Let’s Dive into Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 might seem like a small part in the grand scheme of reloading, but it’s a crucial one. Specifically, this is a MEC Mayville #39 powder bushing designed to deliver consistent powder charges. Without the right bushing, your reloading efforts could be all over the place, leading to inconsistent loads and potentially dangerous results.
My own journey into precision reloading started years ago, driven by the need to create tailored loads for specific rifles and shooting disciplines. This led me to understand the importance of consistent powder measurements. I needed a bushing that would provide reliable and repeatable powder drops, and I’ve experimented with several different brands over the years.
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 arrived in a simple package, just the bushing itself. At first glance, the aluminum construction appeared solid, and the machining looked clean. Compared to some of the plastic bushings I’ve used, this one instantly felt like an upgrade in terms of durability.
There are other powder bushings on the market, such as those from Lee Precision and Hornady. I ultimately chose the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 because I’ve always found MEC equipment to be reliable and well-made. I’ve had excellent experiences with their reloaders.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s a small part, but I hoped it would deliver the consistent powder drops I was looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 at my reloading bench, working up some .223 Remington loads for my AR-15. The conditions were ideal; a controlled environment indoors. I paired the bushing with my MEC single-stage reloader and a variety of powders, including Hodgdon Varget and Accurate 2230.
The performance was immediately noticeable. The powder drops were very consistent. Compared to the universal adjustable charge bar I sometimes use, the bushing delivered much more repeatable results. The bushing consistently dropped charges within +/- 0.1 grains, which is excellent for my needs.
Installation was straightforward, and it was very easy to change. There were no surprises or unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no signs of wear and tear. The aluminum construction has held up well to repeated use with different powders.
Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any powder residue, and that’s about it. I’ve never had to do more than that.
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 outperforms most of the adjustable powder measures I have used in terms of consistency and ease of use. It makes reloading less of a chore.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039
Specifications
- Manufacturer: MEC
- Additional Feature: Powder Bushing
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum
- Size: 39
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The aluminum construction ensures durability and longevity. The size 39 refers to the specific internal diameter of the bushing, which directly dictates the volume of powder it dispenses.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 performs its job admirably. It consistently drops powder charges within a very tight tolerance, ensuring uniformity in my reloads. The bushing delivers consistent and repeatable results.
The main strength is its consistency. The weakness is that it’s a fixed size; if I need a slightly different charge, I need a different bushing. It meets my expectations for consistent powder measurement in single-stage reloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a solid aluminum construction. It is lightweight and easy to handle. The design is simple, but effective.
It is very user-friendly, with no learning curve required. It slides directly into my MEC reloader.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction, the bushing is expected to last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is minimal. I just wipe it down to keep it clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 itself doesn’t have accessories. However, it is compatible with all MEC reloaders designed for bushing systems. There aren’t customization options for the bushing itself, but you can optimize its performance by selecting the correct size for your specific powder and desired charge weight.
Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039
Pros
- Extremely consistent powder drops. This leads to more accurate and reliable reloads.
- Durable aluminum construction. Ensures a long lifespan.
- Easy to install and use. Minimal setup required.
- Affordable. Provides excellent value for the price.
- Essential for precision reloading. Allows fine-tuning of powder charges.
Cons
- Fixed charge weight. Requires purchasing multiple bushings for different loads.
- Limited to MEC reloaders. Not universally compatible with all reloading presses.
Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039?
This powder bushing is perfect for reloaders who value consistency and accuracy. It is also excellent for anyone using a MEC reloading press and wants to simplify the powder charging process. Experienced reloaders who already know their preferred powder charges will also love this.
Those who frequently experiment with different powder charges might find it limiting. Also, reloaders using presses from other manufacturers should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a complete set of MEC powder bushings to cover a wider range of powder charges.
Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039
The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 is a small but vital component for achieving consistent and accurate reloads. At a price of $8.99, it offers excellent value. It simplifies powder charging, especially for those using MEC reloaders.
I would definitely recommend it to any reloader seeking a reliable and affordable way to fine-tune their loads. If you’re serious about precision reloading, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5039 is a must-have. Grab one today and experience the difference consistent powder charges can make!