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- Case PrepCase Prep Case prep is important in the reloading process because the case acts as both a container for the powder and bullet and a seal for the gun’s chamber. How well you prepare your cases affect the accuracy and consistency of your ammunition. When preparing a case, you may not require all of the procedures listed below or complete them in the order shown here. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your processes based on available equipment, the firearms you own and the type of shooting you will be doing. Please continue to read, learn and understand various methods and techniques so that you find the system that works the best for your shooting needs. We like to start with at least 100 cases in a batch. When you start a new case prep procedure, be certain to process only three or four cases and check to measure to see that desired results are being attained. Brass Inspection – Prepare cases for reloading by making sure no case mouths are damaged or split. Remove dirt and debris. A bright ring just ahead of the extractor groove may indicate the case is weak and ready…
- Case TrimmersCase Trimmers We make case trimming and conditioning easy and accurate with our popular and versatile Case Trimmer System. You can start small and add accessories as your reloading needs progress. Control your own reloading variables and keep ammunition costs down – there’s no better way to ensure your reconditioned cases will chamber properly and perform with consistency than by using our modular system. Our Case Trimmer System begins with three quality-manufactured and time-tested miniature lathes that trim most calibers: Original Case Trimmer & Kit – Trims most standard calibers from 17 cal (.171”) to 460 cal (.459”), such as 223 Rem, 308 Win, and 30-06. This category includes the Original-sized Power Case Trimmer to fit most standard drill presses. Classic Case Trimmer & Kit – Trims larger and classic black powder calibers, such as 45-100, 50 AE, and 50-70 Gov. 50 BMG Case Trimmer – Turns 50 BMG and Barrett calibers. All Forster Products Case Trimmers share these superior features: Four staggered-tooth cutting edges made of high alloy steel provide fast, smooth, chatterless cutting for perfectly square case mouths. Cuts are bright and uniform. Bearing is hand-honed to fit the cutter shaft for a precision fit. Fine adjustment screw…
- Case Conditioning ToolsCase Conditioning Tools – for Use with Case Trimmers Add any or all of our specialized case conditioning accessories to meet your needs. After trimming your cases to length, you can properly prepare them for priming and bullet seating. Our system easily expands to perform a variety of important case preparation functions. These accessories are fully functional with Original, Classic, 50 BMG, or Power Case Trimmers. Installation is easy. Depending on the accessory, just slide it into the Pilot hole or over the Cutter Shaft, and secure with a set screw adjustment.
- Case Lubrication & SizingCase Sizing & Lubricating Case sizing involves using the Co-Ax® Press to insert a cartridge case into the interior of a resizing die; the die’s interior is slightly larger than a new cartridge case. This re-sizing process returns the fired case to a size that will always allow it to fit back into a minimum-sized SAAMI chamber. Select a Reloading Die – Choose the correct die that will help you achieve the best results. Forster Products manufactures three types of Bench Rest® sizing dies: Full Length Sizing Die – Sizes the case neck, shoulder and body, deprimes and expands the case neck Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Die – Sizes case neck for desired bullet tension, deprimes and sizes shoulder to set headspace (length) Neck Sizing Die – Sizes and expands the case neck and deprimes Lube the Brass – This crucial step prevents cases from getting stuck in the reloading die. The best method is to lube each case with an oil-based lubricant, with your fingers. Too much lube is as troublesome as inadequate lube. Resize and Deprime the Brass – Squeezes the cartridge case down to a smaller dimension, deprimes (remove the spent primer) and may expand the internal…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press The simplest, most powerful and most accurate press on the market, bar none. [etheme_alert type=”error” title=”Order Fulfillment -“] The Co-Ax Reloading Press is currently in very high demand. Please be aware that we are manufacturing and shipping our tools as quickly as we can. Some products are back ordered, so delivery will take longer than usual. Place your order now to reserve yours. It will be worth the wait.[/etheme_alert] If you want famous Forster Products precision, the Co-Ax Press delivers. It keeps the process simple and includes several unique features, such as snap-in, snap-out die changing that takes all of two seconds! A self-contained spent-primer catcher system helps keep all working parts free of dirt and abrasives, and dual floating guide rods help ensure perfect alignment. The Co-Ax Reloading Press is designed for two main purposes: Rifle and pistol case resizing and bullet seating. Rifle and pistol primer seating. Features Perfect alignment of the die and the case Requires very little force to use Mounts virtually anywhere Accepts any standard ⅞”-14 reloading die Quick slide-in-slide-out die changing Long life Unique top priming device seats primers to factory specifications Heavy-duty and durable baked on powder coat finish Easy…
- Full Length Sizing DiesFull Length Bench Rest® Sizing Dies Produces ammunition that has a “glove fit” to your chamber. Use after each firing or after several firings, when the resulting brass flow will require the case to be full-length sized. Sizes the case neck, shoulder, and body Deprimes and expands the case neck Allows the case to be re-chambered in a SAAMI minimum size rifle chamber Precisely positioned vent hole located in the threaded or recessed portion of the die body prevents excessive, trapped air and lubrications from damaging the die’s components or your cases Full Length Sizing Dies are available in more than 70 calibers, either individually or as part of the Bench Rest Die Set with a Bench Rest Seater Die. Note: When using military brass with crimped primers, use a decapping die first to remove spent crimped primers (not available from Forster Products).
