Let’s Dive into RCBS Primer Tray-2
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 is a seemingly simple, yet incredibly valuable tool for reloaders, particularly those using progressive presses or automated priming systems. Manufactured by RCBS, a trusted name in reloading equipment, this little green tray helps make the often tedious task of priming cases smoother and more efficient. My journey into reloading was initially fraught with fumbling and frustration, and the RCBS Primer Tray-2 quickly became an indispensable part of my setup.
I was struggling with efficiently loading primers into my progressive press’s primer feed system. Dropping and flipping primers by hand was slow, frustrating, and occasionally hazardous. After a bit of research, the RCBS Primer Tray-2 emerged as a straightforward solution.
Upon receiving the RCBS Primer Tray-2, I was immediately struck by its simple, utilitarian design. The high-impact styrene plastic feels robust enough to withstand regular use, and its bright green color makes it easy to spot on a cluttered workbench. It’s incredibly lightweight, which is a plus when you’re already dealing with heavy reloading equipment.
Compared to some makeshift primer-flipping methods I’d seen (like using playing cards or modified containers), the RCBS Primer Tray-2 seemed purpose-built and professional. It also looked significantly more user-friendly than some bulkier, more complex primer-handling devices. I chose it because of its reputation for reliability and ease of use within the RCBS ecosystem.
My first impression was one of relief. It seemed like such a simple tool, but I had a feeling it would make a huge difference in my reloading workflow. I was eager to test it out and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Primer Tray-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the RCBS Primer Tray-2 in my reloading room, while prepping components for .223 Remington rounds. The room is relatively controlled, but I sometimes experience static electricity buildup, which can be problematic when handling small components like primers. The tray performed admirably, despite the static, keeping primers oriented correctly.
The tray made it significantly easier to orient primers anvil-side-up for loading into my primer tubes. The grooved surface worked exactly as advertised. It took only a few minutes to fill the tray with primers and gently shake them until they were all properly aligned. I was immediately impressed by the speed and efficiency compared to my previous method.
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. There’s no setup required, and the square shape made it easy to grip and manipulate. The only “learning curve” was figuring out the best way to gently agitate the primers to get them to flip correctly.
The only slight surprise was the realization that, depending on the primer brand, some primers might be a little stickier than others. This didn’t affect the tray’s function, but it did require a slightly more vigorous shaking motion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the RCBS Primer Tray-2 is holding up remarkably well. I’ve used it to prime thousands of cases, and the tray shows no signs of cracking or warping. The color hasn’t faded, and the surface remains easy to clean.
The styrene plastic is proving to be surprisingly durable. Despite being knocked off the bench a few times (oops!), the RCBS Primer Tray-2 hasn’t suffered any damage. It’s clearly built to withstand the rigors of a reloading environment.
Cleaning the tray is incredibly simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove any powder residue or stray primers. I haven’t had to use any harsh chemicals, and the tray remains in excellent condition.
Compared to my previous primer-handling methods, the RCBS Primer Tray-2 is a game-changer. It has significantly increased my reloading speed and reduced the frustration associated with priming cases. It’s simple design and effectiveness have far surpassed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Primer Tray-2
Specifications
- Manufacturer: RCBS.
- Quantity: 1.
- Color: Green.
- Size: One Size (4-inch square).
- Material: Non-conductive high-impact styrene.
- Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the tray’s functionality and durability. The square shape makes it easier to handle and pour primers, while the high-impact styrene ensures it can withstand regular use without breaking. The fact that it’s made in the USA gives me confidence in its quality.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 excels at its primary task: orienting primers anvil-side-up for easy loading into primer tubes or priming tools. The grooved surface is designed to quickly and efficiently flip primers with minimal effort. It performs its job flawlessly, significantly speeding up the priming process.
The tray’s greatest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. Its only weakness is that it doesn’t automate the entire priming process. You still need to manually load primers into the tray and shake them, but the RCBS Primer Tray-2 makes even these steps easier. It definitely meets expectations and has greatly enhanced my reloading workflow.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 boasts a simple, functional design. The four-inch square shape fits comfortably in the hand, and the slightly textured surface provides a good grip. Its light weight also contributes to its ease of use, especially during extended reloading sessions.
The tray is incredibly user-friendly. There’s no assembly required, and the operation is intuitive. Even a novice reloader can quickly master the art of flipping primers with the RCBS Primer Tray-2.
Durability & Maintenance
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 is constructed from durable materials and built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The high-impact styrene is resistant to cracking and warping, even under heavy use.
Maintaining the tray is incredibly easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and free of debris. The simple design means there are no small parts to lose or break, and no complicated cleaning procedures to follow.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is designed to work seamlessly with other RCBS reloading equipment, such as their primer tubes and priming tools. There are no customization options available for the tray itself.
The tray is universally compatible with most brands of primers and should work well with any standard primer-handling system. It is especially useful when combined with the RCBS hand priming tool or progressive reloading presses.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Primer Tray-2
Pros
- Significantly speeds up the primer-handling process. It makes orienting primers much faster and easier.
- Simple and intuitive design. There’s no learning curve, and it’s easy to use right out of the box.
- Durable construction. The high-impact styrene is built to withstand regular use.
- Cost-effective. It’s an inexpensive tool that provides a significant improvement to reloading efficiency.
- Compatible with other RCBS equipment. Works seamlessly with their primer tubes and priming tools.
Cons
- Doesn’t fully automate the priming process. Requires manual loading and shaking of primers.
- Static electricity can sometimes cause primers to stick to the tray.
Who Should Buy RCBS Primer Tray-2?
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 is perfect for reloaders of all skill levels, especially those who:
- Use progressive reloading presses.
- Load large quantities of ammunition.
- Value efficiency and speed in their reloading process.
- Are looking for a simple and reliable primer-handling solution.
Those who should skip this product:
- Reloaders who only load a small number of rounds at a time.
- Reloaders who prefer to hand-prime each case individually.
A must-have accessory would be an RCBS primer tube or a compatible primer filling device. These tools make it even easier to transfer primers from the tray to your priming system.
Conclusion on RCBS Primer Tray-2
The RCBS Primer Tray-2 is a simple, yet incredibly effective tool that every serious reloader should own. It streamlines the primer-handling process, increases efficiency, and reduces frustration. For a relatively low price, it offers a significant improvement to the reloading experience.
The value proposition is excellent. The price is easily justified by the time and effort saved during reloading sessions. I would personally recommend it to anyone who reloads ammunition, regardless of their experience level.
If you’re tired of fumbling with primers and want to make your reloading process smoother and more efficient, the RCBS Primer Tray-2 is a must-have. Add it to your reloading bench and experience the difference!