Gentlemen,
I am in need of a new case trimmer. I have only used the RCBS and was wondering what you thought of the different case trimmers being sold. Are any better than others?

Thanks,
Wes

I went from RCBS to Wilson and I was absolutly amazed at the differnce. Don't get the screwdriver adapter because the trimmer is so smooth you will never use it, or if you would like a screwdriver adapter I'll sell you mine.

With the RCBS occasionally I could see a differnce in the caliper when checking length, and I always checked the length. With the wilsoon I get it setup and never look back. A little more expence to buy case holders for each caliber but worth it in my book.

Simdow

The Forster is a great trimmer.... but Wilson is THE best.

Wilson. I have a Forster also.

I'll probably get flamed for this, but I like the Lee trimmer. It's very cheap, very compact, very consistent, and very fast when used under power. The only real drawback is that it's not adjustable.

quote:

Originally posted by MarkL:
I'll probably get flamed for this, but I like the Lee trimmer. It's very cheap, very compact, very consistent, and very fast when used under power. The only real drawback is that it's not adjustable.

I too use the Lee rimmer and also have the "Zip Trim" fixture.

I can trim, chamfer, (inside and outside) and polish off any burrs with steel wool, faster than I cam clean the primer pockets.


And there is no "set-up" other than screwing on the appropriete length gauge.

I have got to votte for the Lee trimming system also. I have a Lyman and will use it some but it will not hold tight when set for a certain lenght. The Lee cuts all cases the same and it is fast when set up in my cordless drill.

Hog Killer

I use the Lee system in my drill press. I put the cutter in the press and the case in the universal chuck. I can leave the press running and change out the cases manually.

I like Forster.

Thanks guys,
I think I'll give the Wilson a go. I have never used any Wilson tools but it sounds like they have a great reputation.

Wes

Sounds like you made up your mind already, but I would have been the 5th vote for the Lee Zip Trim system. It is easier, faster, and does a better job than my Lyman case trimmer (which I haven't touched in months). It also replaced my tumbler (which I haven't turned on in months) and reduces your cost of cleaning cases (no more walnut media). It's cheaper too!!!

But go ahead, opt for the sore hands, dusty cases, flattened brass at the neck that is hard to chamfer. I've got a Lyman trimmer and Frankfor tumbler I'll sell you - cheap.

quote:

Originally posted by simdow: Don't get the screwdriver adapter because the trimmer is so smooth you will never use it, or if you would like a screwdriver adapter I'll sell you mine.


Simdow

I could also be convinced to sell mine. I never use it at all.

Rick

I used the RCBS for 7 years, I only wish i had switched to wilson 6.99 years soooner.

WESR, I have the Wilson and like it, two things though.

1. The steel wilson uses on both the trimmer and the case holders is very susceptible to rusting. Keep a good protectant on it/them.

2. It is slow going with the wilson as with any manual trimmer, if you are doing a large number of cases you will eventually want a power trimmer.

I've been at this for only a few years and still use my Wilson most of the time, but I also ended up with a Giraud power trimmer too!

You'll enjoy the Wilson tool it is really good quality, I wish I had bought the 'micrometer adjustment attachment' to start with it makes it easier if you are changing from one cartridge to another. The inside chamfer tool is a nice addition, the reason I could argue for the Forster, like Steve recommended, is that you can outside chamfer also, which you can't do at all with the Wilson.

Good Luck--Don

Fish,
When I change cartridges I just measure the space from case holder to cutter with my caliper, that will get you real close if not right on the money.

I second your recomendation on the unside chamfer tool.

Simdow

another vote for Wilson

I've tried them all over the years and at present I use only the Lee. Simple, accurate, fast, no adjustments, it don't get any better than this for me.

Simdow, that's a good idea on measuring with the caliper to set your trim length, I usually keep a 'dummy' case on hand and just screw in or out the length adjustment screw on my Wilson while holding the cutter in firmly until the case contacts the trimmer, then I'm usually right there.

Another insight on the Wilson there WESR!

I, too, like the Lee's, but they don't come in all the calibers.

For me there is nothing like the Lyman trimmer with the universal chuck that will take all case sizes. I just trimmed 100 .416 Rem and 150 .257 Wby and 200 7mm STW cases with ease. You can do it by hand or use a power drill adapter kit. I don't know the model number but I could find if needed. Good shooting.

WESR,

I vote LEE also. I own pretty much every common caliber they make including a custom 9.3x63 Mauser they made for me! I still have't invested what my original Forrester cost me.

With a battery-powered drill or my Drill Press - they are the business!

Gerry

Forster here.

Thanks again guys,
I have never seen or used the Lee, but it sounds quite easy to use and reliable. That aside, I reload a number of unusual rounds and also like to be able to control the trim length of my rounds. It doesn't sound like the Lee is good for either, so thats the way it is.

Wes

quote:

Originally posted by Bob338:
Wilson. I have a Forster also.

I like my Forster, BUT it is too small for easy use with .300 Wby Mag cases. What do people like for trimming BIG ones?
Regards,
Duhawki

I would also have to vote for the Lee but, Like you said if you intend on loading unusal Carts, the Lee wont be much help.

Reloader

I have three, and just based on feel and not speed or results:
1) Wilson A
2) Forster B
3) RCBS D

For a simple trimmer I found it is hard to beat the Lee cutter and lock stud combo. I used one with a varible drill and it works really well. In the process of fastening a small varible speed electric motor to the lock stud for permanet use. It isn't as fancy as some but costs a lot less and is very simple, but most of all works real good.

I guess I'm talking about a different too when I say Lee trimmer. I use the Lee Zip Trim
http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=515804
It's not really electric but it's not really manual either. Spins the case real fast so the trim accessories work real good. Hold steel wool on it and it cleans the case like a new penny.

Can't recommend it enough to do it justice!