Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert Review

My Journey with the Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert

My reloading bench has seen its fair share of lubricants and case sizing compounds over the past decade. I’ve worked with everything from simple lanolin-based concoctions to high-tech synthetic greases, and each has its place. The real workhorse in case preparation, however, is the lube pad. It’s the intermediary between the die and the brass, ensuring a smooth, chatter-free resizing experience that saves both my dies and my brass from undue stress. Recently, I noticed my trusty Redding Lube Pad was starting to show its age; the original foam insert was compressed, dry, and no longer holding lubricant effectively. This is a common issue, and I needed a reliable replacement to keep my operation running smoothly.

The search for a replacement led me directly to the Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert. Redding is a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment, so I had high hopes. I’d seen generic foam inserts before, often flimsy and prone to falling apart, but the prospect of a purpose-built replacement from Redding felt promising. My primary concern was finding something that would hold lubricant well and withstand the repeated pressure of case resizing without disintegrating. After a brief look at a few other options, the simplicity and reputation of this specific insert made it an easy choice. The initial impression upon unboxing was positive; it felt denser than many generic options and had a distinct, almost hydrophobic texture. It felt like a simple, yet effective solution to a persistent reloading problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert to the Test

My testing grounds were primarily my home reloading bench and a small, dedicated workshop space. The primary scenario involved resizing batches of .223 brass, a caliber I process in significant quantities. I applied a generous amount of my preferred case sizing lubricant to the new foam insert. The initial application was encouraging; the foam soaked up the lubricant evenly and held it without any immediate signs of saturation or leakage. I then proceeded with resizing, pushing a steady stream of brass through my Redding sizing die. The lubricant transfer was consistent, and I didn’t experience any of the dry spots or excessive friction that had plagued me with the old, worn-out insert.

Over several weeks, I continued to use this foam insert for various calibers, including .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. It performed admirably across the board. The hydrophobic nature, as described by Redding Reloading, proved to be accurate; the lubricant stayed within the foam structure rather than wicking out uncontrollably. Even after repeated use, the insert remained resilient, showing minimal signs of compression or degradation. I did notice that applying a very liberal amount of lube initially helped saturate it more thoroughly for longer-lasting application during extended sizing sessions. There were no surprises or quirks; it simply performed its intended function reliably.

Extended Use & Reliability

After approximately two months of regular use, encompassing several hundred rounds of brass resized, this replacement foam insert continues to impress. It has maintained its shape and its ability to hold lubricant effectively, which is a significant step up from previous generic foam inserts I’ve used. There are no visible signs of cracking, stiffness, or any performance drop. The cases still slide smoothly into the sizing dies, and I haven’t had any instances of case neck galling or sticking.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. When the lubricant level seems low, I simply add a bit more. Unlike some older, more porous materials that could become gummed up or difficult to clean if you tried to remove excess lube, this insert seems to absorb and release it predictably. I haven’t needed to clean it, nor does it seem to require any special care beyond regular lubrication. Compared to the cheap, disposable foam pads that would dry out and need frequent replacement, this Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert offers a significant advantage in terms of longevity and consistent performance. It’s a reusable component that truly lives up to its promise of lasting longer.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert

The Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert is designed with simplicity and efficacy in mind. The core specification is its material: a hydrophobic foam designed to effectively absorb and retain lubricants. This allows it to hold a generous amount of resizing lubricant, which it then transfers to the case mouth and body during the resizing process. The quantity provided is one foam insert per package, making it a direct replacement for a standard lube pad insert. While specific dimensions aren’t always listed for such components, its shape is clearly intended to fit standard-sized reloading lube pads, likely a universal fit for many popular brands.

The significance of the hydrophobic foam is paramount. Traditional foam can become saturated and start to leak, or it can dry out quickly and become ineffective. This particular material’s property means it holds onto the lubricant more tenaciously, releasing it steadily as needed. This translates to more consistent lubrication for each case, reducing friction and wear on both the resizing die and the brass itself. It’s a subtle but crucial detail for anyone who reloads frequently and values the longevity of their equipment.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Redding Reloading
• Quantity: 1
• Material: Hydrophobic Foam
• Intended Use: Replacement insert for reloading lube pads

These specifications are straightforward, but they highlight the product’s core strengths. The hydrophobic foam is the key feature, ensuring that lubricant is retained effectively and released consistently during case resizing. The fact that it comes as a single unit means it’s a direct, no-fuss replacement for a worn-out pad. This isn’t a complex gadget; it’s a thoughtfully designed consumable component. Its focus is on maximizing lubricant retention and transfer, which directly impacts the smoothness and efficiency of the reloading process.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this insert is to hold and dispense case resizing lubricant, and it excels at this task. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive regarding its ability to keep cases adequately lubricated throughout the resizing process. The lubricant transfer is smooth and consistent, minimizing the risk of case sticking or the dreaded “squeal” that indicates insufficient lubrication.

