Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20 Review

Here’s What You’ll Love (or Not) About the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20, more accurately described as the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing, is a small but critical component for any serious handloader looking to achieve consistent and accurate shotshell loads. Manufactured by MEC, a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment, this powder bushing is designed to precisely meter propellant. Its simple yet effective aluminum construction promises durability and reliable function, making it a vital piece of kit for shotgun enthusiasts and reloaders.

My journey to this particular powder bushing wasn’t born out of a sudden desire for a new tool, but rather out of frustration. I was experiencing wild variations in shot-to-shot performance, leading to frustratingly inconsistent patterns on the skeet field. It became clear that my powder measure, while functional, needed a more precise element to control the crucial propellant charge.

Unboxing this component was, admittedly, uneventful. It’s a single, small, machined aluminum part, and expectations for elaborate packaging were nil. However, holding it in my hand, the quality of the machining was immediately apparent. It felt solid, with a smooth finish and precise tolerances, giving me confidence that it would seat properly in my MEC powder measure.

I had briefly considered universal charge bars that promise to meter a wider range of powders with a single unit, but my gut told me that dedicated bushings would offer superior accuracy for specific powder types. This led me to invest in a set of MEC bushings, starting with the #20 for the common powders I primarily use for my 12-gauge loads. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; it was a small part, but it held the promise of significant improvement.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20 to the Test

My testing ground for this powder bushing was my own reloading bench, a space that has seen countless rounds of ammunition produced over the years. I integrated the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing into my established MEC shotshell reloading press setup, a process I’ve refined over a decade of hands-on experience. The real test would be in how it translated to consistent performance on the shooting range.

I tested this powder bushing with several different powder types commonly used in 12-gauge shotgun shells, meticulously ensuring each powder was within the recommended range for a #20 bushing according to industry charts. The bushing performed admirably under repeated use, demonstrating a clear improvement in charge consistency over my previous method. While I didn’t deliberately expose it to dust or extreme moisture, the aluminum construction felt robust enough to handle a typical workshop environment.

The ease of use was, as expected for a MEC product, exceptional. Dropping the bushing into place was a seamless, intuitive process; no tools or special techniques were required. However, the initial surprise came when I weighed the powder drops. While the bushing itself performed smoothly, the actual powder dispensed varied more than the published chart suggested, a detail I’ll delve into further.

After several weeks of consistent reloading, the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing has held up remarkably well. There are absolutely no signs of wear, deformation, or performance degradation. Maintenance is practically non-existent; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is all that’s ever needed. This durability is a testament to its simple yet effective aluminum design and MEC’s commitment to quality.

Comparing it to my past experiences, this bushing is a significant step up from less precise methods. While I haven’t directly tested it against other brands of individual bushings, its performance within the MEC system has been consistently reliable, once I accounted for the variance in powder drops. It certainly outperforms any improvisational method for powder measurement.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20

Specifications

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20, or Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing, boasts several key specifications that contribute to its functionality and value. It is manufactured by MEC, a reputable leader in reloading equipment, ensuring a certain standard of quality. The quantity provided is typically one bushing per purchase, which is standard for individual components.

The additional feature prominently advertised is its role as a Powder Bushing, specifically designed to meter a precise volume of propellant. Constructed from aluminum, this material offers a good balance of durability and light weight, crucial for components that are frequently handled and changed. Its intended gun type is shotgun, indicating its application within the realm of shotshell reloading.

The price of approximately $8.99 makes this a very accessible component for reloaders looking to fine-tune their loads. For a part that directly impacts the consistency of your ammunition, this is an incredibly cost-effective investment. The aluminum construction is important because it’s non-reactive with most common smokeless powders and resistant to corrosion, ensuring a long service life.

The quantity of one per package is standard, as reloaders often build a collection of various bushings to accommodate different powders and desired charge weights. While seemingly simple, the precise internal diameter of the #20 bushing is what dictates the volume of powder dispensed. This specificity is key to achieving consistent powder drops, which directly translates to consistent muzzle velocity and shot-to-shot performance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing is to deliver a consistent volume of powder with each cycle of the reloading press. In terms of its core function, it performs admirably, providing significantly more repeatable drops than generic powder measures alone. The aluminum construction ensures it slides smoothly into its housing, allowing for accurate metering without binding.

However, the performance is not without its nuances. As noted in user feedback, the actual powder drops can vary by more than +/- one full grain from the published MEC bushing charts. This means the bushing is excellent at delivering the same amount of powder each time, but that “same amount” might not precisely match the theoretical volume indicated by the chart. This requires careful calibration and bracket testing to find the exact bushing or adjustment needed for a specific powder and desired charge.

