Shorty offset handle for co-ax press ...

wquiles

Well-Known Member
I can now confirm what I read many times, that the OEM handle in the Co-ax press is too darn long for most operations. The shorty handle option seems OK, but pricey. Same with the aftermarket offset handle. So I made my own, but instead of metal and plastic, I went for something a little more "elegant".

Left over hard wood from a co-worker - about 1" dia, and scrap Aluminum, etc. - didn't have to buy a single thing for this one:
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The wood is so hard that it cuts beautiful on the lathe:
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Wanted the screw recessed, so cut the hex portion off:
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Shorty handle (Al, probably 6061) - will paint black later to match the OEM look:
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wquiles

Well-Known Member
Cut flat for hex nut:
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Drill and thread (3/8-16):
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Cut delrin spacer, black of course:
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Two coats of hand rubbed finish:
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And after sandblasting, and thermally applying Moly Resin to the screw, nut, and Al handle, here is the finished product:
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Oh man, it feels great now :)
 
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wquiles

Well-Known Member
Thank you guys. I love having "feel" again in the reloading operations with this new-to-me press, but the long handle was driving me crazy - not the most ergonomic design from the factory ;)
 

Ian

Notorious member
I would have been tempted to thread an 8-ball for a short handle. I really like the Lee ball handles as opposed to the rollers for 180⁰ handle operation.
 

wquiles

Well-Known Member
I would have been tempted to thread an 8-ball for a short handle. I really like the Lee ball handles as opposed to the rollers for 180⁰ handle operation.
What is really funny is that I also was tempted by using an 8-ball, and in fact bought one - potentially a future project/mod for this press:
8_ball.jpg