MEC 600 Jr Mark V, Reloading 12ga and Overview

[@DanA-bw7rh]

Just jot into (back into) reloading after about 52 years. My dad and I used to reload on an old MEC Jr. but then life happened and I didn't even hold a shotgun for decades. But what I wanted to say is that your "tip" at the 7:07 mark of the video was gold. Yeah, don't do that. Thanks for the video!

[@Northeastken]

Great job explaining the Mec 600 Jr. I've had my Mec 600 since the 70's can't tell ya how many shells went thru it and to this day I'm still reloading at least 2 boxes a week. Yes you can be a real speed demon on this, about 6 to 7 minutes for a box of 25.

[@vaughnprecision]

It sure isn’t hard to get in to a grove and pump out a box. I’ve heard of so many people using the 600 for years and years without issue. Thanks for watching

[@scottjohnson353]

Thank you Vaughn Precision. It was your video’s that started me loading shot shells. I bought the Mec 600 Jr Mark 5 and what a blast. I did as I was as instructed too in your video’s and perfecto. I have learned a bunch from that video intro to reloading. Now I am reloading Brass with my Hornady LNL and just living and breathing reloading all thanks to you. I was never so happy as I was the day when I shot my first 12 gauge shell that I loaded myself ( Iwas scared to death until after that first blast) but I was like a proud papa. I now am loading with the Hornady and the forester. I load 223, 9mm, 45 caliber beside all those shot-shells. I plan to begin loading 6.5 Creedmoor and others. Keep doing what your doing for all us newbies you changed our lives honestly you did. Wow a purpose to live another day for this old man.

[@vaughnprecision]

Thanks for the kind words.! I remember the first time I pulled the trigger on my first reload, shaking in my boots …..

[@chancetorres9457]

I speak for everyone. We miss seeing you upload videos!

[@thecheapshot1065]

Just got one of these and was given some directions completely forget what my friend said and giving it a go for the first time Tonight

[@seanwattles9264]

I was just going through my dad's old stuff and found his MEC 600 Jr. No mark.... I think it may have been one of their first ones. He used it all the way through 2010 or so. Nice to see how to make it all work.... Thank you!

[@sdriza]

Just inherited an old version of this... Remember using it with my dad... 20, 30, 40 yrs ago? More? Appears to be almost identical.

[@xtremehunter8597]

Great video, the best explanation of the MEC 600jr. on KZbin. Thanks

[@PaskKingFisher001]

About 1 month ago, I ended up with my father-in-law’s MEC 600 Jr. Last time he used it was 1988. It took some cleaning, but I got it going. Within the first 100 rounds, I did exactly the same thing you did. I didn’t put the caps on because I thought, there is absolutely no reason to lift that while I’m reloading. Clearly I found a reason. As a result, my bench and floor got a really well needed cleaning. I’m glad I’m not alone!! Perhaps, in a future video, if you could explain the various adjustments, that would be greatly appreciated. I know mine is slightly different, but the basics are the same, and I had a hard time finding useful videos. Specifically addressing issues around the final crimp. Great video, as usual.

[@xnorcal831x]

I was handed down a couple dillon precision presses. I took had to take then completely apart and replaced a couple things. But they still run amazing. They had not been touch not nearly as long as you but it feels amazing to continue to produce rounds. It's so sad so many people chose to buy ammo. Well I still haven't had to pay for premade ammo in over a yr. I don't have a 12 gauge but I plan on it being my next purchase. Any suggestions for a good first shotgun? I am stuck between the older remingtons or mossberg

[@larryalexander4833]

Hello. Thought I'd give a suggestion . A first shotgun depends on a lote of things. But I'll suggest a Remington 870 of some model. You can pickup a good used one for couple hundred and have plenty of product support. And after you decide to buy others a good dependable 870 is good to have around.

[@PaskKingFisher001]

finaddict Well, my dad brought me duck hunting and there were 2 shotguns with us - a Remington 870 Wingmaster and a Browning Auto 5. First shotgun I bought was an 870 (good for duck, geese, turkey, deer, clay and just about anything). Second shotgun I bought was a Browning A5. While they are nostalgic for me, I have no regrets.

[@vaughnprecision]

I learned on a Lefever double barrel and moved to a Remington 870 for years!

