Let’s Dive into RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is RCBS’s most ambitious offering yet, a comprehensive bundle designed to take reloaders from novice to expert with a single purchase. As someone who’s been handloading ammunition for over a decade, I’ve seen countless kits come and go, but the Rebel Plus promises a level of completeness and quality that’s hard to ignore.
I was looking for a single kit that contained everything needed to start reloading a variety of calibers, from pistol rounds to rifle cartridges. The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit seemed to offer that all-in-one solution, promising to eliminate the need for piecemeal purchases and ensuring compatibility across components.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the sheer weight of the Rebel Single Stage Press. This isn’t some lightweight, entry-level setup; the robust construction and quality of materials were immediately evident.
Compared to a basic Lee Loader or even an older Rock Chucker I used years ago, the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit feels like a serious upgrade. The inclusion of a digital scale and powder trickler, alongside the Uniflow-III Powder Measure, set it apart from many other kits in this price range.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of overwhelm. The sheer number of components indicated a serious commitment to handloading, and I was eager to see if the kit lived up to its potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit was at my home reloading bench, preparing .223 Remington rounds for my AR-15. The single stage press felt incredibly solid and stable, providing confidence during the resizing and bullet seating steps.
I tested the kit under relatively clean and controlled conditions in my workshop. The Uniflow-III Powder Measure dispensed consistent charges, and the digital scale provided precise measurements, crucial for achieving accurate loads.
The learning curve was surprisingly minimal, thanks to the well-written manual and intuitive design of the individual components. Even someone new to reloading should be able to get up and running quickly.
The only minor issue I encountered was with the primer seating tool. It required a bit of finesse to ensure primers were seated fully and consistently.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, loading hundreds of rounds in various calibers, the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit has proven to be incredibly reliable. The press operates smoothly, and the powder measure consistently throws accurate charges.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the press, even after repeated use. Cleaning the Uniflow-III Powder Measure is straightforward, and the digital scale requires only occasional calibration.
Compared to my previous reloading setup, which involved a hodgepodge of different tools, the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit offers a far more streamlined and efficient experience. The quality and consistency of the components are noticeable in the improved accuracy and reliability of my handloaded ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit
Specifications
- The foundation of the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is the Rebel Single Stage Press, boasting a larger opening and 22% heavier frame compared to the Rock Chucker Supreme. This robust construction enhances ease of use and rigidity for consistent results.
- The kit includes the Uniflow-III Powder Measure, RCBS’s most accurate Uniflow yet. Its tight tolerances ensure consistent powder charges, eliminating the risk of overloads due to clogging.
- The Advanced Powder Measure Stand elevates the powder measure for easier viewing and operation. This stand provides a stable platform, enhancing accuracy during powder dispensing.
- The included Pow’r Pull Bullet Puller allows for quick and easy removal of bullets from loaded rounds. It provides a safe and efficient way to disassemble ammunition when necessary.
- A 1,500-grain Digital Pocket Scale and Powder Trickler 2 provide precise weight measurements. This combination allows for both quick bulk weighing and fine-tuning of powder charges.
- The Hand Priming Tool ensures efficient and consistent primer seating. It is designed to provide positive primer seating for reliable ignition.
- The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is primarily constructed of Stainless Steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. The green finish gives it a distinctive and recognizable look.
These specifications are vital for consistent and accurate reloading. The heavy-duty press provides stability, the precise powder measure ensures consistent charges, and the accurate scale allows for fine-tuning loads for optimal performance.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit excels at its primary function: producing high-quality, accurate, and reliable ammunition. The single-stage press provides excellent leverage and control, while the powder measure and scale ensure precise powder charges.
The kit’s strengths lie in its completeness and the quality of its individual components. The only weakness is the learning curve associated with any reloading setup, although the Rebel Plus does a good job of minimizing this.
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and ease of use. It is a significant upgrade from my previous reloading setup and has greatly improved the efficiency and consistency of my handloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The press is robust and stable, while the powder measure and scale are easy to use and read.
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials used throughout. The kit is comfortable to use for extended reloading sessions, although a dedicated reloading bench is recommended.
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit has a minimal learning curve for experienced reloaders, although beginners may need to spend some time familiarizing themselves with the individual components.
Durability & Maintenance
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is built to last, with a sturdy press and durable components. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning and maintaining the kit is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning of the powder measure and occasional lubrication of the press are all that is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a universal case loading block, deburring tool, primer pocket brushes, and fold-up hex key set. The kit does not include dies, which must be purchased separately based on the desired caliber.
The Rebel Single Stage Press is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies from various manufacturers. The hand priming tool accepts standard shell holders, providing compatibility with a wide range of calibers.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit
Pros
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes virtually everything needed to start reloading, minimizing the need for additional purchases.
- High-Quality Components: The Rebel Single Stage Press, Uniflow-III Powder Measure, and digital scale are all built to high standards.
- Accurate and Consistent: Provides the tools necessary to produce accurate and consistent handloads.
- Durable Construction: The Stainless Steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- User-Friendly Design: Even beginners can quickly learn to use the kit effectively.
Cons
- Does not include reloading dies, which must be purchased separately.
- The hand priming tool can be a bit finicky, requiring some practice to master.
Who Should Buy RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit?
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is perfect for:
- Hobbyist reloaders looking for a comprehensive and high-quality setup.
- Competitive shooters who demand accurate and consistent ammunition.
- Hunters who want to customize their ammunition for specific game and conditions.
This kit may not be ideal for individuals who only reload a small number of rounds infrequently. It could also be overkill for those who only reload one or two specific calibers, as a more basic setup might suffice.
Must-have accessories include a quality set of reloading dies for your desired calibers, a reloading manual, and a dedicated reloading bench to provide a stable and organized workspace.
Conclusion on RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit
The RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit is an outstanding investment for anyone serious about handloading ammunition. Its comprehensive nature, high-quality components, and user-friendly design make it a top contender in its price range.
The price of $686.99 is justified by the quality and completeness of the kit. It is a significant investment, but one that will pay off in terms of improved accuracy, consistency, and the ability to tailor your ammunition to your specific needs.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit to anyone looking to take their handloading to the next level. It is a well-designed, well-built, and comprehensive kit that will provide years of reliable service. So, invest in the RCBS Rebel Plus Reloading Kit and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own precision ammunition.