Rockchuker Press versions?
- Thread starter TrxR
- Start date
3,
Rock Chucker
The original Rock Chucker was a heavy-duty reloading press that replaced the earlier RCBS A-2 press. The primary change was the use of cast iron in the Rock Chucker frame, compared to cast steel in the A-2. The Rock Chucker, like the A-2, had a 7/8-inch, 14 threads per inch (TPI) threaded hole in the top of the frame casting to accept reloading dies. The Rock Chucker had its operating handle on the right side so the user could manipulate cartridges with the left hand while raising and lowering the press ram with the right.
Rock Chucker 2
The Rock Chucker 2 substituted replaceable threaded bushings for the 7/8-inch by 14 TPI threaded hole. It was furnished with a 7/8-inch by 14 TPI bushing to accept standard reloading dies, but could also accept larger bushings for reloading shotgun shells, .50 caliber cartridges, and other large cartridges. The Rock Chucker 2 also replaced the original light green crinkle paint with a dark green epoxy finish to facilitate cleaning, and replaced the bicycle grip-style handle of the original with a more ergonomically correct round knob.
Rock Chucker Supreme
The Rock Chucker Supreme has the same features as the Rock Chucker 2, and adds ambidextrous handle attachment points so the user may place the operating handle on the left or right. The Supreme also has a larger frame opening than previous Rock Chuckers, to better accommodate long rifle cartridges, such as the .50 caliber military cartridges. This Rock Chucker replaces all previous versions of the press.
At a glance, look at the paint finish to determine RC or RC2, and look for the capability to swap the handle left or right for the Supreme.
I beleive most RC2 have RCII cast on the side of the body,,(?)
Rock Chucker
The original Rock Chucker was a heavy-duty reloading press that replaced the earlier RCBS A-2 press. The primary change was the use of cast iron in the Rock Chucker frame, compared to cast steel in the A-2. The Rock Chucker, like the A-2, had a 7/8-inch, 14 threads per inch (TPI) threaded hole in the top of the frame casting to accept reloading dies. The Rock Chucker had its operating handle on the right side so the user could manipulate cartridges with the left hand while raising and lowering the press ram with the right.
Rock Chucker 2
The Rock Chucker 2 substituted replaceable threaded bushings for the 7/8-inch by 14 TPI threaded hole. It was furnished with a 7/8-inch by 14 TPI bushing to accept standard reloading dies, but could also accept larger bushings for reloading shotgun shells, .50 caliber cartridges, and other large cartridges. The Rock Chucker 2 also replaced the original light green crinkle paint with a dark green epoxy finish to facilitate cleaning, and replaced the bicycle grip-style handle of the original with a more ergonomically correct round knob.
Rock Chucker Supreme
The Rock Chucker Supreme has the same features as the Rock Chucker 2, and adds ambidextrous handle attachment points so the user may place the operating handle on the left or right. The Supreme also has a larger frame opening than previous Rock Chuckers, to better accommodate long rifle cartridges, such as the .50 caliber military cartridges. This Rock Chucker replaces all previous versions of the press.
At a glance, look at the paint finish to determine RC or RC2, and look for the capability to swap the handle left or right for the Supreme.
I beleive most RC2 have RCII cast on the side of the body,,(?)
The original RC is hard to beat, I personally wouldn't call an older one undesirable.
I load shot shell with a Lee Loadall II, and I don't load 50bmg, ???
With all of them if purchased second hand,, like anything you need to look at how it was cared for and the current condition.
(same with any brand)
My first local mentor has an RC he purchased new in 72 and the thing is near mint, the ram, the linkages, the threads and handle are all still tight.
I've seen some at gun shows that would make a good boat anchor.
I load shot shell with a Lee Loadall II, and I don't load 50bmg, ???
With all of them if purchased second hand,, like anything you need to look at how it was cared for and the current condition.
(same with any brand)
My first local mentor has an RC he purchased new in 72 and the thing is near mint, the ram, the linkages, the threads and handle are all still tight.
I've seen some at gun shows that would make a good boat anchor.
Actually, I prefer a Redding Boss press. I have dedicated Boss presses for my BR chamberings. First advantage is it's easier to mount to a bench.......the RC I had to cut a notch in my bench top rail for the arm to clear....the Redding clears with no modification. Secondly, if you remove a stop pin on the Redding you can get the press to cam over TDC and actually size the case twice with one handle stroke, third advantage is the Boss is much lighter and easier to haul to the range. Finally, all Redding products are made right, right here in the USA. I do use the RC for hunting cartridges, but I would much rather use a Boss.
Hi TrxR hi all
Don't want to hijack,but since you seem to be interested in the Lock'nLoad system,why don't you check the Lee Classic cast breech lock press at Sinclair,it's much cheaper,it's got bushings identical to the Hornady,it's better built in my opinion than the RCSupreme(I have one of those chinese ones,meaning no evil to the chinese goods when it's up to expectations,and this is,just consider conception). It should cost $110 delivered if I remember right...All those who own one have nothing but praise from what I hear...Hope it helps.
Don't want to hijack,but since you seem to be interested in the Lock'nLoad system,why don't you check the Lee Classic cast breech lock press at Sinclair,it's much cheaper,it's got bushings identical to the Hornady,it's better built in my opinion than the RCSupreme(I have one of those chinese ones,meaning no evil to the chinese goods when it's up to expectations,and this is,just consider conception). It should cost $110 delivered if I remember right...All those who own one have nothing but praise from what I hear...Hope it helps.
There must have been a transition period with the early presses; I purchased my Rock Chucker late in 1970 or early in 1971. It has the crinkle finish and the bicycle grip handle, but it most definitely has a removable bushing.
Hi all
Mr Necchi,I meant better thought out,or better conceived if you prefer...Now try both and tell me.I have the Supreme,I know how it's made,and I also have a Lee breech lock Challenger press,and it's flawless,whatever you may think about it,and works great,and only costs 75% of its RCBS equivalent(I do mean no harm or detriment to RCBS,I know they're a great company and wish all firms were as good).I don't consider things to be junk just because they don't cost me an eye,I believe you do the same.I don't think that the things I have are better just because they're mine,I just vtry to use my money effectively,and I fail sometimes,just like you I presume.Have a nice week end.
Mr Necchi,I meant better thought out,or better conceived if you prefer...Now try both and tell me.I have the Supreme,I know how it's made,and I also have a Lee breech lock Challenger press,and it's flawless,whatever you may think about it,and works great,and only costs 75% of its RCBS equivalent(I do mean no harm or detriment to RCBS,I know they're a great company and wish all firms were as good).I don't consider things to be junk just because they don't cost me an eye,I believe you do the same.I don't think that the things I have are better just because they're mine,I just vtry to use my money effectively,and I fail sometimes,just like you I presume.Have a nice week end.
Necchi had a pretty good description of the product line of Rockchuckers. All RC II's I have seen have the RCII on the side and "almost all have the ball handle. I have seen some early RCII's with the previous models straight handle. Like all this stuff, one finds what works for them and gives them that "warm & fuzzy" feeling. For me I look at my bench and see 5 RCII's working for me. Eric in DL
There are at least 4 different Rock Chuckers. The date of manufacture is stamped in the frame under the bushing.
Three colors - original green, mid flat green, glossy green. There are some minor changes in handles and linkages as well.
There are two versions of glossy green - good and out of country made.
Three colors - original green, mid flat green, glossy green. There are some minor changes in handles and linkages as well.
There are two versions of glossy green - good and out of country made.
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