Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM Review

The Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM: Review from Real Use

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to rugged fields and unforgiving outdoor expeditions – I’ve learned to appreciate tools that simplify processes. My reloading bench is no exception. The process of switching calibers on my Forster Co-Ax press had become a minor bottleneck, particularly when I needed to transition between AR-15 platforms with different case rim diameters. This is precisely where the Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM entered the picture, promising a streamlined solution.

My initial encounter with the Forster Co-Ax press itself was a revelation in design and functionality. However, the standard jaws, while robust, required a bit of manual manipulation to accommodate the varying sizes of rifle cases. I’d been eyeing replacements for a while, considering a few generic options but ultimately gravitating back to Forster’s ecosystem for guaranteed compatibility and perceived quality. The primary issue was the time and fiddly adjustments involved, which, while not a dealbreaker, felt like an area ripe for optimization.

Upon receiving the Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM, the immediate impression was one of solid construction. They possess a reassuring weight and a precisely machined finish that speaks to quality manufacturing. There was no play, no rough edges, just the satisfying feel of a well-made component. My first reaction was a quiet sense of anticipation, a feeling that this small upgrade could indeed make a tangible difference in my reloading workflow.

First Use Experience

My testing ground for these new jaws was my home reloading bench, specifically set up for AR-15 platforms. I primarily load for .223 Remington and .300 Blackout, which have similar rim diameters, but I also frequently work with 6.5 Grendel and occasionally .308 Winchester cases, which present more significant variations. The initial setup involved a quick clean-out of the shipping grease and a light application of oil, as user feedback often suggests, which immediately smoothed out the action.

The true test began when I inserted a .223 case into the press and engaged the handle. The self-acting nature of the jaws was immediately apparent; they closed with a decisive grip on the case rim. Extracting the resized and de-primed case was equally seamless, with the jaws automatically opening as the handle was raised, releasing the spent casing. This process felt fluid and significantly faster than my previous method.

I then deliberately switched to a 6.5 Grendel case, which has a slightly larger rim diameter. The jaws accommodated it without any resistance, demonstrating their adaptability across the stated size ranges. Even when working with cases that were at the extremes of a particular jaw size, the grip remained secure and consistent. I experienced no slippage or difficulty during repeated cycling of the press, even when performing rapid-fire reloading sessions for volume.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of rounds reloaded using the Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM, their performance has remained consistently excellent. I haven’t encountered any degradation in their functionality. The spring-loaded jaws continue to provide a positive and secure hold on every case I’ve tried, from smaller .223 rounds to larger .308 cases.

Durability hasn’t been an issue; these jaws feel built to last. I’ve accidentally dropped one onto the concrete workshop floor during a moment of distraction, and it emerged completely unscathed, showing no signs of chipping or deforming. This speaks volumes about the robust material and solid construction Forster has employed.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe-down after a reloading session is usually sufficient. If dust or debris accumulates, a light brushing or a quick rinse with solvent and a re-application of oil keeps them operating with that initial smooth action. Compared to some generic press accessories I’ve used in the past that would seize up or require constant attention, these Forster jaws are a welcome relief. They integrate seamlessly into the press’s operation, requiring no special handling beyond the standard press functions.

Specifications

The Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM are designed to provide adaptable support for a wide array of rifle case rim diameters, a critical feature for reloaders working with multiple calibers. They are engineered to fit specifically within the Forster Co-Ax Press. The system offers several jaw sizes to ensure optimal fit and positive extraction for various case rim dimensions, crucial for consistent reloading.

• S-Large: This jaw size is capable of holding case rims ranging from .468 inches to .562 inches. This size is particularly useful for many common hunting and service rifle cartridges that fall within this rim diameter range.
• S-Small: Designed for smaller rims, this jaw set accommodates diameters from .343 inches to .422 inches. It’s ideal for cartridges like the .223 Remington, and other similar sized cases common in AR platforms.
• LS-Large: This offers a larger capacity, handling rims from .531 inches to .625 inches. This size is beneficial for larger magnum cartridges or some of the wider rimmed precision rifle rounds.
• LS-Small: Complementing the other sizes, this set grips rims from .312 inches to .375 inches. This subset is perfect for rimfire cartridges or very small centerfire cases where a precise fit is paramount.

The self-acting mechanism is a key design element. When a cartridge case is placed in the die and the press handle is engaged, the jaws automatically open to accept the case and then close firmly. Conversely, when the handle is raised, the jaws automatically open, releasing the case. This automation significantly speeds up the reloading cycle and reduces manual manipulation. The jaws are spring-loaded, ensuring a consistent and positive contact with the base of the cannelure, which aids in more reliable extraction of spent cases.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core functionality, these jaws perform exceptionally well. Their primary job is to securely hold the cartridge case during the reloading process and then release it smoothly. The Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM excel at this, providing a firm grip that inspires confidence during sizing and de-priming operations. The spring-loaded mechanism ensures that the jaws exert enough pressure to hold the case without deforming it, which is crucial for maintaining case integrity.

