Are you searching for that perfect beginner’s reloading press or a second press for specific tasks on your bench?
I got a chance to test out the RCBS Partner Press and here is how it performed.
Sometimes in life you need a little reloading press that is capable of big jobs too. That is where the RCBS Partner Press comes into play. Let’s see first what RCBS comments about their tough little press:
The Partner Press is easy to use, incredibly durable, and is the most affordable press in the RCBS line! It is the perfect press for a budget conscience beginner or second press for different operations.
If you are looking for a great reloading press look no further than the RCBS Partner Press. The Partner Press is loaded with great features like a 4″ operating window and 3.5″ stroke. It is incredibly durable and versatile making it a great press for a beginner or a handloader looking to add a second press to their bench. The lightweight and compact size make this press very portable so it can be used at the range. Need a second press? Give the Partner Press a try, you will not be disappointed.
- Small O-Frame design allows great access and visibility
- Die-cast aluminum frame makes the press lightweight and portable
- 4″ Operating Window 3.5″ Stroke
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Made in USA
When I received the RCBS Partner Press I was quite impressed with the lightweight but sturdy construction. First thought I had was to set it up on my loading bench in a movable manner even though mounting screw holes are also built into the RCBS Partner Press. Enter the good old C-clamp. Think of it this way, you can move your press around on the bench where you need it, or even take it with you to your hunting cabin or range. So many possibilities!
For initial testing I really wanted to push the boundaries while using long (and yes properly lubed) new Starline Brass in my favorite big bore old school caliber, the mighty .45/70 Government cartridge. Whitetail deer legal here in Ohio and in many other areas, this is a big game hunter’s caliber that has lots of history.
First off the RCBS Partner Press has incredible working clearance. Access is easy from the left and the right side when the supplied clip on spent primer catcher cup is removed that mounts to the right side. The priming arm swings out of the way when not in use and comes with the adapters for both small and large primers.
These ease of operation using the RCBS Partner Press for brand new lubed .45/70 brass was quite surprising! Usually when most reloaders think of long, straight walled rifle cartridges they think of the tank like press, the RCBS RockChucker Supreme Press. Well this smaller offspring of that very famous press can hold it’s own quite well. RCBS explains more about this incredibly handy press:
Proven RCBS quality? Check!
Portable and sturdy build? Check!
The RCBS Partner Press is the quality I have come to expect from RCBS products. There is no mistaking that RCBS green product color from across your local sporting goods store. Yes, it attracts home reloaders like flies to honey! Also, it repels corrosion too!
After testing out the RCBS Partner Press with .45/70 cartridges and with a variety of handgun cartridges I can honestly state this press should be on every reloader’s work bench. It is a handy tool that is perfect as your first reloading press or as a second press in conjunction with your larger reloading press set up. For beginners and experts alike, the RCBS Partner Press certainly is a great investment.