Okay, so you’re serious about reloading. You’ve got your press, your dies, and all the components. But have you thought about grease? Seriously, the right grease makes a huge difference in how smoothly your press operates and how long it lasts. Without it, things get sticky, noisy, and wear out faster. Let’s face it, nobody wants that. So, I’ve rounded up the best grease for reloading presses to keep your setup running like a well-oiled machine (pun intended!).
Here’s a quick look at the top contenders:
- Lucas Oil Red ‘N’ Tacky Grease: Excellent all-around grease for most reloading applications.
- Super Lube 21030 Synthetic Grease: Versatile synthetic grease, great for a wide temperature range.
- Hornady Unique Case Lube: Specifically formulated for case lubrication, reduces friction.
- Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease: High-performance synthetic grease for demanding reloading tasks.
- RCBS Case Lube-2: Reliable case lube from a trusted reloading brand.
Top 5 Best Grease For Reloading Press Reviews
1. Lucas Oil Red ‘N’ Tacky Grease
Lucas Oil Red ‘N’ Tacky Grease is a popular choice for a reason. This lithium complex grease is known for its high tackiness and water resistance. It’s designed to stay in place and provide long-lasting lubrication, making it ideal for the moving parts of a reloading press.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent adhesion, stays where you put it.
- ✅ Great water resistance, protects against corrosion.
- ✅ Long-lasting lubrication, reduces wear.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit messy to apply due to its tackiness.
- ❌ May attract dust and debris over time.
- ❌ Strong odor some users might find unpleasant.
Verdict: A solid all-around grease that provides excellent protection and lubrication for most reloading presses. Best for reloaders who want a reliable and durable grease.
2. Super Lube 21030 Synthetic Grease
Super Lube 21030 is a synthetic grease with PTFE, making it incredibly versatile. It’s known for its wide temperature range and compatibility with various materials, including plastics and rubber. This grease is a great option if you want something that can handle a range of conditions and applications.
Pros:
- ✅ Wide temperature range (-45°F to 450°F).
- ✅ Compatible with most materials, including plastics.
- ✅ Clean and non-toxic.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as tacky as some other greases.
- ❌ Can be a bit more expensive than conventional greases.
- ❌ Might require more frequent application in high-wear areas.
Verdict: A versatile and clean synthetic grease that’s suitable for a wide range of reloading press applications. Best for reloaders who need a grease that can handle extreme temperatures and various materials.
3. Hornady Unique Case Lube
Hornady Unique Case Lube is specifically designed for lubricating cases during the reloading process. It reduces friction when resizing and forming cases, making the process smoother and easier. This lube is essential for preventing stuck cases and ensuring consistent results.
Pros:
- ✅ Specifically formulated for case lubrication.
- ✅ Reduces friction and prevents stuck cases.
- ✅ Easy to apply.
Cons:
- ❌ Only suitable for case lubrication, not general press maintenance.
- ❌ Can be messy if overapplied.
- ❌ May require thorough cleaning after use.
Verdict: An excellent case lube that’s essential for smooth and consistent case resizing. Best for reloaders who want a dedicated case lube to prevent stuck cases.
4. Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease
Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease is a high-performance grease designed for demanding applications. It offers excellent protection against wear, corrosion, and high temperatures. This grease is a great choice if you want the best possible protection for your reloading press, especially if you reload frequently or under heavy loads.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent wear protection.
- ✅ Superior corrosion resistance.
- ✅ High-temperature performance.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than conventional greases.
- ❌ May be overkill for light-duty reloading.
- ❌ Can be difficult to find in some stores.
Verdict: A high-performance synthetic grease that provides excellent protection for demanding reloading tasks. Best for serious reloaders who want the best possible lubrication and protection.
5. RCBS Case Lube-2
RCBS Case Lube-2 is a reliable case lube from a well-known and trusted reloading brand. It’s designed to reduce friction and prevent stuck cases during the resizing process. This lube is a popular choice among reloaders for its ease of use and effectiveness.
Pros:
- ✅ Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
- ✅ Reduces friction and prevents stuck cases.
- ✅ Easy to apply.
Cons:
- ❌ Only suitable for case lubrication.
- ❌ Can leave a residue on cases.
- ❌ May require thorough cleaning after use.
Verdict: A reliable and effective case lube from a trusted brand. Best for reloaders who want a simple and effective solution for preventing stuck cases.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right grease for your reloading press can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Type of Grease: There are two main types of grease: conventional and synthetic. Conventional greases are typically petroleum-based and are suitable for most general applications. Synthetic greases offer superior performance, especially in extreme temperatures and high-wear conditions.
- Tackiness: Tackiness refers to the grease’s ability to stick to surfaces. A tacky grease will stay in place and provide long-lasting lubrication, but it can also be messier to apply.
- Water Resistance: If you reload in a humid environment, water resistance is an important consideration. A water-resistant grease will protect against corrosion and prevent the grease from washing away.
- Temperature Range: Consider the temperature range in which you’ll be reloading. If you reload in extreme temperatures, choose a grease with a wide temperature range.
- Compatibility: Make sure the grease is compatible with the materials in your reloading press. Some greases can damage plastics or rubber.
- Application: Think about how easy the grease is to apply. Some greases come in tubes or aerosol cans, while others require a grease gun.
FAQs
Q: How often should I grease my reloading press?
A: It depends on how often you reload. For regular use, grease your press every few months or after every few thousand rounds. If you reload frequently or under heavy loads, you may need to grease it more often.
Q: Can I use any grease on my reloading press?
A: No, it’s important to use a grease that’s specifically designed for reloading presses or other machinery. Automotive greases, for example, may not be suitable due to their additives or compatibility with certain materials.
Q: What’s the difference between case lube and general-purpose grease?
A: Case lube is specifically designed for lubricating cases during the resizing process. It reduces friction and prevents stuck cases. General-purpose grease is used for lubricating the moving parts of the reloading press.
Q: How do I apply grease to my reloading press?
A: Refer to your reloading press’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, you’ll want to apply a small amount of grease to the moving parts of the press, such as the ram, linkage, and pivot points. Use a grease gun or applicator to apply the grease evenly.
Q: Can I use too much grease?
A: Yes, over-greasing can attract dirt and debris, which can actually increase wear. Apply grease sparingly and wipe away any excess.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—the best grease for reloading presses. Choosing the right grease can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your reloading setup. Whether you go with the all-around reliability of Lucas Oil Red ‘N’ Tacky, the versatility of Super Lube, or a dedicated case lube like Hornady Unique, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your press running smoothly. Happy reloading!
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