[@scbane]

My grandfather gave me a Browning "Sweet 16" 16 ga A5 when I was 11. Shot most of my birds for years with it. Overall, for durability, mountability, and options, my favorite shotgun is a Mossberg 835 Ultimag. Have had it since I was 16. Tens of thousands of rounds. Turkey loads to target loads. Never broke any parts yet.

[@jameskrog9811]

Thanks for the intro. I picked up this press at an estate sale and have never loaded shotgun shells before. I have learning to do before I use it.

[@geraldfunkhouser1363]

Sure you’re family is relieved you’re healing so well. Great to see your up enough to put up more videos.

[@garyhammond2213]

The MEC is the best shotshell press. I also don't care for the adjustable shot/charge bar.

[@jcm4590]

Excellent video. I've been running a MEC Sizemaster since the 1990's. Congratulations on joining the ranks of Trap, Skeet and SC shooters👍👍👍

[@geh3505]

Remember to check the primer cup for a stray shot pellet before dropping the primer in and seating. You might get a surprise.

[@susanlorden9526]

I have used my 600jr for over 20 years. Great machine. Converted to 16ga for my Browning 525. 1 1/8 oz lead, 800x. I use the adjustable charge bar and am satisfied. It does hang up once in a while using #6 lead but not a real concern. Keep the powder hopper full to maintain consistant charge. Great video to introduce the MEC. Jim

[@vaughnprecision]

Susan Lorden that’s one thing I’ve heard is they can hang up. I’ve got some #6 shot that I wanted to load for hunting to. Either way, I’m very happy with the MEC, good Reloader for sure.!

[@tobeysdonutshop8251]

I've found that I can usually load a box faster with my 600 jr. than I can with my MEC progressive. Mostly because if your progressive has a glitch, like having a primer not feed, or hang up a wad, or someone comes in and starts talking to you, it takes a few minutes to fix the mess you just made. Usually load a box on the jr. in about 6 1/2 minutes but have gone sub 6 minutes more than once.

[@DOUGLASLASH-xy4ct]

GOTTA LOVE THOSE MEC TOOLS! I HAVE A COUPLE MEC 9000G'S, AND HAVE SHOT TONS OF LEAD SHOT.... 1 OUNCE AT A TIME... THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO!

[@pieyed1302]

Great video! I had a MEC 600 Jr. back in the early 80's. Don't remember if it even had a "Mark #". Loaded thousands of Winchester AA hulls. I obviously sold it to someone years ago. Just the other day I was digging through some old boxes in my shop that I haven't opened in probably 30 years and found my box of powder bushings and shot bars! I hove know idea who I sold it to or I'd give them the rest of these parts!! Glad to see your doing well and back into shooting stuff. Best Wishes.

[@mattschmitt9924]

It was me. You can send them anytime.

[@Reisor_HoundHunting]

Thanks for the video

[@orthodevil]

Man I'm glad you are back I missed your videos excellent job on the mec I used to shoot trap religiously(500-750] rounds a week More if we had a sanctioned shoot I had to upgrade to a progressive its well worth the investment great too see you

[@justsumname]

Good video, thanks. Ultimate Reloader has a good video or two on the MEC 600 Mark V Jr for 20 gauge. I would recommend that video and this one.

[@vaughnprecision]

Gavin is a great guy and a friend of mine. He's got some good content!

[@tommyj7087]

Glad to see you back. Looking forward to your gunsmithing stuff again!

[@kbolyoly]

Hi Curt, easy peezy !!! Can't wait for the next one. Think about this... Shooting slugs for accuracy, huh?

[@vaughnprecision]

It's on the list!

[@avidwaterfowler7522]

Nice to see you back. Even better that it’s shotgun reloading. I’m huge into waterfowl hunting and sporting clays. I just got a Caesar Guerini summit sporting O/U. I use an original mec 600 from the 70’s that I converted to reload 3” steel. I also use a mec size master to make my sporting 2-3/4”.

[@kirkmorrison6131]

I used a Lee for a long time, bought a Mec at an Easte Sale and never looked back

[@wrxs1781]

New to the channel, great video for the MEC jr, just getting back to clays after a 20 years of doing other things, "three small children"

[@vaughnprecision]

Welcome back to the sport.! I’m just getting back in to it myself after years away from shotguns. I’ll be posting a video in the not to distant future on the MEC 9000 progressive. Loading tons to keep up with the competitions.!