- Bushing Bump Neck DiesBushing Bump NeckBench Rest® Sizing Dies The Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Die brings you an advanced precision level by allowing you to precisely control the amount of neck sizing tension in your reloaded cartridge brass. This die improves accuracy and prolongs case life because the neck is sized down as little as necessary while still “bumping” the shoulder of the case to maintain overall case concentricity. Sizes the case neck and shoulder to set headspace and deprimes One-step bushing reduction/bump operation sets the shoulder back to keep your case neck in better alignment with the case’s center line Prevents overworking of case necks, as well as controls the amount of neck tension for your bullet seating operation Over 90 available bushings allow case necks to be sized to your exact requirements Versatility allows you to custom size your cases to your specifications. Ordering Information Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Dies are available either individually or in a kit with three pre-selected bushings most likely needed to produce accurate ammunition with proper neck tension. Bushings are available separately. If you’re making cartridges for a tight chambered rifle, you might need smaller bushings. Alternatively, you might need larger bushings if you are not…
- Stuck Case Remover
- Case PrimingCase Priming Case Priming is one of the most critical operations because in order to perform efficiently, consistent ignition is absolutely mandatory. This step must be completed before adding new powder, so that the powder will not spill out of the bottom. Note that when priming your cases, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Clean and Ream the Primer Pocket – Check for any residue that may have gathered in the primer pocket. Primer Seating – Press primers (small metal cups) into the hollowed out primer pocket of the cartridge case. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell Reloading: Priming for Success, Tom…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press Primer Seater Assembly The Primer Catcher on our Co-Ax Reloading Press works so well, it brings your reloading out of the basement and into the living room. With our unique system, there’s no more carbon, ground glass, spent or live primers to clutter up the floor or contaminate the working parts of your press. The seater is always at right angles to the case head. Primers will not flip or tip; they will be seated straight, level and at a uniform distance below the case head. Primers cannot be crushed, nor will they protrude from the case head and cause premature firing. The Co-Ax Reloading Press’s drop tube, which is threaded into the carrier below the shell holder, directs all spent primers and other residue into a jar below the press. The tube and the jar follow the carrier during the sizing and seating process. Simply remove the jar to empty it.
- Co-Ax Primer SeaterCo-Ax® Primer Seater It’s fast, it’s easy, and it seats primers perfectly – all with a level of quality you won’t find anywhere else. Unique design allows the operator to eliminate all slop when working with a specific cartridge, translating into perfect seating, reliable ignition, and reduced misfires Requires no additional shell holders; the jaws close to securely grip most modern rifle and pistol cases with a rim thickness of .045″ to .072″ Built-in primer flipper tray; tubes fill easily from tray Large and small primer tubes have an open slot Primers stack sideways for added measure of safety Includes large and small primer tubes
- Powder MeasurementPowder Measurement and Handling Powder measurement ensures that a consistent charge of powder is used each time, and will speed up your reloading operation and increase safety. Note that when filling your cases with powder, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Research the Amount of Gunpowder – Determine the recommended amount for your load. Measure the Powder – Get close to the desired weight for each case. Fill the Case with Powder – Accurately load the case with the correct amount of powder using a funnel designed for transferring the powder. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate…
- Bullet SeatingBullet Seating Bullet seating is the process of pressing the bullet into the cartridge case to the proper depth. It is the last and possibly the most important step to make sure that each bullet is seated to the same depth every time. Correct seating depth plays a large role on the peak pressure when the cartridge is ignited. Note that when seating your bullets, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Determine the Cartridge Overall Length (C.O.A.L. or C.O.L.) – To control the interior volume of the cartridge case during seating. Determine the Proper Seating Depth – To give the cartridge peak pressure when it is ignited. Seater Die Selection – To choose the correct die that will help you achieve the best results. Forster Products produces two types of seater dies: Seater Die – Holds the bullet, case and seating…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press The simplest, most powerful and most accurate press on the market, bar none. [etheme_alert type=”error” title=”Order Fulfillment -“] The Co-Ax Reloading Press is currently in very high demand. Please be aware that we are manufacturing and shipping our tools as quickly as we can. Some products are back ordered, so delivery will take longer than usual. Place your order now to reserve yours. It will be worth the wait.[/etheme_alert] If you want famous Forster Products precision, the Co-Ax Press delivers. It keeps the process simple and includes several unique features, such as snap-in, snap-out die changing that takes all of two seconds! A self-contained spent-primer catcher system helps keep all working parts free of dirt and abrasives, and dual floating guide rods help ensure perfect alignment. The Co-Ax Reloading Press is designed for two main purposes: Rifle and pistol case resizing and bullet seating. Rifle and pistol primer seating. Features Perfect alignment of the die and the case Requires very little force to use Mounts virtually anywhere Accepts any standard ⅞”-14 reloading die Quick slide-in-slide-out die changing Long life Unique top priming device seats primers to factory specifications Heavy-duty and durable baked on powder coat finish Easy…
