MEC 650N Progressive Shotshell Reloading Press Cast Iron

Master Your Ammunition Production with the MEC 650N Progressive Shotshell Reloading Press

Are you an avid competitive shooter, a dedicated hunter, or a passionate sporting clays enthusiast who constantly seeks ways to optimize performance and manage ammunition costs? Do you find yourself asking, "How can I produce high-quality shotgun shells efficiently and consistently?" or "What's the best progressive reloading press for serious shotshell reloaders?" If so, the MEC 650N Progressive Shotshell Reloading Press, renowned for its robust cast iron construction, is an exceptional solution designed to answer these very questions and elevate your reloading experience.

This sophisticated machine isn't just a tool; it's an investment in precision, economy, and the sheer satisfaction of crafting your own custom ammunition. Ideal for those who shoot in high volumes—be it thousands of rounds for trap, skeet, or sporting clays seasons, or specialized loads for hunting game birds—the MEC 650N transforms raw components into finished shells with remarkable speed and consistency. It's the go-to choice for reloaders who value durability, reliability, and the ability to fine-tune their loads for specific shotgun performance requirements.

Why Choose a Progressive Press for Shotshell Reloading?

Many shooters grapple with the rising cost of factory ammunition, especially for popular gauges like 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and 28-gauge. Others seek custom ammunition tailored precisely to their firearms and shooting disciplines, aiming for optimal patterns, reduced recoil, or specific velocities that factory loads simply can't provide. A progressive shotshell press like the MEC 650N addresses these challenges head-on.

Unlike single-stage presses, which complete one operation per stroke, a progressive press performs multiple operations simultaneously as the shell plate advances. This means that with each pull of the handle, a finished shotshell emerges, significantly increasing your output. For instance, while a skilled reloader might produce a few hundred shells per hour on a single-stage press, the MEC 650N is capable of producing several hundred shells per hour, making it an indispensable asset for those who demand high-volume production without sacrificing quality. This efficiency is particularly valuable during peak shooting seasons or when preparing for major competitions.

Unpacking the Robust Design and Core Features

The MEC 650N stands out immediately due to its cast iron construction. This isn't merely a cosmetic choice; it's a fundamental design decision that delivers immense benefits. Cast iron provides superior rigidity and mass, which translates directly into rock-solid stability during operation. This stability minimizes flex and vibration, ensuring that each reloading station maintains precise alignment throughout the entire process. The result? Consistent crimps, perfectly seated primers, and uniform powder and shot drops, all contributing to superior ammunition quality. When you're striving for reliable patterns and consistent performance shot after shot, this inherent stability is paramount.

This press operates on a six-station design, allowing for a comprehensive, automated sequence of operations. As the shell moves through each station, a different step in the reloading process is completed. This seamless progression includes:

1. Resizing and De-priming: The spent primer is removed, and the brass base is resized to factory specifications, ensuring proper chambering.
2. Priming and Powder Dropping: A new primer is automatically seated, and the precise charge of smokeless powder is dispensed into the shell.
3. Wad Seating: The correct shotshell wad, crucial for gas sealing and shot protection, is firmly seated into the hull.
4. Shot Dropping: The measured charge of lead or non-toxic shot is dropped into the wad.
5. Pre-Crimp: The initial fold or taper is applied to the shell mouth, preparing it for the final crimp.
6. Final Crimp: A perfectly formed six-point or eight-point crimp (depending on setup) is applied, sealing the shell and securing the components.

The Auto-Indexing feature of the MEC 650N is a game-changer for speed and convenience. Unlike some presses where you manually advance the shell plate, the 650N automatically rotates the shell plate to the next station with each stroke of the operating handle. This allows for a smooth, uninterrupted workflow, letting you focus on monitoring component levels and ensuring proper operation rather than worrying about manual indexing.

Furthermore, the press incorporates an adjustable ram and a highly effective crimp station, allowing for fine-tuning of the shell's overall length and crimp quality. Achieving a consistent, professional-looking crimp is vital for ammunition performance and reliable feeding and ejection.

