[Jmurman]

I just started receiving my reloading equipment...boxes and boxes!

I have a question about setting up my Rockchucker on the bench. Should I mount it directly in front of where I'll be sitting or off to the side?

What would be more accurate and convenient?

[Mal H]

Most RC users, including me, mount the press to the right of their normal sitting/standing location at the bench. Since the handle isn't ambidextrous and can't be made so, you have to use your right hand to operate it. You will be feeding shells and bullets and removing completed rounds from the left side of the press.

[Jmurman]

Thanks,

I'm going to re-cover my work bench top with MDF and then paint it white to give it a smooth work surface. I'll drill the holes and then be able to remove it after using.

Any other tips in regards to setting up this or any of the other reloading items?

[Mal H]

Nothing apart from all the tips and techniques that have been posted here over the years. One tip though, and I don't recall seeing it mentioned - you might want to keep a good quality adjustable wrench on your reloading bench. It is very handy for snugging the dies in the press and adjusting the punch and seater stems.

I use a 10" wrench, either Metric or English will work equally well. ;)

[lee n. field]

Since the handle isn't ambidextrous and can't be made so, you have to use your right hand to operate it.

Depends on exactly which RC. I believe the Supreme can be set up with the handle on either side. Previous models (like my RCII), no.

[BigJakeJ1s]

From and ergonomic point of view, you want the handle, on the right side of the press, to line up direclty in front of your right shoulder while sitting or standing, assuming you use your right arm to work the lever. That also provides easy access to the left side of the press for managing components, etc. Just the opposite if your using your left hand to work the lever on the left side of the press (if possible).

Andy

[Mal H]

lee n. field - That's good if RCBS has made the newer Rockchukers so they can be used left or right. To be honest, I was a little surprised to see my RC couldn't be used (easily) with the left hand when I took a look at it this morning to answer that part of the question. Even though I've had it for many years, I never thought about that aspect of it before.

BigJake - Right you are. I probably should have been more specific when I said "to the right". Basically, you want the left edge of the press to be roughly in line with your right leg when you are operating the press, i.e., a little right of center.

Exactness insn't required, but you want to be in a good position during long reloading sessions. Rather than using our descriptions, I think the best plan is to clamp the press to the bench with c-clamps and sit or stand in a normal position and see where the press should be for comfortable loading. Then drill the holes.

[Ol` Joe]

C-clamp the press to the bench and see where it feels best to YOU when you work it. The others are right though, it will likely be best off to the right a little.

[Snagglepuss]

The Rockchucker Supreme is definatly ambidextreous(sp), just bought one.