- Seater DiesBench Rest® Seater Dies Forster Bench Rest Rifle Reloading Dies – Help you target maximum performance. The secret to perfect alignment is holding the bullet, case and seating stem in the same close fitting chamber for the entire seating operation. Innovative, caliber-specific Die Chamber holds the case, the bullet, and the seating stem all in perfect alignment; supporting the entire outside diameter of the sized case rather than just the bullet and case neck. (Most competing products support only the case rim.) Non-crimping style provides accuracy, consistency, and perfect alignment. (Exception: 30-30 caliber Die does crimp.) Seating stems supplied with our standard seaters match even special bullet needs such as those encountered during the loading of most Very Low Drag (VLD) bullets. Forster Products offers two styles of Bench Rest Seater Dies: Bench Rest Seater Die – First die of its kind on the market and is still the best straight line Seater Die available. Ultra™ Micrometer Seater Die – Fine adjustments for precise seating measurements the very first time. Years ago, Forster/Bonanza obtained U.S. Patent #3,440,923 for the design of the original Bench Rest® Seater Die. That patent covered the use of a specially machined, close fitting chamber that…
- Inspection & MeasurementInspection and Measurement Inspection and measurement improve your shooting accuracy by fine-tuning the uniformity of your cases and cartridges. Note that when inspecting and measuring during reloading, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine-tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Inspect Loaded Cartridges – Make sure that no defects or damage was introduced during the reloading process. Measure the Round – Determine if your cartridge lengths follow the tolerance specifications for your caliber. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate Guide to Guns, Ballistics, and Shooting, Michael E Bussard and Stanton L. Wormley Jr. Shooter’s Bible Guide to Handloading: a Comprehensive Reference for Responsible and Reliable…
- Datum DialDatum Dial™ Ammunition Measurement System The easy-to-use and versatile patented Datum Dial system is a groundbreaking tool designed to gather the data you need to refine case sizing and bullet seating operations. Core components include a body and three dials that reliably measure relative distances between selected points on cases, bullets, and cartridges. Your payoff? Precise information that helps you increase accuracy, improve safety, maximize consistency, and boost your reloading capability. Provides the data you need to refine your case sizing and bullet seating operations: Better accuracy because your ammunition’s headspace is tailored to your firearms’ chamber Safer shooting because excessive headspace, which may lead to dangerous case separation, can be avoided Quick sorting of batches of cases, bullets and cartridges to effectively remove variation to provide relative consistency More reloads possible because of reduced work hardening of brass Cases Using the average relative measurement taken from several cases that have been fire-formed from the same firearm, you can then adjust your sizing die to produce cartridges with a headspace tailored to your firearm’s chamber. X = relative measurement between the base of a case to a datum point on its shoulder angle. Bullets and Cartridges You can also adjust…
- Case InspectorCo-Ax® Case and Cartridge Inspector Improve your shooting accuracy by fine-tuning the uniformity of your cases and cartridges. Measures “accuracy-critical” dimensions: Neck wall thickness Case and cartridge runout (concentricity) Uniquely supports case/cartridge to check both bullet and case alignment in relation to the centerline (long axis) of the case/cartridge Measurements are in increments of .001″ Accommodates cartridges from 204 Ruger to 45-70 Includes precision dial indicator, accurate to .001″ Inspects overall case lengths up to 3.50″ Quality manufactured from precision-engineered automotive-type castings Uses the same Pilots as our Case Trimmers, sold separately Case Neck Wall Thickness A case neck with irregular thickness can add inconsistent tension to the bullet and ruin your precision. Unfortunately, even newly produced brass can vary in thickness from one lot to another. A variation of at least .0015″ indicates the need to resize and outside turn the case neck. Case and Cartridge Runout (Concentricity) The outside of the cartridge is ideally aligned in a concentric circle around the axis. Using the wrong shell holder or improperly indexing can alter the “concentricity” of a case. Concentricity is used to identify a number of issues that affect ammunition loaded for accuracy. Variations of .0015″ and greater in…
- CartridgesCartridges Cartridge refinement allows for additional enhancements to the cartridges that can increase overall accuracy. Note that when completing the final reloading process with your cartridges, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine-tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Hollow Pointing – To give precision shooters the capability of fine-tuning bullet weight to improve ballistics by drilling cavities in the noses of cast or jacketed soft-nose bullets [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate Guide to Guns, Ballistics, and Shooting, Michael E Bussard and Stanton L. Wormley Jr. Shooter’s Bible Guide to Handloading: a Comprehensive Reference for Responsible and Reliable Reloading, Wayne van Zwoll Step-by-Step Reloading:…
- Case PrepCase Prep Case prep is important in the reloading process because the case acts as both a container for the powder and bullet and a seal for the gun’s chamber. How well you prepare your cases affect the accuracy and consistency of your ammunition. When preparing a case, you may not require all of the procedures listed below or complete them in the order shown here. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your processes based on available equipment, the firearms you own and the type of shooting you will be doing. Please continue to read, learn and understand various methods and techniques so that you find the system that works the best for your shooting needs. We like to start with at least 100 cases in a batch. When you start a new case prep procedure, be certain to process only three or four cases and check to measure to see that desired results are being attained. Brass Inspection – Prepare cases for reloading by making sure no case mouths are damaged or split. Remove dirt and debris. A bright ring just ahead of the extractor groove may indicate the case is weak and ready…
- GunsmithingGunsmithing Placeholder, overview coming soon….
