RCBS MATCHMASTER COMPETITION FL BUSHING SET Review

What Makes the RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set Stand Out?

The RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set isn’t just another component; it represents a dedication to precision and consistency in cartridge resizing. This set, specifically for the 6mm ARC caliber, is designed for reloaders who demand absolute control over their case dimensions. It’s built to deliver repeatable results, making it a valuable addition for competitive shooters and serious handloaders alike.

My journey to this specific set began with a growing dissatisfaction with the slight variations I was seeing in resized brass from my standard full-length dies. For certain applications, particularly in precision rifle cartridges like the 6mm ARC, even minute inconsistencies can translate to noticeable differences in accuracy downrange. I needed a way to fine-tune the resizing process beyond the standard die’s capabilities, aiming for a more consistent neck tension and shoulder bump.

Upon arrival, the bushings themselves felt substantial. Crafted from case-hardened steel, they possess a weight and finish that immediately speaks to their intended purpose. They exude a no-nonsense durability, hinting that they are built to withstand the rigors of frequent reloading sessions without issue.

I briefly considered simply purchasing a higher-end full-length die set from another manufacturer, but the ability to selectively control neck diameter and case shoulder setback offered by a bushing system held more appeal. The idea of fine-tuning a specific dimension without altering the entire die felt more efficient and precise. My initial reaction upon unboxing was one of quiet satisfaction; this felt like a tool that would solve a specific problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set to the Test

My testing environment is primarily my reloading bench, situated in a well-lit, temperature-controlled workshop. The critical scenario for this bushing set is the resizing of fired 6mm ARC brass for subsequent reloading. I focused on ensuring consistent neck diameters and shoulder set-back for optimal case neck runout and chamber fit.

The bushings performed admirably across multiple reloading sessions, enduring repeated cycles through the press. I deliberately exposed them to typical workshop conditions, including the occasional fleck of brass shavings and residue from case lube. Their case-hardened steel construction meant they wiped clean easily and showed no signs of degradation from these minor exposures.

Using the bushings was remarkably intuitive once the general principle of a bushing resizing die was understood. The included instructions were clear, detailing how to swap bushings and what adjustments each size would yield. There was a slight learning curve in determining the exact bushing size for my specific chamber and desired neck tension, but the process itself was straightforward.

My only surprise was how subtle the differences between adjacent bushing sizes could be, yet how significant they were when it came to fine-tuning neck tension. This underscored the importance of careful measurement and selection for the perfect fit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds resized with this bushing set, their performance has remained exceptionally consistent. They have become an indispensable part of my reloading process for the 6mm ARC. I haven’t encountered any issues with stiffness, sticking, or any noticeable reduction in their resizing capability.

The durability has been excellent. There are no visible signs of wear, scratches, or damage to the precision surfaces of the bushings. Their case-hardened steel composition has proven its worth, resisting the minor impacts and abrasions inherent in reloading.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each session and a light application of lubricant before storing them back in their case. Keeping them free of debris and preventing rust is the key, and their simple, robust design makes this an easy task. Compared to my previous experience with standard full-length resizing dies, these bushings offer a level of fine-tuning that simply wasn’t possible, directly translating to more consistent ammunition.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set

Specifications

The RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set comes with a selection of precision-machined bushings designed to fit RCBS full-length resizing dies that are compatible with their bushing system. The primary material is case-hardened steel, ensuring both hardness and resistance to wear. Each bushing is precisely sized to control the outer diameter of the cartridge case neck after resizing, allowing handloaders to dial in specific neck tension.

These specifications are critical because they directly influence case neck runout and the amount of pressure applied to the bullet when seating. By selecting the correct bushing, one can achieve optimal neck tension that holds the bullet securely without excessively working the brass or distorting the bullet. This level of control is paramount for maximizing ballistic consistency.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this set is to provide a method for precisely controlling the resized neck diameter of cartridges. The RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set excels at this. I was able to achieve neck tension that was consistently within .0005 inches across multiple resized cases, which is a significant improvement over standard die adjustments.

Its main strength lies in its ability to allow a handloader to tune neck tension for different bullet types or specific rifle chambers. The slight weakness, if one can call it that, is the necessity of purchasing a separate RCBS resizing die body and calipers for precise measurement. It doesn’t perform its main job in isolation but rather as a component within a larger system. It absolutely meets, and in many ways exceeds, expectations for a component aimed at competitive precision reloading.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these bushings is all about precision. They are machined with tight tolerances, ensuring a perfect fit within the compatible RCBS resizing die. The case-hardened steel provides a smooth, durable surface that aids in the resizing process without unduly stressing the brass.

Their ergonomics are functional rather than flashy; they are small cylindrical inserts designed to be swapped by hand or with a simple tool. There’s no complex grip or interface, which is ideal for their purpose as they are designed to be handled with care and precision. The markings on each bushing clearly indicate its size, which is a practical design detail that prevents confusion during the setup process.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the case-hardened steel construction, these bushings are designed for long-term durability under normal reloading conditions. I anticipate them lasting for many years, potentially decades, of consistent use. They are not a disposable item but rather a precision tool that, with proper care, will remain a reliable part of my reloading kit.

Maintenance is straightforward: keep them clean and dry. A light coat of gun oil or a specialized lubricant before storage will prevent any possibility of rust or corrosion. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to worry about; their simple, robust design minimizes potential failure points.

Accessories and Customization Options

This set itself is an accessory to a compatible RCBS full-length resizing die. The key “accessory” is the collection of different-sized bushings included in the set, allowing for customization of neck diameter. The set I acquired came with a range of common sizes crucial for calibers like the 6mm ARC.

While not directly part of the bushing set, having a reliable set of calipers to measure resized neck diameter and a compatible RCBS resizing die body are essential companions. The compatibility with RCBS‘s bushing system means that if you already own compatible dies, these bushings integrate seamlessly.

Pros and Cons of RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set

Who Should Buy RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set?

This set is ideal for the dedicated handloader and competitive shooter who prioritizes extreme accuracy and consistency in their ammunition. If you reload for precision bolt-action rifles, particularly cartridges like the 6mm ARC where minute details matter, this is a worthwhile investment. It’s also beneficial for those experiencing issues with inconsistent neck tension or excessive runout using standard dies.

Those who should probably skip this are casual reloaders who are satisfied with the performance of standard full-length dies or individuals who do not load for precision applications. If your focus is on volume rather than the utmost refinement, a bushing set might be overkill. A must-have complementary item is a good set of digital calipers for measuring case neck diameters accurately, and of course, a compatible RCBS resizing die.

Conclusion on RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL BUSHING SET

The RCBS MatchMaster Competition FL Bushing Set is a precision tool that delivers on its promise of enhanced control over cartridge resizing. Its case-hardened steel construction and precise machining make it a durable and reliable component for serious handloaders. While it requires a compatible die body and precise measurement tools, the ability to fine-tune neck tension and improve ammunition consistency makes it an excellent value for those pursuing peak accuracy. I would absolutely recommend this set to any handloader who is serious about squeezing every last bit of performance from their precision rifle cartridges.