Wilson case trimmer Question

[gotcha]

Hi guys! Has anyone been able to compare the Wilson case trimmer w/ micrometer vs. The Wilson case trimmer w/ Sinclair micrometer? Also, is the shark fin & base REALLY necessary. I'd trim about 100 cases at a time max. All input appreciated, Dale

 

[LCazador]

There's really not any difference between the two micrometers. I have one, I bought years ago with a Starrett micrometer, and the Starrett name is tops. I wouldn't doubt that Starrett or Mitutoyo are making the mics for both and Wilson probably makes the Sinclair. I think both companies are top of the line. The shark fin and stand are both convienient options that are "in the eyes of the beholder". I made my own stand years ago and I use the old twist and turn knob the Wilson came with. I trim several hundred cases at a time and use a power adapter instead of the crank.

 

[Prairiedogger]

I got one a few months ago. I like the Shark fin and stand. I do around a hundered cases at a time also. Much better then my RCBS pilot trimmer. Haven't tried my power adaptor yet.
Not sure that's nessacery for me.

 

[gotcha]

Thanx guys, I should have worded my ques. better. Was wondering if the Sinclair micrometer on the Wilson offered any advantage over the Wilson supplied micrometer? As there's quite a price difference. I'll probably be mounting the trimmer in my bench vise. Any other input from those who have "been there, done that" appreciated. TIA, Dale

 

[brian427cobra]

Micrometer is not required at all, but would be nice to have to have if your trimming for multible calibers, you can use your dail calipers to measure the adjustment screw and make precise adjustments to the cutting length though, I like the base, and after a couple thousand cases trimmed I added the Shark fin, my advice is get both the base and shark fin, I also recomend that you apply car wax to the unit once a year to prevent it from rusting.

 

[stool]

i like the shark fin..i have three wilson's..no micrometer tho

 

[BaconFat]

I have been using the Wilson trimmer w/o the micrometer for about a year. At first I wondered if I should have included the micrometer, but the trimmer is so easy to adjust I'm glad I saved the money.

 

[gotcha]

Thanx for the input guys. It seems one could forego the micrometer on the trimmer by making a "master" case trimmed to exact length needed. Then just set the adjustment screw to the "master" case and go to town. Anyone do it this way? I think you've convinced me to go w/ the shark fin & base as the base could be easily modified to mount in a bench vise. All input welcome.

 

[Prairiedogger]

Here's a start that is not to expensive

http://www.gunbroker.com/All/BI.aspx?Keywords=wilson+case+trimmer

 

[PMA3]

I have two Wilson's w/o micrometers, one is dedicated to a 6x47 1000 yd gun that I do the most trimming on and the other trims 4 other calibers using the "master case" set up. I set up my masters .001" long and then move the screw in as needed to get to the desired length. I have had some problems with masters set to the exact length coming up short, so I opted to try the .001" long method and it has worked very well for me. I also use the shark fin and find it useful....make sure you slide it over the case holder from right to left, pushing the case holder into the set screw. The Sinclair platform fastened to the bench with a C clamp is less bulky than a vise, takes up less room and the trimmer is easier to access IMO.

 

[JP351]

I had the Wilson w/ standard micrometer, and while it wasn't my favorite micrometer, it worked as intended. As for the shark fin, the standard one which comes with the trimmer wore out after only 3/4k casings. It looked to be made out of some sort of soft alloy. With the steel case holders, it's bound to wear out prematurely. There is an aftermarket SS one which I would highly recommend as a replacement should your standard one begin to show signs of wear. For $24 bucks or whatever it costs, you'd never have to worry about it again.

 

[JP351]

The base, depends on your preference. My set up used a C clamp to lock it down to my bench.

 

[lightman]

I bought the one that Sinclair sells, and have been happy with it. The micrometer works ok, but is not necessary. It does make adjusting for different cases a little easier. I have not compared it to the other micrometer. I used the "Master Case" method in the past, and it worked ok, too. The base and stand are nice, but also are not necessary. A guy handy with tools could make a nice stand out of a piece of channel. A nice base could be made from a piece of wood, or even steel or aluminum plate. I could have made both, but elected to just buy them and be done with it. The shark fin was not offered until after I bought my trimmer, and I'm still using the original. I'll probably buy the shark fin someday. I also upgraded to the carbide cutter. I like mine well enough to that I would buy it again. Its a quality tool and I think you will like yours. And yes, it will rust, so either buy the stainless or try to keep it oiled or waxed. Lightman

 

[Shynloco]

Looks like it's a personal preference thing when it comes to a having a micrometer or not. I have two different manufacturers' trimmers, both with a micrometer and enjoying having and using them both. The Wilson though is the one I prefer for the more precise cuts when loaded for more precision benchrest shooting.

 

[gotcha]

Ta-daaaah! Thanks to each & every one of you guys for the insightful input. The Wilson has so many "flavors" it can leave one scratching his head as to which way to proceed. I know which way I'll go now and I'll DEFINITELY not be buying a "pig in a poke". A happy Thanksgiving to each and all, Dale

 

[JP351]

I got your message about looking for the aftermarket clamp. I could have swore I saw it on Sinclair but I just went to look for it and could not find it.

I did find this, and by the looks of it, is not an alloy. I would suggest calling LE Wilson and verifying.

http://www.lewilsondirect.com/caseholderclamp.aspx

as compared to the alloy version that I had...

http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-equipment/case-preparation/case-trimming/trimmer-accessories/wilson-trimmer-accessories-prod34328.aspx