[@ryangrimm9305]

Good video! I got a 600 Jr. a couple weeks ago at a yard sale, missing a few parts or the manual. I was able to find everything I need at he MEC site, including the exploded view letting me know where everything goes. MEC had the parts in stock, and they should be winging their way to me today or tomorrow. About three hours to clean it up, mildly seized due to dirt and congealed lube, should work a charm once I get it adjusted. So far I'm into this for about $60, so feel I'm way ahead of the game. It did come with a charge bar set up for #8 shot, I might get a new bar and insert for other loads.

[@none-ya2242]

Great to see you back! Please make some hoodies in gray or black!

[@vaughnprecision]

I'm thinking about switching them all to gray and black. I haven't sold a single one is white lol

[@calebc134]

Thanks for the video! This really helped me to understand how to use this machine (I've never reloaded shotgun shells until now)

[@DHGunworks]

...Glad to see you’re back at it!...I have enjoyed your channel quite a bit...

[@willaimwinchell1813]

The first station deprimes and resizes the brass.

[@grantwennesheimer372]

Good to see you're back at it! Awesome vids as well.

[@odinwan]

I too have lowered the shot and powder tubes absent the stoppers. It must be a right of passage. 😂

[@TheJantango]

Vaughn Great Job. Thanks a million!

[@mythinkorg]

Great video better than the MEC video answered most of my question. Have a LEE Precision I got before reading the Lyman shotshell reloading manual would have saved my money gone with the MEC. The MEC uses bushing but it’s powder weights are are over it’s +/- 10gr. Seems with MEC the powder baffle resolves that but also the bushing don’t match the recipes in the Lyman shotshell book. Like the fact that there is universal charge bar and that the powder and shot bottles can be taken off with out making a mess. LEE does not have that feature.

[@buickspecial6960]

Are the progressives nice, absolutely i have one MEC 9000 but i run 2 600 jrs as well. In 20 and 16 ga. If you want to speed it up a little without the investment in a press get the primer feed for the single stage. Big big increase in productivity.

[@Brian-rq9ld]

Thanks for the video. Nice job explaining how it works. Heading over to Amazon to buy one. You should get a commision.

[@adamlincoln6579]

Wish I had that powder stock!! 2021 crazy ready for the new year

[@brianrobbins3499]

Been using a mec progressive for years for my trap loads hasn’t failed me yet

[@shockwave6416]

Cool. I'm looking at getting into reloading 12 and 16 gauge 1 oz loads only.

[@joyceknepper366]

This video was very informative. Well done Sir.

[@richardkut3976]

Thanks, good info.

[@kyleniederkohr9719]

WAA12 wads work the best for 1-1/8 loads in cold weather those wads your loading those spacers will sometimes crack or break when you compress them my 1-1/4 loads I use federal S4 wads

[@Dantestoussaint]

He’s back!! And he’s got immaculate teeth!! Welcome back dude.

[@vaughnprecision]

😂 it’s nice to have some teeth back in my face!

[@2009Berghof]

You make it look so easy and it is if you get the rig adjusted correctly. But, it can be so frustrating and you may ruin dozens of hulls before that happens!

[@ktkawaguchi]

Nice thing about MEC 600, sizemaster, and 9000 is they can be mounted on a board and that's stable enough which is great since I dont have a bench. But I also mount a sheet pan (like a rimmed cookie sheet) between the board and the press to catch all those spills (at least a lot of it). I have just received a MEC metallic press and am anxious to see if that will work on my board/pan with the MEC quick change plate.

[@J0j0m10]

Enjoyed the video. Thanks.

[@bradnelson5042]

Use a magnet to pick up your bb shot, to separate them

[@christopherpeterson1400]

Best mec video on youtube. I purchased 2 used 12ga. mec loaders 600 jr. And versa mec. Some parts may be missing,,, how do i source parts mec site is not that helpfull to " self " find my vintages or parts info.

[@vaughnprecision]

I would contact them directly, they are super helpful in my opinion.! Email or call them and I’m sure they’ll help you out

[@prebaned]

Nice video, I get you can't talk and go fast. Sounds strange but I find the same issue running my XL650 or RL550. Something about the pie hole being open wont give me full speed...