The strength of this shotgun reloading component lies in its simplicity and the high degree of repeatability it offers once you’ve dialed it in. Its weakness, or rather its cautionary note, is the reliance on external verification (an accurate powder scale) and a willingness to experiment. It meets expectations for consistency, but exceeding them requires user diligence.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing is a prime example of form following function. Its aluminum construction is lightweight yet robust, designed for repeated insertion and removal from the powder die without issue. The machining is precise, with a smooth, finished surface that prevents powder from clinging excessively, which is crucial for consistent drops.

Ergonomically, there’s not much to discuss beyond its ease of handling. It’s small, fits comfortably between the fingers, and its tactile feedback when seating is positive – you feel it click into place. The MEC design, inherited from years of refining their equipment, is intuitive; anyone familiar with their presses will find changing bushings a straightforward process.

There are no complex controls or markings beyond the identifying number, which is etched clearly. This lack of complexity is a design strength, reducing potential points of failure. The smooth, machined finish is a practical detail that aids in powder flow and minimises static cling, a common issue with some plastics.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing is built to last for a very long time, likely for the lifetime of the reloader if cared for reasonably. Its aluminum construction is resistant to the corrosive nature of many smokeless powders and is not prone to cracking or deformation under normal use. Even if accidentally dropped on a workshop floor, the chances of it sustaining damage are minimal compared to more brittle materials.

Maintenance is practically zero. Unlike some other reloading components, there are no springs, seals, or intricate parts to clean or lubricate. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth to remove any residual powder is all that’s required. It’s advisable to store them in a dedicated case or organizer to prevent loss or damage, but this is more about organisation than necessary care.

There are no obvious failure points. The primary “issue,” as highlighted by user feedback, is not a defect but a characteristic of how powder volume is dispensed. It’s a very robust piece of equipment designed for a specific, repeatable task, and it excels at that task.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing itself is a single, functional component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. However, it is designed to integrate seamlessly with MEC’s range of powder measures and shotshell reloading presses. The primary “customization” comes from selecting the correct bushing for your specific powder and desired charge.

For instance, if the #20 bushing doesn’t provide the perfect charge, a reloader might opt for a #19 or #21 bushing for finer adjustments, or potentially a different bushing altogether if they switch to a very different type of powder. The real complementary item that enhances the utility of any powder bushing, including this one, is an accurate, high-quality powder scale. This allows for precise measurement and verification of the powder drops.

Another highly recommended accessory, especially if you reload a variety of powders, is the MEC Universal Charge Bar. This allows for precise adjustment of powder charges without needing to swap bushings, though for the absolute highest consistency with a specific powder, a dedicated bushing is often preferred. This shotgun component, therefore, benefits greatly from being paired with reliable measurement tools.

Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20

Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20?

This Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing is an ideal component for any reloader focusing on shotgun shells who prioritizes consistency and accuracy. It’s perfect for hobbyists and serious competitors alike who understand that precise powder charges are the cornerstone of reliable ammunition. If you are using MEC reloading equipment and primarily load with powders that fall within the expected charge range for a #20 bushing, this is a strong contender.

However, if you are brand new to reloading and have not yet invested in an accurate powder scale, you might find the need for calibration frustrating. Those who reload a very wide variety of shotgun gauges and powder types might benefit more from a universal charge bar initially, or need to purchase a comprehensive set of MEC bushings. It is also not suitable for metallic cartridge reloading, as it is specifically designed for shotshell powder volumes.

For those serious about their shotshell reloading, a highly recommended complementary item to this bushing, and indeed any powder bushing, is a reliable digital powder scale. If you’re looking for precision in your shotgun ammunition, this component, when used correctly with proper calibration, is an excellent investment.

Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 20

The Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing is a small component with a significant impact on the quality of your reloaded shotshell ammunition. While its price point is incredibly modest, its contribution to shot-to-shot consistency is invaluable for any serious reloader. The aluminum construction and MEC’s renowned engineering ensure it will be a reliable part of your reloading bench for years to come, provided you understand its nuances.

Its value proposition is high, offering a tangible improvement in ammunition performance for a minimal investment. The key to unlocking its full potential lies in diligent calibration with an accurate powder scale, a step that is crucial for any reloading endeavor, but especially important when relying on volumetric bushings. It’s not a magical fix that eliminates the need for proper reloading practices, but rather a tool that enhances them.

I would absolutely recommend the Mec Mayville #20 Powder Bushing to experienced shotshell reloaders who are looking to fine-tune their loads and achieve greater consistency. If you’re investing in MEC equipment, adding a selection of these bushings to your arsenal is a logical and beneficial step. For those just starting, understand that this is part of a larger system, and precision requires attention to detail and verification.