12-gauge loader that will do 3.5"

[Arkansas Paul]

Hey guys and gals.
I acquired a Mossberg 535 today and am planning to do a little duck hunting this upcoming season. I'm likely going to be starting to handload some shotshell, as 3.5" duck loads are rather on the expensive side. I have experience with metallic loading, but never with shotshell.

I looked at the economical single stage units like the Lee Load All and the MEC Jr, but noticed that they were only labeled for 3" loads. So my question to you experienced guys is what single stage unit can we get for a reasonable price that will load the big 3.5" thumpers? And before you chime in saying that a 3" will do anything a 3.5" will do, I agree, but I'll be chipping in on this press with a couple of others that are set in their ways and like their shoulder half out of socket when they get back home.

Thanks.

 

[gamestalker]

Mec makes presses that do 3.5 ". If I recall, the 600 Jr. can be set up to do 3.5", I know it will do 3". I was on their site a few days ago and saw 3.5" equipment, just don't know if it was for the 600 Jr., which by the way is a stellar press for the money. I know they make a Steel Master that will do 3.5".

Personally, and from experience, I would avoid the Lee Load All like the plague. They are poorly built, and are just plain cheesy. I bought one years ago after already owning a Mec 600 Jr. because they were inexpensive. I regretted it, I also broke the handle right from the get go. Even though they have beefed the handle up a some, they are still not up to standard in my opinion. And BTW, I've had my Mec for over 30 yrs. and it's still just as good as the day I bought it. The only part I've ever had to replace, and that was about 3 yrs. ago, was the crimp start, I think is was $3, if that much.

GS

 

[oneounceload]

For waterfowl, you'll want this one:

http://www.mecreloaders.com/ProductLine/SteelMaster.asp