The Best New Handloading Press? Part One
- Zak May
- Oct 11, 2024
- 2 min read
Short Action Customs had the Nexus single-stage press at their booth at the 2024 Shot Show. It was there that I got a first look at it. I was impressed with the high level of quality, and the press uses two precision ground linear guide rods and two linear guide rod bearings, giving it a very smooth and consistent feeling with every handle pull. I was also intrigued by how the die system and the shell system sat in the press by floating so they line the case up every time, which will help with more constant sizing and bullet seating.
While talking to one of the guys at the booth, he explained how the cam system worked on the press. Instead of relying on the die touching the shell plate to stop, the nexus press cams over independently of the shell holder. Every single cycle of the press, your hard cam over pucks limits the travel, which gives you the same amount of cam over every single cycle, regardless of where your die is in relation to the shell holder. The press cams over 2 degrees past the top dead center, allowing the same amount of sizing or seating with each press stroke.
The quick change of dies and shell plates is also nice, as no tools are needed. Stock die rings work on the press, or you can order SAC die rings; the Nexus press uses its own shell holder system that allows .010″ more sizing than all other shell holders on the market. So, if you are having issues not getting enough sizing out of your dies, there is no need to modify them anymore; the Nexus Press will take that problem out of the equation. The press will include 4 shell holders: 223 Bolt face, 308 Bolt Face, Magnum Bolt face, and Lapua Magnum Bolt face. There are other shell holders available on their site if needed.
Fast-forward to August 2024, and I had it in a box ready to bolt to the reloading bench to put through its paces. I ordered an Inline Fabrication stand for the press to set on the bench. With the press all setup, it's time for testing! Stay tuned for article number two on sizing and seating results.
Does it feel natural? I love their bushings and other stuff but man that's rich.
I have not touched this press. I have no issues saying it is probably quality. I dont see it as a game changer. There are presses out there that are half the price same quality and a better warranty. In my opinion.