Lyman VS RCBS sizer lubers

[carpetman]

When I started casting, I bought a Lyman sizer/luber. Many years later, I ran across an RCBS, too cheap not to buy. It was their old style that used a ratchet for pressure feed, as did the Lyman. But it had issues and was sent back and RCBS replaced it with their new style that used a toggle for pressurization. I much prefer the ratchet. So I called RCBS to see what would be required to convert it. Was told the bolt was different and I could not just change them out. They said I'd have to modify a bolt so that the ratchet would fit. Even though their product was not at fault and it was just my personal preference, they sent me a new bolt and a ratchet. I probably could have done a crude job with a hacksaw and file, but I took it to my late friend that was a gunsmith and machinist. He cut the new bolt right below the hole that the toggle went through and milled a hex on the end of the bolt. Comparing the Lyman and RCBS they use the same dies and top punches---they will interchange. Really not much difference, but the RCBS does hold pressure a little better. I prefer RCBS because of their customer service. I had issues with a Lyman mold and they charged a pretty steep price to fix it.
I gave the old Lyman sizer to a son in law along with a couple of molds, as bait to get him into casting. That was several years ago and he has not bit.

 

[Brad]

I have a Lyman, first sizer I bought. Have had it for better than 20 years, it works.
Never owned an RCBS but I know some who think they are better made.

My personal preference is the Star. Nose first, no in and out. Faster, more concentric and checks are always on nice and square.

Good work can be done with any of them, it comes down to preference and budget. Might be why I have a brunette and not a high end blonde.......

 

[Ian]

Amen to having a nice down-to-earth Brunette! And efficient tools.

 

[Pistolero]

Have both machines on the bench. Fine thread on the Lyman die retainer nut is a
significant PITA, and for that reason I have The Perfesser's nut alignment tool and
consider it almost a requirement to keep from wrecking the Lyman. Linkage is a bit
flimsier, too. Other than that, pretty comparable machines. No large preferences.

Bill

 

[KHornet]

Have 2 of each, mostly for dedication of cal when I plan on shooting a lot of a cal. Bought the two RCBS and one lyman on ebay back when prices were way lower than they are now.

 

[Mike W1]

Use a ¼” drive ½” 6 point socket with a slot cut in it to allow a bolt to go through
the top of the luber screw and you can eliminate that annoying double ended ball to
apply pressure. The ¼” drive socket wrench works much nicer. I cut the slot with
a metal angle grinder. And you’re not messing with the factory setup. Think I paid
$1.59 for the socket!

 

[Ian]

Mike, nice drawer knobs!