Let’s Dive into RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses are a cornerstone in the world of reloading. RCBS has been a trusted name for decades, known for producing robust and reliable equipment, and the Reloader Special 5 embodies this legacy. Featuring a compound leverage system and a solid “O” frame, this press is designed to deliver consistent performance and accuracy for reloaders of all skill levels.
What led me to this press? I’ve been hand-loading ammunition for over a decade, primarily for precision rifle shooting and developing specialized loads for hunting. My previous press, while functional, lacked the consistent feel and robust construction needed for the most demanding tasks. The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses promised an upgrade in both precision and durability, which is exactly what I was looking for.
Unboxing the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses was a straightforward affair. The press itself is substantial, with a reassuring weight that speaks to its solid construction. The aluminum “O” frame is finished with a corrosion-resistant baked powder coat, which looked durable and well-applied right out of the box. My initial impression was of a tool built to last, ready to withstand years of heavy use.
Compared to a Redding Big Boss or a Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic, the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses seemed a more traditional choice. The Redding offers exceptional rigidity, while the Hornady features a quick-change die system; however, I was drawn to the simplicity and proven reliability of the RCBS. I felt the RCBS provided a blend of strength and ease of use that suited my needs perfectly, without the added complexity or cost.
My first impression was definitely excitement. This wasn’t just another piece of equipment; it was a potential upgrade to my entire reloading process, promising greater accuracy and a more enjoyable experience. The robust design and reputation of RCBS instilled confidence that this press would be a valuable addition to my reloading bench.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses at my home reloading bench, focusing on developing accurate loads for my .308 Winchester hunting rifle. I set up the press with a set of RCBS dies and began working through the reloading process, from de-priming to bullet seating. The press immediately felt smoother and more precise than my old model, offering a noticeable improvement in consistency.
The performance remained consistent even when working with different calibers, from .223 Remington to .30-06 Springfield. Although I primarily reload indoors, the press has been subjected to varying temperature and humidity conditions without any noticeable impact on performance. It also worked flawlessly during a particularly dusty range session after I experimented with loading lead bullets.
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses were remarkably easy to use right from the start. The offset “O” frame provides ample access to the die area, and the compound leverage system requires minimal effort to operate. I appreciated the smooth, consistent feel of the press, which allowed me to focus on the critical details of each reload.
The only slight issue I encountered was the spent primer catcher. Although functional, it sometimes missed primers, requiring occasional clean-up. This was a minor inconvenience, easily addressed by placing a small container directly beneath the ejection port.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses have proven to be incredibly reliable. The press continues to operate smoothly and consistently, producing accurate and uniform ammunition. It has become a central piece of my reloading setup.
There are virtually no signs of wear and tear after loading thousands of rounds. The baked powder finish has held up exceptionally well, showing no scratches or chipping. The moving parts remain tight and well-aligned, indicating the high quality of the materials and construction.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. I apply a light coat of gun oil to the ram and linkage every few weeks to maintain smooth operation. The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses have significantly outperformed my previous press in terms of both accuracy and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses
Specifications
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses features a compound leverage system, providing ample power for resizing even the toughest cases. Its solid aluminum block “O” frame offers exceptional strength and rigidity, minimizing flex during operation. The frame is offset for unobstructed access, making it easy to work with various case sizes and bullet types.
The press has a corrosion-resistant baked powder finish, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection against the elements. It features a spent primer ejection system, which channels spent primers through the side of the ram into a catcher. The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses also includes a 7/8 inch to 14 thread adapter, making it compatible with all standard reloading dies and accessories. These specifications are important because they translate to greater precision, ease of use, and long-term reliability, ensuring consistent results and a satisfying reloading experience.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses performs exceptionally well at its primary task: producing accurate and consistent ammunition. The compound leverage system provides ample power for resizing cases, even those that are heavily work-hardened. The smooth and consistent operation of the press allows for precise bullet seating and crimping, which are essential for achieving optimal accuracy.
The strengths of the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses lie in its robust construction, simple design, and reliable performance. If there is any weakness, it is the spent primer catcher, which can occasionally miss primers. The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses has exceeded my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in the quality and consistency of my reloads.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses boasts a robust and functional design. The aluminum “O” frame is both strong and relatively lightweight, making the press easy to mount and move as needed. The offset design provides ample workspace, and the handle is comfortable to grip and operate.
The press is user-friendly, even for those new to reloading. The simple and straightforward design requires minimal setup and adjustment. Seasoned reloaders and beginners alike can be up and running quickly.
Durability & Maintenance
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is built to last. The high-quality materials and solid construction ensure long-term durability, even with heavy use. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, will keep the press operating smoothly for many years.
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is easy to maintain and repair. All of its moving parts are readily accessible, and replacement parts are readily available from RCBS and other suppliers. This ensures that the press can be kept in optimal condition with minimal effort.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is compatible with a wide range of accessories and customization options. As a standard 7/8 inch to 14 thread, it accepts all standard reloading dies from RCBS, Hornady, Redding, and other manufacturers. You can also upgrade to different handles for increased leverage or to custom primer catchers for cleaner operation.
The press is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as digital scales, powder measures, and bullet feeders. This allows reloaders to tailor their setup to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses
Pros
- Robust and Durable Construction: Built with a solid aluminum “O” frame and a corrosion-resistant finish for long-lasting performance.
- Consistent and Accurate Performance: Compound leverage system delivers smooth and precise operation for uniform reloading.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy to set up and use, even for beginners, with ample access to the die area.
- Wide Compatibility: Accepts all standard 7/8 inch to 14 thread reloading dies and accessories.
- Excellent Value: Offers a compelling combination of performance, reliability, and affordability.
Cons
- Spent primer catcher can occasionally miss primers, requiring occasional cleanup.
- Some reloaders may prefer a progressive press for high-volume reloading, while the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is a single-stage press.
Who Should Buy RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses?
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is perfect for reloaders who value precision, reliability, and durability. It is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced reloaders who want a high-quality single-stage press for developing accurate loads. Hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who enjoys crafting custom ammunition will appreciate the consistent performance and ease of use of the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses.
Those who primarily focus on high-volume reloading may prefer a progressive press, as the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is a single-stage design. Reloaders who require a quick-change die system may find other presses more suitable.
Must-have accessories for the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses include a high-quality set of reloading dies, a reliable powder measure, and an accurate digital scale. An RCBS hand-priming tool can also be helpful for consistent primer seating.
Conclusion on RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses
The RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is a reliable, durable, and accurate reloading press that delivers exceptional value for the money. Its solid construction, smooth operation, and user-friendly design make it a pleasure to use, while its compatibility with standard reloading dies and accessories allows for easy customization. I’ve seen other presses come and go. This one stays.
At a price of $199.99, the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses is a worthwhile investment for any reloader who values quality and consistency. Its rugged design and proven track record make it a press that will last for years to come.
I would highly recommend the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses to anyone looking for a dependable and accurate single-stage reloading press. It is an essential tool for creating custom ammunition and achieving optimal performance. Invest in the RCBS Reloader Special 5 Presses and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own precision ammunition.