RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander Review

Let’s Talk About RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander

The RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander are designed to significantly boost reloading efficiency, a promise that immediately caught my eye. Designed by RCBS, these feeders aim to increase loading rates by 50% for both .22 and .30 caliber rifles. As someone who regularly reloads hundreds of rounds for various rifles, the potential time-saving was incredibly appealing.

I’ve been reloading for over a decade, initially drawn to it by the need for more consistent and accurate ammunition for my precision rifles. Manual bullet placement, while precise, is undeniably time-consuming. When I saw that RCBS had a solution to speed up the rifle reloading process, especially for progressive presses, I had to try it.

The RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander arrived in a no-frills package, but the components felt solid and well-made. The design seemed straightforward, a series of tubes and an expander designed to integrate with my existing progressive press setup. Compared to completely automated systems, the RCBS feeder offered a seemingly simpler and more cost-effective solution.

I had considered a few other options, including a fully automated electric bullet feeder, but the cost was prohibitive for my reloading volume. The RCBS system seemed like a balanced compromise between speed and affordability. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – the system looked promising, but I was keen to see if it lived up to the claims of increased efficiency and ease of use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander took place in my reloading room, which is essentially a converted section of my garage. I was loading .223 Remington for my AR-15, a common task for me, and the perfect scenario to assess the feeder’s performance. The initial setup took about an hour, primarily due to fine-tuning the expander die to ensure consistent bullet seating.

I ran into some initial hiccups with bullet orientation in the tubes, especially when I tried different brands of bullets. The varying ogive shapes caused some rounds to hang up, but with some adjustments to the tube angle, I managed to mitigate the issue. Despite the initial adjustments, the feeder significantly decreased the time spent on manually placing each bullet.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander has proven to be a valuable addition to my reloading setup. I’ve loaded several thousand rounds of .223 and .308 using it. While not perfect, it has consistently reduced my reloading time.

The durability seems decent, though the plastic tubes are the most vulnerable component. I’ve noticed some minor wear on the expander die from prolonged use, but nothing that impacts its function. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the die is key to maintaining smooth operation.

Compared to my previous all-manual method, the RCBS feeder is a clear winner in terms of speed and reduced fatigue. It doesn’t completely automate the process, but it frees up my hands to focus on other aspects of reloading, such as powder charging and case inspection.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander

Specifications

• Manufacturer: RCBS.
• Caliber Options: Available in .22 caliber and .30 caliber versions.
• Compatibility: Designed to fit most 7/8-inch-14 threaded progressive presses. Adapters may be required for some press brands. This is crucial for ensuring proper installation and functionality.
• Included Accessory: Expander die.
• Construction: Primarily constructed of durable polymer with a steel expander die.
• Origin: Made in the USA. This speaks to the quality and craftsmanship of the product.

These specifications are important because they dictate the versatility and applicability of the RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander. The expander die ensures proper case neck expansion, which aids in consistent bullet seating and reduces bullet deformation during the seating process. The compatibility with standard progressive presses makes it accessible to a wide range of reloaders.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander is to speed up the bullet-seating stage of reloading, and it largely succeeds. Once dialed in, it allows for a smoother and faster workflow, increasing reloading rates by approximately 50%, as advertised. This efficiency boost comes from eliminating the need to manually place each bullet.

The main strengths are its increased speed and reduced hand fatigue. The primary weakness is the occasional bullet hang-up, particularly with certain bullet shapes. Overall, it meets my expectations, providing a significant improvement over manual bullet placement, but requires some user attention and adjustment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is relatively simple, comprising a series of tubes that hold bullets and feed them into an expander die. The build quality is decent, with sturdy polymer components and a robust steel expander die. The system’s weight is negligible once mounted on the press, adding minimal bulk to the setup.

The system is generally user-friendly, though there’s a learning curve involved in setting up the expander die and optimizing bullet flow. The instructions are clear, and RCBS provides ample online resources for troubleshooting. Adjustments may be necessary for different bullet types and seating depths.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander should last for many years. The polymer tubes are the most likely point of failure, but they are easily replaceable. Regular cleaning of the expander die is essential to prevent bullet buildup and ensure smooth operation.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional disassembly and cleaning with solvent. The design allows for easy access to all critical components. Keeping the tubes clean and free of debris is also crucial for reliable feeding.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander kit includes the expander die, which is the core accessory. There aren’t extensive customization options directly related to the feeder, but you can adjust the expander die to accommodate different bullet seating depths. It is compatible with most standard reloading dies and accessories.

The system integrates seamlessly with other RCBS reloading equipment, such as powder measures and case feeders. The expander die can also be replaced with aftermarket versions for even finer control over case neck expansion. While limited, the customization options are sufficient for most reloaders.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Tube Rifle Bullet Feeders w/Expander