The RCBS Bench Prime is a popular choice among reloaders for its efficiency and ease of use in preparing cartridges for reloading. This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you determine if it's the right priming tool for your reloading bench.
What is the RCBS Bench Prime?
The RCBS Bench Prime is a hand-held, bench-mounted priming tool designed for efficient and consistent priming of rifle and pistol cartridges. Unlike hand-held primers, the bench-mounted design offers superior stability and control, leading to less fatigue and fewer mis-primes. This makes it a great option for high-volume reloaders.
Key Features and Benefits
- Stable and Secure Base: The sturdy base provides a stable platform, minimizing movement and ensuring accurate primer seating. This is crucial for consistent primer placement and prevents damage to primers or cases.
- Adjustable Priming Depth: The adjustable priming depth allows you to fine-tune the seating depth for various cartridge types, ensuring reliable ignition and preventing damage to primers or cases. This is a significant advantage over less adjustable tools.
- Easy Primer Feeding System: The primer feed mechanism is designed for smooth and effortless primer loading. This reduces the time spent preparing and increases overall reloading speed.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, the RCBS Bench Prime is designed for years of reliable use, even under heavy workload conditions.
- Compatibility: The RCBS Bench Prime is compatible with a wide range of small rifle and large rifle primers, making it versatile for various ammunition types.
How the RCBS Bench Prime Works
The RCBS Bench Prime utilizes a lever-action mechanism to actuate the priming pin. The reloader places a cartridge into the shell holder, and by depressing the lever, the primer is seated firmly and consistently. The adjustable depth control allows precise adjustments for optimal primer seating. The large primer tray is easily accessible for quick reloading.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Increased Efficiency: Significantly faster than hand-priming.
- Improved Accuracy: Minimizes mis-primes due to its stable base and adjustable depth.
- Reduced Fatigue: The bench-mounted design reduces hand strain associated with hand-held priming tools.
- Durable and Reliable: Built to withstand years of heavy use.
Cons:
- Higher Initial Cost: The RCBS Bench Prime is more expensive than hand-held priming tools.
- Bench Space Requirement: Requires dedicated space on the reloading bench.
- Steeper Learning Curve: While relatively straightforward, some initial practice may be needed to master the tool's operation.
RCBS Bench Prime vs. Other Priming Tools
Compared to other bench-mounted priming tools, the RCBS Bench Prime offers a competitive blend of features, quality, and price. While some competitors offer additional features (like automated feeding), the RCBS model strikes a good balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness for the average reloader. Hand-held priming tools, while cheaper, lack the precision and efficiency of the bench-mounted RCBS option.
Conclusion
The RCBS Bench Prime is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders who value efficiency, accuracy, and reduced fatigue. While the higher initial cost might be a deterrent for some, the increased speed and reliability justify the investment for high-volume reloaders. Its robust construction and adjustable features ensure consistent and reliable priming for years to come. Weighing the pros and cons against your reloading needs will help you decide if the RCBS Bench Prime is the right tool for you.
