The RCBS Turret Press is a popular choice among reloaders for its balance of speed and precision. This comprehensive guide will delve into what constitutes a complete RCBS Turret Press kit, the essential components, and factors to consider when building your setup. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting your journey, understanding the nuances of your press kit will significantly improve your reloading efficiency and safety.
What's Included in a Typical RCBS Turret Press Kit?
While RCBS doesn't offer a pre-packaged "kit" in the traditional sense, assembling a complete setup involves several key components. Understanding these elements is crucial for successful reloading. A comprehensive kit typically includes:
1. The RCBS Turret Press Itself:
This is the heart of your reloading operation. The robust construction of the RCBS Turret Press allows for smooth operation and consistent shell casing processing. Choose the model that best suits your needs and budget.
2. Dies:
Dies are essential for resizing, de-priming, and seating bullets and primers. You'll need a full set of dies specific to the caliber you're reloading. These are usually purchased separately and aren't bundled with the press itself.
3. Shell Holders:
These hold the cartridge case in place during the reloading process. You'll need a shell holder compatible with the caliber you're using.
4. Powder Measure:
Accurately dispensing the correct powder charge is crucial for safety and consistency. RCBS offers several powder measures, including the Uniflow and Chargemaster, each with its own features and capabilities. Selecting the right powder measure will impact your reloading precision.
5. Scale:
A digital or beam scale is vital for verifying the powder charge dispensed by your powder measure. This is a critical safety step to prevent overcharging.
6. Case Preparation Tools:
This often includes a case trimmer, a case lubricant, and possibly a deburring tool. Preparing your brass consistently is essential for reliable reloading.
7. Priming Tool:
This can either be a separate hand priming tool or an automated system integrated into the press. Safe and reliable priming is paramount for safe ammunition.
8. Bullet Seating Die:
A crucial component of bullet-specific reloading. This die ensures proper seating depth and bullet alignment.
Building Your RCBS Turret Press Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Assembling your perfect RCBS Turret Press kit involves a methodical approach:
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Choose Your Press: Select the specific RCBS Turret Press model best suited for your needs and budget.
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Determine Calibers: Decide which calibers you will be reloading.
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Acquire Dies: Purchase the correct dies for each caliber, making sure they're compatible with your press.
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Select Shell Holders: Obtain the appropriate shell holders for your chosen calibers.
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Choose a Powder Measure: Select a powder measure that meets your accuracy and speed requirements.
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Get a Scale: Purchase a reliable powder scale for verifying charges.
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Gather Case Preparation Tools: Assemble the necessary tools for preparing brass for reloading.
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Choose a Priming System: Decide on a manual or automated priming system.
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Organize Your Workspace: A clean and well-organized workspace is crucial for safe and efficient reloading.
Beyond the Basics: Enhancing Your RCBS Turret Press Kit
Once you have a basic kit assembled, you can enhance it with optional accessories to improve efficiency and precision:
- Case Feeders: Automate the case feeding process for increased speed.
- Bullet Feeders: Similarly, automate bullet feeding for faster reloading.
- Extra Dies: Having extra sets of dies allows for quick caliber changes.
- Case Lube: Properly lubricating cases is crucial; the correct lube makes a difference.
- Primer Tray: A well-organized primer tray increases safety.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Reloading Experience
Building your RCBS Turret Press kit is an investment in your reloading hobby. By carefully selecting components and prioritizing safety, you can create a setup that meets your needs and ensures consistent, high-quality ammunition. Remember, always prioritize safety and follow proper reloading procedures.