- Sight MountingUniversal Sight Mounting Fixture Guarantees true spacing and alignment of scope mount, receiver sight and shotgun bead holes. The Forster Universal Sight Mounting Fixture was designed to meet the exacting requirements of gunsmiths who drill and tap holes for the mounting of scope mounts, receiver sights and shotgun beads. It helps guarantee that both spacing and alignment are straight and true. The fixture will accommodate any single barrel long gun including bolt actions, lever actions and pump actions as long as the barrel can be laid into the ”V” blocks of the fixture. Tubular magazine guns can be drilled in the same manner as other firearms by simply removing the magazine tube. Precision machining from solid aluminum casting ensures all components are perfectly aligned Accommodates any single barrel long gun including bolt actions, lever actions, and pump actions, as long as the barrel can be laid into the fixture’s “V” blocks. The two hardened steel “V” blocks are accurately ground on the “V” as well as the shaft and are independently adjustable for height. Movable fixture arm locates the holes to a standard spacing determined by the over-arm, which has standard, built-in spacing increments of .500″ and .860″ between centers.…
- Headspace GagesHeadspace Gages Exclusive Forster quality offers the best way to check your rifle chamber for safety. Your safety and performance are on the line. Improper headspace may be dangerous to the shooter as well as an impairment to accuracy. The proper use of a Headspace Gage is the most reliable way to test the length of a rifle chamber. Excessive headspace may lead to gas leakage around the case or head separation and the sudden release of high pressure gas. Insufficient or excessively tight headspace may cause malfunctions such as failure to lock. It often makes extraction difficult and may cause dangerous stresses on the mechanism, which may, in turn, shorten component life expectancy or lead to failure. Large caliber selection of both rimmed/belted and rimless gages Three lengths of Headspace Gages for most rifle calibers offered (GO, NO-GO, FIELD). Full sets for three calibers (223, 308 and 30-06). Each set contains 11 gages, clearly marked in .001” increments from shortest SAAMI length to longest SAAMI length. Manufactured from top-quality, hardened steel and precision ground to ANSI and SAAMI tolerances. Headspace tolerance ground to a very exacting ±.00015″. Each Headspace Gage thoroughly inspected with NIST-certified measurement tools. Choosing the Correct…
- Screwdrivers & ScrewsGunsmithing Screwdrivers and Screws The right tool and the right quality for the job. Whoever said “…a screwdriver is just a screwdriver” obviously wasn’t a gunsmith. Every gunsmith knows that using the right screwdriver for the job saves time, effort, and damage to valuable firearms and accessories. Forster offers a collection of specialty screws and screwdrivers designed specifically for the unique needs of the gunsmithing profession. Screwdrivers These quality manufactured, hollow ground screwdrivers are versatile enough to be adaptable to many other uses, as well. Twelve different specialty screwdrivers are available individually. Eight of the most commonly used screwdrivers from that collection have also been bundled together as a convenient set. Choose screwdrivers designed specifically for the mounting of scope sights and other common gunsmithing requirements. Gunsmiths’ screwdrivers will be properly dimensioned to handle those unique tasks. Nothing is more frustrating than a bruised scope mount, a distorted screw, or the white metal showing through the finish of an expensive scope that has been subjected to a damaging mounting job. (Forster Products screwdrivers are not the double wedge type, swedged on a punch press, with which you may already have had bad experiences.)
- Inlay FillingInlay Filling Adds a touch of elegance to any engraved firearm. Features Fills engraving and lettering on firearms Enhances value of new or used guns Includes enough material (vials of fine bronze powder, cleaner sealant and application patches) for five to ten guns “Silver” (vial of fine aluminum powder) available separately for use with the contents of the “Gold” Inlay Filling Kit Ideal for other hobbies such as model railroad engines
- AccessoriesGunsmithing Tools An assortment of accessories to round out the gunsmith’s toolkit.
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- Reloading
- Case PrepCase Prep Case prep is important in the reloading process because the case acts as both a container for the powder and bullet and a seal for the gun’s chamber. How well you prepare your cases affect the accuracy and consistency of your ammunition. When preparing a case, you may not require all of the procedures listed below or complete them in the order shown here. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your processes based on available equipment, the firearms you own and the type of shooting you will be doing. Please continue to read, learn and understand various methods and techniques so that you find the system that works the best for your shooting needs. We like to start with at least 100 cases in a batch. When you start a new case prep procedure, be certain to process only three or four cases and check to measure to see that desired results are being attained. Brass Inspection – Prepare cases for reloading by making sure no case mouths are damaged or split. Remove dirt and debris. A bright ring just ahead of the extractor groove may indicate the case is weak and ready…
- Case TrimmersCase Trimmers We make case trimming and conditioning easy and accurate with our popular and versatile Case Trimmer System. You can start small and add accessories as your reloading needs progress. Control your own reloading variables and keep ammunition costs down – there’s no better way to ensure your reconditioned cases will chamber properly and perform with consistency than by using our modular system. Our Case Trimmer System begins with three quality-manufactured and time-tested miniature lathes that trim most calibers: Original Case Trimmer & Kit – Trims most standard calibers from 17 cal (.171”) to 460 cal (.459”), such as 223 Rem, 308 Win, and 30-06. This category includes the Original-sized Power Case Trimmer to fit most standard drill presses. Classic Case Trimmer & Kit – Trims larger and classic black powder calibers, such as 45-100, 50 AE, and 50-70 Gov. 50 BMG Case Trimmer – Turns 50 BMG and Barrett calibers. All Forster Products Case Trimmers share these superior features: Four staggered-tooth cutting edges made of high alloy steel provide fast, smooth, chatterless cutting for perfectly square case mouths. Cuts are bright and uniform. Bearing is hand-honed to fit the cutter shaft for a precision fit. Fine adjustment screw…
- Case Conditioning ToolsCase Conditioning Tools – for Use with Case Trimmers Add any or all of our specialized case conditioning accessories to meet your needs. After trimming your cases to length, you can properly prepare them for priming and bullet seating. Our system easily expands to perform a variety of important case preparation functions. These accessories are fully functional with Original, Classic, 50 BMG, or Power Case Trimmers. Installation is easy. Depending on the accessory, just slide it into the Pilot hole or over the Cutter Shaft, and secure with a set screw adjustment.
