Finding the right bushing for your Mec reloading press when using Winchester powder can feel like navigating a maze. This comprehensive guide simplifies the process, providing a clear understanding of Mec bushings, Winchester powders, and how to find the perfect combination for consistent, safe reloading. We'll delve into the specifics, offering practical tips and resources to ensure your reloading experience is both accurate and efficient.
Understanding Mec Bushings and Their Role
Mec progressive reloading presses utilize bushings to control the powder charge dispensed with each press cycle. These bushings are essentially precisely machined tubes with different internal diameters, dictating the volume of powder delivered. The smaller the bushing's inside diameter, the less powder is dispensed; the larger the diameter, the greater the powder charge. The key is matching the correct bushing to your chosen powder and desired charge weight.
Types of Mec Bushings
Mec offers a wide range of bushings, identified by their unique numbers. These numbers don't directly translate to powder charge weight. Instead, they represent the internal diameter of the bushing, which indirectly affects powder volume. This means you cannot simply look up a bushing number and expect it to deliver a specific charge weight for any powder. The actual charge weight depends on several factors, including powder type, density, and the specific Mec press model.
Importance of Accuracy
Using the incorrect bushing can lead to inconsistent powder charges, potentially resulting in undercharged or overcharged cartridges. This can cause malfunctions, reduced accuracy, and, most importantly, serious safety hazards. Always double-check your powder charge before proceeding with any reloading process.
Winchester Powders and Their Characteristics
Winchester produces a variety of powders designed for different cartridges and applications. Understanding the characteristics of each powder is critical for selecting the appropriate Mec bushing. Factors to consider include:
- Powder Density: This refers to the weight of the powder per unit volume. Denser powders require smaller bushings to achieve the same charge weight as less dense powders.
- Powder Type: Different types of powders (e.g., ball, flake, extruded) have varying flow characteristics that can also influence the charge weight.
- Cartridge Type: The intended cartridge type dictates the required powder charge and therefore the appropriate bushing.
Unfortunately, there isn't a single, universally applicable chart that directly maps Winchester powder type to specific Mec bushing numbers. This is due to the variables mentioned above.
Finding the Right Mec Bushing for Winchester Powder: A Step-by-Step Approach
The process requires a combination of data acquisition and hands-on experimentation:
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Consult Winchester's Loading Data: Begin by consulting Winchester's official reloading data manuals. These manuals provide recommended powder charges for various cartridges and specific Winchester powders. This is your starting point.
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Mec's Resources: Check Mec's website and documentation for any available resources or charts that might offer guidance on bushing selection for different powders. They might provide some starting points but rarely offer precise conversions for specific powder/bushing combinations.
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Start with an Estimated Bushing: Based on Winchester's data and general experience, select an estimated bushing. Begin with a bushing that might deliver a charge slightly below your target weight, providing a safety margin.
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Measure and Adjust: Use a powder scale to accurately measure the charge delivered by your chosen bushing. Adjust the bushing (using smaller or larger sizes) incrementally until you achieve the desired charge weight.
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Multiple Trials: Reload a small batch of cartridges and carefully measure the charges for several cartridges to ensure consistency. This confirms the accuracy of your bushing selection and confirms that the bushing delivers consistent powder charges. Discrepancies necessitate adjustments until accuracy is achieved.
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Record Keeping: Document your findings. Create a detailed log noting the powder type, bushing number, and the resulting powder charge weight. This will be invaluable for future reloading sessions.
Case Study: Winchester 231 and a Specific Cartridge
Let's say we are loading .38 Special cartridges with Winchester 231 powder. Winchester's data recommends a charge of 3.8 grains. We might start with a Mec bushing number that is known to deliver a somewhat lower charge (let's hypothesize it's #28) with similar powders. Then we would test and adjust until we achieve consistent 3.8-grain charges with the appropriate bushing.
Safety First: Crucial Reminders
- Always double-check your powder charges. Inconsistent charges can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
- Use a powder scale for accurate measurements. Don't rely on estimations.
- Never mix powders. This can have very dangerous consequences.
- Consult reloading manuals from reputable manufacturers. These manuals provide critical safety information.
Conclusion: The Journey to Perfecting Your Mec Bushing Chart for Winchester Powder
Creating your own Mec bushing chart for Winchester powder is an iterative process. It involves careful research, precise measurements, and consistent recording. While there's no readily available chart, by following the steps outlined above and prioritizing safety, you can ensure accurate and safe reloading with your Mec press and Winchester powders. Remember that consistency is key in reloading; the time spent fine-tuning your process is an investment in safety and accuracy.