Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press Review

Let’s Dive into Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press

The Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press is a simple yet transformative accessory designed to enhance the reloading experience with Forster’s renowned Co-Ax single-stage press. This isn’t just a handle; it’s a tailored solution addressing a specific need within the reloading community, offering improved ergonomics and control, particularly for certain cartridges and operations. I’ve been reloading for over a decade, and while I adore my Co-Ax press for its precision and concentricity, I sometimes found the long handle cumbersome, especially when doing high-volume pistol rounds.

I was looking for a way to reduce the travel distance and effort required for each stroke, particularly for smaller cases and tasks like bullet seating. The standard handle felt like overkill for these lighter operations. When I stumbled upon the Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press, it seemed like the perfect answer to my prayers, promising a more efficient and comfortable reloading session.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The steel shaft felt robust and the 2″ ball handle provided a comfortable and secure grip. The design is simple but effective, promising easy installation and a seamless integration with my existing Co-Ax press.

Compared to other handle modifications, such as custom-made longer handles for increased leverage on stubborn resizing operations, the Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press stood out for its specific focus on reducing effort for lighter tasks. Other aftermarket options seemed to cater to either extreme leverage or purely aesthetic customization, while this one directly addressed the ergonomic concern of excessive handle travel. I chose this over the others due to the quality reputation of Forster products and because it was engineered to directly address my problem.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. I was excited at the prospect of a more streamlined reloading process, but also slightly worried if such a change would sacrifice leverage for heavier operations, or whether it would stand the test of time.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press in my reloading room, which is essentially a converted section of my garage. I started by reloading 9mm rounds, a task where the original long handle felt particularly unwieldy. I also tested it seating primers for .223 rounds. The short handle immediately proved its worth.

The shorter throw required significantly less effort, and I found myself completing the reloading process much faster. The ball handle felt comfortable and provided a secure grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. There were no issues with installation; the single set screw made it a breeze to attach.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the steel shaft or the ball handle. The finish remains intact, and the set screw has remained secure, requiring no tightening.

Maintenance is virtually nonexistent; a quick wipe down with a cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Compared to my previous experience with the long handle, this short handle is a revelation. It’s noticeably faster and less fatiguing, especially during extended reloading sessions. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Forster
• Quantity: 1
• Weight: 0.4 lb
• Fabric/Material: Steel
• Condition: New
• Mounting: Single set screw
• Length: Approximately half the length of the standard Co-Ax press handle.
• Handle: 2″ diameter ball handle

These specifications are critical for understanding the handle’s intended use and performance. The steel construction ensures durability, while the reduced length offers a more compact and efficient reloading stroke. The ball handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press excels at reducing the effort required for lighter reloading operations. It provides sufficient leverage for seating bullets in most pistol and small rifle cartridges, as well as for priming operations. The short length means faster and smoother operations.

Its strength lies in its efficiency and ergonomic design. The only minor weakness is that for very heavy resizing operations, particularly with larger rifle cartridges, the reduced leverage might require slightly more effort compared to the original long handle, however, the trade-off in comfort and speed for other operations is well worth it. It has more than met my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use and comfort. The steel construction provides durability, while the 0.4 lb weight adds a sense of quality without being cumbersome. The 2″ ball handle is perfectly sized for a comfortable and secure grip.

The handle is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills for installation. The single set screw design makes it a breeze to attach and remove.

Durability & Maintenance

The all-steel construction ensures excellent durability and long lifespan. The finish is resistant to wear and tear, and the set screw is unlikely to loosen over time.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth. This handle is designed to withstand years of use with minimal care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press is a standalone accessory and does not come with any additional items. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the simple design means it’s compatible with aftermarket handle grips if you desire a personalized feel.

It directly replaces the standard handle on the Forster Co-Ax press and requires no modifications to the press itself. While not necessary, some users might choose to add a custom grip to the ball handle for enhanced comfort, using readily available aftermarket options.

Pros and Cons of Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press

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Who Should Buy Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press?

The Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press is perfect for reloaders who primarily work with pistol cartridges and smaller rifle calibers, such as .223 or 300 Blackout. It’s also ideal for those who find the long handle of the Co-Ax press cumbersome or fatiguing, especially during high-volume reloading sessions. Anyone who values a more streamlined and efficient reloading process will appreciate the benefits of this short handle.

Those who primarily reload large magnum rifle calibers or frequently perform heavy resizing operations might want to stick with the original long handle, or perhaps consider having both on hand for different types of tasks. Novice reloaders who are still developing their technique might also benefit from the longer handle’s added leverage initially.

A must-have is a properly calibrated scale. Also recommended is a good set of case gauges to ensure proper sizing.

Conclusion on Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press

The Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press is a well-designed and effective accessory that significantly enhances the reloading experience with the Forster Co-Ax press. It offers a noticeable improvement in ergonomics and speed, making it a worthwhile investment for reloaders who primarily work with pistol and small rifle cartridges. While it may not be ideal for all reloading scenarios, its benefits far outweigh its limitations for its intended use.

At $29.89, the price is more than justified by the increased comfort, efficiency, and overall enjoyment it brings to the reloading process. I personally recommend it without hesitation to anyone looking to optimize their Forster Co-Ax press for pistol and small rifle reloading.

Upgrade your reloading experience today with the Forster Short Handle for Co-Ax Press. You won’t regret it!