Precision and Consistency: The Hallmarks of Handloaded Ammunition

What truly sets handloaded ammunition apart is the ability to achieve a level of precision and consistency often unattainable with mass-produced factory loads. With the MEC 650N, you gain complete control over every component:

• Primer Selection: Choose primers that ignite your specific powder efficiently and reliably.
• Powder Charges: Dial in the exact powder charge for your desired velocity, recoil, and pressure characteristics.
• Wad Selection: Experiment with different wad designs and materials to optimize patterns and payload protection.
• Shot Type and Size: Select the perfect shot size and type (lead, steel, bismuth, etc.) for your specific hunting or shooting application.

This level of control allows you to develop "pet loads" that truly shine in your shotgun, leading to tighter patterns on the trap field, more consistent breaks on the skeet range, or improved performance in the field. Many shooters report noticeable improvements in consistency and even perceived recoil reduction when shooting their own custom-tailored loads.

Is the MEC 650N the Right Choice for You?

Consider these common scenarios where the MEC 650N truly excels:

• Competitive Shooters: If you compete in trap, skeet, or sporting clays, you know that hundreds, if not thousands, of rounds are expended annually. Factory ammunition costs can quickly become prohibitive. The 650N allows you to produce high volumes of consistent, reliable competition loads at a fraction of the cost, giving you a competitive edge.
• High-Volume Hunters: For waterfowl, upland game, or even turkey hunters who shoot many shells throughout the season, reloading offers significant savings and the ability to craft specialized loads for specific game or conditions.
• Enthusiasts Seeking Customization: Beyond cost savings, the satisfaction of creating ammunition precisely to your specifications is immense. Want a specific velocity for a clay target load? Or a dense pattern for long-range pheasant hunting? The MEC 650N provides the platform to achieve these goals.
• Reloaders Prioritizing Durability and Longevity: The cast iron frame ensures this press will be a staple in your reloading room for decades, standing up to rigorous use without complaint. It's built to last, offering excellent value over its lifespan.

While the initial investment in a progressive press might seem higher than a single-stage, the long-term savings on ammunition and the unparalleled control over quality quickly make it an economically sound decision. Moreover, the learning curve, while present, is manageable, and MEC provides excellent support for their products.

Safety and Best Practices in Reloading

Reloading ammunition is a rewarding hobby, but it demands strict adherence to safety protocols. Always consult multiple reloading manuals for specific load data, start with minimum recommended charges, and never exceed maximum published loads. Ensure your reloading area is well-lit, organized, and free from distractions. Proper ventilation is also key when handling powders and primers. The MEC 650N, like all reloading equipment, is a precision instrument that requires respectful and informed operation to ensure both personal safety and the production of safe, high-quality ammunition.

Expanding Your Capabilities: Accessories and Maintenance

While the MEC 650N is a complete system out of the box for a specific gauge, its versatility can be enhanced with various accessories. For instance, conversion kits are available from MEC, allowing you to easily switch between different shotshell gauges (e.g., from 12-gauge to 20-gauge, or even smaller gauges) on the same press frame. This eliminates the need to purchase a separate press for each gauge you wish to reload, offering significant savings and convenience.

Maintaining your MEC 650N is straightforward and contributes to its long service life. Regular cleaning to remove powder residue and primer dust, along with occasional lubrication of moving parts, will keep your press operating smoothly and reliably. The robust design means less fuss, but a little routine care goes a long way.

Sourcing Your MEC 650N and Components

When considering where to purchase your MEC 650N Progressive Shotshell Reloading Press, look no further than DEGuns.com. As a reputable and comprehensive supplier of firearms, ammunition, and reloading equipment, DEGuns offers the MEC 650N along with a wide array of reloading components—from primers and smokeless powders to wads and various types of shot. This makes DEGuns a convenient one-stop shop for everything you need to begin or continue your shotshell reloading journey with the MEC 650N. Their expertise ensures you receive genuine products and reliable service.

In conclusion, the MEC 650N Progressive Shotshell Reloading Press in cast iron is more than just machinery; it's a gateway to self-sufficiency, precision, and significant cost savings for any serious shotgun shooter. Its rugged construction, efficient progressive operation, and ability to produce consistent, high-quality ammunition make it an industry benchmark and an indispensable tool for anyone committed to mastering their shotshell ammunition.

MEC 650N Key Specifications