How the MEC Resize Rings Changed My Routine
For years, I’ve been a devotee of the MEC 600 Jr. shotgun reloading press, churning out countless rounds for trap, skeet, and the occasional hunting trip. The MEC Resize Rings, unassuming components on the depriming station, are critical for ensuring consistent hull dimensions after firing. When resizing issues started creeping into my reloading process, it threatened to derail my rhythm and compromise the quality of my reloads.
I’ve always preached that consistent reloading is vital for accurate and reliable shooting, and the quality of the resizing process sets the stage for everything else. The slow degradation of my old rings prompted me to look for replacements. This wasn’t just about fixing a problem; it was about preserving the integrity of my reloading setup.
Unboxing the new MEC Resize Rings was anticlimactic, as they are simple, robust steel rings. Their quality was instantly noticeable. Compared to some generic resizing options I’d considered, the MEC rings exhibited a superior finish and tighter tolerances.
I briefly contemplated the MEC Supersizer, a more aggressive resizing solution, but decided to stick with the rings for now. I picked the MEC Resize Rings because they were a direct replacement, ensuring compatibility and preserving the familiar feel of my MEC 600 Jr.
My initial feeling was relief, knowing I could restore my reloader to its former glory. I was excited to get back to producing high-quality shells without the frustration of improperly sized hulls.
Real-World Testing: Putting MEC Resize Rings to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my workbench, reloading a batch of 12-gauge shells for an upcoming sporting clays competition. I closely monitored the resizing process after installing the new MEC Resize Rings. I observed that the hulls glided smoothly into the die, and the resized dimensions were uniform and consistent.
The rings performed flawlessly, even with slightly dented or expanded hulls that had given me trouble before. There was no learning curve since it’s a straightforward replacement part. The improvement was immediate, eliminating the frustrating “sticking” I had experienced with the worn rings.
There were no surprises, only the satisfaction of smooth, efficient resizing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of reloaded shells, the MEC Resize Rings continue to perform admirably. There is no visible wear or degradation, even after processing a mix of brass and steel-headed hulls. They have easily exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance.
Maintaining the MEC Resize Rings is minimal. A quick wipe with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s needed to remove any powder residue or debris. Compared to my previous experience with worn rings, these are a breath of fresh air. They have restored consistency to my reloading process, and I have full confidence in their reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of MEC Resize Rings
Specifications
The MEC Resize Rings are specifically designed for the depriming stations of MEC 600 Jr. reloaders. They are constructed from hardened steel for durability and long-lasting performance. The rings are precisely machined to ensure consistent resizing of shotgun hulls to factory specifications.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring reliable feeding and extraction of reloaded shells in your shotgun. Consistent resizing contributes directly to improved accuracy and reduced malfunctions. The cost for these rings is $10.99.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the MEC Resize Rings is to resize fired shotgun hulls, bringing them back to their original dimensions. They perform this task exceptionally well. The rings resize the hulls consistently and reliably, ensuring that they fit properly in the reloading press and cycle smoothly in your shotgun.
The rings’ strength lies in their simple, robust design. Their one weakness is they eventually wear out, requiring replacement. The MEC Resize Rings meet and exceed my expectations for a replacement part.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple: a hardened steel ring with precise internal dimensions. Their quality is evident in their smooth finish and tight tolerances. The weight is negligible, and ergonomics are not a factor since they are a static component within the reloading press.
There is no learning curve. You simply remove the old ring and replace it with the new one.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from hardened steel, the MEC Resize Rings are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple: keep them clean and free of debris.
They don’t require any specialized tools or procedures for maintenance or repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MEC Resize Rings are a standalone component and do not have accessories or customization options. They are designed as a direct replacement part for the MEC 600 Jr. reloading press. The MEC Supersizer can be considered an alternative solution for hulls that are significantly out of spec, but it is not a direct replacement. The rings are compatible with all MEC 600 Jr. models.
Pros and Cons of MEC Resize Rings
Pros
- Precise resizing ensures consistent and reliable reloads.
- Durable hardened steel construction guarantees long-lasting performance.
- Simple replacement requires no special tools or expertise.
- Restores reloading press to optimal function, improving efficiency and reducing frustration.
- Affordable solution compared to replacing the entire reloading press or using alternative resizing methods.
Cons
- Rings eventually wear out and require periodic replacement, depending on reloading volume.
- May not be sufficient for severely deformed hulls; the MEC Supersizer might be needed in those cases.
Who Should Buy MEC Resize Rings?
The MEC Resize Rings are perfect for reloaders who own a MEC 600 Jr. shotgun reloading press and are experiencing issues with hull resizing. This includes trap shooters, skeet shooters, hunters, and anyone who reloads shotgun shells regularly. They are also ideal for reloaders who want to maintain the performance and longevity of their MEC 600 Jr. press.
Those who should skip this product are reloaders who do not own a MEC 600 Jr. reloading press or are not experiencing any issues with hull resizing. Those using progressive presses may have different resizing setups that these rings would not be compatible with.
A must-have accessory is a good quality caliper for verifying the resized hull dimensions.
Conclusion on MEC Resize Rings
The MEC Resize Rings are an essential replacement part for any serious MEC 600 Jr. reloader. They offer a simple, affordable, and effective solution for restoring optimal resizing performance to your reloading press. The price of $10.99 is absolutely justified.
I personally recommend these rings to anyone experiencing resizing issues with their MEC 600 Jr. They are a small investment that can make a big difference in the quality and consistency of your reloads.
Don’t let worn-out resize rings compromise your reloading process. Invest in a new set of MEC Resize Rings today and get back to producing high-quality shells with confidence.
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