Hangingrock
Member
May 1934 issue of The American Rifleman: The Star Progressive Reloading Machine by F.C. Ness.
Seventy six years ago a progressive reloading machine 16” in height excluding the handle with a 9” circular base plate. A five station unit performing multiple operations (decapping, sizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping) on a single down stroke.
The author of the article had apparently no problem obtaining a production rate of 400 per hour and readily believed reports of production rates of 500-600 per hour by one person. The Star progressive as tested was set up for 38Spl, wadcutter, and one particular powder with specified charge weight.
The author theorized that two individuals in unison could obtain a production rate of 1000 per hour (3.6 seconds per round).
Not as versatile/adaptable for rifle and pistol cartridge loading as today’s progressive but for its time a major advancement.
Seventy six years ago a progressive reloading machine 16” in height excluding the handle with a 9” circular base plate. A five station unit performing multiple operations (decapping, sizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping) on a single down stroke.
The author of the article had apparently no problem obtaining a production rate of 400 per hour and readily believed reports of production rates of 500-600 per hour by one person. The Star progressive as tested was set up for 38Spl, wadcutter, and one particular powder with specified charge weight.
The author theorized that two individuals in unison could obtain a production rate of 1000 per hour (3.6 seconds per round).
Not as versatile/adaptable for rifle and pistol cartridge loading as today’s progressive but for its time a major advancement.