Author Topic: Building a reloading bench  (Read 5890 times)

Offline chfields

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Building a reloading bench
« on: February 07, 2015, 11:30:36 PM »
I recently acquired a really nice reloading set up and I need to build a bench for it. The problem is, I have a very small house and live in Florida, so it has to be inside the house as it's way too hot here to have it in the garage. So, the only area I have available will hold a bench approx 28"x 16"x 35". I am using this as a basis for building my bench (only smaller). I like the idea of a back board to possibly add shelves and the flush mount power strip seems cool as well.... My question is, would 3/4" plywood be stable enough for the press*?






* Hornady LnL Progressive press
CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
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Offline frgood

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #1 on: February 08, 2015, 08:47:19 AM »
I've seen a few conversations recommending the Sears Workmate for a portable bench. Also Harbor  Freight and Home Depot have <$100 work benches that are recommended. Point being that a sturdy platform, with some weight, is sufficient.

I am also considering same and will ask when I meet with a group of reloaders tomorrow (Monday and Tuesday) night.

Offline Rodolfo Fierro

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #2 on: February 08, 2015, 03:20:06 PM »
Except for a few moments better left forgotten, there is no need for great strength in a reloading bench.  You don't want it to dance away while you are cranking out ammo either.  Normal reloading does not put that much stress on the bench.  Try the plywood, use two sheets if you think that will stiffen it up.  You just want it to be stable. 

Offline chfields

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #3 on: February 08, 2015, 10:12:47 PM »
I went to home depot and picked up all my parts....I just finished working on it for the night...I have made good progress....the frame is done.....not too bad for someone who isn't very handy....




This is basically what it should look like when finished.... I will post pics when installed 


CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
CZ Compact (Steel, No Rail)
CZ Rami BD 9MM
CZ 712 G3 W/extended mag tube
Member USPSA
Member IDPA
Life Member NRA
Captain of the CZForum.com shooting team
Proud Army Dad

Offline frgood

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #4 on: February 09, 2015, 08:21:02 AM »
Looks good. You'll be making more bang-bang noise soon.

Offline chfields

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #5 on: February 28, 2015, 11:37:49 PM »
Here is the bench, finally finished and installed.......I know its not much, but not bad for a guy who can't put a nail in a board without bending it.... :laugh: . Came out pretty good....
CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
CZ Compact (Steel, No Rail)
CZ Rami BD 9MM
CZ 712 G3 W/extended mag tube
Member USPSA
Member IDPA
Life Member NRA
Captain of the CZForum.com shooting team
Proud Army Dad

Offline Rodolfo Fierro

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #6 on: March 01, 2015, 06:36:34 AM »
Looks good.  I have had my Lock N Load for over 15 years, it has made many thousands of rounds, and is still going strong.

Offline chfields

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #7 on: March 01, 2015, 09:39:22 AM »
Thanks...I do have a question...how do you keep the bar connected that controls the primer feeder on?? Every other stroke it pops off the bottom little thing that it sits in...Right now I just move it manually......








« Last Edit: March 01, 2015, 09:43:03 AM by chfields »
CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
CZ Compact (Steel, No Rail)
CZ Rami BD 9MM
CZ 712 G3 W/extended mag tube
Member USPSA
Member IDPA
Life Member NRA
Captain of the CZForum.com shooting team
Proud Army Dad

Offline Rodolfo Fierro

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #8 on: March 01, 2015, 03:48:07 PM »
After looking at your pictures I realized that my primer feeder is different.  Call the folks at Hornady.  When I had questions they were very helpful.

Offline chfields

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #9 on: March 01, 2015, 04:28:45 PM »
I'll try that tomorrow....The first 50 rnds I made worked great..went to the range this morning to test them.....50 rnds 50 bangs....
CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
CZ Compact (Steel, No Rail)
CZ Rami BD 9MM
CZ 712 G3 W/extended mag tube
Member USPSA
Member IDPA
Life Member NRA
Captain of the CZForum.com shooting team
Proud Army Dad

Offline MMC

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #10 on: March 09, 2015, 08:04:52 PM »
Reloading is one of the most rewarding hobbies a shooter can begin. Congrats chfields and happy loading sir!
Smooth is Fast

Offline chfields

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Re: Building a reloading bench
« Reply #11 on: March 09, 2015, 08:24:53 PM »
Thank you! I've already loaded about 200 rounds and tested the first 50 with 100% success!! I'm going to the local match at Volusia (weather permitting) and will try the rest then....
« Last Edit: March 09, 2015, 08:39:54 PM by chfields »
CZ 75B SA
Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves
CZ Compact (Steel, No Rail)
CZ Rami BD 9MM
CZ 712 G3 W/extended mag tube
Member USPSA
Member IDPA
Life Member NRA
Captain of the CZForum.com shooting team
Proud Army Dad