Let’s Dive into RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders
Reloading pistol ammunition can be a tedious process, especially when dealing with high volumes. That’s where the RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders come in, promising to increase loading output by up to 50%. Designed to work with any 7/8″-14 threaded progressive press, these caliber-specific feeders aim to streamline bullet placement.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade and I was seeking a more efficient way to reload pistol rounds, particularly 9mm and .38 Special, without investing in a full progressive press bullet feeder system. The promise of a 50% increase in output intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the simplicity of the design. The clear tubes felt sturdy enough and the included feed die appeared well-machined.
I considered the Lee Precision Bullet Feeder and the Hornady Pistol Bullet Feeder, both popular options. However, I opted for the RCBS due to its straightforward, tube-fed approach, which seemed less prone to jamming than some of the more complex designs.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The system looked simple, but I was skeptical about whether it could truly live up to the claim of a 50% increase in loading speed without sacrificing consistency.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders at my home reloading bench, using my Dillon XL650 progressive press. I was reloading .38 Special rounds with lead semi-wadcutter bullets. The case mouth was expanded per the instructions, a crucial step for proper bullet seating.
The feeders worked well in dry conditions but slowed down when my hands became sweaty. The plastic tubes tended to stick slightly. It definitely took some getting used to, especially the timing of placing the next bullet tube.
Occasionally, the bullet would not drop as the supply in the tube dwindled, a common issue mentioned in other user reviews. This required a quick manual intervention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders have proven to be relatively reliable, although not without their quirks. They’ve shown no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being made of plastic. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a cloth keeps everything running smoothly.
Compared to manually placing each bullet, the RCBS feeders offer a noticeable improvement in speed, though not quite the promised 50%. The improvement is closer to 30-40%, depending on the bullet profile and my focus level.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders
Specifications
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders are caliber-specific, designed for .380/9MM/.38-357 (90-158GR) bullets. They are intended for use with any 7/8″-14 threaded progressive press. Each tube holds approximately 20-25 bullets, depending on their weight and profile.
The system includes a feed die, bullet finger, bullet guide, two feed tubes, and four tube caps. This modular design allows for relatively quick caliber changes (provided you have the appropriate caliber-specific kit) and easy replacement of worn parts. The fact that it’s made in the USA is a definite plus for quality control.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders perform their primary job of placing bullets into the case mouth reasonably well. The key is proper case expansion and consistent bullet diameter. It increases reloading speed, albeit not quite as drastically as advertised.
The system’s biggest strength is its simplicity, making it relatively easy to set up and use. Its primary weakness is the occasional failure to drop a bullet, particularly when the tube is running low. It meets expectations for a basic bullet feeding system, but it is not a high-volume, zero-intervention solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders feature a straightforward, functional design. The clear plastic tubes allow for easy monitoring of the bullet supply. The system is lightweight, which is both a pro and a con; it doesn’t add significant weight to the press, but it can feel a bit flimsy.
The RCBS system is fairly user-friendly, although the initial setup requires careful attention to the instructions. The learning curve is relatively short.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction raises some concerns about long-term durability, especially with heavy use. However, after several weeks of use, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. Maintaining the system is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders come with the necessary components to get started, but additional bullet tubes can be purchased separately. There are no significant customization options available for the system itself. It does work with a variety of bullet types, including jacketed, plated, cast, and swaged lead bullets.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders
Pros
- Noticeably increases reloading speed compared to manual bullet placement.
- Easy to set up and use, with a short learning curve.
- Works with a variety of bullet types (jacketed, plated, cast, swaged lead).
- Affordable entry point into automated bullet feeding.
- Simple design minimizes potential failure points compared to more complex systems.
Cons
- Occasional failures to drop bullets, especially when tubes are low.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Not a true “set and forget” system; requires occasional monitoring and intervention.
Who Should Buy RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders?
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders are perfect for reloaders who want to increase their output without investing in a more expensive and complex automated bullet feeding system. It is a great fit for hobbyist reloaders and those who load moderate volumes of pistol ammunition. It is also a good choice for those who are new to bullet feeders, offering a low-risk introduction to the technology.
Those who need a high-volume, zero-intervention bullet feeding solution should skip this product. This includes competitive shooters who load thousands of rounds per month.
A must-have accessory would be extra bullet tubes. Having more tubes pre-loaded speeds up the reloading process considerably. A plastic follower rod for the tube, as mentioned in user reviews, can also improve bullet feeding consistency.
Conclusion on RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders
The RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders offer a worthwhile improvement in reloading speed and convenience for a reasonable price. While they’re not perfect, they provide a good balance of simplicity, affordability, and performance. It is a nice step up from placing each bullet by hand.
The price is justified, especially considering the time saved and the reduction in tediousness.
I would personally recommend it to reloaders seeking an entry-level bullet feeding system. If you’re looking to increase your reloading output without breaking the bank, the RCBS Tube Pistol Bullet Feeders are a solid choice. Try it out and experience a smoother reloading process!