Star 223 Rem rifle press

[AB12RYB]

I found a listing on ebay for a Star 223 Rem rifle press.  I was only aware of 223 kits that adapt a press.  What is this Star press?

[NYKenn]

I believe that Star experimented with .223 presses for possible Military applications with the adoption of the Colt AR in Vietnam. Might be one of the early model prototypes? Not sure how many were actually built, but the number is certainly low.
Mike Dillon noted the lack of production for the .223 and availability resulted in his production of his .223 Superstar platform.
I am sure Bruce can add to the history.

[rbwillnj]

That machine is actually a Star Rifle Machine in 223.   Star did make a machine referred to as the Star 223 Pistol Machine that for lack of a better description is a Hybrid between the Rifle Machine and a Universal.   The Rifle Machine has a 1" taller column, and a large capacity powder slide.  The rifle machine uses a tool head with a thicker flange, that is not compatible with a Universal.  Most have an adjustable powder slide, but I have seen early machines with brass powder slides.   

The 223 pistol machine has a standard Universal length column, uses a Rifle tool head and has a thinner powder slide that uses bushings.   I have only seen one 223 Pistol Machine in the wild, so I would say it is even more rare than the elusive Rifle Machine.

At $1500, the machine on eBay is priced fairly.  It is missing dies, but standard RCBS 7/8" dies fit and work well in a Rifle machine.   I can't see if it has the Star expander, but not really needed if you use a sizing die with a carbide expander ball.  If I didn't already have a couple of them, I would grab it.

Bruce Williams

[rbwillnj]

Looking at the machine a little closer, it looks like it doesn't have a 223 shell plate.   I might have a 380 shell plate which would hold a 223 case, but it doesn't have a recess in the top of the shell plate large enough to accommodate a 7/8 die for full length sizing.  I'm guessing a 380 shell plate.

[NYKenn]

Thanks Bruce.
Knew you had the info!
Would like it but it is at a price point, I cannot justify.
Kenn

[AB12RYB]

I have no experience with these machines, so a few questions:  Can anyone provide pictures of a 223 shell plate holding a 223 case during full length sizing using their Star 223 rifle press?  What is the 223 shell plate part number and availability?  Thank you all for the great info.

[AB12RYB]

If I was not dealing with a few restorations of a different sort, I would buy this machine in a heartbeat.  Then, make arrangements with Bruce/rbwillnj for the missing parts and/or work the machine may need.  The powder measure can handle a variety of powder charges, so I would also ask about a 3006 family shell plate and components.  This post is purely hypothetical speculation.  I hope the person who buys this machine uses it and provides pictures to further the understanding of these classic machines.