- Case Lubrication & SizingCase Sizing & Lubricating Case sizing involves using the Co-Ax® Press to insert a cartridge case into the interior of a resizing die; the die’s interior is slightly larger than a new cartridge case. This re-sizing process returns the fired case to a size that will always allow it to fit back into a minimum-sized SAAMI chamber. Select a Reloading Die – Choose the correct die that will help you achieve the best results. Forster Products manufactures three types of Bench Rest® sizing dies: Full Length Sizing Die – Sizes the case neck, shoulder and body, deprimes and expands the case neck Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Die – Sizes case neck for desired bullet tension, deprimes and sizes shoulder to set headspace (length) Neck Sizing Die – Sizes and expands the case neck and deprimes Lube the Brass – This crucial step prevents cases from getting stuck in the reloading die. The best method is to lube each case with an oil-based lubricant, with your fingers. Too much lube is as troublesome as inadequate lube. Resize and Deprime the Brass – Squeezes the cartridge case down to a smaller dimension, deprimes (remove the spent primer) and may expand the internal…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press The simplest, most powerful and most accurate press on the market, bar none. [etheme_alert type=”error” title=”Order Fulfillment -“] The Co-Ax Reloading Press is currently in very high demand. Please be aware that we are manufacturing and shipping our tools as quickly as we can. Some products are back ordered, so delivery will take longer than usual. Place your order now to reserve yours. It will be worth the wait.[/etheme_alert] If you want famous Forster Products precision, the Co-Ax Press delivers. It keeps the process simple and includes several unique features, such as snap-in, snap-out die changing that takes all of two seconds! A self-contained spent-primer catcher system helps keep all working parts free of dirt and abrasives, and dual floating guide rods help ensure perfect alignment. The Co-Ax Reloading Press is designed for two main purposes: Rifle and pistol case resizing and bullet seating. Rifle and pistol primer seating. Features Perfect alignment of the die and the case Requires very little force to use Mounts virtually anywhere Accepts any standard ⅞”-14 reloading die Quick slide-in-slide-out die changing Long life Unique top priming device seats primers to factory specifications Heavy-duty and durable baked on powder coat finish Easy…
- Full Length Sizing DiesFull Length Bench Rest® Sizing Dies Produces ammunition that has a “glove fit” to your chamber. Use after each firing or after several firings, when the resulting brass flow will require the case to be full-length sized. Sizes the case neck, shoulder, and body Deprimes and expands the case neck Allows the case to be re-chambered in a SAAMI minimum size rifle chamber Precisely positioned vent hole located in the threaded or recessed portion of the die body prevents excessive, trapped air and lubrications from damaging the die’s components or your cases Full Length Sizing Dies are available in more than 70 calibers, either individually or as part of the Bench Rest Die Set with a Bench Rest Seater Die. Note: When using military brass with crimped primers, use a decapping die first to remove spent crimped primers (not available from Forster Products).
- Bushing Bump Neck DiesBushing Bump NeckBench Rest® Sizing Dies The Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Die brings you an advanced precision level by allowing you to precisely control the amount of neck sizing tension in your reloaded cartridge brass. This die improves accuracy and prolongs case life because the neck is sized down as little as necessary while still “bumping” the shoulder of the case to maintain overall case concentricity. Sizes the case neck and shoulder to set headspace and deprimes One-step bushing reduction/bump operation sets the shoulder back to keep your case neck in better alignment with the case’s center line Prevents overworking of case necks, as well as controls the amount of neck tension for your bullet seating operation Over 90 available bushings allow case necks to be sized to your exact requirements Versatility allows you to custom size your cases to your specifications. Ordering Information Bushing Bump Neck Sizing Dies are available either individually or in a kit with three pre-selected bushings most likely needed to produce accurate ammunition with proper neck tension. Bushings are available separately. If you’re making cartridges for a tight chambered rifle, you might need smaller bushings. Alternatively, you might need larger bushings if you are not…
- Stuck Case Remover
- Case PrimingCase Priming Case Priming is one of the most critical operations because in order to perform efficiently, consistent ignition is absolutely mandatory. This step must be completed before adding new powder, so that the powder will not spill out of the bottom. Note that when priming your cases, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Clean and Ream the Primer Pocket – Check for any residue that may have gathered in the primer pocket. Primer Seating – Press primers (small metal cups) into the hollowed out primer pocket of the cartridge case. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell Reloading: Priming for Success, Tom…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press Primer Seater Assembly The Primer Catcher on our Co-Ax Reloading Press works so well, it brings your reloading out of the basement and into the living room. With our unique system, there’s no more carbon, ground glass, spent or live primers to clutter up the floor or contaminate the working parts of your press. The seater is always at right angles to the case head. Primers will not flip or tip; they will be seated straight, level and at a uniform distance below the case head. Primers cannot be crushed, nor will they protrude from the case head and cause premature firing. The Co-Ax Reloading Press’s drop tube, which is threaded into the carrier below the shell holder, directs all spent primers and other residue into a jar below the press. The tube and the jar follow the carrier during the sizing and seating process. Simply remove the jar to empty it.
