Forster's Co-Ax press has long held a revered position among serious reloaders. Known for its robust construction, precise operation, and versatility, it's a tool that elevates the reloading experience beyond simple expediency. This in-depth guide will explore the features, benefits, and nuances of the Forster Co-Ax press, helping you determine if it's the right addition to your reloading bench. We'll cover everything from its unique design to its capabilities and maintenance.
Understanding the Forster Co-Ax Press's Unique Design
The heart of the Forster Co-Ax press lies in its namesake: the co-axial ram design. Unlike traditional single-stage presses that rely on a lever system, the Co-Ax uses a straight-line, coaxial ram movement. This means the ram travels directly in line with the shell holder, resulting in incredibly precise and consistent shell alignment. This minimizes case deformation and ensures uniform bullet seating depth and crimp, crucial factors for accurate and reliable ammunition.
Advantages of the Co-axial Ram System
- Superior Accuracy: The straight-line ram movement eliminates the lateral forces present in lever-operated presses, significantly reducing the chance of case damage or misalignment.
- Consistent Seating: Bullet seating is remarkably consistent, contributing to improved accuracy and reduced shot-to-shot variations.
- Reduced Case Damage: The gentler force application minimizes the risk of case mouth damage or cracking.
- Enhanced Control: The smoother action provides better feel and control throughout the reloading process.
The Sturdy Construction: Built to Last
Forster is renowned for building durable equipment. The Co-Ax press is no exception, boasting a heavy-duty cast iron frame designed to withstand years of use. This robust construction minimizes flexing and vibrations, crucial for maintaining precise operation, especially during high-volume reloading sessions.
Versatile Capabilities: More Than Just a Single-Stage Press
While categorized as a single-stage press, the Co-Ax’s versatility extends beyond its primary function. With the addition of appropriate dies and accessories, it can handle a wide range of reloading tasks including:
- Case Sizing: Forster offers a variety of sizing dies to accommodate different cartridge types.
- Powder Charging: Compatible with various powder measures.
- Bullet Seating: The Co-Ax excels in precisely seating bullets, ensuring consistent overall cartridge length (OAL).
- Crimping: Forster offers crimping dies for secure bullet retention.
- Priming: While not built-in, the press can be used with separate priming tools.
Setting Up and Using Your Forster Co-Ax Press
Setting up a Forster Co-Ax press is straightforward, but precision is key. Proper setup significantly impacts the quality of your reloading.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide:
- Secure Mounting: Firmly attach the press to a sturdy reloading bench using appropriate mounting hardware.
- Die Installation: Carefully install the die(s) according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring proper alignment and height adjustment.
- Shell Holder Selection: Choose the correct shell holder for your cartridge type.
- Initial Sizing: Conduct a thorough case sizing process to prepare the brass for subsequent steps.
- Powder Charging: Use a reliable powder measure, and always double-check powder charges to avoid mishaps.
- Bullet Seating: Adjust the seating die to achieve the desired bullet seating depth.
- Crimping: Use a crimping die to securely crimp the bullet to the case.
Case Study: Improving Accuracy with the Forster Co-Ax
One reloader experienced significant improvements in accuracy after switching to a Forster Co-Ax. Previously using a less precise press, their groups were consistently larger and more inconsistent. After transitioning to the Co-Ax, they noted a remarkable decrease in group size and an overall improvement in shot-to-shot consistency, leading to better performance at the range.
Maintenance and Care for Optimal Performance
Proper maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan and maintaining the accuracy of your Forster Co-Ax press.
Essential Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Lubrication: Keep the ram and other moving parts properly lubricated with a high-quality reloading lubricant.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean any debris or powder residue from the press and dies.
- Die Inspection: Periodically inspect your dies for wear or damage.
- Proper Storage: Store your press in a clean, dry environment to prevent corrosion.
Conclusion: Is the Forster Co-Ax Press Right for You?
The Forster Co-Ax press is a significant investment, but for serious reloaders who prioritize precision and consistency, it's a worthwhile one. Its unique design, robust construction, and versatile capabilities make it a top choice for those seeking to elevate their reloading game. While the initial cost is higher than some other presses, the improved accuracy, reduced case damage, and long-term reliability make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. The peace of mind knowing your ammunition is of the highest quality is priceless for many shooters.