The MEC Model 8567 Grabber is a shotshell reloading machine designed for efficient and precise reloading of shotgun shells. It is a progressive reloader, meaning it performs multiple operations simultaneously at different stations as the shell moves through the machine.
Function Description
The primary function of the MEC 8567 Grabber is to reload spent shotgun shells, transforming them into new, usable ammunition. This process involves several steps:
- Depriming: Removing the spent primer from the shell.
- Resizing: Reshaping the brass base of the shell to ensure proper fit in a shotgun chamber.
- Priming: Inserting a new primer into the shell.
- Powder Charging: Dispensing a precise amount of gunpowder into the shell.
- Wad Insertion: Placing a plastic wad (which separates the powder from the shot and helps seal the gas) into the shell.
- Shot Charging: Dispensing a precise amount of shot (pellets) into the shell.
- Crimping: Sealing the open end of the shell, typically with a 6 or 8 point crimp, to hold the components in place.
The Grabber is designed for continuous operation, allowing users to produce a high volume of reloaded shells quickly. Its progressive nature means that with each pull of the operating handle, a finished shell is produced, while other shells are simultaneously advanced to the next stage of the reloading process.
Important Technical Specifications
- Model: 8567 Grabber
- Gauge Compatibility: The machine is available in various gauges, including 10, 12, 16, 20, 28 gauge, and .410 bore. The specific kit (e.g., Kit No. 8582 for 12 & 20 ga. ONLY) determines the gauges it can reload. Conversion kits are available to change gauges.
- Steel Shot Compatibility: The Grabber can be set up to reload steel shot. A special steel shot charge bar must be used, and users are advised to consult the instruction sheet for specific kit numbers (e.g., Kit No. 8581 for 12 ga. steel shot). For 3" steel shot, a single stage steel shot adaptor kit (Kit No. 8433) is needed.
- Crimp Type: Capable of producing 6 or 8 point crimps. The crimp starter can be adjusted to achieve the desired crimp type.
- Powder and Shot Dispensers: Equipped with adjustable charge bars for precise measurement of powder and shot. These bars are interchangeable to accommodate different loads.
- Construction: Features a robust design with components made from durable materials like brass and steel to withstand the stresses of reloading.
Usage Features
- Progressive Reloading: The key feature, allowing for rapid production of reloaded shells. The machine performs multiple operations concurrently, making it highly efficient for high-volume reloaders.
- Automatic Sequence: The machine operates through a series of automatic steps, from depriming to final crimping, with each pull of the handle.
- Adjustability:
- Charge Bar Adjustment: The charge bar can be adjusted to fine-tune powder and shot charges. Different bushings and charge bars are available for various load specifications.
- Crimp Adjustment: The crimp starter and final crimp stations are adjustable to achieve a perfect crimp, ensuring the shell is properly sealed and functions reliably.
- Collet Resizer Adjustment: The collet resizer can be adjusted to ensure the brass base of the shell is perfectly resized for proper chambering.
- Wad Guide Adjustment: The wad guide screw allows for adjustment of wad pressure, which is crucial for consistent ballistic performance.
- Easy Component Loading: Designed with accessible hoppers for primers, powder, and shot, making it easy to replenish components during operation.
- Safety Features: Includes mechanisms to prevent common reloading errors, such as double powder charges (though careful attention from the user is always required). The manual emphasizes the importance of using recommended components and following safety guidelines to prevent serious injury or damage.
- Visual Indicators: Some models or setups may include visual indicators for powder and wad pressure, aiding in consistent reloading.
Maintenance Features
- Lubrication Points: The manual specifies various lubrication points (e.g., pivot pins, scissor linkage, charge bar, shell lifter) that require regular lubrication with heavy oil to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning of components, especially the powder and shot measures, is essential to prevent buildup and ensure accurate charges. The powder funnel and wad guide should be kept clean.
- Component Replacement: Parts like the primer spring, index ball, and various bushings may wear out over time and are designed to be replaceable.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section to help users identify and resolve common issues such as oversize shells, short wads, poor crimps, powder leaks, and primer problems.
- Disassembly and Reassembly: Instructions are provided for disassembling and reassembling key components for cleaning, maintenance, or part replacement. For example, the charge bar can be removed for cleaning.
- Spring Maintenance: Various springs (e.g., bar return spring, index spring, primer feed spring) are critical for the machine's operation and should be checked for proper function and replaced if worn.
- Collet Maintenance: The collet resizer requires periodic cleaning and lubrication to ensure it functions effectively in resizing the shell base.
- Primer Catcher: The machine includes a primer catcher to collect spent primers, simplifying cleanup.
The MEC 8567 Grabber is a sophisticated tool for serious reloaders, offering a blend of speed, precision, and durability, provided it is properly set up, operated, and maintained according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
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