Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

[the agent]

Well after thinking about using a progressive press the more and more reading and opinions have indicated that single stage is the best way to go for the match loads. So now I have come to the last two choices. The chucker which is a work horse and has been around for years and still does the job. Or, the Hornady lnl classic? Please leave experiences and pros vs cons. Thanks for all info.

Cheers,
Agent

 

[BOLTRIPPER]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

do the least expensive and the one with the least parts to lose

 

[head2h2o]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

After all of the thoughts of needing a progressive press, I went back to a single stage. Why not go with the Redding Big Boss II for just a little more money. This is a great press. Smooth as glass pull, nice leverage even on the big cartridges and depriming is almost effortless. You can get the ram with the center open and not worry about chasing primers everywhere like I have had with other presses. That would be my choice, but of the ones that you mentioned, I would probably go with the Rock Chucker based on how long this press has been around.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

I really have not heard a lot of news from the redding press. I will look into it. Thanks all.

 

[Winchester 69]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I have found the Redding presses to be preferable. Are you aware that the Hornady has an aluminum frame?

 

[427Cobra]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

Forster Co-Ax

 

[Fuzzball]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

"I have come to the last two choices. The chucker which is a work horse and has been around for years and still does the job. Or, the Hornady lnl classic?"

Presses are often assumed to have far more importance than is justified by the facts. So far as the "quality" of easily producable ammo with either of those you will find no difference at all. Ditto the Lyman "Crusher", Redding "Boss", "Big Boss" and "UltraMag", Bonanza "Co-Ax" or Lee "Classic Cast". All that differs between them are the user features and even those don't make a lot of difference.

Observations of small pros and cons on presses are too numerous and near trivial to write a tome here. Pay what it takes to make you comfortable and know it will do you well. If your ammo is poor it's your fault, not the press'!

 

[Savage_Jake]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I have a Rock Chucker Supreme and I love it. Very smooth and its a joy to operate. Cant go wrong with RCBS.

 

[Swan]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

damn, you are still debating this purchase? Just go get the rock chucker at bass pro and be done with it @$129.99! or the whole kit.

FWIW, I really like my Lee Classic Cast.

 

[Starvin]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 427Cobra</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Forster Co-Ax </div></div>

This.

I know it's not on your list and it's a few more bucks but it's a phenominal press.

 

[bohem]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I have a rock chucker, and until very recently the only press I really liked was the rock chucker. I"ve loaded with a couple of others, but not the Hornady.

I like the free bullets that come with the Hornady press for sure, but I am not willing to give up my RCBS for it.

My rock chucker is about 40 years old though, so I can't vouch personally for the latest quality level that some complain about. The Hornady does have the LnL bushings that cost extra money, and I don' see any reason for quick change bushings in a single stage.

 

[benwitt11]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I just went through the same thought process and ordered the Rock Chucker. Hard to beat the history at a pretty affordable price.

 

[Sidewinder]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I don't think you could go wrong with either one. I have two rockchuckers and love them. You can pick up a used rockchucker for less than $100. You will not wear one out.

 

[HomeSlice]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Sidewinder</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I don't think you could go wrong with either one. I have two rockchuckers and love them. You can pick up a used rockchucker for less than $100. You will not wear one out.</div></div>

I got my rockchucker on trade for something insignificant I can't even remember. Was from a buddy that moved on -- was his dad's who passed probably 20 years ago, so who knows how old it is. Never had a problem with itafter its spit out 1000's of rounds for me, and probably a zillion before that.

His advice: it's a good press that'll last you forever. Just don't smoke cigarettes while loading lead bullets with bare hands (his dad died of lung cancer)...

-Slice

 

[mattmcg]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

Sorry, realize its not on your list but I wouldn't trade my Forster Co-Ax for any of the two you list. Quickest die changes of the bunch and some of the best concentricity of any of the presses. The press design offers more leverage than the two you listed and the auto-shellholder is a breeze to use on any number of common cartridges.

Go with the Forster Co-Ax and never look back.

 

[asbestosglove]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

+1 on the Co-Ax. Built in die "float" and no shell holders to buy.

AG in NC

 

[bohem]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Hazardus</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Sorry, realize its not on your list but I wouldn't trade my Forster Co-Ax for any of the two you list. Quickest die changes of the bunch and some of the best concentricity of any of the presses. The press design offers more leverage than the two you listed and the auto-shellholder is a breeze to use on any number of common cartridges.

Go with the Forster Co-Ax and never look back. </div></div>

I see the "quick die change" come up all the time. When you're sitting down for a reloading session, does the extra 5 seconds really eat into how many rounds you load over the course of the hour? Maybe I'm just naive to think that guys size/prime a whole batch of cases, then charge and seat bullets a pile at a time, not 1 loaded round start to finish each time.

It's a nice feature I guess, but it's not a selling point to spend double the money.

Reduced/minimized runout is far more important.

For a new reloader a 250 dollar press is more than he might need if he's stretching a budget already to get some equipment to get going.

