Messages

1

Loading Data & Reloading Procedures / Re: Anyone machining their own powder bars?

« on: May 06, 2023, 07:01:00 am »

Thanks for these tips.
I hadn't thought of using wood.  I have a lot of high density exotics such as ebony, various rosewoods, and lignum vitae.  The latter, plus cocobolo, feel like they have a slight natural lubricity that I could see help them run smoothly. 

Jim

2

Loading Data & Reloading Procedures / Re: Anyone machining their own powder bars?

« on: May 02, 2023, 08:52:38 pm »

Greetings 6String,

When cleaning your Universal, note the orientation of the cam that seats the primer. It is located inside the base.

It is not symmetrical.

Mark it carefully prior to removal for cleaning.

Cheers,

Dave

Dave,

Thank you for that advice!
I should probably start another thread in the correct subheading.  But, I seem to recall that there were one or two things that were specifically fitted from one machine to the next.  Using the search feature didn't yield results.  So, I'm not sure if I'm imagining things or just using incorrect terminology.

Thanks,
Jim

3

Loading Data & Reloading Procedures / Re: Anyone machining their own powder bars?

« on: May 02, 2023, 05:40:43 am »

Hi Dave,

That's an excellent tip. 
Yes, I can see where boring the .500" rod would be very easy to set up, as opposed to using, say, a four jaw chuck and trying to get the whole bar centered, etc.
I also got a nice PM from Bruce describing the powder bar/bushings he offers.
At this point, I haven't really done much with my new "Universal".  It was rather grimy when I got it.  So, I'm in the midst of a "disassemble and clean" operation.  This is actually pretty enjoyable as the machine is so well designed and built. 

Dave, glad you referenced the Lee VMD chart, and stamping the CC on the bushing.  I started out with a Lee Loader back in the early 80s, and the day I bought it I also got a set of the Lee powder dippers.  The cardboard slide rule chart was, and is, quite handy!

Thanks,
Jim

4

Loading Data & Reloading Procedures / Anyone machining their own powder bars?

« on: April 28, 2023, 02:05:04 am »

Hi,
Anybody here machining their own powder charge bars?
Seems like this would be pretty easy.  Figure out the volume of a desired powder charge, then convert that value into the appropriate dimensions (H & D) for the cylindrical hole in the powder bar blank that fits your powder measure.  Fabricating the external dimensions of the bar itself, and the installation of the rollers appears quite straightforward.
Is there more to it that I'm missing?

Thanks,
Jim

PS: I just got a "new to me" Universal.  I wouldn't have dove in if it wasn't for the ton of great info on this forum.  Thanks!!

5

Star Reloaders / Re: Switching between 45 ACP and 45 Auto Rim

« on: November 02, 2022, 06:02:01 am »

Hi Bruce and Lindy,

Thank you for taking the time to reply.  These are very helpful replies!
Good to know that finding a shell plate wouldn't be an arduous search.

The video is quite informative.  Yes, that looks like a straightforward process.  Very nice to see a deeper delve into the build quality and design.  Nice stuff!!

Jim

6

Star Reloaders / Switching between 45 ACP and 45 Auto Rim

« on: November 01, 2022, 09:00:29 pm »

Hi,
This is my first post here.  I've been a regular lurker for about a year, but have been aware of Star machines for decades.
I understand that to switch between 45 ACP and Auto Rim, all that's needed is a change in the shell plate.  How big of a process is that?  Looks like a partial diasassembly is in order.
I'm guessing, too, that those Auto Rim shell plates are not commonly encountered.

Currently using a Dillon 650, looking to add an auxiliary press to split duties.
So, a Universal would be in order for the above mentioned scenario.  If that's too problematic, I could make due with a .38 Progressive while using the Dillon for the other.

Thanks,
Jim

PS: This forum is a great resource of info.