- Co-Ax Primer SeaterCo-Ax® Primer Seater It’s fast, it’s easy, and it seats primers perfectly – all with a level of quality you won’t find anywhere else. Unique design allows the operator to eliminate all slop when working with a specific cartridge, translating into perfect seating, reliable ignition, and reduced misfires Requires no additional shell holders; the jaws close to securely grip most modern rifle and pistol cases with a rim thickness of .045″ to .072″ Built-in primer flipper tray; tubes fill easily from tray Large and small primer tubes have an open slot Primers stack sideways for added measure of safety Includes large and small primer tubes
- Powder MeasurementPowder Measurement and Handling Powder measurement ensures that a consistent charge of powder is used each time, and will speed up your reloading operation and increase safety. Note that when filling your cases with powder, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Research the Amount of Gunpowder – Determine the recommended amount for your load. Measure the Powder – Get close to the desired weight for each case. Fill the Case with Powder – Accurately load the case with the correct amount of powder using a funnel designed for transferring the powder. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate…
- Bullet SeatingBullet Seating Bullet seating is the process of pressing the bullet into the cartridge case to the proper depth. It is the last and possibly the most important step to make sure that each bullet is seated to the same depth every time. Correct seating depth plays a large role on the peak pressure when the cartridge is ignited. Note that when seating your bullets, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Determine the Cartridge Overall Length (C.O.A.L. or C.O.L.) – To control the interior volume of the cartridge case during seating. Determine the Proper Seating Depth – To give the cartridge peak pressure when it is ignited. Seater Die Selection – To choose the correct die that will help you achieve the best results. Forster Products produces two types of seater dies: Seater Die – Holds the bullet, case and seating…
- Co-Ax Reloading PressCo-Ax® Reloading Press The simplest, most powerful and most accurate press on the market, bar none. [etheme_alert type=”error” title=”Order Fulfillment -“] The Co-Ax Reloading Press is currently in very high demand. Please be aware that we are manufacturing and shipping our tools as quickly as we can. Some products are back ordered, so delivery will take longer than usual. Place your order now to reserve yours. It will be worth the wait.[/etheme_alert] If you want famous Forster Products precision, the Co-Ax Press delivers. It keeps the process simple and includes several unique features, such as snap-in, snap-out die changing that takes all of two seconds! A self-contained spent-primer catcher system helps keep all working parts free of dirt and abrasives, and dual floating guide rods help ensure perfect alignment. The Co-Ax Reloading Press is designed for two main purposes: Rifle and pistol case resizing and bullet seating. Rifle and pistol primer seating. Features Perfect alignment of the die and the case Requires very little force to use Mounts virtually anywhere Accepts any standard ⅞”-14 reloading die Quick slide-in-slide-out die changing Long life Unique top priming device seats primers to factory specifications Heavy-duty and durable baked on powder coat finish Easy…
- Seater DiesBench Rest® Seater Dies Forster Bench Rest Rifle Reloading Dies – Help you target maximum performance. The secret to perfect alignment is holding the bullet, case and seating stem in the same close fitting chamber for the entire seating operation. Innovative, caliber-specific Die Chamber holds the case, the bullet, and the seating stem all in perfect alignment; supporting the entire outside diameter of the sized case rather than just the bullet and case neck. (Most competing products support only the case rim.) Non-crimping style provides accuracy, consistency, and perfect alignment. (Exception: 30-30 caliber Die does crimp.) Seating stems supplied with our standard seaters match even special bullet needs such as those encountered during the loading of most Very Low Drag (VLD) bullets. Forster Products offers two styles of Bench Rest Seater Dies: Bench Rest Seater Die – First die of its kind on the market and is still the best straight line Seater Die available. Ultra™ Micrometer Seater Die – Fine adjustments for precise seating measurements the very first time. Years ago, Forster/Bonanza obtained U.S. Patent #3,440,923 for the design of the original Bench Rest® Seater Die. That patent covered the use of a specially machined, close fitting chamber that…
- Inspection & MeasurementInspection and Measurement Inspection and measurement improve your shooting accuracy by fine-tuning the uniformity of your cases and cartridges. Note that when inspecting and measuring during reloading, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine-tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Inspect Loaded Cartridges – Make sure that no defects or damage was introduced during the reloading process. Measure the Round – Determine if your cartridge lengths follow the tolerance specifications for your caliber. [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate Guide to Guns, Ballistics, and Shooting, Michael E Bussard and Stanton L. Wormley Jr. Shooter’s Bible Guide to Handloading: a Comprehensive Reference for Responsible and Reliable…
- Datum DialDatum Dial™ Ammunition Measurement System The easy-to-use and versatile patented Datum Dial system is a groundbreaking tool designed to gather the data you need to refine case sizing and bullet seating operations. Core components include a body and three dials that reliably measure relative distances between selected points on cases, bullets, and cartridges. Your payoff? Precise information that helps you increase accuracy, improve safety, maximize consistency, and boost your reloading capability. Provides the data you need to refine your case sizing and bullet seating operations: Better accuracy because your ammunition’s headspace is tailored to your firearms’ chamber Safer shooting because excessive headspace, which may lead to dangerous case separation, can be avoided Quick sorting of batches of cases, bullets and cartridges to effectively remove variation to provide relative consistency More reloads possible because of reduced work hardening of brass Cases Using the average relative measurement taken from several cases that have been fire-formed from the same firearm, you can then adjust your sizing die to produce cartridges with a headspace tailored to your firearm’s chamber. X = relative measurement between the base of a case to a datum point on its shoulder angle. Bullets and Cartridges You can also adjust…