 

[1911.it]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: asbestosglove</div><div class="ubbcode-body">+1 on the Co-Ax. Built in die "float" and no shell holders to buy.

AG in NC </div></div>

+2!

 

[BigJakeJ1s]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

There's a lot more to the co-ax than how fast the dies can be changed. From the automatically opening universal shell holder jaws to the handle/linkage/ram system and spent primer handling, it provides a combination of convenience and accuracy features not found in conventional presses.

If you are on a budget, do not overlook the Lee Classic Cast (iron) press. It has through-the-ram spent primer handling, adjustable handle for left/right, angle and length. It also accepts the Hornady LNL press conversion kit.

Other presses to consider include the Redding Big Boss II and UltraMag. Both have through-the-ram spent primer handling and compatibility with the LNL press conversion.

Andy

 

[desertHK]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

Rock Chucker gets my vote.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">damn, you are still debating this purchase? Just go get the rock chucker at bass pro and be done with it @$129.99! or the whole kit.

FWIW, I really like my Lee Classic Cast.</div></div>

Yeah I know I just hate to buy twice. Or better yet you could just crank out a few hundo match rounds for me gratis

 

[Fuzzball]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

"If you are on a budget, do not overlook the Lee Classic Cast (iron) press."

Ditto. Even if you're NOT on a budget!

 

[bwanajcj]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

The fact is their all good presses and everyone has their opinion. you won't go wrong with any of them and chances are you'll give up reloading before you wear or break one out. I have 3 presses on my bench Lee classic, RCBS rock chucker and the Hornady lock and load, Lee and RCBS use both frequently the hornady press still looks Like new as I don't like the lock and load system, its a PITA.

 

[Swan]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

"Or better yet you could just crank out a few hundo match rounds for me gratis "


uhh, sure. How about I trade u a hundred rounds for your USO??


Seriously, just get the Lee or RCBS. I've used both now a bit and I really cant tell a difference, other than where the spent primers end up.

 

[264shooter]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I wore a rockchucker press out after 25 years, I was the second owner. Got a redding press and never looked back. redding is gtg.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">"Or better yet you could just crank out a few hundo match rounds for me gratis "


uhh, sure. How about I trade u a hundred rounds for your USO??


Seriously, just get the Lee or RCBS. I've used both now a bit and I really cant tell a difference, other than where the spent primers end up. </div></div>

Huh you mean that hunk of metal and glass on top of my rifle. Funny you should say that cuz I was thinking the same thing what a deal that would be except the colors dont match your gun. Every ones advice here has been great I am nearing the last of my factory rounds so its getting down to the wire. Are you going to be ready for this weekend?

 

[Swan]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

my gun is all wack. gunsmith advised I replace the barrel (a lemon) so i did with a new factory 26" bbl. shot today n results were not that great. could be my lack of reloading skill, i really dont know anymore. longer barrel is way better for recoil I must admit. going back out tomorrow with more loads. getting pissed and frustrated. thinkin i shoulda stuck with the pistols n never picked up a rifle.

 

[JFComfort]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: the agent</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">"Or better yet you could just crank out a few hundo match rounds for me gratis "


uhh, sure. How about I trade u a hundred rounds for your USO??


Seriously, just get the Lee or RCBS. I've used both now a bit and I really cant tell a difference, other than where the spent primers end up. </div></div>

Huh you mean that hunk of metal and glass on top of my rifle. Funny you should say that cuz I was thinking the same thing what a deal that would be except the colors dont match your gun. Every ones advice here has been great I am nearing the last of my factory rounds so its getting down to the wire. Are you going to be ready for this weekend? </div></div>

Jimmy are you shooting in the two day match? Have you got your rifle sorted out?

Seth, I'd say 1 MOA out of a $600 gun is pretty good. I'm at work with those round for you to try!!

 

[polish handgunner]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

In the early 70s i purchased a new RCBS Rockchucker press - i still use it.

My latest press purchase(2009)was a Redding T-7 turret.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">my gun is all wack. gunsmith advised I replace the barrel (a lemon) so i did with a new factory 26" bbl. shot today n results were not that great. could be my lack of reloading skill, i really dont know anymore. longer barrel is way better for recoil I must admit. going back out tomorrow with more loads. getting pissed and frustrated. thinkin i shoulda stuck with the pistols n never picked up a rifle.
</div></div>
did you try factory ammo? has your rig always been off? after all the reading i have done if its not a dinged up crown usually its not the barrel? but even after the new bbl things did not get better? I dont know the smith and I am sure he knows his stuff but that sucks that that was identified as the problem and still didnt fix it? I would grab a box of fggm or something similar and try sending that thru your gun to see if its an ammo issue? Pistols are fun but I would never give up the long gun. just keep tweaking on your stick and you will have good results. Did you get your sling or do you need to borrow one for the match?

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JFComfort</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: the agent</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">"Or better yet you could just crank out a few hundo match rounds for me gratis "


uhh, sure. How about I trade u a hundred rounds for your USO??


