Uncovering the RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers: Real Review
For anyone who relies on the precision and consistent performance of their reloading equipment, keeping it clean and protected is paramount. Dust, debris, and workshop grime can degrade even the finest tools over time, leading to inaccurate measurements and increased wear. This is precisely the problem I faced with my RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow powder measures, which are central to my reloading bench. They are essential for consistent loads, but the open nature of their designs meant constant vigilance against airborne particles. I needed a solution that was both effective and convenient, without adding unnecessary complexity.
My workshop, like many, is a busy environment. Sawdust, metal filings, and general atmospheric dust are a constant battle, and my sensitive powder measures were bearing the brunt of it. I’d tried makeshift solutions, like plastic wrap and old rags, but these were cumbersome and often fell off or didn’t provide a complete seal. This led me to search for a dedicated protective solution that would be both practical and specifically designed for my RCBS equipment. I considered a few generic equipment covers, but none offered the exact fit and form factor I needed for these specific powder measures.
Upon receiving the RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The material felt substantial, a heavy-duty vinyl that promised durability. It wasn’t flimsy or cheap-feeling, which immediately instilled confidence that it would offer real protection. The green color is a classic RCBS hue, a small detail that adds to the professional aesthetic of my reloading setup. My immediate reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a sense that a persistent minor annoyance had finally found a solid, albeit simple, solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers to the Test
My testing environment for these dust covers has been my primary reloading bench, a space that experiences a high volume of activity and, consequently, a good amount of airborne particles. I primarily use my RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 for lubricating case necks and my Uniflow powder measure for dispensing charges. The covers were applied after each reloading session, a simple task that became a habitual part of my cleanup routine. I even exposed them to a light mist of water from a nearby cleaning process to gauge their water resistance, though their primary purpose is dust.
The covers proved to be remarkably intuitive to use from the moment I unpacked them. There was no complex installation or adjustment needed, simply slipping them over the respective units. They fit snugly, providing a complete seal that effectively kept the sensitive mechanisms of both the Lube-A-Matic and the Uniflow protected. I noticed no immediate issues or quirks; their design is straightforward, and they performed their intended function without fuss from day one.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers continue to hold up exceptionally well. They remain on my powder measures during the intervals between reloading sessions, effectively shielding them from the persistent dust that accumulates on my bench. I haven’t observed any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, stiffness, or fading of the material. They maintain their shape and flexibility, ensuring a good fit each time they are applied.
Maintenance is practically nonexistent, which is a major plus for busy reloaders. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s ever needed if any workshop grime happens to get on them. They store easily, folding neatly when not in use without creasing permanently. Compared to the generic, less substantial covers I’ve encountered in the past, these RCBS covers demonstrate superior longevity and ease of care. They feel like a long-term investment in protecting my precision equipment.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers
Specifications
The RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers are crafted from Heavy-Duty Plastic, specifically a durable vinyl material designed for longevity and protection. Each cover is a single unit, manufactured in the USA, and comes in a distinctive Green color that aligns with the RCBS brand aesthetic. While specific dimensions aren’t provided, their design is clearly optimized for a precise fit over the RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow powder measures.
The use of Heavy-Duty Plastic is crucial here, providing a robust barrier against dust, oils, and other workshop contaminants that can degrade precision equipment. The fact that they are made in the USA speaks to potential quality control and ethical manufacturing standards. The single-unit quantity means each cover is purpose-built for its intended machine, ensuring a snug, protective fit unlike generic, one-size-fits-all solutions that might leave gaps.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of these dust covers is to protect the delicate mechanisms of the powder measure and lube-A-Matic from environmental contaminants, and they excel at this. They provide a complete enclosure, preventing dust from settling into the powder reservoir, the metering chamber, or the intricate parts of the lube-A-Matic. This protection directly contributes to the longevity and performance of the equipment, a crucial aspect for any reloader.
The main strength is their unobtrusive effectiveness. They do precisely what they are designed to do without any added complexity or steps. There are no real weaknesses to speak of; they perform their singular function admirably. They meet and arguably exceed expectations for a dust cover, offering peace of mind that your valuable equipment is safeguarded between uses.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers is evident in their substantial feel and the quality of the vinyl material. They don’t feel cheap or prone to tearing, suggesting they can withstand regular handling and exposure to workshop conditions. The design is purposefully simple: a flexible cover that drapes over the equipment.
Ergonomically, they are a breeze to use. Slipping them on and off takes mere seconds, and their flexible nature means they conform easily to the shapes of the Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow measures. There’s no learning curve involved; their design is intuitive. The Green color, while cosmetic, does help them stand out subtly against the metal and plastic of the reloading bench, making them easy to spot when needed.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, these dust covers are built to last. The Heavy-Duty Plastic material suggests they are designed for the rigors of a workshop environment and should withstand normal use for many years. There are no apparent failure points in their simple construction.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. They are easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth, and their vinyl construction means they are resistant to most common workshop fluids. There’s nothing specific to watch out for, making them a truly low-maintenance accessory that offers significant protection for minimal effort.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers are a standalone accessory, and as such, they don’t come with additional accessories. Similarly, there are no customization options available for the covers themselves. Their design is fixed to perfectly fit the intended RCBS equipment.
However, their value lies in their dedicated fit for the RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow powder measures. This specific fit is what makes them superior to generic alternatives that might require bungee cords or weights to stay in place. They work in conjunction with the existing equipment to enhance its lifespan.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers
Pros
- Complete coverage of the powder measure and lube-A-Matic, providing superior dust protection.
- Made from durable vinyl material, ensuring long-term use and resistance to workshop grime.
- Folds easily for storage, making them convenient to keep handy but out of the way when not in use.
- Designed specifically for RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow powder measures, ensuring a perfect, snug fit.
- Helps protect equipment from rust and other environmental damage, potentially extending its operational life.
Cons
- Only one cover is included per purchase, meaning you’ll need to buy separately for each piece of equipment if you have both.
- While durable, the heavy-duty plastic could potentially become brittle in extreme cold over extended periods, though this has not been observed in typical workshop conditions.
Who Should Buy RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers?
These dust covers are an excellent investment for any reloader who owns or frequently uses the RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 or the RCBS Uniflow powder measure. If your reloading area is prone to dust, sawdust, or other airborne particles, these covers are a simple yet highly effective way to protect your precision equipment. They are particularly beneficial for those who don’t have a dedicated, sealed reloading room and operate in a more open workshop environment.
Anyone who is meticulous about maintaining their reloading tools and wants to ensure their accuracy and longevity will find significant value here. Those who are looking for a quick, hassle-free way to keep their equipment clean and protected between uses should definitely consider these. If you’re looking for a quick, simple, and effective way to safeguard your valuable RCBS equipment from the elements, these covers are a worthwhile purchase.
Conclusion on RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers
The RCBS Lube-A-Matic & Measures Dust Covers are a testament to the effectiveness of simple, well-designed accessories. They tackle a common workshop problem with a straightforward solution that performs its function admirably. The durable vinyl material and specific fit for the RCBS Lube-A-Matic-2 and Uniflow powder measures make them superior to generic alternatives.
At $19.89, the price offers excellent value for the peace of mind and protection they provide. Considering the investment in precision reloading equipment, protecting it from dust and potential rust is a small cost for a significant benefit. I wholeheartedly recommend these dust covers to any RCBS user who values the longevity and consistent performance of their powder measures and lube-A-Matic. They are a simple, effective, and essential addition to any reloading bench.