- Case InspectorCo-Ax® Case and Cartridge Inspector Improve your shooting accuracy by fine-tuning the uniformity of your cases and cartridges. Measures “accuracy-critical” dimensions: Neck wall thickness Case and cartridge runout (concentricity) Uniquely supports case/cartridge to check both bullet and case alignment in relation to the centerline (long axis) of the case/cartridge Measurements are in increments of .001″ Accommodates cartridges from 204 Ruger to 45-70 Includes precision dial indicator, accurate to .001″ Inspects overall case lengths up to 3.50″ Quality manufactured from precision-engineered automotive-type castings Uses the same Pilots as our Case Trimmers, sold separately Case Neck Wall Thickness A case neck with irregular thickness can add inconsistent tension to the bullet and ruin your precision. Unfortunately, even newly produced brass can vary in thickness from one lot to another. A variation of at least .0015″ indicates the need to resize and outside turn the case neck. Case and Cartridge Runout (Concentricity) The outside of the cartridge is ideally aligned in a concentric circle around the axis. Using the wrong shell holder or improperly indexing can alter the “concentricity” of a case. Concentricity is used to identify a number of issues that affect ammunition loaded for accuracy. Variations of .0015″ and greater in…
- CartridgesCartridges Cartridge refinement allows for additional enhancements to the cartridges that can increase overall accuracy. Note that when completing the final reloading process with your cartridges, you may not necessarily follow all of the procedures listed below or even the order shown. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine-tune your own process based on your equipment, your rifle calibers and personal preferences. We suggest that you continue to read, learn and understand various methods so that you can find the system that works the best for you. Hollow Pointing – To give precision shooters the capability of fine-tuning bullet weight to improve ballistics by drilling cavities in the noses of cast or jacketed soft-nose bullets [etheme_alert type=”notice” title=”Safety – “]Please follow all pertinent safety procedures such as using safety glasses, being in a well-lit and well-ventilated workspace, and having all reloading tools in top working condition.[/etheme_alert] Suggested Further Reading Designing and Forming Custom Cartridges for Rifles and Handguns, Ken Howell NRA Firearms Sourcebook: Your Ultimate Guide to Guns, Ballistics, and Shooting, Michael E Bussard and Stanton L. Wormley Jr. Shooter’s Bible Guide to Handloading: a Comprehensive Reference for Responsible and Reliable Reloading, Wayne van Zwoll Step-by-Step Reloading:…
- Case PrepCase Prep Case prep is important in the reloading process because the case acts as both a container for the powder and bullet and a seal for the gun’s chamber. How well you prepare your cases affect the accuracy and consistency of your ammunition. When preparing a case, you may not require all of the procedures listed below or complete them in the order shown here. As you become more proficient in reloading, you will fine tune your processes based on available equipment, the firearms you own and the type of shooting you will be doing. Please continue to read, learn and understand various methods and techniques so that you find the system that works the best for your shooting needs. We like to start with at least 100 cases in a batch. When you start a new case prep procedure, be certain to process only three or four cases and check to measure to see that desired results are being attained. Brass Inspection – Prepare cases for reloading by making sure no case mouths are damaged or split. Remove dirt and debris. A bright ring just ahead of the extractor groove may indicate the case is weak and ready…
- GunsmithingGunsmithing Placeholder, overview coming soon….
- Sight MountingUniversal Sight Mounting Fixture Guarantees true spacing and alignment of scope mount, receiver sight and shotgun bead holes. The Forster Universal Sight Mounting Fixture was designed to meet the exacting requirements of gunsmiths who drill and tap holes for the mounting of scope mounts, receiver sights and shotgun beads. It helps guarantee that both spacing and alignment are straight and true. The fixture will accommodate any single barrel long gun including bolt actions, lever actions and pump actions as long as the barrel can be laid into the ”V” blocks of the fixture. Tubular magazine guns can be drilled in the same manner as other firearms by simply removing the magazine tube. Precision machining from solid aluminum casting ensures all components are perfectly aligned Accommodates any single barrel long gun including bolt actions, lever actions, and pump actions, as long as the barrel can be laid into the fixture’s “V” blocks. The two hardened steel “V” blocks are accurately ground on the “V” as well as the shaft and are independently adjustable for height. Movable fixture arm locates the holes to a standard spacing determined by the over-arm, which has standard, built-in spacing increments of .500″ and .860″ between centers.…
- Headspace GagesHeadspace Gages Exclusive Forster quality offers the best way to check your rifle chamber for safety. Your safety and performance are on the line. Improper headspace may be dangerous to the shooter as well as an impairment to accuracy. The proper use of a Headspace Gage is the most reliable way to test the length of a rifle chamber. Excessive headspace may lead to gas leakage around the case or head separation and the sudden release of high pressure gas. Insufficient or excessively tight headspace may cause malfunctions such as failure to lock. It often makes extraction difficult and may cause dangerous stresses on the mechanism, which may, in turn, shorten component life expectancy or lead to failure. Large caliber selection of both rimmed/belted and rimless gages Three lengths of Headspace Gages for most rifle calibers offered (GO, NO-GO, FIELD). Full sets for three calibers (223, 308 and 30-06). Each set contains 11 gages, clearly marked in .001” increments from shortest SAAMI length to longest SAAMI length. Manufactured from top-quality, hardened steel and precision ground to ANSI and SAAMI tolerances. Headspace tolerance ground to a very exacting ±.00015″. Each Headspace Gage thoroughly inspected with NIST-certified measurement tools. Choosing the Correct…
- Screwdrivers & ScrewsGunsmithing Screwdrivers and Screws The right tool and the right quality for the job. Whoever said “…a screwdriver is just a screwdriver” obviously wasn’t a gunsmith. Every gunsmith knows that using the right screwdriver for the job saves time, effort, and damage to valuable firearms and accessories. Forster offers a collection of specialty screws and screwdrivers designed specifically for the unique needs of the gunsmithing profession. Screwdrivers These quality manufactured, hollow ground screwdrivers are versatile enough to be adaptable to many other uses, as well. Twelve different specialty screwdrivers are available individually. Eight of the most commonly used screwdrivers from that collection have also been bundled together as a convenient set. Choose screwdrivers designed specifically for the mounting of scope sights and other common gunsmithing requirements. Gunsmiths’ screwdrivers will be properly dimensioned to handle those unique tasks. Nothing is more frustrating than a bruised scope mount, a distorted screw, or the white metal showing through the finish of an expensive scope that has been subjected to a damaging mounting job. (Forster Products screwdrivers are not the double wedge type, swedged on a punch press, with which you may already have had bad experiences.)
