Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 Review

First Impressions of the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019

As someone who’s spent well over a decade navigating the intricate worlds of outdoor adventures, workshop grit, sterile labs, and the unpredictable demands of field operations, I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that performs. When the task at hand demands precision in powder measurement for handloading, the nuances of component selection become paramount. This is where the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 powder bushing enters the picture, a seemingly simple component with the potential to significantly impact the consistency and safety of one’s ammunition. My journey to this particular bushing was driven by a desire for greater control over my reloads, specifically to fine-tune the powder charge for a variety of calibers and applications.

My initial encounter with this Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 component was purely functional; it arrived in a small, unassuming package. The bushing itself is a small, machined piece of aluminum, a testament to the principle that impactful tools often come in compact forms. Its weight is negligible, as expected, but the precision of its machining is immediately apparent. Unlike some other components I’ve encountered that felt rough or inconsistently finished, this one presented a smooth, uniform surface.

In my quest for the perfect powder bushing, I had considered several alternatives, including generic brands and bushings from other well-respected reloading equipment manufacturers. However, the established reputation of MEC for producing reliable and durable reloading tools, coupled with the specific sizing offered by the #19 designation, ultimately guided my decision. The simplicity of the design also offered a certain reassurance; fewer moving parts often translate to greater longevity and fewer potential points of failure.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The product looks and feels well-made, and the specifications suggest it should integrate seamlessly into existing MEC reloading systems. The prospect of achieving more consistent powder drops, a critical factor in safe and accurate handloads, was a definite excitement.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 powder bushing took place on my reloading bench, a space that’s seen everything from fine-tune lab experiments to the robust demands of workshop projects. I specifically integrated this bushing into my MEC progressive press, aiming to measure charges for .308 Winchester rounds, a caliber I frequently reload for both precision shooting and general hunting applications. The “drop-in” nature of the bushing was indeed accurate; it seated perfectly within the powder measure without any forcing or adjustment required.

During this first session, I focused on observing the consistency of the powder drops. I used a high-precision digital powder scale, calibrated and checked against known weights, to verify each charge. The conditions were stable – a controlled indoor environment with consistent temperature and humidity, minimizing variables.

One of the immediate observations was that while the bushing dropped powder cleanly, the actual weight varied more than I had anticipated. This wasn’t an issue with the fit or function of the bushing itself, but rather a reflection of the powder being dispensed. The user feedback mentioning variations from the bushing chart proved to be quite accurate.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks, and through the reloading of over 200 rounds of .308, the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 bushing continued to perform its primary function without faltering. The aluminum construction has shown no signs of corrosion or degradation, even with incidental contact with various lubricants and solvents commonly found on a reloading bench. The smooth operation persisted, with no binding or sticking of the powder measure mechanism when the bushing was in place.

Durability appears to be excellent for its intended purpose. I haven’t noticed any significant wear or tear on the bushing itself, suggesting it will last for a very long time for typical reloading volumes. The only potential for issues lies not with the bushing’s construction, but with the inherent variability of powders and the precision of the powder drop mechanism it works with.

Maintenance for this component is virtually non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth to remove any residual powder dust is all that’s typically needed after a reloading session. It’s a “set it and forget it” kind of component, assuming you’ve done your due diligence in calibrating your powder scale and confirming charges. Compared to some more complex mechanisms I’ve dealt with in other fields, the simplicity here is a huge advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019

Specifications

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 is a powder bushing, a critical component in volumetric powder dispensing systems used in reloading. Its primary specification is its size, designated as “19”. This numerical designation corresponds to a specific internal cavity size, which dictates the volume of powder dispensed with each cycle of the powder measure.

The manufacturer of this component is MEC, a well-regarded name in the reloading equipment industry. The Fabric/Material is Aluminum, a choice that offers a good balance of durability, light weight, and resistance to corrosion. This Aluminum construction ensures the bushing won’t easily deform under pressure or react with common propellant types.

The Additional Features clearly state it is a Powder Bushing. This seemingly redundant detail underscores its singular, vital function. Its Size: 19 is the most crucial specification for handloaders, as it directly influences the dispensed powder charge weight.

This specific bushing, the #19, is designed to accommodate a certain range of powder volumes. For context, larger numbered bushings dispense more powder, while smaller numbers dispense less. The precise volume dispensed by any bushing is heavily dependent on the density and granulation of the specific powder being used.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 is to provide a consistent volumetric measurement of gunpowder. When used as intended, it performs this role reliably, dropping a predictable amount of powder with each stroke of the press. Its smooth interior surface minimizes friction, allowing powder to flow freely and consistently.

