RCBS Partner Reloading Press Review

Taking the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses for a Spin

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses is a single-stage reloading press designed for reloaders of all experience levels. Manufactured by RCBS, this compact press is a popular choice for those with limited space or those who need a portable option. Its simple design, utilizing a compound leverage system and durable steel links, makes it a reliable tool for reloading most standard calibers.

I found myself needing a secondary reloading press specifically for decapping and bullet seating operations. I was looking for something inexpensive, easy to set up, and that wouldn’t take up much bench space. The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses seemed to tick all those boxes.

Unboxing the press, I was immediately struck by its size and weight. It felt solid enough despite its compact form factor. The green cast iron frame gave it a classic RCBS look.

I considered the Lee Precision Challenger Breech Lock Single Stage Reloading Press and the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press. The Lee Challenger was cheaper, but the build quality seemed questionable. The Rock Chucker Supreme is a much more robust press, but it was also larger and more expensive than what I needed for my specific purpose. The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses offered a good balance of price, size, and quality.

My first impression was that it was a simple, no-frills reloading press that would likely get the job done. I wasn’t blown away, but I wasn’t disappointed either. I was eager to mount it to my bench and start reloading.

Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Partner Reloading Presses to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses at my home reloading bench. My primary goal was to use it for decapping pistol brass and seating bullets, tasks where precise sizing and heavy-duty leverage were less critical. I reloaded .45 ACP and 9mm.

The press performed adequately in these roles. It was easy to set up and use. The priming arm, while functional, felt a bit flimsy and I ultimately preferred using my hand priming tool.

After decapping about 100 rounds of .45 ACP, I noticed a slight wobble in the press frame. It wasn’t significant, but it was noticeable. This wobble raised some concerns about its long-term durability under heavier use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses has held up reasonably well, but its limitations have become more apparent. It’s definitely not as robust as my RCBS Rock Chucker.

The finish has proven to be fairly durable, with no significant scratches or wear marks. However, the wobble in the frame has become slightly more pronounced. I’ve found that tightening the mounting bolts frequently helps minimize this.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my Rock Chucker, the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses is significantly less powerful and precise. It’s adequate for basic tasks like decapping and bullet seating, but it struggles with resizing rifle brass or performing other operations that require more leverage. It serves its purpose as a secondary press, but it’s not a replacement for a heavier-duty model.

Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Partner Reloading Presses

Specifications

• The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses features a compound leverage system, which provides sufficient force for most common reloading tasks. This leverage system is vital for efficiently resizing brass and seating bullets.
• It uses durable steel links, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The steel links are critical components for transferring the force applied by the user to the reloading dies.
• The integrated priming arm eliminates the need for a separate priming tool, adding convenience. However, some reloaders may prefer a dedicated hand-priming tool for enhanced feel and control.
• It’s designed to reload most standard calibers, making it versatile for various reloading needs. While it can handle most pistol calibers and some smaller rifle calibers, it may struggle with larger or magnum cartridges.
• Its compact size is ideal for range use or limited bench space. This portability is a key selling point for reloaders who need to set up shop in different locations.
• The press utilizes a standard 7/8 inch to 14 thread, allowing compatibility with most reloading dies. This standardization is essential for interchangeability and flexibility in choosing dies from different manufacturers.
• It has a cast iron frame, offering strength and stability during reloading. The Cast Iron composition contributes to the press’s overall durability.
• The press has a 4″ operating window and a 3.5″ stroke. These dimensions define the physical space available for performing reloading operations.

Performance & Functionality

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses performs adequately for basic reloading tasks, like decapping and seating bullets. It’s not designed for heavy-duty resizing or operations requiring significant leverage.

Its primary strength is its ease of use and compact size. However, its main weakness is its lack of robustness compared to larger, heavier presses.

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses meets expectations for a budget-friendly, portable reloading press. But it doesn’t exceed them in terms of power or precision.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price point, but the cast iron frame feels less substantial than those of higher-end presses. The green color is classic RCBS.

It’s relatively user-friendly, with a simple design that’s easy to understand. There’s minimal learning curve for experienced reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses should last for many years, particularly if used for lighter-duty tasks. However, it’s unlikely to withstand the same level of abuse as a Rock Chucker.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The press is also relatively easy to repair, with readily available replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses comes with a priming arm, but no other accessories. It relies on standard reloading dies, which are sold separately.

It’s compatible with most 7/8 inch to 14 threaded reloading dies from various manufacturers. This compatibility allows reloaders to customize their setup with their preferred dies and accessories.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Partner Reloading Presses

Who Should Buy RCBS Partner Reloading Presses?

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses is perfect for beginner reloaders, pistol shooters, or those needing a portable reloading setup. It’s also suitable for experienced reloaders who need a secondary press for specific tasks like decapping or bullet seating.

Those who need a press for high-volume reloading, or for resizing large rifle calibers, should skip this product. A heavier-duty press like the RCBS Rock Chucker is a better choice for those applications.

A must-have accessory is a sturdy bench or mounting system to minimize wobble. A dedicated hand priming tool is also recommended for those who prefer more precise priming.

Conclusion on RCBS Partner Reloading Presses

The RCBS Partner Reloading Presses is a decent entry-level reloading press that offers good value for its price. Its compact size and ease of use make it a convenient option for reloaders with limited space or those who need a portable setup.

The price is certainly justified for what it offers – a functional, albeit less robust, reloading press. It will capably perform certain reloading functions.

I would recommend it to beginner reloaders or those needing a secondary press for lighter-duty tasks. Just be aware of its limitations and consider investing in a heavier-duty press if you plan on reloading larger calibers or performing more demanding operations. Give the RCBS Partner Reloading Presses a try and experience the satisfaction of reloading your own ammunition!