- Inlay FillingInlay Filling Adds a touch of elegance to any engraved firearm. Features Fills engraving and lettering on firearms Enhances value of new or used guns Includes enough material (vials of fine bronze powder, cleaner sealant and application patches) for five to ten guns “Silver” (vial of fine aluminum powder) available separately for use with the contents of the “Gold” Inlay Filling Kit Ideal for other hobbies such as model railroad engines
- AccessoriesGunsmithing Tools An assortment of accessories to round out the gunsmith’s toolkit.
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February 2019
Introducing: Quick-change Shell Holder Jaws for Co-Ax® Press
Quick-change Lower Shell Holder Jaws provide an easy alternative to realigning “S” or “LS” Jaws when switching between case sizes in Co-Ax Reloading Press.
These complete assemblies include the aligned jaws, corresponding to a single side of “S” or “LS” Jaws. Simply remove the Button Head Screws and replace the jaws to get ready for the next size of case and die. They are available in four sizes: S-Large, S-Small, LS-Large, and LS-Small.
Avoid frustration with Quick-change Jaws. You’ll never have to worry about accidentally losing a part or flipping a jaw over the wrong way.
How-to Video: Powder Funnel
The Powder Funnel with Long Drop Tube will cleanly fill cases without any need to compress the charge during bullet seating. The momentum of the gunpowder dropping down the 5¼" long tube results in a larger volume by weight.
To learn how to use this tool for proper case charging, we recommend the Powder Funnel video posted at YouTube by the experts at Bolt Action Reloading.
How Long Would You Wait for Your Co-Ax Press?
It’s not uncommon that we run across very dedicated, brand-loyal reloaders – or a Case Trimmer or Co-Ax Press shared by two or three generations within a family.
However, we were taken aback and humbled by a true story that John Hornby told at the recent SHOT Show:
“I took my Co-Ax Press with me when I served as a sniper in Vietnam, back in ’68. I used it over there for 65 months.
“When we left, I put it on a ship going back, and it had my name and service number on the outside of the box. It only took Uncle Sam till 2016 to get my Press back….
“Finally, someone found it in a warehouse, got hold of me by my service number, and shipped it back to me [in Minnesota]. It looks the same. I’m still using it today. ”
Thank you, John, for your service – and for an unforgettable visit.
Reloading Tips
My resized cases are hard to chamber. Is the reloading die not setting the shoulder back?
If you encounter a case that seems hard to chamber, the first thing you should do is to examine it with a comparator tool like Datum Dial™, to compare your fired case to your resized case and measure how much you have bumped the shoulder. Usually, you are looking for around .002" shoulder bump to assure easy chambering.
If you are not getting any bump, several factors could be at work:
- Reloading Press: The first thing always to try is to give your die an additional 1/8 to 1/4 turn past touching the shell holder. This over-camming can often yield another .001" to .002" within the linkage of the press. Don’t be afraid to cam against the moving jaws of Co-Ax Press. The jaws are high-quality, treated steel, built to take cam overstress.
- Case Lube: We always recommend oil-based lubricants. We have seen where water-based spray lubes actually allow the case to stretch within the die – sometimes the shoulder gets dragged back out when the case is exiting the die. You may not be getting a stuck case, but you are also not getting consistent resizing in this scenario. If the die spec is close to the rifle spec, you could experience difficulty chambering.
- Shell Holder: Sometimes it is as simple as trying a different shell holder that might be on the lighter side of the tolerance. (This option applies only to other vendors’ reloading presses. The Forster Products Co-Ax Press is precision ground to grip the case the same amount as when using a standard shell holder.)
- Rifle Chamber: The chamber might be machined tighter than the die. We observe this problem typically with a cartridge like 6mm Dasher, which has no SAAMI spec to reference. When the gunsmith compensates by cutting a tight chamber and then the die manufacturer tries to help the reloader by minimally working the brass, sometimes the tolerance lapping can create issues. Often it is more cost effective to have the reloading die altered to size the cases for your chamber, as opposed to reworking the rifle.
If you are using a Forster die, you can send it back to the factory for review, along with a couple sample cases fired out of your rifle. For a small machining fee, we can then shorten the die slightly to allow your fired cases to get more engagement from the die and more shoulder pushback.
We’ll Miss You
You may know Diane Haverland as the friendly voice that has greeted callers to Forster Products since 1988. She plans to retire at the end of February, and we thank her for her dedicated service and wish her all the best.
