The Best 12-Gauge Shotgun Shell Reloading Press for Your Needs

For both competitive shooters and recreational enthusiasts, firearm enthusiasts often turn to reloading to customize their ammunition to match specific shooting conditions and preferences. A reliable and efficient reloading press is a key tool in this process. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a casual shooter, the right press can make a significant difference. One of the most highly recommended options is the MEC Junior single-stage reloading press. This review will provide you with insights into why the MEC Junior is a great starting point, and discuss the trade-offs involved in choosing between a single-stage or progressive press.

Starting with a Reloading Press: The MEC Junior

If you're just getting started with reloading, the MEC Junior is a fantastic choice. MEC (Metallic Extraction Corporation) has been the industry leader for over 55 years, ensuring that you're getting a piece of equipment you can trust. The MEC Junior is a single-stage press that offers simplicity and ease of use, making it perfect for beginners. Unlike some more modern progressive presses, the single-stage design is straightforward and doesn't require extensive knowledge to operate effectively.

Why Go Second-Hand?

A critically important point is that you don't necessarily have to purchase a new MEC Junior if you're just starting out. There are numerous high-quality, used MEC Junior presses available on the market. These older models are often available at a fraction of the new price and can be an excellent investment in terms of both cost and effectiveness. Many experienced reloaders find that reputable used presses from MEC are just as good as new ones, making them a cost-effective way to get into the hobby.

Competitive Shooting and Reloading

As a former competitive shooter, I have firsthand experience with the MEC Junior and its performance in high-pressure situations. I've loaded thousands of rounds using a MEC press, and the reliability and repeatability of the press have been consistently positive. The single-stage nature of the MEC Junior means that it's not just reliable but also easier to use under time-sensitive conditions. Whether you're in the throes of a shooting competition or just want to produce high-quality, consistent rounds, the MEC Junior does the job admirably.

Current Ammo Prices and Reloading Economics

One of the most significant factors to consider when deciding to reload is whether the cost savings justify the effort. Given current ammo prices, you need to evaluate how many boxes of ammunition you reload annually to make reloading cost-effective. For most shooters, the cost of ammo can be prohibitive, especially if you only shoot occasionally. However, if you're shooting a lot (say, tens of hundreds of rounds per year), reloading can indeed save you a substantial amount of money.

For larger calibers like the 12-gauge, cost savings can be more pronounced. While shotgun ammo prices might seem high, they can often be offset by the savings from reloading, especially for lower-gauge shells like 28g or 410. However, for common 12-gauge shotgun shells, the cost difference between reloading and buying new ammo can be less significant. The key is to balance the cost of reloading supplies against the number of shots you fire in a given year. If you shoot a few boxes a month, the savings might not be as substantial as you'd hope.

Shot Size Issues

Another factor to consider is the availability of shot sizes. Off-the-shelf loadings for particular shot sizes can sometimes be limited or expensive. For instance, 9-target shells, which are more specialized and typically used in clay target shooting, can be more expensive than the general-purpose 7 1/2 dove loads. If you need to customize your shot size, it might be more economical to reload than to buy specialized loads, especially for less common shots.

Progressive Presses: A Step Up in Efficiency

For those who want to increase their production and efficiency, a progressive press like the MEC 842 can be a worthwhile investment. These machines automate many of the processes involved in reloading, allowing you to load a greater number of rounds quickly and consistently. However, progressive presses are more complex to operate and maintain, and they can be more expensive to purchase and run. If you're looking to drastically increase your reloading output and are comfortable with the additional learning curve, a progressive press might be the right choice for you.

For many casual shooters or those just starting, a single-stage press like the MEC Junior or the MEC 795 is often more than sufficient. If you need to process a few boxes per week, the MEC Junior is a reliable and user-friendly option. On the other hand, if you're loading hundreds of rounds a month and need higher production, a progressive press can make a significant difference. The key is to make sure you're investing in the right tool for your specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the MEC Junior is an excellent starter reload press, and buying a used one can be a smart financial decision. If your shooting requires a greater volume of rounds or higher production, a progressive press might be the way to go. Regardless of your choice, the right press can help you achieve the best results and enhance your shooting experience. Whether you're a competitive shooter or just enjoy the hobby, the right reloading press can be a valuable asset.

Key Points Recap

The MEC Junior single-stage reloading press is a great choice for beginners. Used MEC Junior presses can be purchased at a fraction of the new price. For high-volume reloading, a progressive press like the MEC 842 can be more efficient. Balance the cost of reloading against the number of shots you shoot annually.

By considering these factors and choosing the right press, you can enhance your shooting experience and potentially save a significant amount of money.