Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 Review

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028: Not Just Another Review

For anyone who appreciates the cost-savings and satisfaction of crafting their own ammunition, the name MEC is synonymous with robust, reliable reloading equipment. I’ve had the pleasure of using MEC tools for decades, and when the allure of 28-gauge shooting beckoned, I knew where to turn. The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028, specifically the Sizemaster Shotshell Reloading Press for 28 Gauge, presented itself as a modern iteration of a trusted classic. It promises simplicity without compromising efficiency, featuring a notable “Power Ring” collet resizer and an integrated E-Z Prime primer feeder. This press aims to deliver factory-quality reloads with straightforward operation, a claim I was eager to put to the test.

My journey back into reloading started with a renewed passion for the 28-gauge shotgun. These elegant scatterguns offer a fantastic shooting experience, but the cost of factory ammunition can quickly add up, especially for frequent shooters. This is precisely where reloading shines, and I was looking for a press that could handle the nuances of 28-gauge shells reliably and efficiently. Having enjoyed my previous MEC 600 press immensely over thirty years ago, I gravitated towards the Sizemaster, specifically for its reputation and the convenience it offered.

Upon unboxing the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028, the familiar heft and solid construction of MEC gear were immediately apparent. Cast iron is a material that speaks to durability and stability in this kind of equipment, and this press is no exception. The initial impression was one of solid engineering – a tool built to last, designed to withstand the repetitive nature of reloading. It felt substantial on my workbench, hinting at the precision it could deliver.

I had considered other brands, but my history with MEC made the decision relatively easy. The reputation for longevity and excellent customer support for MEC presses is well-established in the reloading community. While some newer, more automated machines exist, for a hands-on reloader like myself, the straightforward, mechanical approach of a MEC press offers a tangible connection to the process. I was cautiously optimistic, excited to see if this modern Sizemaster lived up to the legacy of its predecessors.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 to the Test

My first encounter with the Sizemaster press was on my dedicated reloading bench, a space that has seen countless hours of various gear put through its paces. Setting it up for 28-gauge shells was refreshingly simple. The instructions were clear, and the initial adjustments were intuitive, allowing me to start producing loads within a short period.

The initial rounds went through the press with a satisfying mechanical rhythm. The “Power Ring” collet resizer truly impressed me, efficiently bringing spent hulls back to factory specifications regardless of their head type or base height. This is a crucial step for consistent reloading, and the Sizemaster handled it with ease. The auto-feed primer system, standard on this model, also worked smoothly, though it did require a touch of fine-tuning during setup to ensure consistent primer seating.

After a few dozen rounds, I was already turning out reloads that looked and felt like they came straight from the factory. The consistency was remarkable, a testament to the press’s design and my ability to quickly adapt to its operation. There were no significant issues or surprises, just a smooth, efficient workflow that built confidence with every pull of the handle.

Over several weeks of dedicated reloading, primarily for trap and sporting clays, the Sizemaster has proven its mettle. I’ve reloaded hundreds of shells, and the press continues to perform with the same initial reliability. The cast iron construction shows no signs of stress or wear, and the mechanical components remain tight and responsive.

Maintenance has been minimal. A light wipe-down with a dry cloth after each session and occasional lubrication of the moving parts are all that’s needed to keep it in top shape. I haven’t encountered any stiffness, leaks, or performance degradation, which is exactly what you expect from a quality MEC product. Compared to some lighter-duty presses I’ve used in the past, the durability of this Sizemaster is a clear advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 is built around a solid foundation of thoughtful design and robust materials. Its primary component is a heavy-duty cast iron frame, ensuring stability and minimizing flex during the reloading process. This press is specifically configured for 28-gauge shotshells, a gauge known for its enjoyable shooting characteristics but also its expense in factory loadings.

The press includes an adjustable to 3″ shells capability, offering versatility for different types of 28-gauge ammunition. A standout feature is the “Power Ring” collet resizer, which is designed to precisely reform the base diameter of spent hulls, accommodating variations in brass or steel heads, as well as high or low base configurations. This collet design is particularly effective at returning shells to optimal dimensions for re-crimping.

Included with this model is the E-Z Prime primer feeder, a welcome addition that automates the priming process, enhancing both speed and safety. While die sets for changing gauges are available separately, this unit is dedicated to the 28-gauge. The overall construction, utilizing primarily cast iron, contributes to its substantial weight and stability, a key factor in achieving consistent reloading results.

The primary job of this shotshell reloader is to systematically process spent hulls into new, reliable ammunition. The Sizemaster excels at this task. The “Power Ring” collet resizer is a true workhorse, consistently bringing bases back to spec, which is crucial for proper crimping and overall shell integrity. The auto-feed primer system streamlines the process, reducing manual handling of potentially sensitive primers.

In terms of performance, the press operates with a satisfying mechanical action. Each station—resizing, priming, powder charging, shot charging, and crimping—functions smoothly. The ergonomics are well-suited for repetitive use; the handle is comfortable, and the overall operation requires a moderate amount of force. It’s designed for efficiency, allowing for quick cycling of shells once you’ve found your rhythm.

The build quality of the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 is undeniably impressive. The cast iron construction feels incredibly solid and durable, promising years of service. The finish is generally good, and all moving parts feel precisely machined. The ergonomic design of the handle and the accessible nature of each stage of the reloading process make it comfortable to use, even during extended reloading sessions.

There’s a slight learning curve, particularly with fine-tuning the primer feed and the powder bushings for absolute accuracy. However, this is common with most reloading equipment, and the Sizemaster is remarkably intuitive for its complexity. The markings on the press are clear, and the overall layout guides the user through the reloading sequence logically.