[@vidmon]

Great video! Years ago I stopped reloading because it got to be more cost effective to buy a box of 25 instead of making them with the MEC 600 Jr. In the last few years, especially in the last 3 months shot gun shells have almost double in price. Based on the cost of reloading components at todays prices vs the cost of a new box of shells which is less expensive. My favorite all around shell is a Remington ShurShot 12 gauge, 2 3/4", 1 1/8 ounce of 7 1/2 shot. Velocity 1,255 FPS. A box of 25 of the mentioned Remington shells are now $10.00. Other manufactures seem to have priced their prices at the same price. My question is, in todays economy is it cost effective to buy a reloader, of any brand, powder, wads, primers and hulls or just pay the price of a new box of shells? Thanks...

[@chrystalsmith8732]

All of my shotbars need reamed out to drop the correct load of lead shot. They always drop light.

[@sobersportsman]

Ordered one yesterday. On it's way. Lee Load All is great but it's time solid and not as squeaky.

[@DaveThomspon]

I mount my reloaders on a cookie sheet. So when I drop shot or powder it all ends up on the cookie sheet and not the floor. Thanks for the video.

[@vaughnprecision]

Holy smokes that’s a great idea.!

[@Munky332]

But can it do shorter shells? say like replicating the aguila mini-shells? I'd like to experiment with overall shell length to see what the shortest possible to go w/ a Mossberg 500 is, without needing an Opsol adapter.

[@juniorperezgarcia3791]

Yeeeaa nice too see you again I wanna build a 260 reminton is there any way u could help

[@vaughnprecision]

I'm sure I can

[@juniorperezgarcia3791]

So how can we get on contact ? I have a model 10 savge I would like a shilen barrel with muzzle break

[@firstthes2811]

Hey Curt, thanks for the video. It actually helped me decide to order one. I have a question though. I notice that you have a Lee Bench Plate as do I but you didn't use it when it came to fastening the 600 down. Is that because the base of the 600 is just too big for the Lee Bench Plate? Also, since I don't know when my 600 will arrive, most things are being delayed right now, could you please tell me the dimensions of that bottom plate of the 600. Thanks very much. I appreciate it. And I'm glad to see you up and around.

[@richardperry4115]

In uk most grounds are now doing away with plastic wades , can you use anything else apart from plastic. Great video.

[@vaughnprecision]

I don’t have any solid information but I’ve heard manufacturers will be producing biodegradable wads that will be acceptable to use in the UK. You might want to call around to some local ranges and see if they have any information.

[@johnterpack3940]

I'm curious as to whether it's worth the price difference over the budget Lee press. The two seem comparable in speed and ease of use. I doubt the Lee is as durable, but does that matter if you're not reloading hundreds of rounds every year?

[@jimmyneutron9106]

Hey I love ur videos there great I've watched a couple just found ur account u seem pretty successful hopefully I can hang with u guys soon

[@nathanmarcucci]

Everyone spills at least once

[@joshoster1918]

awesome video. I just got a supernova and am excited to maybe start reloading my own shells. Where do you recommend getting the materials for reloading?

[@vaughnprecision]

You can’t find components right now, but when they are available I go to ballistiproducts online

[@joshoster1918]

@@vaughnprecision damn so its just as hard getting the stuff to make ammo as it is to just buy ammo huh?

[@young_of_the_mill9560]

Any plans to do a video on how to setup for 3"? Thanks

[@ironbomb6753]

What am I looking for with the pressure on the wad? Is it just for seating various makes of wad? I'm new to shot shell reloading. I picked up one of these at an estate sale. I've not used it yet. Very good video showing this machine and it's functions. Just what I was looking for.👍

[@justinmitchell1079]

No videos for awhile... everything ok?

[@vaughnprecision]

justin mitchell just working on healing up. I’m back in action now.!

[@justinmitchell1079]

@@vaughnprecision awesome.. glad you doing good... love the videos...

[@adamzoubi7018]

Hello Vaughn. Thanks for the great video. I shoot competitive sporting clays and ive been thinking about reloading my own. Is it any cheaper than buying ammo at the current price of $10 a box?