The self-acting nature is a significant advantage. It eliminates the need to manually adjust or manipulate the jaws with each case, which translates into a faster reloading process. This is particularly noticeable when you’re processing a large batch of brass. The transition between different case rim sizes is also remarkably smooth, with the jaws adapting quickly.

The only minor critique, if one can even call it that, is the need to select the correct jaw set for your specific cartridge. While this ensures optimal fit, it does add a step if you’re switching between calibers that don’t utilize the same jaw set. However, this is an inherent requirement of such a versatile system and is far more convenient than manually adjusting a single set of jaws. It’s a trade-off that prioritizes precision and ease of use over ultimate universality, which is exactly what you want in a reloading tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these jaws is a testament to Forster’s understanding of reloading mechanics. The machined steel construction gives them a substantial feel, and the precise tolerances mean they fit snugly into the press without any wobble or play. The finish is smooth, which is important to prevent any potential marring of brass cases.

Ergonomically, they are designed to work with the press’s mechanism, meaning there’s no real “handling” of the jaws themselves during the reloading cycle. Once installed, they become an integrated part of the press’s operation. The spring-loaded action is crisp and predictable, providing tactile feedback as the jaws engage and release. The clarity of the markings on the different jaw sizes (S-Small, S-Large, LS-Small, LS-Large) is excellent, making it easy to quickly identify the correct set for a given cartridge.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from what feels like hardened steel, these jaws are exceptionally durable. I anticipate they will last for many years of regular reloading, likely outliving many other components on my bench. Their robust construction means they can withstand the pressures and stresses of reloading without showing signs of wear.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping them clean and lightly oiled. The key takeaway from user feedback and my own experience is to remove any excess factory grease and replace it with a light coat of gun oil. This ensures the springs and the internal mechanism operate smoothly without becoming sticky or gummed up. There are no complex parts to break or wear out, making them a low-maintenance accessory.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM are designed as a component for the Forster Co-Ax Press and do not come with separate accessories. Their “customization” lies in the fact that they are available in multiple sizes, allowing you to choose the set that best fits your most commonly reloaded calibers. The value is in the modularity of these jaw sets, enabling a tailored fit for a wide spectrum of cartridge rim diameters.

The product itself is the accessory, essentially enhancing the versatility of the Forster Co-Ax Press. The different sizes (S-Large, S-Small, LS-Large, LS-Small) cover a significant range of common rifle cartridges. This allows a reloader to optimize their press for specific ammunition families without needing multiple presses or complex adjustments.

Pros and Cons of Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM

Who Should Buy Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM?

These quick-change jaws are an absolute must-have for any serious reloader who owns a Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM and works with multiple rifle calibers on their Forster Co-Ax Press. If you frequently switch between cartridges with different rim diameters, such as .223 Remington, 6.5 Grendel, .308 Winchester, or larger magnum rounds, these jaws will save you significant time and frustration. They are ideal for those who value efficiency and precision in their reloading process.

Reloaders who primarily stick to one or two very similar calibers might not see the same dramatic improvement, though the smooth operation is still a significant upgrade. However, if you dabble in various AR-15 platforms or have a diverse bolt-action rifle collection, investing in the appropriate jaw sets is highly recommended. You should skip these if you are not using a Forster Co-Ax press, as they are specifically designed for that press.

For maximum benefit, I’d recommend purchasing the jaw sets that correspond to your most frequently reloaded cartridges. Having a dedicated set for common AR-15 rounds (like the S-Small) and another for larger cartridges (like the LS-Large) can make caliber changes almost instantaneous. A small bottle of quality gun oil and a lint-free cloth are essential for basic maintenance.

Conclusion on Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM

The Forster Quick-change Jaws ASSM are a near-perfect example of how a small, well-engineered accessory can profoundly improve a critical tool. They take an already excellent press and elevate its usability by streamlining the process of accommodating different cartridge sizes. The build quality is exceptional, promising longevity, and the self-acting mechanism is both efficient and satisfying to use.

Considering their $65.39 price point for a set, they represent excellent value, especially when you factor in the time saved and the increased precision they enable over manual adjustments. For anyone serious about reloading rifle cartridges on a Forster Co-Ax Press, these quick-change jaws are not just an upgrade; they are an essential component. I wholeheartedly recommend them to any reloader looking to optimize their workflow and enhance the performance of their Forster press.