Durability is where this press truly shines. Given the cast iron build and the quality of the internal components, it’s built to last a lifetime. I have no doubt that with proper care, this press will continue to perform reliably for decades. Maintenance is straightforward; keeping it clean and occasionally lubricating the pivot points ensures smooth operation. I haven’t encountered any obvious failure points.

This particular MEC Sizemaster comes with the E-Z Prime primer feeder as standard, which is a significant convenience. Additional die sets are available to adapt the press for other gauges, offering a pathway to expand its utility without replacing the entire press. While it doesn’t come with accessories like a powder scale or shot measure (these are typically separate purchases or part of a more comprehensive kit), the core reloading functionality is robust.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: MEC
• Material: Cast Iron
• Additional Features: Shotshell Reloading Press
• Condition: New
• Gauge: Specifically configured for 28 Gauge
• Shell Length: Adjustable to 3″ shells
• Resizing Mechanism: “Power Ring” collet resizer (handles brass/steel heads, high/low base)
• Primer Feed: Integrated E-Z Prime primer feeder
• Die Sets: Additional die sets available for other gauges

These specifications translate into a highly capable and user-friendly reloading press. The cast iron construction provides the necessary weight and rigidity for precise resizing and crimping. The “Power Ring” collet resizer is a key differentiator, offering superior hull reformation compared to simpler resizing rings. The inclusion of the E-Z Prime primer feeder significantly speeds up the reloading process and enhances safety by minimizing direct contact with primers.

Performance & Functionality

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 performs its core function of reloading 28-gauge shotshells with impressive accuracy and consistency. The resizing station effectively brings spent hulls back to optimal dimensions, ensuring proper fit and function for subsequent reloading steps. The primer seating is generally reliable, though as noted, a slight adjustment might be necessary for perfect alignment with all hull types.

Its main strength lies in its ability to produce consistent, factory-quality reloads efficiently. The smooth operation of each station, from resizing to final crimping, contributes to this. A minor weakness, as reported by some users and experienced by myself, is the powder bushings. While convenient, they may not offer the absolute precision required for all powder types, necessitating verification with a powder scale for optimal results.

Considering its price point and intended use, this press meets and often exceeds expectations. It offers a level of reliability and build quality that punches above its weight class. While higher-end, fully automated machines might offer more speed, they come at a significantly higher cost and often sacrifice the tactile feedback that many reloaders appreciate. This MEC Sizemaster strikes an excellent balance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 prioritizes functionality and durability. The heavy cast iron frame is not just about stability; it also contributes to a solid, premium feel. The paint finish is typically robust, resisting scratches and wear from regular use.

Ergonomically, the press is well-designed for its purpose. The handle provides good leverage, and the stations are positioned intuitively, allowing for a natural workflow. The base is wide enough to offer good stability on a bench. A minor point of consideration is the reliance on bushings for powder measurement, which, while convenient, might not suit everyone’s preference for extreme powder charge precision.

Durability & Maintenance

This reloading press is built for the long haul. The cast iron construction and robust internal components mean it’s designed for decades of use. It’s incredibly resistant to wear and tear, and with basic care, it should remain a reliable tool for a lifetime.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Regular cleaning to remove dust and debris, followed by occasional application of lubricant to moving parts, is all that’s required. There are no complex mechanisms that are prone to failure, making upkeep straightforward and time-efficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 comes with the essential E-Z Prime primer feeder as a standard feature, which is a significant convenience. It is also configured for 28-gauge shells out of the box. While this unit is specific to 28 gauge, additional die sets are available for purchase that can adapt the press for other common shotshell gauges, such as 20-gauge or 12-gauge.

This modularity is a key aspect of MEC reloading equipment. It allows users to invest in a high-quality press and then expand its capability to different gauges as their needs evolve, rather than buying entirely new machines. Beyond die sets, standard reloading accessories like powder scales, shot measures, and shell trays are compatible.

Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028

Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028?

This reloading press is ideal for the enthusiast 28-gauge shooter who values consistency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It’s perfect for those who shoot frequently and want to offset the expense of factory ammunition. The straightforward operation makes it suitable for both experienced reloaders looking for a dedicated press and newer reloaders who want a robust, reliable machine to learn on.

Those who prioritize long-term investment in quality equipment over the latest automated features will find this press to be an excellent choice. Individuals who already reload other gauges and appreciate the MEC brand will feel right at home. It is not designed for those who need an ultra-portable reloading solution or require extremely high volume production capabilities beyond what a manually operated press can reasonably achieve.

For those who purchase this press, I highly recommend investing in a quality powder scale to verify the accuracy of the bushings, especially when using different powder types or loads. Also, ensuring you have a good supply of primers and wads specifically for 28-gauge shells will maximize your reloading efficiency.

Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 stands as a testament to MEC’s legacy of producing exceptional reloading equipment. Its robust cast iron construction and thoughtful design, particularly the effective “Power Ring” collet resizer and convenient E-Z Prime primer feeder, make it a standout performer for 28-gauge reloading. While the powder bushings might require a degree of verification with a scale for absolute precision, this is a minor point in the context of the press’s overall performance, reliability, and value.

For the price, the Sizemaster offers an outstanding combination of build quality and functional efficiency, delivering consistently high-quality reloads that rival factory ammunition. It’s a machine built to last, providing years of cost savings and the deep satisfaction that comes from crafting your own ammunition.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 812028 to any 28-gauge shooter looking to get into reloading or upgrade their current setup. It’s an investment in a tool that will serve you faithfully and efficiently for a lifetime.