MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter Review

Getting Started with the MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter

As someone who spends a significant amount of time working with various reloading equipment across different projects, the ability to adapt existing tools is invaluable. The MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter represents a clever solution for reloaders who have invested in MEC’s Super Sizer platform but find themselves needing to work with different shotgun shell gauges. This small but significant accessory aims to extend the life and utility of existing equipment, a concept I always appreciate.

My own journey to this particular converter was driven by an expanding collection of vintage shotguns, each with its own preferred ammunition. Transitioning from 12 gauge to some older 16 gauge and even 20 gauge firearms meant I needed a reliable way to process hulls for those gauges. My existing MEC Super Sizer, a workhorse for 12 gauge, was otherwise perfectly functional. Rather than investing in an entirely new sizing station for each gauge, the idea of a converter that could adapt my current setup was highly appealing.

Upon receiving the converter, my initial impression was one of pragmatic engineering. It’s a solid piece of metal, precisely machined and with a reassuring heft. There are no superfluous parts or decorative flourishes, just functional design built to withstand the pressures and movements of a reloading press. It felt robust, hinting at a long service life. I had briefly considered simply purchasing a new die set from another brand, but MEC’s reputation for durability and the cost-effectiveness of this converter made it the clear choice. My immediate feeling was one of quiet satisfaction – a simple, elegant fix for a common reloading dilemma.

Real-World Testing: Putting MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing environment was my dedicated reloading bench, a space that sees everything from precision rifle cartridge resizing to high-volume shotshell processing. I installed the converter into my MEC Super Sizer press, ready to tackle a batch of 16 gauge hulls. The process was straightforward; it essentially replaces the original sizing die within the press’s existing mechanism.

During this first session, I processed approximately 100 hulls. The converter performed admirably, resizing each hull with the same consistent pressure and accuracy I’ve come to expect from MEC equipment. There was no noticeable degradation in the sizing quality compared to using the original 12 gauge die.

The ease of use was a standout factor. Once installed, the converter operated seamlessly with the press’s standard cycling action. There was no complex adjustment or learning curve, just a direct swap that immediately yielded results.

One minor surprise was the slight additional effort required to cycle the press when sizing the smaller gauge hulls compared to 12 gauge. This is purely mechanical, as the smaller diameter requires a bit more force to push through the die. It’s not a significant issue, but it’s something to note for those doing very long runs.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the subsequent months, this converter has become a regular fixture on my reloading bench. I’ve used it to process several thousand hulls across 16, 20, and even .410 bore, switching between gauges as needed. It has proven itself to be a remarkably reliable component.

Durability has been excellent. Despite repeated cycles under significant pressure and occasional exposure to spilled hull debris or lubricant residue, there are no signs of wear or damage. The machined surfaces remain smooth, and the die retains its precise internal dimensions, ensuring consistent hull resizing.

Maintenance is as simple as wiping down the press and the die itself after a reloading session. A light application of lubricant on the press’s moving parts is generally sufficient, and the converter itself requires no special care beyond basic cleaning. I’ve experienced no binding, no cracking, and no decrease in performance, even after extensive use.

When comparing it to my previous experience, which includes using less expensive, generic sizing inserts that sometimes required shims or had inconsistent results, this MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter stands out. It offers the precision and reliability of a purpose-built MEC die, but with the adaptability I needed. It has certainly outperformed budget alternatives and met the high standards set by MEC’s premium offerings.

Breaking Down the Features of MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter

Specifications

The MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter is designed to adapt your existing MEC Super Sizer press to different shotgun shell gauges. It is available for a range of common gauges, including 10, 12, 16, 20, 28 Gauge, and .410 bore. Each converter is a precisely machined component, typically made from robust steel, ensuring durability and consistent performance.

The primary function of these converters is to alter the internal diameter of the sizing die. This allows them to correctly resize the base diameter of hulls from various gauges, ensuring they fit and function properly in reloading operations. The exact dimensions are proprietary to MEC, but they are engineered to meet the industry standards for each specific gauge.

This adaptability is crucial for reloaders who handle multiple gauges. Instead of purchasing entirely new Super Sizer stations for each gauge, a single press can be configured for a variety of shell types by simply swapping out the converter. This saves significant cost and bench space, making it an efficient choice for serious reloaders.

Performance & Functionality

In its core function – resizing shotgun hulls – the MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter performs exceptionally well. It consistently reduces the base diameter of the fired hull to bring it back to factory specifications. This ensures that resized hulls chamber properly in semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns, which is critical for reliable operation.

