RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 Review

Testing the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2: What You Need to Know

For anyone reloading brass that has seen military service, or even some commercial loadings, the dreaded primer pocket crimp is a familiar frustration. It’s that stubborn little obstruction that prevents a new primer from seating properly, turning a quick reloading session into a tedious chore. For years, I’ve navigated this with a combination of primer pocket reamers and chamfer tools, a process that’s effective but time-consuming, especially when tackling large batches of .223 or .308 brass. It was during one such marathon session, with my fingertips starting to feel the strain, that I decided it was time for a more dedicated solution. My search led me to the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2, a tool designed to efficiently remove these crimps. My initial impression of this unit was one of solid engineering; it feels substantial, with visible quality in the steel components. While I briefly considered larger, bench-mounted swaging systems, their cost and footprint steered me back to a more accessible, press-mounted option. This combo unit promised a much-needed respite from tedious manual deburring, and after unboxing it, I felt a genuine sense of relief and anticipation.

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds were primarily my reloading bench in a garage environment, often subject to dust and the occasional spill of case lube. I specifically targeted batches of LC (Lake City) .223 cases, notorious for their crimped primers, alongside some surplus .308 brass. The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 was mounted on my trusty single-stage press. The setup was surprisingly straightforward, though watching a quick YouTube video beforehand proved invaluable for understanding the precise alignment needed. The first 50 or so cases were a learning curve, focusing on consistent case insertion and handle operation. However, within the first hour, I had processed around 300 .223 cases with remarkable speed. There were no major issues, but I did notice that a perfectly aligned case neck insertion was crucial to avoid any potential binding.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of reloading, I’ve put this swaging tool through its paces, processing well over 1,000 rounds of various military-surplus brass. It has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup. The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 shows no signs of significant wear and tear; the steel swaging rods remain sharp, and the mechanism still operates smoothly. Maintenance is minimal, essentially requiring just a quick wipe-down to remove brass shavings after a long session and a light application of lubricant to the moving parts. Compared to the laborious process of reaming primer pockets, this swager is exponentially faster and less taxing on the hands. While more expensive, dedicated progressive swaging systems exist, this combo unit offers an excellent balance of performance and cost-effectiveness for the handloader.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

Specifications

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is a testament to robust American manufacturing, proudly made in the USA. Its core components are constructed from steel, specifically high-tensile steel for the swaging rods. This choice of material is critical, as it provides the necessary strength to deform the brass crimp without fracturing. The unit is designed to fit a larger group of cases than its predecessor, a significant upgrade for reloaders working with a variety of military brass. The swaging rods are engineered to be more than double the strength of the original design, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. This robustness is paramount, as the force required to swage a primer pocket crimp can be substantial. The quantity included is one complete swaging unit. Importantly, this tool is specifically designated for use with single-stage or manual reloading presses and is not for use on progressive presses.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is to efficiently and effectively remove primer pocket crimps, whether they are from military brass or other sources. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The swaging process creates a slight chamfer, preparing the pocket perfectly for new primer insertion. This eliminates the need for secondary operations like primer pocket reaming, saving considerable time. What impressed me most was its consistency; each primer pocket was swaged to a uniform depth and width, ensuring reliable primer seating every single time. The only minor weakness is the initial setup phase, which requires careful attention to ensure proper alignment with the press ram. However, once set up, the operation is smooth and predictable. It unquestionably meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its price point relative to more complex bench-mounted units.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this swaging tool is inherently practical, focused on functionality within the confines of a standard reloading press. The steel construction lends it a durable feel, suggesting it will withstand years of rigorous use. The components are well-machined, with tight tolerances that contribute to its reliable operation. Ergonomically, once it’s set up on the press, the swaging action is a simple pull of the press handle. The swaging rods are the business end, and their high-tensile strength is evident in their solid construction. While it doesn’t have traditional grips or complex controls, its design is about integrating seamlessly with the press mechanism. The new design fits a larger group of cases, which is a significant ergonomic benefit, reducing the need for multiple adapters or specialized tools. A key practical detail is the stripper cup, which, as noted in user feedback, may require a call to the manufacturer for a different size to perfectly match certain press rams.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is built for longevity. The high-tensile steel swaging rods are designed to handle the repeated stress of deforming brass crimps. I have not observed any signs of premature wear, such as bending or dulling of the rods, even after processing hundreds of cases. The overall build quality suggests that this tool is designed for heavy-duty, repeated use, which is exactly what a dedicated reloader needs. Maintenance is blessedly simple: a quick brush to clear out any brass shavings after use and an occasional drop of lubricant on the moving parts of the press linkage it interfaces with. There are no complex parts to disassemble for cleaning, making it very low-maintenance. The only potential failure point might be the stripper cup if it’s not the correct size for a specific press, but this is more of a compatibility issue than a durability flaw.

Accessories and Customization Options

The “Combo-2” in the product name refers to the inclusion of parts necessary for handling both small and large primer pockets. This means the unit comes equipped to address a wide range of common reloading brass. The core functionality is about swaging, and while there isn’t extensive “customization” in the traditional sense (like adding scopes or interchangeable parts), the primary accessory is the stripper cup. As noted by other users, this cup is designed to interface with the press ram. While the standard cup works for many presses, users with larger diameter rams might need to contact RCBS to obtain a different size cup. This is a crucial point for ensuring optimal operation and avoiding setup difficulties. It’s a well-thought-out inclusion that addresses potential compatibility issues, even if it means a minor extra step for some users.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

Who Should Buy RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2?

This swaging tool is an absolute must-have for any reloader who frequently processes military-surplus brass, particularly common calibers like .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .308 Winchester, and 7.62x51mm NATO. If you’re tired of the tedious work involved in removing primer pocket crimps with reamers and chamfer tools, the RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 will be a revelation. It’s perfect for home reloaders who use single-stage or manual presses and are looking for an efficient, cost-effective solution.

On the other hand, if you only reload commercial brass that typically doesn’t have crimped primers, or if you exclusively use a progressive press, this tool might not be necessary or compatible. For those users, investing in a primer pocket reamer or chamfer tool might be a sufficient alternative. For anyone using this swager, ensuring you have the correct stripper cup for your specific press ram is highly recommended to avoid initial setup headaches.

Conclusion on RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2

The RCBS Primer Pocket Swagers Combo-2 is a genuinely excellent tool that delivers on its promise to simplify the often-frustrating task of removing primer pocket crimps. Its robust construction, combined with an effective design that handles a broad range of cases, makes it an indispensable addition to the serious handloader’s arsenal. The time and effort saved, especially when dealing with large quantities of military brass, easily justifies its price. While a minor compatibility issue with the stripper cup on some presses exists, this is a small hurdle easily overcome by contacting RCBS, who have been noted for their good customer service in this regard.

For reloaders who value efficiency, consistency, and ease of use, this swager offers outstanding performance without breaking the bank compared to more complex bench-mounted systems. I can confidently say that I would recommend this tool to any reloader who frequently encounters crimped primers. It has transformed my brass preparation process, turning a chore into a quick, satisfying step, and for that, it earns a strong endorsement.