Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher Review

Going All In on the Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher

For anyone serious about high-volume reloading, efficiency and cleanliness are paramount. The Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher presents itself as an essential component for streamlining this process. It aims to capture spent primers, a small but significant benefit for those reloading cases for profit or simply seeking a tidier workspace. My own journey towards this particular primer catcher was spurred by a growing frustration with spent primers scattering across my reloading bench, creating a mess that required constant cleanup and often led to lost components. This seemed like a simple, affordable solution to a persistent annoyance.

Upon first inspection, the catcher presents a utilitarian design, primarily constructed from plastic. It feels adequately robust for its intended purpose, though not remarkably premium. I did consider a few alternative primer collection methods, including universal catch bottles that attach via flexible tubing, but the dedicated design of this MEC accessory seemed more integrated. My initial impression was one of practical expectation; it’s a tool designed to do a job, and I was eager to see if it would perform as advertised.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher to the Test

My testing ground for the Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher was my dedicated reloading area, a space that sees consistent use throughout the week. I primarily utilize a MEC progressive press for my reloading endeavors, making this catcher a natural fit for my setup. The initial setup was remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal effort to attach it to my existing press.

First Use Experience

The first few hundred rounds were the true test. I loaded a variety of common calibers, observing how effectively the catcher managed the spent primers. It performed admirably during this initial phase, consistently capturing the vast majority of primers that were ejected. The occasional stray primer did escape, but this was a significant improvement over my previous setup. I did notice that the catcher seemed to collect a good portion of stray brass clippings as well, which was an unexpected but welcome bonus.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of regular use, the Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher has proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading bench. The plastic construction has shown no signs of cracking or significant wear, despite the constant jolt and vibration inherent in the reloading process. Cleaning is simple; I usually just detach it, dump the contents into a trash receptacle, and give it a quick wipe down. There’s no complex maintenance required, which is a huge plus for busy reloaders. Compared to some flimsy universal catchers I’ve seen, this dedicated unit feels much more robust and integrated.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher

Specifications

The Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is constructed entirely from plastic, offering a lightweight yet durable solution for primer collection. Its design is specifically tailored to fit presses equipped with a collet-style head, ensuring a secure and integrated attachment. While the exact capacity isn’t specified, it’s sufficient for handling primers from moderate reloading sessions without frequent emptying. The black color is unobtrusive and blends well with most reloading equipment.

This material choice makes it both affordable and resistant to corrosion, which is a benefit in a workshop environment. The collet-style head compatibility is a crucial specification, meaning it’s designed for a specific range of presses, primarily those made by MEC. This targeted design ensures a snug fit and efficient primer redirection.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, this spent primer catcher performs admirably. It effectively captures a high percentage of spent primers, significantly reducing bench clutter and the need for manual cleanup. This dramatically improves the efficiency of longer reloading sessions, especially when aiming for a profitable output. The catcher also does a commendable job of collecting a portion of the ejected brass, which is a nice secondary benefit for ensuring you don’t lose valuable brass components during the process.

The primary strength is its efficient primer capture. Its weakness, if any, might be its limited capacity for extremely high-volume sessions where it might require emptying more frequently than a larger, less integrated system. However, for the typical high-volume reloader, it strikes a good balance between capacity and ease of use. It certainly meets, and often exceeds, expectations for such a simple component.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is purposefully simple and functional. Its plastic construction contributes to its lightweight nature, making it easy to handle and attach. The ergonomic aspect is largely about its integration with the press; it’s designed to be unobtrusive and out of the way during operation. There’s no real learning curve; once attached, it simply does its job.

The smooth plastic surface is easy to wipe clean, and its matte black finish prevents any distracting glare. The secure attachment, once properly fitted to the collet-style head, means it stays put even during vigorous reloading cycles. It’s a no-fuss design that prioritizes function over form.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its plastic construction, the Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is designed for moderate durability. Under normal reloading conditions, it should last for a considerable time. I’ve noticed no signs of stress or cracking after extensive use, which speaks to the quality of the plastic used. It’s resistant to the oils and solvents commonly found in a reloading environment.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple. Occasional wiping down to remove dust or primer residue is all that’s needed. There are no moving parts to fail, and no complex components to maintain. Its disposable nature, in terms of repair, means that if it were to become damaged, replacement is inexpensive.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is a standalone accessory and does not come with any additional accessories. Furthermore, there are no customization options available for this particular model. Its design is fixed and intended to work as a direct add-on to compatible MEC presses.

While not an accessory, it’s worth noting that its compatibility is limited to presses with a collet-style head. This specificity means that users with other press designs will need to seek out alternative primer catching solutions. This lack of universal fit is the main limitation in terms of “customization” – it’s either compatible or it isn’t.

Pros and Cons of Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher

Who Should Buy Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher?

The Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is an excellent choice for any reloader who uses a MEC press (or a compatible press with a collet-style head) and is looking to minimize the mess associated with spent primers. It’s particularly beneficial for those who reload in high volumes, whether for competitive shooting, hunting, or for profit, as it streamlines the cleaning process. If you value a tidy reloading bench and want to avoid picking up tiny metal fragments, this catcher is a worthwhile investment.

However, reloaders using presses with different primer ejection systems or those who prefer metal accessories might want to explore other options. For this specific application, though, it’s hard to beat the straightforward effectiveness. A must-have accessory would be a small brush or blower to quickly clear any residual primers from the catcher before emptying it into your waste bin.

Conclusion on Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher

The Mec 600 Spent Primer Catcher is a highly effective and affordable solution for a common reloading nuisance. Its simple, durable plastic construction and direct integration with compatible presses make it an indispensable tool for any high-volume reloader seeking a cleaner workspace. While its compatibility is specific, for those who fit the criteria, the value proposition is exceptionally strong.

Considering its low price and the significant improvement it brings to reloading efficiency and cleanliness, I wholeheartedly recommend this primer catcher. It’s a small investment that yields substantial returns in terms of reduced cleanup time and a more pleasant reloading experience. If you own a compatible MEC press, adding this catcher is a no-brainer decision for a tidier and more productive range day.