Its main strength lies in its excellent lubricant retention. This means I can load up the pad and resize a significant number of cases before needing to reapply more lubricant. This efficiency is a huge time-saver during large resizing batches. A minor area that could be considered for improvement, though not a significant drawback, is that very thick or pasty lubricants might take slightly longer to fully saturate the foam initially. However, once it’s conditioned, even these thicker compounds work effectively. It more than meets expectations, especially considering its modest price point and the crucial role it plays in preventing damage to expensive resizing dies.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert is deceptively simple, which is its greatest asset. It’s a rectangular piece of foam, cut to a size that easily fits into standard lube pads. The texture is slightly porous but firm, giving it a good feel in hand and a sense of durability. There are no complex markings or controls, as its function is purely passive – to absorb and dispense.

The ergonomics are excellent because they are entirely user-dependent; you simply place it in your lube pad, apply lube, and use it. There’s no learning curve whatsoever. It sits securely within the pad’s housing, and I haven’t had any instances of it shifting or coming loose during use, even with vigorous application of pressure. The feel of the foam itself is substantial; it doesn’t feel like it will easily crumble or tear, which is a common issue with cheaper alternatives.

Durability & Maintenance

For its intended purpose as a reusable component in the reloading process, the Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert demonstrates impressive durability. Under normal use – meaning consistent application of resizing lubricants and regular contact with brass – I anticipate this insert will last for a considerable time, likely years. It doesn’t appear to be a disposable item; rather, it’s designed for the long haul, much like the other quality components Redding Reloading offers.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. As mentioned, the primary task is simply to add more lubricant when it seems depleted. There’s no need for washing or complex cleaning procedures. If, hypothetically, a user wanted to try a different type of lube and clean out the old, a good solvent followed by thorough drying would likely suffice, but this is more of a theoretical exercise as the hydrophobic nature prevents heavy contamination. A potential failure point, though not yet observed, could be extreme heat or exposure to solvents not designed for foam, but this is outside normal operating parameters for a reloading lube pad.

Accessories and Customization Options

This product comes as a single component and, as such, does not include any accessories in the traditional sense. Its primary function is to be part of the lube pad system. Customization isn’t really applicable here; it’s designed to fit existing lube pads. One could, of course, cut it down to a custom size if they had a non-standard lube pad, but its current form factor is likely optimized for the majority of reloading setups. Its “accessory” is the lubricant applied to it, and the “customization” comes from the choice of that lubricant.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert?

This Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert is an absolute must-have for any reloader who frequently sizes cases, particularly those working with bottleneck cartridges or dealing with brass that has been fired multiple times. If you’re an avid rifle reloader, a pistol reloader processing large batches, or simply someone who wants to ensure their dies last as long as possible and their resizing process is as smooth as butter, this is for you. It’s particularly beneficial for reloaders who use Dillon, RCBS, Lyman, or Redding Reloading’s own lube pads.

Individuals who might consider skipping this are those who are already satisfied with their current lube pad’s performance (perhaps a very new one) or those who exclusively use aerosol case lubes that don’t require a pad. It’s also not for someone looking for a single-use item; this is a durable replacement. A must-have accessory for this insert, if you don’t already own one, is a quality case resizing lubricant – a good synthetic lube will pair perfectly with this hydrophobic foam.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert

The Redding Reloading Lube Pad Replacement Foam Insert is a small component that makes a significant difference in the reloading process. Its hydrophobic foam design ensures excellent lubricant retention and consistent transfer, leading to smoother case resizing, reduced die wear, and ultimately, better-formed ammunition. For its modest price of $6.99, the longevity and performance it offers are exceptional, making it a truly valuable consumable for any serious reloader.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this replacement insert to anyone looking to maintain or improve their case resizing setup. It’s a direct, effective solution to a common problem, embodying the quality and practicality that Redding Reloading is known for. If your current lube pad insert is dry, compressed, or just not performing, making the switch to this model will undoubtedly be a worthwhile upgrade that pays dividends in the long run.