Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring Review

What Makes the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring Stand Out?

For years, the world of reloading has often been about finding that perfect balance between precision, consistency, and ease of use. When I first transitioned to a Forster Co-Ax press, I knew I needed the right accessories to match its renowned quality. That’s where the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring comes into play. Unlike the standard set-screw style lock rings that can mar die threads, this innovative design uses a clamping mechanism, ensuring a more secure and precise fit that protects your valuable dies. I was looking for a way to simplify die changes and maintain my settings across multiple calibers, and this particular piece of hardware promised a much-needed upgrade. My initial impression was one of subtle sophistication; it felt robust yet elegantly simple, a promising departure from the often-frustrating limitations of conventional lock rings. While I briefly considered universal options, their universal nature often meant a compromise in fit and function, something I wasn’t willing to accept for my precision reloading setup. This small, unassuming ring offered immediate relief from the potential of damaged dies and the frustration of constant readjustment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with these lock rings began on my reloading bench, a space where precision is paramount. I was converting my dies from a previous press to the Forster Co-Ax, and the ease with which these rings integrated was immediately apparent. The process involved simply sliding the ring onto a die, inserting it into the press, and then tightening the cross bolt with a 7/64-inch hex key. This was a stark contrast to the fiddly nature of traditional lock rings, where the set screw digs into the die itself. In terms of performance, the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring held its position admirably, even after resizing a significant quantity of military brass, a task known for its demanding nature. There were no surprises; it simply did exactly what it was designed to do, providing a secure lock without any signs of slippage or canting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, spanning numerous reloading sessions and caliber changes, the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring has proven its mettle. I’ve come to rely on its steadfast grip, which means that once a die is set for a particular caliber, it stays that way. This reliability is crucial for maintaining batch consistency in my reloaded ammunition. Durability has been excellent; despite being made from aluminum, they show no signs of cracking or significant wear, even when subjected to occasional firm tightening. Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s ever needed. Compared to the aluminum lock rings that came with some of my other dies, these Forster units feel far more substantial and their design is demonstrably superior. I haven’t experienced any performance drops or unexpected issues; they continue to function flawlessly, roll after roll.

Breaking Down the Features of Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring

Specifications

The Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring is designed with reloaders in mind, offering a simple yet effective solution for securing dies. Each ring weighs a mere 0.034 lb, making it an unobtrusive addition to any die set. The key to its functionality lies in its cross bolt design. This is a departure from traditional lock rings that rely on a set screw that directly contacts the die’s threads. Instead, the Forster design clamps around the entire die body. This feature ensures a more precise mating of the lock ring threads to the die threads, preventing damage and maintaining the integrity of both components. The 7/8in-14 thread standard means these rings are compatible with the vast majority of dies on the market, not just those from Forster. The easy-to-use cross bolt screw requires only a 7/64in hex key for tightening or loosening, making adjustments quick and straightforward. The aluminum construction contributes to its lightweight nature while providing sufficient strength for its intended purpose.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring is to securely hold a reloading die in place within a press. It excels at this task, providing a lock that is both firm and easily adjustable. The absence of a set screw that digs into the die threads is a significant advantage, eliminating the risk of damaging expensive dies. This protection is particularly valuable for reloaders who frequently swap dies or calibrate them for precise seating depths. I’ve found that once set, these rings hold their position with remarkable tenacity, minimizing the need for re-calibration between shooting sessions. This consistency is a hallmark of quality reloading components and is something that budget alternatives often struggle to achieve. The Forster lock ring consistently meets and often exceeds expectations for its role.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring is one of its strongest attributes. It’s a clean, functional piece of hardware that prioritizes practicality. The aluminum construction gives it a pleasant feel – not too heavy, not too light – and the finish is typically smooth and well-machined, as one would expect from Forster. The cross bolt mechanism is intuitively designed; the hex screw is easily accessible and turns smoothly, allowing for quick adjustments. There’s no real learning curve here; it’s a drop-on, tighten-up component. The fact that it fits standard 7/8in-14 thread dies makes it incredibly versatile. This thoughtful design ensures that users can easily integrate it into their existing reloading setups without frustration.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring appears built to last. The aluminum alloy used is robust enough to withstand the forces involved in reloading without deforming. While it’s not designed for extreme abuse, normal use in a reloading environment should see these rings lasting for many years. Maintenance is virtually non-existent. The absence of small, intricate parts means there’s little to go wrong. Keeping them clean of bench dust or lubricant residue is easily accomplished with a dry cloth. Potential failure points would likely be extreme over-tightening that could strip the threads or damage the clamping mechanism, but this is true of most threaded components. From my experience, these rings are exceptionally resilient for their intended application.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring itself is the accessory, designed to enhance the functionality of standard reloading dies. It doesn’t come with additional accessories, as its purpose is to integrate with existing dies and presses. However, the 7/64in hex key is the only tool required for its operation, and most reloaders will already have this in their toolkit. There are no inherent customization options for the lock ring itself, such as different colors or finishes, as its design is purely functional. The real “customization” comes from its ability to work seamlessly with a wide range of dies from various manufacturers that adhere to the 7/8in-14 thread standard. This compatibility is a key selling point, allowing reloaders to standardize their die management across different calibers and brands.

Pros and Cons of Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring

Who Should Buy Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring?

The Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring is an essential purchase for any reloader who values precision, longevity of their equipment, and ease of use. It’s particularly beneficial for those who frequently swap dies between calibers or use a press that allows for quick die changes, such as the Forster Co-Ax press. Reloaders who have experienced die thread damage from traditional lock rings will find this a welcome solution. It’s also ideal for individuals who prioritize repeatable accuracy and want to minimize any variables that could affect their ammunition quality.

Those who should likely skip this product are reloaders who only use a single die permanently installed in their press and never need to adjust or remove it. Additionally, if you are looking for a solution that dramatically increases magazine capacity or offers tactical advantages, this is not the product for you. For optimal use, ensure you have a reliable 7/64in hex key readily available.

Conclusion on Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring

The Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring is a small component that makes a significant difference in the reloading process. Its innovative design effectively addresses the shortcomings of traditional lock rings, offering superior protection for dies and ensuring more consistent results. The build quality is solid, the functionality is straightforward, and the ease of adjustment is a genuine time-saver. At a price point of $7.49 per ring, the value proposition is exceptionally high, especially when considering the cost of replacing damaged dies or the frustration of constant recalibration. I wholeheartedly recommend the Forster Cross Bolt Die Lock Ring to any serious reloader looking to upgrade their setup and invest in the longevity and precision of their reloading gear. It’s a simple, effective solution that truly enhances the reloading experience.