However, the critical caveat, as noted in user feedback, is that volumetric measurement is inherently less precise than weighing. While the bushing is designed to be consistent, the Powder Bushing itself doesn’t guarantee a specific grain weight due to variations in powder density. This means that while it dispenses the same volume, the weight can fluctuate, especially with different powder types or even lots of the same powder.

The strength of this bushing lies in its simplicity and compatibility with MEC powder measures, providing a repeatable drop for a given powder type once properly dialed in. Its weakness is its reliance on the user to confirm actual charge weights with a scale, and the inherent variability in powder characteristics. It meets expectations for a volumetric dispenser, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for meticulous handloader practices.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this MEC powder bushing is elegantly simple and highly functional. Machined from Aluminum, it feels solid yet lightweight. The finish is smooth, indicating a precise manufacturing process that prevents powder from sticking or bridging.

Ergonomics are less of a factor for a component like this, as it’s typically installed and then left alone within the powder measure. However, its small size and lack of sharp edges make it safe to handle during installation or changes. The defining characteristic is its precise internal cavity, which is the key to its function.

The Size: 19 specification is the most critical design element; it’s what allows handloaders to select a starting point for their desired powder charge. The clarity of the marking on the bushing, or at least the consistency with which it’s manufactured, is paramount. MEC generally produces components with good part identification, and this bushing is no exception.

Durability & Maintenance

The MEC powder bushing, being constructed from Aluminum, is inherently durable for its intended application. Unlike plastic components that can become brittle or wear down over time, this Aluminum bushing should withstand thousands of cycles without significant degradation. Exposure to typical reloading environments, including propellant dust and occasional cleaning solvents, poses no threat to its integrity.

Maintenance is minimal to non-existent. After use, it’s advisable to brush out any residual powder. For long-term storage, a light coat of lubricant is generally unnecessary, though it won’t harm the component. The primary concern for longevity isn’t wear on the bushing itself, but rather ensuring the powder measure it resides in remains well-maintained.

Potential failure points are virtually non-existent for the bushing itself. The only real concern would be if the machining were faulty, leading to inconsistent drops, but this is rare with reputable manufacturers like MEC. It’s designed to be a long-lasting, reliable part of a larger system.

Accessories and Customization Options

This Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 powder bushing does not typically come with accessories, as it is a single, specific component. Its “customization” comes in the form of selecting the correct bushing size for the desired powder charge. MEC offers a wide range of bushings, numbered from smallest to largest, allowing handloaders to fine-tune their powder drops.

While not a direct accessory, the Universal Charge Bar, also available from Optics Planet, is a highly recommended companion. This accessory allows for greater adjustability and can sometimes offer more consistent drops across a wider range of powders than fixed bushings. For those who reload a variety of powders or calibers, the Universal Charge Bar paired with specific bushings can be a very efficient setup.

The compatibility of MEC bushings is generally excellent within their own powder measure systems. If you are using a MEC powder measure, this #19 bushing is designed to fit seamlessly.

Pros and Cons of Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019

Who Should Buy Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019?

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 is ideally suited for handloaders who utilize MEC reloading presses and powder measures. This includes those who reload for common rifle and pistol calibers and prioritize consistent powder drops for accuracy and safety. It’s a must-have for anyone seeking to fine-tune their powder charges for specific loads, especially if they are moving beyond basic charge weights.

Individuals who should potentially reconsider or supplement this purchase are those who demand absolute powder weight precision without the use of a scale for every charge. While the bushing is consistent volumetrically, it is not a substitute for weighing charges, particularly for high-pressure rifle rounds or when using very fine or irregular powders. Those who reload extremely diverse propellant types might also find the Universal Charge Bar a more versatile primary dispensing mechanism.

For those using this bushing, I highly recommend pairing it with a high-quality powder scale and a powder trickler for final charge adjustment. This combination will maximize the benefits of the precise volumetric drop provided by the MEC bushing, ensuring the highest level of safety and accuracy in your reloads.

Conclusion on Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019

The Mec Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 5019 powder bushing is a solid, well-made component that fulfills its role within a volumetric powder dispensing system. Its Aluminum construction and MEC craftsmanship ensure durability and ease of use. The #19 size provides a specific, repeatable volume for powder drops, serving as an excellent starting point for handloaders.

Considering its modest price of $8.99, the value proposition is strong for anyone committed to the MEC reloading ecosystem. It’s an essential piece of the puzzle for achieving consistent ammunition, provided the user understands its limitations.

I would personally recommend this bushing to any handloader using MEC equipment who understands that volumetric dispensing requires verification with a scale. It’s a reliable tool that contributes significantly to the precision of hand-reloaded ammunition, but it’s most effective when used as part of a diligent reloading process.