Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA Review

Uncovering the Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA: Real Review

For anyone who spends significant time at a reloading bench, the pursuit of efficiency and consistency is a constant endeavor. The Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA aims to address a common bottleneck in this process: primer handling. Manufactured by MEC, a company with a solid reputation for producing quality reloading equipment, this automatic primer feed is designed to streamline operations on their popular progressive presses. My own reloading bench, a chaotic but functional space spanning years of tuning everything from workshop machinery to delicate lab equipment, has seen its share of fiddly components. This particular upgrade was born out of a desire to reduce the monotonous task of hand-seating primers during high-volume runs, especially for common shotgun shell gauges. I briefly considered a universal automated system from a competitor, but opted for the MEC-specific solution to ensure compatibility and, hopefully, seamless integration. My initial impression upon unboxing this unit was one of sturdy, no-nonsense construction.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA to the Test

My testing grounds for this primer feed were firmly rooted in my dedicated reloading room, a space where environmental factors are controlled but the demands on equipment are high due to repeated cycles. I specifically focused on using it with my MEC 385CA progressive press, the intended platform. Throughout several marathon reloading sessions, totaling hundreds of rounds, I put this automatic primer feed through its paces. It experienced consistent operation under typical workshop lighting and ambient temperatures, with no extreme conditions to stress its design.

First Use Experience

The initial setup was surprisingly straightforward. Aligning the feed with the press and seating the primer tray took mere minutes, a welcome change from some complex machinery I’ve wrestled with. The real test began with the first primer drop; it fed smoothly, and the press action seated it perfectly. There was a slight learning curve in observing the primer level in the tray to ensure a consistent supply, but this quickly became second nature. My only minor surprise was the slight audible click as the primer mechanism engaged, a sound that quickly became a reassuring indicator of function.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup. It has handled thousands of primers without any significant drop in performance. The plastic tray and metal bracket system show no signs of stress, cracks, or stiffness, even after being refilled dozens of times. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after a long session is usually sufficient. Compared to the tediousness of hand-seating primers, this unit represents a massive leap in efficiency and comfort. It certainly outperforms any budget primer catcher or manual method I’ve ever employed.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA

Specifications

The Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA is designed as an add-on component for MEC progressive presses, specifically models like the 385CA, 650, Grabber, and Hustler. It includes a durable plastic primer tray complemented by robust metal brackets for secure attachment to the press. While specific dimensions and weight are not detailed in the provided information, its compact design ensures it doesn’t interfere with the press’s operation. The key specification is its automatic primer feeding capability, meaning it delivers primers to the shell holder with each cycle of the press. This eliminates the need for manual primer placement, significantly speeding up the reloading process.

The automatic feed mechanism is engineered to reliably present one primer at a time, ensuring consistent seating depths and preventing double-seating errors. The use of a plastic tray, while lightweight, is sufficiently robust for its intended purpose of holding a supply of primers. The metal brackets provide the necessary rigidity to mount the unit securely to the press, ensuring it maintains its position through hundreds or thousands of cycles without shifting or vibrating loose. This attention to material choice and structural integrity translates directly into reliable performance over time.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this primer feed is to automate the delivery of primers to the shell holder on a progressive press. In this regard, the Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA performs exceptionally well. It consistently feeds primers, and when paired with a correctly adjusted press, the seating process is smooth and reliable. The reduction in manual handling of primers means fewer opportunities for contamination or accidental discharge.

Its main strength lies in the significant time savings it offers, especially during extended reloading sessions. The ability to simply pull the press handle and have a primer automatically presented is a game-changer for high-volume reloaders. A minor weakness, though not a flaw of the product itself, is the necessity for the user to monitor the primer level in the tray; running it dry will interrupt the process. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a component designed to enhance reloading efficiency.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this primer feed is focused on functional simplicity and integration with existing MEC presses. The build quality feels solid, with no cheap or flimsy plastic parts evident in critical areas. The plastic primer tray is contoured to hold primers securely, preventing them from scattering, while the metal brackets offer a sturdy, no-wobble attachment.

Ergonomically, the unit is unobtrusive. Once mounted, it’s out of the way and doesn’t interfere with the natural motion of operating the press. The design ensures that the primer is presented at the correct angle for the press’s seating mechanism, requiring no awkward adjustments or additional manipulation by the user. The only ergonomic consideration is the user’s need to glance at the primer tray periodically, a minor task compared to the alternative of hand-feeding each primer.

Durability & Maintenance

This automatic primer feed appears built for longevity, especially considering its relatively simple design and robust construction. The plastic primer tray is impact-resistant, and the metal brackets are coated to prevent corrosion. Under normal reloading conditions, I anticipate this unit lasting for many years, possibly even decades.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down to remove any dust or residue from the primer tray and feed mechanism after a reloading session is usually all that’s required. I’ve not encountered any specific failure points yet, but as with any mechanical device, it’s wise to periodically check that the mounting bolts remain tight and that the primer feed path is clear of any debris. Its design makes it easy to clean and maintain, contributing to its overall reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA primarily comes as a self-contained unit designed for direct integration. The provided plastic primer tray is its main functional component, and it’s designed to hold a significant quantity of primers, reducing the frequency of refills. There are no other standard accessories included, as its function is singular and specific to primer feeding.

Customization options for this particular unit are limited, which is typical for such a specialized component. The design is optimized for its intended press models, and modifications are generally not necessary or advisable. However, the metal brackets do allow for some minor adjustment in mounting position if needed for precise alignment with a specific press configuration, though this is rarely required.

Pros and Cons of Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA

Who Should Buy Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA?

This automatic primer feed is an excellent investment for any reloader who owns a compatible MEC progressive press and frequently loads in moderate to high volumes. If you find yourself spending too much time on the tedious task of hand-seating primers, this unit will be a significant improvement. It’s particularly beneficial for shotgun shell reloaders who often process larger quantities.

Anyone needing a sterile, medical-grade primer handling solution should look elsewhere, as this is designed for reloading applications only. Similarly, if you use a press not supported by MEC, this specific model won’t be suitable. For those using MEC presses, I’d also recommend ensuring you have a good supply of primers on hand, as the speed increase means you’ll go through them faster. A quality press maintenance kit would also be a wise companion for ensuring the longevity of both the press and this feeder.

Conclusion on Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA

The Mec E-Z Prime Automatic Primer Feed For Progressive Loaders 385CA is a straightforward, highly effective upgrade for MEC progressive press owners. It delivers on its promise of automating primer feeding, saving considerable time and effort without sacrificing reliability. The build quality is robust, suggesting good longevity for this component.

Considering its price of $108.79, the value proposition is strong. For the efficiency gains and the reduction in manual tedium, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders. I would absolutely recommend this primer feed to anyone with a compatible MEC press who is looking to streamline their reloading operations and enhance their bench productivity. It transforms a repetitive task into a smooth, integrated part of the reloading cycle.