RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders Review

Putting the RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders Through Its Paces

As a reloader who has logged more hours than I care to admit at my workbench, optimizing efficiency is always on my mind. My progressive press, a trusty RCBS Pro 2000, is already a workhorse, but adding the new Pistol Bullet Feeder meant I had to make some tough decisions about existing stations. Losing the dedicated Powder Check or Lock Out die was a tough pill to swallow, forcing me to consolidate bullet seating and crimping. This is precisely the scenario where the RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders become more than just an accessory; they’re a solution.

The need for this particular product arose directly from that space constraint on my press. When your progressive press starts running out of real estate, you have to get creative. Without a dedicated powder check or a powder lockout die, the risk of a dangerous double charge or, worse, a squib load increases significantly. My goal was to reclaim that crucial safety measure and also ensure a consistent case expansion before the powder drop.

My initial impression upon opening the small, well-packaged box was one of typical RCBS quality. The expanders themselves felt solid and precisely machined, as one would expect from the RCBS name. They are crafted from what appears to be durable steel, with a clean, utilitarian finish. I considered a few generic expander buttons from online marketplaces, but the thought of inconsistent sizing or potential galling made me stick with a brand I trust for my reloading components. The feeling was one of immediate practical utility, a quiet nod of satisfaction that this simple yet critical piece of equipment would integrate seamlessly into my workflow.

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders to the Test

My testing grounds for these expanders were squarely on my reloading bench, integrated into my RCBS Pro 2000 progressive press. The primary environment was my dedicated reloading room, which is temperature-controlled but subject to the usual workshop dust. I was focused on how they performed during high-volume reloading sessions, specifically with pistol cartridges.

First Use Experience

The first time I installed these into my Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure, the process was straightforward. The expanders fit snugly into the measure’s body, and the setup into the second station of my Pro 2000 press was as expected. I immediately noticed a cleaner case expansion than what I had been achieving by consolidating operations.

The real-world test involved loading several hundred rounds of 9mm Luger. The RCBS expanders performed flawlessly, consistently flaring the case mouths just enough to accept a bullet without excessive force. There were no surprises or quirks; the transition from the previous setup was smooth and noticeable. The cases were expanded consistently, making bullet seating a much more predictable and secure operation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several thousand rounds processed with these expanders, their reliability has been excellent. They have held up remarkably well, showing no discernible signs of wear, deformation, or performance degradation. The steel construction has resisted any signs of corrosion or damage, even with regular handling and exposure to primer residue.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is a huge plus for any reloader. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after a long session is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean and free of debris. I have not had to perform any deep cleaning or lubrication. Compared to some generic expander buttons I’ve seen or used in the past, which could sometimes develop rough spots or inconsistent diameters, these units have maintained their original precision. They have certainly proven to be a robust and dependable addition to my reloading setup.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders

Specifications

The RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders are designed as a direct fit for the RCBS Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure when used in a progressive reloading press. Each unit is crafted from durable, machined steel, ensuring longevity and precision in its function. The quantity provided in a package is typically one expander, which is what you need for a single powder measure station.

These expanders are manufactured in the USA, a detail that often speaks to a certain standard of quality control and material sourcing. The primary function is to provide a consistent case expansion, which is crucial for reliable bullet seating and powder drop on a progressive press. This consistent expansion ensures that the case mouth is perfectly prepped for the bullet, preventing issues like shaved bullets or poor neck tension.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of these expanders is to reliably and consistently open the mouth of a sized cartridge case. This is precisely what they achieve. When integrated with the Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure on my Pro 2000 press, they ensure that each case entering station two has a perfectly expanded case mouth.

Their main strength is the consistent and precise expansion they provide. This directly leads to smoother bullet seating and, more importantly, a solid foundation for accurate powder drops. The weakness, if one can call it that, is their singular purpose; they don’t perform other functions. They meet expectations perfectly for their intended role, exceeding any makeshift solutions I had tried previously.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders is elegantly simple and functional. They are made of solid steel, which lends a feeling of inherent durability and a reassuring weight. The machined surfaces are smooth, which is critical to avoid damaging case necks or leaving any unwanted tooling marks.

Ergonomically, they are designed to be installed into the powder measure and then used by the press. There’s no direct human interaction once installed, beyond the initial setup. The design is focused on achieving perfect case expansion without fuss. The markings, if any, are subtle and likely engraved rather than printed, ensuring they won’t wear off.

Durability & Maintenance

These expanders are built to last. Given their solid steel construction and the fact that they are not subjected to significant stress or abrasive forces during operation, they are likely to endure for many years, even with heavy reloading use. They are essentially a precision-machined steel plug designed for a specific purpose.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A simple wipe-down after use is sufficient to keep them free of powder residue or lubricant. There are no complex parts to clean or adjust. Potential failure points are minimal; the biggest concern would be accidental damage, such as dropping them on a hard surface, which could potentially cause a slight deformation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders themselves are the accessory, specifically designed to integrate with the RCBS Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure. They do not come with additional accessories. There are no real customization options for the expander itself, as its form is dictated by its function within the powder measure and die body.

However, their compatibility is with the RCBS Uniflow powder measure, which is itself a widely used and respected component in reloading. This integration means they work as intended within the RCBS ecosystem. If you’re looking to optimize your powder drop, pairing these expanders with a quality powder measure is key.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders

Who Should Buy RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders?

These expanders are specifically designed for reloaders using an RCBS Pro 2000 progressive press who have added accessories like a case feeder or bullet feeder and subsequently lost their dedicated powder drop station. If you are running an RCBS Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure and need to relocate the powder drop function to an earlier station on your press, these are an essential component. They are ideal for pistol cartridge reloaders who prioritize safety and consistency.

Anyone not using an RCBS Pro 2000 progressive press with an RCBS Uniflow powder measure, or those who have ample station space for a dedicated powder check/lockout die, might not find immediate value here. If you are looking for a universal solution for case expansion across multiple press brands, these would not be the right fit.

To get the most out of these, ensuring you have a properly adjusted Case Activated Uniflow Powder Measure is key. Beyond that, a well-calibrated press and a good powder funnel are the only complementary items you’ll need.

Conclusion on RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders

The RCBS Pro 2000 Powder Expanders are a perfect example of a small part solving a significant problem for progressive reloaders. They deliver precisely what they promise: consistent case expansion that enables the relocation of your powder drop function to an earlier station on your press. Their RCBS pedigree guarantees quality and durability, and their simple yet effective design ensures they perform their single task exceptionally well.

Considering their price point and the critical role they play in maintaining safety and consistency when space on a progressive press becomes a premium, these expanders offer excellent value. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to any reloader facing the common dilemma of optimizing space on their RCBS Pro 2000 press by adding a bullet feeder or similar accessory. They are a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to maintain a safe and efficient reloading process.