Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22 Review

The Honest Truth About the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22

For those of us who spend countless hours meticulously crafting ammunition, the devil is truly in the details. Among the myriad of small components that contribute to a perfect load, the powder bushing plays a critical role in consistency and accuracy. The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22 (referred to hereafter as the Mayville #22 powder bushing) is one such component, a seemingly simple piece of aluminum that can significantly impact your reloading efforts. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of real-world application across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate the value of precise, reliable components, and this particular bushing has earned its place on my bench.

My journey to the Mayville #22 bushing was driven by a recurring challenge in my handloading process: achieving consistent powder charges, especially when working with fine-grained or trickier powders. While my primary reloading press is a robust MEC unit, I found myself needing finer control over powder metering for certain calibers and propellant types. I was looking for a direct replacement or upgrade that would offer precise volumetric dispensing. After reviewing various options from different manufacturers, the reputation of MEC for quality reloading components, combined with the straightforward nature of a powder bushing, led me to consider this specific item.

Upon receiving the Mayville #22 powder bushing, my initial impression was one of understated quality. It arrived in simple, protective packaging, revealing a small, solid piece of machined aluminum. There was no superfluous detailing, just clean lines and a precisely bored aperture. Its weight felt appropriate for its size, and the material exuded a sense of durability. I hadn’t considered many alternatives in this specific price bracket, as MEC is a go-to brand for many reloaders, and their component quality is generally well-regarded. My excitement was tempered with professional skepticism, eager to see if this small part could deliver on its promise of consistency.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22 to the Test

My testing grounds for this Mayville #22 powder bushing were primarily my dedicated reloading bench, set up in a climate-controlled workshop. I integrated it into my standard MEC press setup, specifically focusing on loads where powder charge accuracy is paramount. This involved testing with various granular powders, from fast-burning pistol propellants to slower-burning rifle charges, all to assess its performance under different conditions.

The bushing performed admirably in my controlled environment. I observed its consistent dispensing across multiple reloading cycles, even when subjected to minor vibrations from adjacent machinery. Its aluminum construction proved resilient to the occasional accidental bump or scrape against other components on my bench, showing no signs of significant wear after repeated use.

The Mayville #22 powder bushing is remarkably intuitive to use; its design necessitates minimal learning curve for anyone already familiar with MEC reloading systems. Its cylindrical shape and precise fit within the powder measure adapter meant it seated snugly and securely, preventing any unwanted movement or leakage. The only slight quirk I noticed, common to all powder bushings, is the need for a gentle tap or shake after filling the powder measure to ensure the charge is fully settled before dispensing, a minor user habit rather than a product flaw.

After weeks of consistent use, integrating this powder bushing into dozens of reloading sessions, I can attest to its enduring quality. It has held up exceptionally well, showing no degradation in performance or any visible signs of wear and tear. The aluminum alloy appears robust, and the precisely machined opening remains free of burrs or deformation. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session keeps it free of powder residue. Compared to some budget aftermarket options I’ve encountered in the past, which sometimes develop inconsistencies or burrs, this MEC bushing has been a revelation in terms of sustained accuracy and reliability.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of regular use, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22 has proven itself to be a remarkably reliable component. It has become a staple for certain powder/load combinations on my bench, demonstrating consistent performance batch after batch. The aluminum construction, while lightweight, has shown excellent resilience. I haven’t observed any cracks, stiffness, or signs of degradation, even with exposure to typical workshop dust.

Cleaning and storage are as simple as you’d expect for a single piece of machined metal. A soft brush and a quick wipe with a dry cloth are usually sufficient to keep it in prime condition. I store it in a compartmentalized tray to prevent it from getting lost among other small reloading components. Compared to some plastic powder measures or inserts I’ve used, the durability and ease of maintenance of this aluminum bushing are significant advantages.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22

Specifications

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22, officially the Mayville #22 Powder Bushing, is a singular component designed for precise powder volume control. Its primary specification is its precisely bored aperture, which dictates the volume of powder dispensed with each stroke of the reloading press. While the exact volumetric measurement isn’t explicitly stated in standard units like cubic centimeters, its designation as a “#22” implies a specific, calibrated volume.

This bushing is constructed from Aluminum, chosen for its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and ease of precise machining. The Quantity is one, as it’s a single, specific bushing designed to fit into a compatible powder measure system, typically on a MEC reloader. Its Additional Feature is its function as a Powder Bushing, a critical element for accurate powder charges. The Gun Type it pertains to is Shotgun, indicating its intended application within shotgun shell reloading.

