RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 Review

Let’s Dive into RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

Reloading ammunition is a craft, and like any craft, it requires the right tools. The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is one such tool, designed to remove military crimps from primer pockets, a necessary step when reloading brass that has been previously fired in military firearms. These crimps, designed to ensure primers stay put during rough handling, make it difficult to seat new primers properly. The RCBS swager aims to solve this problem efficiently and reliably.

Years ago, I started reloading .223 and .308 ammunition, primarily for my AR-15 and M1A rifles. Military surplus brass was readily available and affordable, but I quickly discovered the headache of dealing with crimped primer pockets. Seating a new primer in a crimped pocket is a recipe for disaster, potentially leading to misfires or even damaging the primer.

My initial solution involved using a hand-held primer pocket reamer. It was tedious and time-consuming, especially when processing large batches of brass. The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 offered a faster and more consistent solution by utilizing the leverage of my reloading press. Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the solid steel construction of the swaging rods and the overall simplicity of the design.

I considered other options, including a dedicated bench-mounted swaging tool from a competing manufacturer. However, the RCBS option appealed to me because it utilized my existing reloading press, saving bench space and money. It also seemed less cumbersome to set up and use for smaller batches of brass compared to the bench-mounted alternatives. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping it would live up to the promise of making primer pocket swaging less of a chore.

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved processing 200 rounds of once-fired .223 brass that I had collected at my local range. Setting up the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 on my Rock Chucker press was straightforward. A quick adjustment to ensure the swaging rod was properly aligned with the primer pocket, and I was ready to go.

I found the process to be significantly faster than using a hand-held reamer. Each case required a firm but smooth press of the handle, and the crimp was cleanly removed. There was a noticeable difference in the ease of seating new primers in the swaged cases compared to the untreated ones.

I didn’t encounter any significant issues during this first use. However, I did notice that it’s crucial to maintain consistent pressure and alignment to avoid bending or damaging the swaging rod. This experience, taking place in the comfort of my reloading room, solidified the feeling that this tool would be a great asset.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2, I can confidently say that it has become an indispensable part of my reloading process. It has processed thousands of rounds of brass in various calibers (.223, .308, 7.62×39) without any major issues. The steel construction has proven to be durable, with no signs of significant wear or tear.

Maintaining the swager is simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to prevent rust and corrosion. I have noticed that the swaging rods can sometimes become slightly loose over time. A simple tightening with a wrench is all that’s needed to restore them to their proper position.

Compared to my previous method of using a hand-held reamer, the RCBS swager is a clear winner. It is faster, more consistent, and less fatiguing. The improved primer seating and greater reliability of my reloads make this tool a worthwhile investment. It has certainly exceeded my expectations and made reloading military surplus brass a much more enjoyable process.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

Specifications

• The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is designed to remove military crimps from both small and large primer pockets. This makes it a versatile tool for reloaders who work with various calibers of ammunition.
• The swaging rods are constructed from high-tensile steel, providing increased strength and durability compared to the original design. This is a crucial upgrade that helps prevent bending or breaking under the stress of repeated use.
• The tool is designed for use with standard reloading presses and is not intended for progressive presses. The single-stage operation ensures proper alignment and control during the swaging process.
• The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 includes separate swaging rods for both small and large primer pockets. This ensures that each primer pocket size is properly swaged for optimal primer seating.
• Made in the USA, ensuring quality and reliability. This can offer peace of mind to reloaders who value domestically manufactured tools.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the tool’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The high-tensile steel construction ensures that the swaging rods can withstand the forces involved in removing military crimps, while the compatibility with standard reloading presses makes it accessible to a wide range of reloaders.

Performance & Functionality

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 performs its primary function of removing military crimps from primer pockets effectively and efficiently. Swaging the primer pockets creates a smooth and consistent surface for seating new primers. This leads to improved primer seating and greater reliability in reloaded ammunition.

The tool’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The setup is straightforward, and the swaging process is relatively quick, especially compared to manual methods like reaming. The high-tensile steel construction ensures that the swaging rods can withstand repeated use without bending or breaking.

One potential weakness is the tool’s incompatibility with progressive presses. Reloaders who primarily use progressive presses may need to invest in a separate single-stage press or consider alternative swaging methods. The requirement for precise alignment during the swaging process can also be a minor drawback for beginners.

Design & Ergonomics

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 features a simple and functional design. The steel construction provides a solid and durable feel, and the components are well-machined. The tool is relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport.

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 tool is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The included instructions are clear and concise. The process involves simply attaching the appropriate swaging rod to your reloading press and running the cases through.

Durability & Maintenance

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is built to last. The high-tensile steel construction provides excellent resistance to wear and tear. It should provide years of reliable service with proper care.

Maintaining the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 tool is easy. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to prevent rust and corrosion. The occasional tightening of the swaging rods may be necessary to ensure proper alignment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 comes with the necessary swaging rods for both small and large primer pockets. The included components are well-suited for the tool’s intended purpose. There are limited customization options available for the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2.

It is compatible with standard reloading presses from various brands. This allows reloaders to integrate it seamlessly into their existing reloading setups. There are no specific aftermarket accessories designed for the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

Who Should Buy RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2?

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is perfect for reloaders who process a significant amount of military surplus brass and want a faster and more consistent method of removing primer pocket crimps than hand-held reamers. It is also a good option for reloaders who prefer to use their existing single-stage reloading press for this task. Casual reloaders who only process a small amount of crimped brass may find a hand-held reamer to be sufficient.

Reloaders who primarily use progressive presses should skip this product. They should opt for a dedicated bench-mounted swaging tool or another method that is compatible with progressive press operation.

A must-have accessory for the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is a good quality case lubricant to help prevent cases from sticking during the swaging process.

Conclusion on RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is a well-designed and durable tool that effectively removes military crimps from primer pockets, improving primer seating and reliability. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any reloader’s bench.

At a price of $50.89, the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 offers excellent value for money. It is a worthwhile investment for reloaders who process a significant amount of military surplus brass.

I would personally recommend the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 to any reloader looking for a faster, more consistent, and more reliable way to remove primer pocket crimps. This tool has saved me countless hours of tedious work and has significantly improved the quality and reliability of my reloaded ammunition. If you’re tired of struggling with crimped primer pockets, give the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 a try. You won’t be disappointed!