Reloading bench

[Bomag]

Im setting up my reloading bench, so any tips on how to set things up? Height of bench, etc.

[jkata]

Set the bench so it is comfortable for you to work at. Decide how you want to work as well- sat down for me.

Make sure it is quite secure, I have found with my bench that I have nearly tipped it over when I have been resizing some of my larger brass.

I also think its good to have a surface that you can easily clean down.

My reloading bench is also the bench on which I work on my rifles.

[Bomag]

I was going to use kitchen worktop, screwed to wall on two sides and with a big leg under the press.
I was thinking of setting the height so the press/brass is at eye level.
Will also be using it to clean rifles on.
I will also be sitting, I dont see any good reason to stand when doing this.

[bullbarrel]

Not so much the bench, but try to think about layout of anything else nailed down, like the powder thrower or case trimmer.

Its too easy when moving the powder from the thrower to the case to catch your hand on something and knock the power everywhere.

Ideally make it long enough that you can sit at the press when pressing and move away to do the powder measuring.

A kitchen worktop should be fine, make sure the back is secure so as you put pressure at the front with the press the back doesn't tip up :D

Happy reloading.

[jonno1972]

I have made mine so all the main bits are removable, e.g presses etc. Many of the reloading manuals have plans. Takes a bit of time but is well worth it.

[mildot]

im currently using a b&q value work bench! as i scratched and damaged my kitchen worktop! ooooops! lol

When i get the time and money i will be making a decent bench. From past experience of bench's you need em so that you are not bending over them! You will be gratefull after an hour or so.

think of where you want thing placed. ie scales and powder thrower etc, so that your not going from one end of the bench to the other for the bit. keep all weighing stuff to one side and toghether.

[jkata]

One thing I have started doing, follows on from Bullbarrel's comment.

I have a cheap, high sided plastic tray that I do all my powder measuring and case filling on.

I am hamfisted so this catches all the powder I spill.

[greenshoots]

use a mobile butchers block and a draughtsman chair........:D

viv

[lilguy43uk]

Living in a small flat has made it difficult for me to reload. I got round it by mounting my Lee turret press and my MEC600 on opposite sides of a piece of MDF. This then clamps to the table so I can load shotshells and brass just by changing chairs.

Mind you, it makes it bl00dy awkward having dinner. :D

[dicehorn]

Im setting up my reloading bench, so any tips on how to set things up? Height of bench, etc.

Obviously the location has to be your choice depending upon your surroundings (and your other half !!)

But if at all possible a room where you can shut the door and not be interrupted - if you are starting out on reloading and experienced you do need a place where you can concentrate away from pets and children - and the phone.

If you banish yourself to the garage or shed make sure you store all metalic reloading equipment in your house because of rust. Get a telescopic chair - that way you can always adjust your height to suite whatever reloading task you are doing.

Two tips. I am no longer a fan of the funnels that you use to channel the powder into the cases because you can never tell if all the powder has gone into the cases especially if you are loading them into a loading block. After all on some small low volume cases 3 grains spilt and not noticed could be dangerous when fired. I now use the Layman Electronic Scale Pal Funnel Pan which ensures all measured powder goes into the case - they are pretty cheap also. see:-

http://www.sportsmanguncentre.co.uk/productDetails.php?categoryId=11593459456721&product=Lyman+Electronic+Scale+Powder+Pal+Funnel+P an

My last tip is, when filling cases to put a clean sheet of A4 paper under your cases, that way any spilage will be quickly spotted.

Peter

[bullbarrel]

Two tips. I am no longer a fan of the funnels that you use to channel the powder into the cases because you can never tell if all the powder has gone into the cases especially if you are loading them into a loading block. After all on some small low volume cases 3 grains spilt and not noticed could be dangerous when fired. I now use the Layman Electronic Scale Pal Funnel Pan which ensures all measured powder goes into the case - they are pretty cheap also. see:-

http://www.sportsmanguncentre.co.uk/productDetails.php?categoryId=11593459456721&product=Lyman+Electronic+Scale+Powder+Pal+Funnel+P an


Spot on, not seen this. Thanks mate.

[putty1]

Last time I was in Wicks building center, they had a pretty large sturdy looking wooden workbench for less money than I reckon I could get the timber for. I remember thinking it would be ideal for reloading should I ever move house.
Rup

[u.k.neil]

Make the workspace at least three times bigger than you think you need at the moment. Believe me, you will fill it.

Neil

[harricook]

Make the workspace at least three times bigger than you think you need at the moment. Believe me, you will fill it.

Neil


Oh yes !!!!

and don't forget the storage for all the cases / powders / bits / bobs & widgets !! :D

R

[Bomag]

The worktop is about 6ft long, so size shouldnt be a problem, it will be screwed to the wall so no tipping problems.
Its in the room with the pc and its only being put together because the missus walked out 5weeks ago (Im also having kennels now, something else she didnt want!!)
I have a thrower, but will be looking to get electronic scales/dispenser when funds allow.
I will also be putting up dedicated shelving for just the reloading stuff, manuals, etc and I have a few of the stacking bins for odds and ends.

[dicehorn]

The worktop is about 6ft long, so size shouldnt be a problem, it will be screwed to the wall so no tipping problems.
Its in the room with the pc and its only being put together because the missus walked out 5weeks ago (Im also having kennels now, something else she didnt want!!)

I will also be putting up dedicated shelving for just the reloading stuff, manuals, etc and I have a few of the stacking bins for odds and ends.

Sorry to hear about your wife leaving..........however....when one door closes another will open. So... I would suggest you bring down the now empty wardrobe and put the shelving in that - all nicely contained in one area - job done:D:D

Peter
P S Please don't tell me she took the remote controller?:eek:

[Bomag]

She didnt take anything, and Ive filled her half of the wardrobe with my shooting clothes!!!
The room the bench is going in is smal and already has my cabinet and gunstuff in it (along with all the dogs food:rolleyes:) so its a nicely contained area.