The significance of these specifications lies in their direct impact on reloading accuracy. A precisely bored aperture ensures that each powder charge dispensed is as close as possible to the desired amount, crucial for consistent ballistic performance. The aluminum material contributes to its longevity and ease of handling. For reloaders, especially those working with fine-grained powders or seeking maximum precision for competition, the exactitude of this bushing’s volume is paramount. It’s a significant step up from improvising with less precise methods, ensuring a much tighter standard deviation in powder weights.

Performance & Functionality

The Mayville #22 powder bushing excels at its core function: delivering a consistent volume of powder. When properly seated in a compatible MEC powder measure, it dispenses charges that are remarkably uniform. This consistency is vital for predictable shotgun shell performance, whether for target shooting or hunting.

Its main strength lies in its precise volumetric dispensing. This level of accuracy translates directly into more predictable shot-to-shot velocity and pattern density. A weakness, inherent to all bushings of this type, is their reliance on the powder’s density and flow characteristics. While the bushing itself is consistent, variations in powder lots or types can still introduce minor deviations if not accounted for. It reliably meets and often exceeds expectations for accuracy within its intended use case.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Mayville #22 powder bushing is elegantly simple and functional. It’s a cylindrical piece of machined aluminum with a precisely sized hole through its center. The finish is smooth, without any rough edges or burrs, contributing to its reliable operation and ease of handling.

Its ergonomics are dictated by its integration into a larger reloading system; it’s not a tool held in hand for extended periods. However, its smooth surface and lack of sharp edges make it comfortable to handle when inserting or removing it from the powder measure. The aluminum construction gives it a reassuring heft, suggesting durability without being overly heavy. The clean design ensures it fits seamlessly into the MEC powder system it’s designed for.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this Mayville #22 powder bushing is built to last. As a solid piece of Aluminum, it’s highly resistant to wear and tear from normal reloading operations. I anticipate it will remain a reliable part of my reloading setup for many years, possibly a lifetime, under typical use.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a dry, lint-free cloth after each reloading session is usually sufficient to remove any residual powder. For deeper cleaning, a mild solvent can be used, followed by thorough drying. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about, making it incredibly user-friendly in this regard. Potential failure points are virtually non-existent for this type of component, barring catastrophic damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22 is itself a component, not a complete unit, so it doesn’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. Its “customization” lies in its role as part of a larger powder dispensing system. It is designed to fit into specific MEC powder measures and is one of many bushings offered by the manufacturer, each with a different aperture size for varying powder volumes.

While there are no direct accessories for the bushing itself, users will typically have a powder funnel and a powder trickler available to ensure the most accurate charges, especially when the desired volume is only slightly less than what the bushing dispenses. The true customization comes from selecting the correct bushing from the MEC range for the specific powder and load you are working with.

Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22

Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22?

The Mayville #22 powder bushing is an ideal purchase for any handloader using a compatible MEC reloading press who needs precise and consistent powder charges for shotgun shells. It is particularly well-suited for those who reload for competitive shooting, hunting, or any application where tight ballistic consistency is paramount. If you are looking to refine your powder dispensing beyond the capabilities of adjustable measures for specific loads, this bushing is a valuable addition.

Individuals who should perhaps skip this product are those using reloading equipment from different manufacturers that do not accept MEC powder bushings, or those who are new to reloading and have not yet invested in a MEC powder measure. It might also be unnecessary for reloaders who are perfectly satisfied with the accuracy provided by an adjustable powder measure for their particular needs. If you’re seeking a universal powder dispensing solution, this singular bushing would not suffice. A powder trickler is also a highly recommended complementary item for achieving the absolute highest level of accuracy, especially when approaching the maximum capacity of the bushing.

Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 22, or Mayville #22 powder bushing, is a testament to how a small, precisely manufactured component can profoundly impact the quality of your handloaded ammunition. Its durable aluminum construction and precise machining ensure consistent powder charges, which translates directly into more predictable and effective shotgun shells. For reloaders invested in the MEC system, this bushing offers exceptional value, providing a level of accuracy that is often difficult to achieve with less specialized methods.

Its performance, coupled with its ease of maintenance, makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about precision reloading. While it requires a compatible MEC powder measure and an understanding of proper powder handling, its contribution to the overall accuracy and reliability of your reloads is undeniable. I would absolutely recommend the Mayville #22 powder bushing to any reloader using MEC equipment who values consistency and accuracy in their shotgun shell reloads. It’s a small part that makes a big difference, and for its price point, it’s an essential tool for achieving superior results on the bench.