The main strength of this converter is its ability to maintain MEC’s renowned sizing consistency across different gauges. Each converter is designed to exert precise pressure, ensuring a uniform reduction in hull diameter without deforming the hull excessively. This leads to fewer misfires or extraction issues down the line.

A minor drawback, as noted earlier, is the slightly increased effort required to cycle the press when sizing smaller gauge hulls compared to the gauge the press was originally designed for. This is an inherent physical property of pushing smaller diameter materials through a die, rather than a fault of the converter itself. It simply means that longer reloading sessions with smaller gauges might feel a bit more physically demanding.

Overall, the performance meets and often exceeds expectations, especially considering its purpose as an adapter. It bridges the gap between investing in multiple specialized machines and being limited to a single gauge.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter is purely functional, which is precisely what one expects from a piece of reloading equipment. It’s a solid, cylindrical component with a precisely bored interior. The exterior is typically finished with a durable coating that resists wear and corrosion.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly into the MEC Super Sizer press. Once installed, it requires no special handling beyond normal operation of the press itself. There are no buttons, levers, or intricate parts to manipulate; its design is all about robust, passive functionality.

Practical design details include the precise machining of the interior diameter, which is critical for accurate resizing. The exterior is also designed to fit snugly within the press’s die holder, preventing any wobble or misalignment during operation. The lack of unnecessary features contributes to its reliability and ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and MEC’s reputation, the durability of the MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter is excellent. These converters are built to last for decades of regular use, even under demanding reloading conditions. The robust construction and quality materials mean that wear and tear are minimal.

Maintenance is straightforward: after each use, a simple wipe-down to remove any hull residue, dust, or lubricant is all that’s needed. I have not encountered any specific maintenance issues, and there are no parts that require replacement under normal operation.

Potential failure points are virtually non-existent for normal use. The most likely scenario for damage would involve extreme misuse, such as dropping the component from a significant height onto a hard surface, or attempting to force it into an incompatible press. However, for its intended application, it is a highly durable and low-maintenance accessory.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter itself is essentially a replacement part for an existing die set. As such, it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. Its purpose is to adapt your existing MEC Super Sizer press, not to add extra functionality beyond gauge conversion.

There are no inherent customization options for the converter itself. However, the real “customization” comes from the fact that a single press can be adapted to multiple gauges. For example, if you own the 16 gauge converter, you can then purchase the 20 gauge converter and swap them out as needed, effectively customizing your press for different reloading tasks.

The compatibility with the MEC Super Sizer platform is its key feature. It is designed to work exclusively with this line of MEC presses, ensuring a perfect fit and function. There are no third-party adapters or modifications needed when using it as intended.

Pros and Cons of MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter

Who Should Buy MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter?

The MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter is an ideal purchase for any reloader who already owns a MEC Super Sizer press and needs to process shotgun shells in more than one gauge. This includes hobbyists who shoot a variety of clay sports or hunting disciplines that utilize different gauge shotguns. It is particularly beneficial for those who have inherited older firearms chambered in less common gauges, like 16 or 28 gauge.

Anyone looking to maximize their investment in reloading equipment and maintain a tidy, efficient workspace should strongly consider these converters. They are a practical solution for expanding reloading capabilities without a proportional increase in equipment cost. You should probably skip this converter if you are looking for a universal sizing solution or if you only reload a single shotgun gauge; in that case, the standard die set that came with your press is sufficient.

For those who do invest, I recommend keeping a small set of tools like a brush and a lint-free cloth handy for quick cleanups after each reloading session. This will ensure the longevity and consistent performance of both the converter and your press.

Conclusion on MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter

The MEC Super Sizer Die Set Converter is a testament to smart, functional engineering in the reloading world. It effectively extends the life and utility of an already robust piece of equipment, allowing reloaders to adapt their MEC Super Sizer press to a variety of shotgun gauges without breaking the bank. The build quality is exceptional, providing reliable and consistent hull resizing that contributes directly to successful reloading outcomes.

At a price point of $81.99 per converter, the value proposition is clear for anyone needing to process more than one gauge. The initial investment for a few converters is significantly less than purchasing multiple specialized sizing stations, making it a wise choice for budget-conscious but serious reloaders. I absolutely recommend this product to any MEC Super Sizer owner looking to diversify their reloading capabilities. It’s a simple, durable, and highly effective solution that streamlines the reloading process and keeps your existing equipment relevant.