16ga.com ~ View topic

Joined: 20 Aug 2008 Posts: 9 Location: Midwest

I have access to old Mec 500 that is currently setup for 12 gauge.

Does anyone know if you can set them up to reload 16 gauge?

If so where would you look for the parts to do so?

Is it worth it or would it be just as cheap to buy something new?

Thanks
PBH

Hello
Parts CAN be found, BUT, it would be much better to go with a more modern machine such as the MEC 650 or MEC Grabber.

Also, you MEC users will enjoy this site

http://www.mecreloaders.com/OwnerManuals/OwnerManuals.asp

Enjoy the day
Mike

MEC 500? This is one I've never heard of, or at least can't recall (no surprises there Laughing

). Please clue me in about it, thanks.

Member Joined: 28 Oct 2005 Posts: 665 Location: Louisiana

Just one of the older models. I seem to remember a MEC 200 and maybe a 400 as well. If you're interested I can look it up but these are just obsolete MEC machine models.

http://www.mecreloaders.com/documents/ownermanuals/500.pdf

Guest

I wouldn't bother looking for 16 ga. dies for the Model 500, get your self a new machine. Either a Sizemaster for a singlestage or a Grabber or 9000G for a progressive.

A little information on the discontinued models from MEC.

With the exception of the 700 Versamec and 76 Series Grabber, most of these machines were 1950 thru 1960's, most were made with the fiber wad column in mind and the MEC 300 even had a paper shell former attached for getting the wax to flow into the crimp section properly.

MEC 700 Versamec - single stage

MEC 76 Series Grabber - progressive preceded the current 8567 Grabber

MEC 600 Jr Pre 1985 - single stage replaced by 600 Jr. MarkV

MEC Super 600 - progressive replaced by 650

MEC 500 - semi-progressive, bar was manually operated

MEC 400 - single stage

MEC 310 - single stage early - mid 1960's

MEC 300 - single stage - had a heated shell former for paper shells

MEC 250 - single stage -

Member Joined: 28 Oct 2005 Posts: 665 Location: Louisiana

Thanks DC a more comprehensive review than I remember in those old catalogues at home.
I have one of those heated 'shell formers'...thot I could use it on plastic if I was quick Shocked

NOT.
I still have considered reducing the voltage to lower the heat...............

Guest

I love paper shotshells, I shoot them in my 12's(sorry). I bought a newer model shell former made by Forster, it has a reostat on it and I have plaed with it on plastic hulls as you can throttle it back quite a bit.

Forster doesn't make it anymore, I got mine on Ebay for cheap and it was brand new in the box.

Member Joined: 28 Oct 2005 Posts: 665 Location: Louisiana

DC! a TWELVE GAUGE? Shocked

For SHAME!

You do realize of course that this revelation may require a review by the nomenclatura to evaluate your status. Rolling Eyes

Guest

Yup I do still shoot a 12. However the only gauge I ever hunt with is a 16. Do you think the nomenclature review board will overlook this violation?

Member Joined: 28 Oct 2005 Posts: 665 Location: Louisiana

OK DC after serious consideration I've decided, despite having absolutely no influence with mgmt.& adm., to attempt an intervention on your behalf.

You realize of course that you'll probably have to attend 'meetings'.........

Guest

As long as the meetings involve shooting OK, when and where? Can I use my Model 12 and Model 37. I sent the stock for my 1100 out to be refinished, so I can't use my favorite. Of course you will all get a good laugh watching me trying to run a pumpgun.

Would these meetings also involve a fair amount of ribbing and joking around? To the point where no one can hit anytyhing, 'cause the rest of the guys are making the shooter laugh. Possibly a nice friendly bit of alcohol afterwards at dinner with a nice thick steak and some good conversation so we all get to know each other? And.. most important, no electronic leashes ringing and messing stuff up. Those kind of meetings???

Member Joined: 28 Oct 2005 Posts: 665 Location: Louisiana

HAVE YOU BEEN SNEAKING MEETINGS? Wink

Guest

As many as I can get to!