Seriously, just get the Lee or RCBS. I've used both now a bit and I really cant tell a difference, other than where the spent primers end up. </div></div>

Huh you mean that hunk of metal and glass on top of my rifle. Funny you should say that cuz I was thinking the same thing what a deal that would be except the colors dont match your gun. Every ones advice here has been great I am nearing the last of my factory rounds so its getting down to the wire. Are you going to be ready for this weekend? </div></div>

Jimmy are you shooting in the two day match? Have you got your rifle sorted out?

Seth, I'd say 1 MOA out of a $600 gun is pretty good. I'm at work with those round for you to try!! </div></div>

Hey,
Actually my scope ring is buggered up. the cross bolt is stripped and I talked to nightforce and said I would buy one ring if possible and explained that the ring was for a painted rifle they said send it in. They did say that they dont usually sell just one ring. So i was told NF would look at it and would see if they could press the bolt out and replace it or if it was a qc issue. Those guys at nightforce are great. no matter what the outcome they returned my call promptly and seemed to understand that I would much perfer a replaced bolt to having to buy a new ring. I would pay the new ring price if they could save me the headache of trying to replace the paint job. I would use NF products again. I have been very happy with their nxs scope I have on one of my other rifles. I did not sign up for the match lucky me huh? I would agree with your comment about the 1 moa from a 600 rig. I have always been told most guns will outshoot the shooter. Hell I my gun cost a bit more than that and I still suck so what can I say? Till I get my problem resolved I will be working on fundamentals with the 22. If you or seth have 22s I have some targets and me and a few other people had a mini challenge out at the horse shoe last week. fun time and very humbling. So if any are interested might do the same this weekend sometime. Sami was a huge help with some issues I had on the gun. Its one big money pit......but you cant take the cash with you sooooo pull trigger go bang!


Cheers

 

[Swan]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

at this point I'll be happy with a consistent 1 moa load, if I can find it. F these factory rifles. I'm over em. Too damn finicky/shitty.

 

[JFComfort]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I have some low rings and a rail for my .308 Steyr SSG on the way so I should have my issues sorted out. I'm going to start taking part in the matches in December. I'll be out shooting, let me know when you go out. I can use my girlfriends .22

 

[JFComfort]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">at this point I'll be happy with a consistent 1 moa load, if I can find it. F these factory rifles. I'm over em. Too damn finicky/shitty. </div></div>

Tikka, Sako, Styer, and CZ are all production rifles that are probably now where near as finicky/shitty as your Remington. Sell your rifle so someone starting out and get a Remington 700 VSSF or a rifle from the formentioned manufacturers. I saw one at Tim's with a brake on it and I wanted to take it home!!

 

[Stealff]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

I have the Hornady LnL with the quick change bushings, which are nice and make swapping dies quick, however I have noticed with mine that when resizing there is a tiny bit of play in the bushing to press fit.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Stealff</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have the Hornady LnL with the quick change bushings, which are nice and make swapping dies quick, however I have noticed with mine that when resizing there is a tiny bit of play in the bushing to press fit. </div></div>

would you buy it again now that you had your hands on it or would you choose something else?

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Swan</div><div class="ubbcode-body">at this point I'll be happy with a consistent 1 moa load, if I can find it. F these factory rifles. I'm over em. Too damn finicky/shitty. </div></div>

how did you do the other day?

 

[Swan]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

decent. new barrel on it. seemed to straighten things out.

new dbm on the way, psyched.

 

[harry01]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

I bought a RCBS RS3 used at a small local gun show for 60 dollars and loaded literally thousands of rounds of many different calibers without even one problem.

 

[Scotts556]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

Rock chucker. it has severed me well for ove 5000 rounds.

 

[RECKON SO]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

+1 on the Forster co-ax. I have owned both a rock chucker and currently have a co-ax, and I like the co-ax alot more. You can get precision "flat" ground lock rings for the co-ax, and the difference in my ammo was an overall reduction in runout of .002-.003' , not changing anything else in loading procedure. The spring loaded universal shell holder helps the case center inself as it enters the die and overall the press is very well constructed.

 

[lhensler]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chucker

My experience with the press is this: I have only used RCBS. So, I can only comment on RCBS. If you go with the RockChucker find one of the older ones. I have had mine for years with no complaints. I did buy a new one (the new version) for a back up and did not like it at all. In fact I sold it. I find the older ones were made better and the newer ones are thrown together, have alot of play in them, the stroke is longer and primers do not feed and seat properly when priming on the press. This is just my experience with these presses.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

Well,
one can not start a post with out showing the end results so....

 

[JFComfort]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

Looks good, I hear I just missed you while you over at Sonic Sammy's house.

 

[the agent]

Re: Single stage presses. Hornady vs the Rock Chuc

no way we pressed out about a hundo rounds of 223. I hear your 308 is a monster with really tight grouping. That should make a good showing the next match. Are you going tomorrow?