[@vaughnprecision]

It comes out roughly the same in cost, you might save a little especially if you buy in bulk. The major upside, when the stores are all out of ammo you can load up and keep competing

[@adamzoubi7018]

@@vaughnprecision Thank you sir. My math was definitely off, i was thinking i would end up paying .20 cents per round if i reload. I usually pay $400 after tax for 1000 rounds. Which double what i used to pay.

[@jaketacosik8334]

when are you going to do a video on 3 inch setup

[@vaughnprecision]

I’ve been wanting to do that for a long while now. As soon as I can find components I’ll shoot the video. It’s just been impossible to find all the things I need..!

[@dwaine1980]

Where do you buy your bulk reloading items? Thanks

[@tylerinfinity1317]

Let me know of you find an answer. I had the same question

[@IBRIDGMAN]

Great video.... looks like a quality machine, will it refill 2 1/2 inch shells... maybe with mods.... ?

[@vaughnprecision]

Buster B to be honest I’m not sure about a 2-1/2 she’ll. Best reach out to MEC for that answer

[@rceme74]

Thanks for doing a good job in your presentation. I'm new to reloading, but due to the lack of 410 rounds, I have decided to reload my own shells. I prefer to use 3 inch shells, but have a number of 2 3/4 inch. Will this machine do both. Can I switch it out to do 12 gauge.

[@vaughnprecision]

The MEC is gauge specific, but it will do 2-3/4 and 3” with a couple quick adjustments.

[@rceme74]

@@vaughnprecision Thanks for the info.

[@DHGunworks]

...I did have a question on your lathe...I’m looking at upgrading to something that has a bit more precision...have you run into trouble with the 1 1-/2” spindle bore?...I’m looking at Grizzly with dro vs Mathews....Mathews has 2” spindle bore was wondering if it’s that big a deal...thank for your input...

[@iamcondescending]

How does this compare to the Lee load-all? Is it worth spending the extra $200?

[@vaughnprecision]

In my opinion it’s much better

[@staceyc568]

man I would love to have that universal charge bar. I cannot find one anywhere. I shoot such a wide variety of loads its be much simpler.

[@annejorgens6183]

Can you show or tell me what I need to convert a 600 and 9000 to shoot steel shot

[@bloodswarms]

I'm completely new to this. Can I assume this kit would be everything I'd need for the tool side, for making new shotgun rounds? I assume so, after watching the video and looking at the stuff on gbot. Just wanting to make sure this is everything I'd need.

[@vaughnprecision]

It depends on what you plan on reloading. This machine is set up for loading 1-1/8oz 7.5-8 shot 2-3/4” shells. Also, depending on the powder your using your may need a selection of powder bushings

[@brianrobbins3499]

I use a universal charge l notice you have to tweak it a bit from there formula

[@susanlorden9526]

From Jim, do you have a load for 95 gr in 243 using Barnes copper?

[@williammorgan4723]

Quick question. Can you use this setup for slugs? I seen a video of a guy loading 7/8 oz slugs and crimping them on a lee load all. Just wondering if it could be done on this machine as well

[@vaughnprecision]

To be honest I don’t have a huge amount of experience loading slugs. I know for sure some of the operations can be made on this press but most of the time people roll crimp the hulls. Roll crimping can’t be done on this machine to the best of my knowledge. Wish I could give you more info but I’ll be loading slugs later this year and I’ll be posting videos on it when I do.!

[@thubandra963]

I have a MEC Jr., pre 1982. It has the "Adjustable" charge bar (such as the one your not using) from back in the day, so they are nothing new. It's made of Melamine and starting to craze from age. Just the bar itself, not including the knobs, is about 1 X 1 inch square and 7 7/16 long I would like to purchase a bar like yours. Any info on it? Thanks.

[@paulwatterson5992]

How do you like the Remington hulls compared to the Winchester AA?

[@vaughnprecision]

To be honest I don't have an educated opinion yet. That said, many experienced shooters I know prefer the Remington's more!

[@accessaryman]

hi, you mentioned you had a ponsnes warren oress, can i ask why you dont use it now ?

[@expansioniskeyrn]

Want to get into reloading my own duck loads in tungsten & bismuth for next season. Will this machine do the job? How accurate/precise is the factory charge bar delivery? Is it true your bound to only a certain type of powder or shot sizes etc?

