DIY Workmate reloading station

By

Military Times

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron takes off from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 6, 2014, during RED FLAG-Alaska 15-1. RF-A is a series of Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercises for U.S. and partner nation forces, providing combined offensive counter-air, interdiction, close air support and large force employment training in a simulated combat environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Joseph Swafford Jr./Released)

Here’s my Dillon XL 650 setup. I (over)built a rigid tabletop by laminating a 1/2″ sheet of plywood to a 3/4″ sheet of MDF with wood screws and glue. I centered and attached the tabletop assembly to the removable center section of the Workmate, again using screws and glue. The press is then bolted to the tabletop as per the manufacturers instructions.

I mounted a small cleat on the wall where I keep the setup that presses on the top, back edge of the tabletop, providing a little more security and stability. I’m not sure it’s needed, but It makes the assembly feel as if it’s built in to the floor and walls without attaching anything to the setup that might hinder moving it.

The slick part: the tabletop and press are held in place by the jaws of the Workmate and come off in one piece when the fixture handles are loosened. It’s not the easiest thing to move around, but with the case feeder removed, the three pieces are reasonably transportable. In use, the setup is bomber and the only tools needed to build it are a circular saw, a drill and a screwdriver.