Let’s Dive into RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses promises to be a reloading powerhouse, capable of churning out ammunition at an impressive rate. As a seasoned reloader with over a decade of experience, I was eager to see if this seven-station press could live up to the hype and significantly boost my production speed. It’s RCBS, a brand with a long-standing reputation in the reloading world, so expectations were high.
I was primarily looking for a press that could handle high-volume reloading for various calibers. My old single-stage press was just too slow for the amount of ammunition I needed for practice and competition. I hoped the Pro Chucker 7 would be the answer to my bottlenecked reloading process.
Unboxing the RCBS Pro Chucker 7, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The die-cast aluminum frame felt robust, and the green finish was classic RCBS. The weight of the press suggested durability, though some of the smaller, plastic components gave me pause.
Compared to the Dillon 650 and Hornady Lock-N-Load AP, the Pro Chucker 7 stood out with its seven stations. This offered the potential for more flexibility in the reloading process, allowing for dedicated seating and crimping stages, and even the use of a powder check die. The price point was also attractive compared to the other options. I ultimately chose the Pro Chucker 7 for its balance of features, price, and the promise of high-volume production.
Initially, I was excited by the possibilities this press presented. The seven stations and quick-change die plate seemed like a game-changer. However, the numerous reports of finicky operation and quality control issues left me with a sense of cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses at my reloading bench in my garage. The initial setup was more complex than my single-stage press, requiring careful adjustment of the priming system, powder measure, and shell plate indexing. I started with 9mm, a caliber I reload frequently.
The press performed well initially, smoothly indexing and dispensing powder consistently. However, I quickly encountered issues with the priming system, which frequently failed to seat primers correctly. Adjustments were necessary after every few rounds.
After about 50 rounds, I noticed that the case ejector wire would occasionally fail to push the completed round out of the shell plate, causing jams. This happened most often when the press was run at its advertised “high” speed. This resulted in needing to slow down considerably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the initial promise of the RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses began to fade. While the press could produce ammunition quickly when everything was perfectly adjusted, maintaining that perfect adjustment proved to be a constant battle. The priming system remained the most persistent source of frustration.
The Pro Chucker 7 showed signs of wear and tear fairly quickly. The powder measure’s plastic hopper cover cracked after only a few uses. The shell plate indexing arm seemed to be under significant stress, and I worried about its long-term durability.
Cleaning and maintaining the Pro Chucker 7 was more involved than expected. The complex design made it difficult to access certain areas for cleaning. The priming system, in particular, required frequent disassembly and cleaning to prevent malfunctions. In comparison to my single-stage press, the Pro Chucker 7 felt like a high-maintenance machine. It required constant attention and adjustment to prevent issues. It definitely disappointed in this aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses
Specifications
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses is a seven-station auto-indexing reloading press designed for high-volume ammunition production. The press features a die-cast aluminum frame, providing a rigid and durable platform for reloading. It uses standard primer pick-up tubes and features a safety-shielded priming system.
- Seven Stations: The seven stations allow for dedicated seating and crimping, and the use of a powder check die. This offers greater control and flexibility in the reloading process.
- Auto-Indexing: Automatic indexing rotates the shell plate after each stage, increasing production speed. This is supposed to allow for a load rate of approximately 600 rounds per hour.
- Quick-Change Die Plate: The quick-change die plate allows for rapid caliber changes. This is intended to maximize efficiency.
- Quick Change Powder Measure: The larger powder capacity reduces fill frequency. This is designed to save time when reloading large batches.
- Quick Change Drain Tube: The drain tube allows for easy powder removal without dismounting the measure. This is a convenient feature for switching powders.
These specifications should, in theory, contribute to a high-performance, efficient reloading experience. The seven stations should offer flexibility, while the auto-indexing and quick-change features should maximize production speed and ease of use. However, the real-world performance of the press often falls short of these expectations.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses aims to streamline the reloading process. It hopes to do so by automating many of the steps involved in ammunition production. When properly adjusted, the press can produce accurate and consistent ammunition at a reasonable rate.
However, the press is plagued by reliability issues. The priming system is prone to malfunction, the case ejector can be unreliable, and the powder measure can be inconsistent. These issues can significantly slow down production and increase the risk of errors. The Pro Chucker 7 falls short of its promise of high-volume, hassle-free reloading.
The strengths of the Pro Chucker 7 lie in its potential for high-volume production and its flexibility in accommodating various reloading dies. The weaknesses are its finicky operation, unreliable components, and complex setup and maintenance. The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses ultimately meets expectations when it runs smoothly, but it exceeds expectations only rarely.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses has a solid and sturdy design. The die-cast aluminum frame provides a rigid and stable platform. However, the press also incorporates several plastic components, which feel less durable and contribute to some of the reliability issues.
The press is relatively user-friendly once it is properly set up. However, the initial setup and adjustments can be challenging, especially for novice reloaders. The complex design and numerous moving parts create a steeper learning curve than simpler reloading presses.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses is questionable. The plastic components are particularly susceptible to wear and tear, and the shell plate indexing mechanism seems to be under significant stress. Based on my experience, frequent maintenance and repairs are likely necessary to keep the press running smoothly.
Maintaining the Pro Chucker 7 is more involved than with simpler presses. The complex design makes it difficult to access certain areas for cleaning and lubrication. The priming system, in particular, requires frequent disassembly and cleaning to prevent malfunctions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses comes with a few basic accessories, including primer pick-up tubes and a powder measure. RCBS offers a range of shell plates for different calibers.
The press is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies from various manufacturers. However, due to the seven-station design, users may need to purchase additional dies, such as a dedicated seating die and a crimp die, to take full advantage of the press’s capabilities. The Quick Change powder measure and drain tube add convenience.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses
Pros
- Seven stations offer flexibility in the reloading process.
- Quick-change die plate allows for relatively fast caliber changes.
- Potential for high-volume ammunition production (when properly adjusted).
- Compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies.
- RCBS has good customer service, if you have the patience to use it.
Cons
- Priming system is prone to malfunction and requires frequent adjustment.
- Overall reliability is questionable due to numerous plastic components.
- Complex setup and maintenance require significant time and effort.
- Quality control issues with shell plates are common.
- Advertised high production rate is difficult to achieve in practice.
Who Should Buy RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses?
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses is best suited for experienced reloaders. It is a good fit for those who enjoy tinkering with their equipment and are comfortable troubleshooting mechanical issues. It may also be a solid choice for someone who likes to take on projects.
Beginners or reloaders seeking a hassle-free experience should skip this product. Those who prioritize reliability and ease of use over high-volume production may be better served by a simpler, more robust press.
Must-have accessories for the Pro Chucker 7 include a high-quality dial caliper for precise adjustments and a dedicated primer pocket cleaner to ensure reliable primer seating. Replacing some of the plastic components with aftermarket metal parts may also improve the press’s durability.
Conclusion on RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses
The RCBS Pro Chucker 7 Progressive Presses is a frustrating product. It holds the promise of high-volume, efficient reloading. However, it is ultimately undermined by its finicky operation and questionable reliability.
The value proposition is questionable. The price may seem justified given the seven stations and quick-change features. However, the cost of frustration and the potential need for frequent repairs and replacements diminishes its appeal.
I would personally hesitate to recommend the RCBS Pro Chucker 7. There are alternative presses on the market that offer a more reliable and user-friendly reloading experience. If you’re willing to invest the time and effort to dial in the Pro Chucker 7 and address its inherent weaknesses, it may be a viable option. However, be prepared for a journey filled with adjustments, troubleshooting, and the occasional headache. If you want a headache, get this press.