Mec Primer Tray Spring Review

Exploring the Mec Primer Tray Spring: My Review

In the intricate world of reloading, where precision and reliability are paramount, even the smallest components play a crucial role. The Mec Primer Tray Spring from MEC is one such component, a seemingly minor part that can have a significant impact on the efficiency and functionality of your reloading press. Having spent over a decade working with a vast array of gear across diverse environments – from high-stakes laboratory setups to gritty workshop benches and demanding field applications – I’ve learned to appreciate the understated importance of well-made, dependable parts. This spring is designed to maintain the correct tension and positioning of the primer tray, a critical step in the reloading process that ensures consistent primer seating.

My need for this specific spring arose during a marathon reloading session where I noticed a subtle but persistent inconsistency in primer seating depth. After a bit of troubleshooting, I identified a worn-out primer tray spring as the likely culprit. It’s the kind of problem that doesn’t immediately stop production but slowly erodes confidence in the finished rounds. While generic replacement springs exist, the allure of a component specifically designed by the press manufacturer, known for its robust reloading equipment, was strong. My initial impression of this MEC spring was one of simple utility; it arrived in minimal packaging, a small brass coil that looked exactly as expected. It’s a far cry from the complex machinery I often work with, but its very simplicity suggests a focus on core function.

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Mec Primer Tray Spring took place on my trusted MEC reloader, set up in my dedicated reloading room. This space is a controlled environment, free from the dust and extreme temperatures I often encounter elsewhere, allowing for focused assessment of the part’s performance. Swapping out the old, fatigued spring for the new MEC version was straightforward, requiring only a moment of attention to ensure proper seating.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The primer tray now felt more secure, and the primers themselves fed into the shell holder with a consistent, positive action. I ran through a batch of 50 shells, paying close attention to the primer seating depth, and found it to be remarkably uniform across the board. There were no surprises, no unexpected quirks – just the quiet hum of a machine performing its task with renewed confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several hundred rounds of .12 gauge shells reloaded with the new spring, I can confidently say it has held up exceptionally well. My reloading sessions aren’t daily marathons, but they are frequent enough to provide a good test of a component’s longevity. The Mec Primer Tray Spring has shown no signs of fatigue; it continues to provide the same consistent tension it did on day one.

Durability is where components like this truly shine, and this small brass spring is no exception. Unlike its predecessor, which had started to lose its springiness, this MEC part remains taut and responsive. Maintenance is virtually non-existent; it’s a sealed component within the primer tray mechanism, requiring no special cleaning beyond the general upkeep of the press itself. Compared to the generic, slightly softer springs I’ve used in the past on other equipment, this MEC spring feels like a superior choice, offering a more refined and dependable performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec Primer Tray Spring

Specifications

The Mec Primer Tray Spring is characterized by a few key specifications that dictate its function and compatibility. It is made from high quality brass, a material chosen for its corrosion resistance and inherent springiness, crucial for a component that repeatedly undergoes stress. The description notes it fits MEC primer trays, implying a specific design tailored to their reloading presses, ensuring a precise fit and optimal performance.

While the details don’t offer specific measurements like length or wire gauge, the material choice of brass is significant. Brass is a common choice for springs in applications where consistent tension and resistance to environmental factors like moisture are important. Its lightweight nature also contributes to the overall efficiency of the reloading press without adding unnecessary mass.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Mec Primer Tray Spring is to ensure the primer tray is held correctly and consistently under the primer punch. Its performance in this regard is, frankly, excellent. The spring provides just the right amount of tension, preventing primers from shifting or becoming misaligned during the resizing and priming cycle.

What works very well is its ability to maintain this consistent tension over multiple cycles. This directly translates to consistent primer seating depth, a critical factor for safe and reliable ammunition. There isn’t a glaring weakness to point out; its function is singular and it performs it admirably. It meets and frankly exceeds expectations for such a small part, especially considering its affordable price point.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, this spring is a study in functional simplicity. The use of high quality brass gives it a slightly polished, professional look, though its appearance is secondary to its function. The spring is coiled tightly, designed to provide a specific amount of resistance.

Ergonomically, it’s not a component you directly handle much after installation. Its “feel” is expressed through the action of the primer tray itself. The spring’s design ensures the tray moves smoothly, without excessive force or looseness. There’s no discernible learning curve; once installed correctly, it simply does its job.

Durability & Maintenance

As a small spring made of brass, the Mec Primer Tray Spring is designed for longevity in its specific application. Under normal use within a reloading press, it is likely to last for thousands, if not tens of thousands, of cycles. Its primary point of failure would be metal fatigue, where the spring loses its ability to return to its original tension.

Maintenance is virtually nil. The spring is protected within the primer tray mechanism and is not exposed to dirt, grime, or lubricants that would require cleaning. Any potential concerns would be related to incorrect installation, which could lead to premature wear or damage. However, assuming proper installation, its durability should be a strong suit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec Primer Tray Spring is a single, integrated component and does not come with additional accessories or customization options. Its purpose is to be a direct replacement or upgrade for the existing spring within MEC primer trays. It is designed to work as part of the MEC system, not as a standalone piece with add-ons.

Pros and Cons of Mec Primer Tray Spring

Who Should Buy Mec Primer Tray Spring?

This Mec Primer Tray Spring is an ideal purchase for any reloader who owns a MEC reloading press and has noticed any inconsistency in their primer seating. If you’ve experienced primers that aren’t seating deeply enough, or are too deep, a worn primer tray spring is a common culprit. It’s specifically for those who value the reliability and performance of their MEC equipment and want to maintain it with manufacturer-specified parts.

Anyone looking for a universal replacement spring for non-MEC presses should look elsewhere. Similarly, if you’re not experiencing issues with your primer tray, there’s no immediate need to replace a functional spring. For those who do need it, I’d recommend having a spare on hand, as these small parts can be prone to being misplaced during maintenance.

Conclusion on Mec Primer Tray Spring

The Mec Primer Tray Spring is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the smallest parts make the biggest difference. For a mere $2.49, it addresses a common point of failure in MEC reloading presses, restoring consistency and reliability to the priming process. Its high quality brass construction promises durability, and its performance in restoring uniform primer seating is undeniable.

The value proposition here is exceptionally high; for the cost of a few cups of coffee, you can bring a crucial part of your reloading press back to optimal working order. I would absolutely recommend this component to any MEC reloader experiencing primer seating issues. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable solution that helps ensure the quality and safety of your reloaded ammunition.