[@vaughnprecision]

You will need different charge bars for different metals/sizes you want to run. MEC has them available most the time. This machine will do it, I’ve loaded steel shot on it. The charge weights are close, not perfect but none of them are and never will be. The shot isn’t perfect round so it never stacks the same, that’s also true with powder. That said, it’s very consistent and reliable. I don’t regret owning this machine is what I’m saying.

[@MrNcturkey]

Can you give me a link on how to change your MEC from 2 2/3” to 3”

[@joesubler1169]

What are your thoughts on the Mec Marksman? Do you still like it?

[@vaughnprecision]

Joe Subler best press I ever owned.! I still highly recommended it

[@alandavey6573]

So, do I need a MEC for each Guage.

[@ronnieloeffler6873]

Can you do all the different gauges on the same machine or is each machine specific to a certain gauge shell?

[@wolverinekut]

👍💯

[@ritabeaini8322]

Great videp, what s the difference with the bushing number

[@vaughnprecision]

Each busing number is a specific powder charge based on the powder your using

[@mannycali334]

I want hulls lol

[@kevincollins6497]

3.50 a box? Cheapest I can make is around 6.80 a box. Using 7/8 oz loads. 9 bucks for magnum loads. Beats 12-18 bucks at the stores..If you can find any.

[@ThatPNWGuy2024]

You end up using that adjustable bar? I’ll buy it if not. In Olympia.... lol

[@vaughnprecision]

Wes Mischke I’m not using it.! Make me and offer

[@ThatPNWGuy2024]

Vaughn Precision $60?

[@vaughnprecision]

Wes Mischke sold, my email is [e-mail]

[@kzoo_269]

No 3 inch video?

[@vaughnprecision]

Coming soon, I just got the conversion kit for steel shot so I’ll be loading up 3” hunting loads soon. I’ll post a video when I do.

[@KarolDzierdzik]

Where are you buying reloading supplies?

[@vaughnprecision]

@@KarolDzierdzik I shop a few places. Powder Valley Ballistic Products Midway USA Precision Reloading These are the most popular to find supplies. They usually have some, but it’s still sparse at times.

[@KarolDzierdzik]

Thanks

[@amberwilliams185]

What powder bushing did you use> Also looks like #8 shot>

[@amberwilliams185]

Never mind I got a head of myself.Haha

[@tommcqueen3145]

Can you set it up for slugs an buckshot I can't find any information on it

[@davidshupe3266]

Great Video, Just ordered a 9000GN 12ga. Dose it come with different charge bars or do I need to purchase them?

[@vaughnprecision]

You have to order bars and bushings based on what your loading.

[@walterthompson9841]

Are you still drilling and tapping cases? I have .338 Win Mag.

[@robertortega8524]

Has anybody here had a trouble loading 3in BB shot or 2 shot with this machine?

[@phildeluca8181]

2 things I disagree with , first Pre Crimp, the hole should be small enough to hold a primer ,,, second the wad pressure , Modern day wads only need to be seated down on the powder that gauge you refereed to is for when you use Fiber wads and shot cards Not needed for Plastic wads , and there is really no need for the rubber grommet on the shot side ,

[@DKG_Paintball]

Looking at the 600 jr and I’m curious if I’ll have to adjust pre crimp/final crimp for different brands, lengths of shells or 6 vs 8 point crimp.

[@vaughnprecision]

Yes but adjustments are very simple, you can also do 6-8 crimp

[@DKG_Paintball]

@@vaughnprecision thank you for a quick reply! I don’t really load target loads, mainly hunting loads. I use a few different hulls, mainly Remington STS and fiocchi for 1 3/8oz predator loads and federal gold medal grands for 1.5oz predator loads and turkey loads.

[@JBWorkshop90]

So the bar measures out the powder?

[@vaughnprecision]

Yes but you have to select the correct bushing that drops in to the bar for the powder weight your looking for.

[@JBWorkshop90]

@@vaughnprecision I'll have to do some more research right picked up reloader for 75 bucks that came with the powder the shot and everything and I've never done it before last thing I want is to put too much gunpowder in

[@vaughnprecision]

@@JBWorkshop90 MEC has a bushing chart. It will show you what bushing number for each powder and how much the charge weight will be. It’s a very accurate chart.!