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How To Set Up Your Reloading PressSetting up your reloading press properly is the crucial
first step in reloading brass. One mistake here could cause equipment failure,
poorly made ammo, and cause you to have a sour first experience at reloading.
That’s why we want to take the time to help you know how to set up your press
so that you can effectively start off your reloading experience the right way. 
When it comes to assembling a reloading press, there are a
few factors that must be taken into consideration. You want to make sure that
each piece of equipment is in prime working order. If you’ve purchased used
equipment, research the brand and model using manufacturer guides to ensure you
set it up correctly. Here is a suggested step-by-step outline to setting up your
reloading press. Remember, your manual should be the first tool you have in
setting up your equipment. Determine the space on the bench in which you want to
position the reloading press and make sure that there is sufficient space to
move about and that nothing will block your elbows and feet while you are
reloading brass. It is ideal if you set aside a minimum of 8-10 inches of empty
bench space on all sides and at the back of the press so you can place your
tools there for easy access.
Place the press in your preferred area on the bench and
secure it in position for the time being. Operate its handle to its fullest to
allow you to determine if there will be any areas of concern or any point of
hinderance to its movement. Move the press until you have complete clearance
for full operation.Using a sharpie or pencil, mark the mounting holes of your
press to allow for accurate hole drilling.Work the clamps loose and take away the press. Drill the
holes in the areas you have marked by using a drill bit that is the same size
as the bolts you will use for mounting. When drilling, be sure you are doing to
straight down and not at an angle as this could hinder the placement of the
press and cause it to not be secure to the table.Once the holes are drilled, sweep away the debris from the
table, you want to ensure the area your press will be sitting is flat as any
amount of raised surface could cause equipment failure.
Position a flat washer on every bolt before placing them
through the holes of the bench and press. You want to make sure the washer rest
against the o press’ mounting bracket; Knock on the bolts with a hammer if necessary,
just do so carefully. Once the bolt is completely through the hole, place another
washer followed by a lock washer and finally a nut on every end of the bolt.
These washers ensure a tight fit without causing damage to the table or the
press. Secure these nuts tightly. Once the bolts and nuts are securely placed on the table,
you can begin to set up your other reloading brass equipment. As you progress
and gain experience in reloading, you’ll find yourself moving the equipment
around until you find the optimum setup for your own process. No two reloading
set ups are the same.
Whenever you do change the setup of your equipment, always
make sure your press can operate a full cycle without being hindered in anyway
before resuming reloading. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of a
reloading cycle and realize your other equipment is in the way. This will only
cause undue stress. Experiment and enjoy your new adventure.
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