The MEC (Mechanical Equipment Company) powder bushing system is a cornerstone of their popular reloading presses, known for their simplicity and reliability. Understanding how to use and select the correct MEC powder bushing is crucial for consistent and safe reloading. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of MEC powder bushing sets, covering everything from choosing the right bushings to troubleshooting common issues.
Understanding MEC Powder Bushings
MEC powder bushings are small, precisely machined components that regulate the amount of powder dropped into each shell during the reloading process. Each bushing has a unique size, corresponding to a specific powder charge weight. The system’s simplicity is its strength—a single bushing controls the powder charge, eliminating the need for complex adjustments. This consistency is vital for maintaining safe and accurate ammunition.
Key Features of the MEC Powder Bushing System:
- Precise Powder Measurement: The bushings are manufactured to tight tolerances, ensuring accurate powder charges every time.
- Simple Operation: Changing bushings is quick and straightforward, allowing for easy transitions between different powder charges and calibers.
- Wide Range of Sizes: MEC offers a comprehensive range of bushing sizes, catering to various powder types and shot loads.
- Durability: MEC bushings are typically made from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of repeated use.
Choosing the Right MEC Powder Bushing
Selecting the correct MEC powder bushing is paramount for safe and accurate reloading. The wrong bushing can lead to undercharged or overcharged cartridges, both of which pose significant risks.
Factors to Consider:
- Powder Type: Different powders flow differently, requiring different bushing sizes for the same charge weight.
- Shot Charge Weight: The desired shot charge weight will dictate the necessary bushing size.
- Shell Gauge: Bushings are often gauge-specific, meaning you'll need a separate set for each gauge you reload.
- MEC Press Model: While many bushings are interchangeable across MEC press models, always check your press's manual to confirm compatibility.
Finding the Right Bushing Size: MEC provides comprehensive charts and resources that link bushing numbers to specific powder charges and shell gauges. Always consult these charts before selecting a bushing. Improper bushing selection can lead to dangerous over- or under-charges.
Maintaining Your MEC Powder Bushing Set
Proper maintenance of your MEC powder bushing set will ensure their longevity and accuracy.
Best Practices for Maintenance:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean your bushings to remove any powder residue. Compressed air is effective for this.
- Storage: Store your bushings in a safe, organized manner to prevent damage or loss.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect your bushings for wear or damage. Replace any bushings that show signs of significant wear.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful selection and maintenance, you may encounter issues.
Common Problems and Solutions:
- Inconsistent Powder Charges: This could be due to dirty bushings, worn bushings, or improper powder flow. Clean the bushings, inspect for wear, and ensure smooth powder flow.
- Powder Bridge Formation: Adjust the powder measure settings, experiment with different bushing sizes, or use a powder funnel to mitigate bridge formation.
Conclusion
The MEC powder bushing set is an integral part of the reloading process for many shooters. By understanding how to choose, maintain, and troubleshoot your bushings, you can ensure safe and accurate reloading practices. Always prioritize safety and consult the relevant MEC manuals and resources for specific information related to your press and chosen powder. Remember, proper reloading techniques are crucial for safety and the consistent performance of your ammunition.
