So if you look at the two side by side, how much actual difference is there between leverage ratios? Yes, some of the linkage is mounted at different points, but what should really matter is the length of the levers from each fulcrum point as well as the side pieces that go to the fulcrum point on the handle.
And if you look at the two, they are actually a good bit similar with the Bruno appearing to be scaled down a bit from the Rockchucker. Even if there are slight differences, could you not make something similar, which is what I indicated was possible to begin with, and have it still be a very effective and high quality press?
Seriously DocEd, could you not figure out how to machine something similar to the Bruno or Dodd by replicating the linkage of the Rockchucker in billet aluminum and scaling it to match a press body which you also machine from billet aluminum in a similar fashion to the Dodd or Bruno? I seriously doubt that "you" couldn't, as you are obviously superior to myself in every aspect and I had no issues with the process.
DocEd, you seem intelligent, but did you not take any kind of geometry class or anything else in highschool? This should be a rather easy project for anyone who can take measurements, do math, add a little geometry in the mix to make sure things will work and draw a set of plans. I am sure the OP could do it as well.
I only used the Lee press reference as I am using one to scavenge parts, mainly the ram, for a press of my own. No, it is not a copy of the Dodd, nor did I indicate I was making a copy of the Dodd. Though I am moving where the linkage mounts, and yes it does operate as I mocked it up a few days ago and it had plenty of mechanical advantage, as it had no issue full length sizing .308 cases. It is also built to very tight tolerances with no slop in any linkages, bronze bushings at all pivot points and should load excellent ammo once I finish it.
And as for my suggestion of the Harrell's press, it's a heck of a lot cheaper than $425 and will still load very good ammo. And yes I saw both at a match I attended over the summer. Both seemed to load good ammo, as both shooters did very well. Though there were others using Lee hand presses and doing just as well, so go figure.
Anyway, a full on copy of the Bruno press may result in some type of copyright infringement if they have in fact copyrighted the exact design and you try to manufacture the press for resale. I am not sure if those are the intentions of the OP, but it did seem that way. If the plan was to do an exact 100% copy for resale, that would be an area I would look into.
I do have the urge to order a Bruno press just to measure the linkage and then see how the leverage ratios compare to those of other presses to see if they are really all that different.
Kenny