RCBS Ram Priming Units Review

Let’s Dive into RCBS Ram Priming Units

Handloading ammunition can be a rewarding process. It allows you to tailor your rounds to your specific firearm and shooting needs. However, consistent primer seating is paramount for reliable ignition and accuracy. That’s where the RCBS Ram Priming Units come into play. The RCBS Ram Priming Units, manufactured by RCBS, are designed to offer a more controlled and precise priming method compared to hand priming tools.

I initially sought out the RCBS Ram Priming Units because I was looking for a more consistent and efficient way to seat primers. My old hand priming tool was causing inconsistent seating depths, leading to variations in my rounds and, consequently, accuracy issues. I was hoping this would solve that problem.

Upon unboxing, I was initially impressed with the RCBS Ram Priming Units’ solid metal construction. The unit felt weighty and durable, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand repeated use. The silver finish was clean and professional.

I considered the Lee Ram Prime and the Frankford Arsenal hand priming tool. I opted for the RCBS Ram Priming Units based on RCBS’s reputation for quality reloading equipment and the promise of precise, consistent primer seating. I hoped it would provide a significant upgrade to my reloading process.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The unit seemed well-made. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of improved primer seating consistency.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Ram Priming Units to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the RCBS Ram Priming Units took place in my reloading room, a controlled environment. I was reloading .223 Remington rounds for my AR-15. I paid close attention to the seating depth and feel as I primed each case.

The initial performance was mixed. While the unit felt sturdy, I immediately noticed the looseness in the primer cup stem. This looseness made it difficult to maintain consistent alignment, which was immediately frustrating.

The biggest surprise was the amount of “play” in the system. The loose-fitting primer cup stem introduced more variability than I expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, my initial concerns were amplified. The looseness of the stem continued to be a persistent issue, impacting seating consistency. This affected my confidence in the rounds produced.

The RCBS Ram Priming Units didn’t show significant wear and tear, thanks to its all-metal construction. However, the functional flaw overshadowed the durability.

Cleaning the unit was simple enough. It only required a quick wipe-down after each reloading session. However, the alignment issues outweighed any ease of maintenance. Compared to my previous hand priming tool, the RCBS Ram Priming Units actually proved to be more frustrating due to the alignment issues.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Ram Priming Units

Specifications

The RCBS Ram Priming Units are designed to fit any reloading press with removable shell holders and 7/8 inch by 14 threads. Primers are seated at the top of the press stroke. You can seat by “feel” or to a preset stop. The unit includes rod assemblies for both large and small rifle and pistol primers. It uses standard shell holders (not included). The product is manufactured in the USA.

These specifications are important because they dictate compatibility with your existing reloading setup. The 7/8 inch x 14 threads are a standard size. The inclusion of both large and small primer rod assemblies adds versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the RCBS Ram Priming Units is to seat primers in cartridge cases. Unfortunately, the looseness in the primer cup stem significantly detracts from its performance. The lack of precise alignment made consistent primer seating difficult to achieve, which is its primary function.

The main strength is its compatibility with a standard reloading press. The critical weakness is the stem’s looseness, which undermines precision. The RCBS Ram Priming Units does not meet my expectations for consistent primer seating.

Design & Ergonomics

The RCBS Ram Priming Units features an all-metal construction, lending it a sense of durability. The silver finish is functional and understated. However, the loose-fitting primer cup stem negatively impacts the overall design.

The design is generally user-friendly. A user-friendly design doesn’t matter much when the main function is flawed.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust metal construction suggests that the RCBS Ram Priming Units should last for a long time under normal use. The unit requires minimal maintenance. The all-metal construction should provide excellent longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Ram Priming Units comes with rod assemblies for both large and small primers. These are essential for loading different calibers.

It utilizes standard shell holders, which are widely available from RCBS and other manufacturers. This compatibility expands customization options.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Ram Priming Units

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy RCBS Ram Priming Units?

The RCBS Ram Priming Units might be suitable for reloaders on an extremely tight budget. They might find some use for it with modifications.

However, those seeking truly consistent primer seating should probably skip this product. The alignment issues make it difficult to recommend. A must-have modification would be some sort of shim or fix to tighten the primer cup stem fit, but this adds extra cost and effort.

Conclusion on RCBS Ram Priming Units

Overall, the RCBS Ram Priming Units are a disappointing product. The promise of precise primer seating is undermined by the loose-fitting primer cup stem.

The price of $42.89 is not justified given its performance limitations. I cannot recommend this product due to the alignment issues and inconsistent primer seating.

Consider investing in a higher-quality priming system. You will get better consistency and reliability.