Let’s Dive into Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30, specifically the #30 Powder Bushing, is a seemingly simple but crucial component for any shotgun reloader using MEC presses. These bushings are the heart of consistent powder dispensing, ensuring that each shell receives the correct charge. MEC, a reputable name in reloading, offers these bushings in a wide range of sizes, allowing reloaders to fine-tune their loads for optimal performance.
My journey to this particular bushing stemmed from a need for greater precision. I had recently switched to a new powder for my 12-gauge target loads and the existing bushings I had were throwing slightly inconsistent charges. I needed something to dial in that perfect load, and the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 promised that adjustability.
Upon unboxing, there wasn’t much to see – just a small, aluminum bushing. The build quality seemed solid, nothing flashy, but functional. The weight was negligible, as expected for such a small piece.
I considered several options before settling on this specific bushing. I looked at adjustable charge bars, but they felt like overkill for my current needs, and other fixed bushings from various manufacturers. I chose the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 due to MEC‘s reputation for quality and the readily available bushing charts which give a good starting point for specific powders.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s a small piece, but I knew its impact could be significant. The real test would be on the reloading press.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 at my home reloading bench. It was a typical evening, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with relatively low humidity, crucial for consistent powder measurements. I was loading 12-gauge target loads using Alliant Red Dot powder.
Performance was initially concerning. The MEC bushing chart suggested the #30 bushing should drop around 17 grains of Red Dot. However, my initial throws were averaging 16 grains, a noticeable difference. It wasn’t unusable, but it required meticulous attention.
The installation was effortless, a simple drop-in replacement for my existing bushing. There was no real learning curve; it’s a straightforward component. The biggest surprise was the variance from the published data.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent reloading, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 has held up well. There are no signs of wear or damage to the aluminum. It continues to perform consistently, albeit with that initial variance in powder drop that I had to account for.
Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. I occasionally wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any powder residue, but that’s it. It’s a simple, robust design.
Compared to my previous experience with generic bushings, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 offers a more consistent powder drop, once calibrated. It’s definitely a step up in terms of accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30
Specifications
- Manufacturer: MEC
- Quantity: 1
- Additional Features: Powder Bushing
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum
- Gun Type: Shotgun
- Bushing Number: 30
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with MEC reloading presses. The aluminum construction provides durability and resistance to corrosion. The bushing number dictates the approximate powder charge dispensed, although real-world results can vary.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 performs its primary function: dispensing powder. However, the key is consistent dispensing, not necessarily dispensing the exact amount listed in the charts. Once I established the actual powder drop for my setup with my powder, I was able to create consistent and accurate loads.
The strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness is the potential for variation from published data.
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 ultimately met my expectations, but with a caveat. I expected a consistent powder drop, and it delivers that after I adjusted my expectations based on actual measurements.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 is a basic, functional design. The aluminum is lightweight and easy to handle. It’s a drop-in replacement part, meaning it requires no modification to install or use.
It’s incredibly user-friendly. There’s no learning curve whatsoever.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple construction and the durable aluminum material, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 should last for years. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 is, in itself, an accessory to a MEC reloading press. No accessories are included, and customization is limited to selecting the appropriate bushing size for the desired powder charge. It is compatible with most MEC shotgun reloading presses.
Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30
Pros
- Easy drop-in installation.
- Durable aluminum construction.
- Provides consistent powder drops (once actual drop is determined).
- Affordable way to fine-tune powder charges.
- Compatible with most MEC shotgun reloading presses.
Cons
- Powder drop can vary significantly from published MEC bushing charts.
- Requires an accurate powder scale for calibration.
Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30?
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 is perfect for shotgun reloaders using MEC presses who are looking for consistent powder dispensing and want to fine-tune their loads. It is especially useful for those who experiment with different powders or want to achieve specific velocities.
This product might not be ideal for beginners who are unfamiliar with reloading or those who are unwilling to invest in an accurate powder scale. If you’re looking for a truly “set it and forget it” solution, an adjustable charge bar might be a better option.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality powder scale. Without it, accurately determining the actual powder drop is impossible.
Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30 is a simple yet effective tool for shotgun reloaders. While the powder drop may not always match the published charts, its consistent performance, once calibrated, makes it a worthwhile investment.
At $8.99, the price is justified. It’s an inexpensive way to achieve more accurate and consistent loads.
I would recommend the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 30, but with a strong emphasis on using an accurate powder scale to verify powder drops. Don’t rely solely on the charts. Buy it, test it, and then reload with confidence.