirty hulls. Once properly adjusted, the sizer smoothly reformed the base of each shell, making them slide effortlessly into my reloading press. The initial setup took about 30 minutes to get the hang of adjusting the collet, but after that, it was smooth sailing.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. proved surprisingly user-friendly. After the initial setup, resizing shells became a rhythmic process, requiring minimal effort. There were no significant issues during the first use, although a few shells required a second pass to achieve perfect sizing, but these shells were very badly damaged to begin with.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. continues to impress with its reliability. I’ve processed thousands of shells, and it still operates as smoothly as it did on day one. It has become an indispensable part of my shotshell reloading process.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its robust construction. Occasional cleaning and lubrication are all it needs to keep running smoothly. The steel fingers of the collet show no signs of bending or fatigue, even after significant use.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth and an occasional drop of oil on the moving parts keeps everything in top condition. This is in stark contrast to some of my older reloading tools, which require constant adjustments and repairs. It outperforms every other resizing tool I’ve ever used in both speed and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec Super Sizer 12ga.
Specifications
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotshells. It is constructed from durable steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear. The entire unit is coated in a vibrant, recognizable red paint that adds to its visibility on the reloading bench.
The key specification is its eight-finger Power Ring collet, which applies even pressure to reshape the base of the shotshell. This uniform pressure is vital for consistent sizing and preventing damage to the hull. Accepting all lengths of shotshell provides flexibility, regardless of the load you’re creating.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. excels at its primary task: resizing the base of shotshells. It consistently returns shells to their original dimensions, ensuring smooth feeding and proper chambering in various shotguns. Its reliability is its greatest strength.
The consistent sizing is what sets this tool apart, reducing jams and misfeeds. The need for more precise control over pressure is the main issue with some overly damaged shells.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. meets and often exceeds expectations, especially when dealing with high volumes of reloaded shells. The time saved and reliability gained make it worth every penny.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. features a sturdy, all-steel construction that conveys a sense of robustness and durability. Its weight provides stability during operation, preventing it from shifting or wobbling on the bench. The red finish is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also helps prevent rust.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is generally user-friendly, although the initial setup requires careful adjustment of the collet to match the specific dimensions of the shells. A clear understanding of the instructions is beneficial for optimal performance. The simple design is very intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is built to last for many years of reloading, even with frequent use. Its simple design and robust construction minimize the risk of mechanical failures. I expect that with minimal care, it will outlast me.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s typically required. The steel construction resists corrosion, and replacement parts are readily available from MEC if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, focusing instead on its core function. All necessary hardware is included for mounting it to a reloading bench. The steel frame and simple design limit the need for external attachments.
While there are no extensive customization options, the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is designed to integrate seamlessly with other MEC reloading equipment. Compatibility with other brands is mostly limited to mounting options, as the resizing process itself is self-contained. It is designed to complement other reloading machines.
Pros and Cons of Mec Super Sizer 12ga.
Pros
- Consistent Sizing: Ensures shells return to original dimensions for smooth feeding and chambering.
Cons
- Initial Setup Required: Requires careful adjustment of the collet, a learning curve for beginners.
- Single-Purpose Tool: Only resizes the base of shotshells, lacking versatility for other reloading tasks.
Durable Construction: All-steel build guarantees longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
User-Friendly Design: Easy to operate after initial setup, streamlining the reloading process.
Compatibility: Integrates seamlessly with other MEC reloading equipment.
Saves Time and Money: Reduces jams and misfeeds, improving reloading efficiency.
Who Should Buy Mec Super Sizer 12ga.?
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is perfect for high-volume reloaders who prioritize consistency and reliability in their shotshells. It’s an excellent investment for competitive shooters and avid hunters who demand flawless performance from their ammunition. It’s also a great product for anyone who reloads on a progressive press.
Individuals who reload only a small number of shells occasionally might find the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. to be overkill. Those who only use new shells or prefer to buy factory ammunition should also skip this product. It really is only meant for reloading previously used shells.
A sturdy reloading bench is a must-have for maximizing the Mec Super Sizer 12ga.‘s performance. A good lubricating oil and a cleaning cloth are essential for maintaining the tool and keeping it running smoothly. Having a pair of calipers can also help you check the measurements.
Conclusion on Mec Super Sizer 12ga.
The Mec Super Sizer 12ga. is a dedicated tool that excels at what it’s designed to do: resizing the base of shotshells. Its robust construction, consistent performance, and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any serious reloader’s bench. It is a fantastic piece of equipment.
At $183.99, the price is justified for those who reload high volumes of shotshells and value reliability and consistency. For occasional reloaders, the cost might be prohibitive, but for those who demand the best, it’s money well spent. The price is very reasonable.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. to any reloader who struggles with feeding issues or wants to ensure consistent performance from their shotshells. Invest in the Mec Super Sizer 12ga. and experience the difference it makes in your reloading process! Say goodbye to jams and misfeeds and hello to smooth, reliable shotshell performance.