Reloading your ammunition can be a rewarding hobby, offering precision and control over your cartridges. However, a smooth-running reloading press is crucial for efficiency and safety. The right grease can significantly impact your press's performance, longevity, and your overall reloading experience. This guide explores the best greases for reloading presses, helping you choose the ideal lubricant for your setup.
Why Use Grease on Your Reloading Press?
Before diving into specific grease recommendations, let's understand why lubrication is essential for your reloading press. Proper lubrication:
- Reduces Friction: Grease minimizes friction between moving parts, leading to smoother operation and reduced wear. This is especially important for high-volume reloaders.
- Extends Lifespan: By reducing friction and wear, grease extends the life of your press and its components. A well-maintained press will last for years.
- Improves Accuracy: Smoother operation translates to more consistent and accurate reloading. This is critical for maintaining precision in your ammunition.
- Prevents Damage: Lack of lubrication can lead to seizing, binding, and ultimately damage to your valuable reloading press.
Types of Grease for Reloading Presses
Several types of grease are suitable for reloading presses, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
1. Moly Grease (Molybdenum Disulfide):
Pros: Excellent high-temperature performance, high load-carrying capacity, and good anti-wear properties. Often preferred for its ability to withstand the pressures and stresses associated with reloading.
Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
2. Lithium-Based Grease:
Pros: Widely available, relatively inexpensive, and provides good general-purpose lubrication. A solid choice for most reloading presses.
Cons: May not perform as well under extreme pressure or high temperatures as moly grease.
3. Synthetic Greases:
Pros: Offer superior performance in extreme temperatures and conditions compared to traditional greases. They often have better resistance to water and other contaminants.
Cons: Generally more expensive than lithium-based or moly greases.
Choosing the Right Grease: Factors to Consider
Selecting the best grease for your reloading press depends on several factors:
- Press Type: The type of press (single-stage, progressive, etc.) can influence the type of grease needed. Progressive presses, which operate at a higher speed and under more stress, may benefit from a higher-performance grease like moly grease.
- Frequency of Use: If you reload frequently, a high-quality grease that offers superior protection against wear will be a wise investment.
- Environmental Conditions: If your reloading area is prone to dust or moisture, consider a grease with good water resistance.
- Personal Preference: Some reloaders prefer certain greases based on their experience and personal preference.
Application and Maintenance
Regardless of the grease you choose, proper application is crucial. Apply a small amount of grease to the appropriate points on your press, avoiding excessive application, which can attract dust and debris. Regular cleaning and relubrication, as recommended by your press manufacturer, will contribute to the longevity and smooth operation of your reloading press.
Conclusion
Selecting the right grease for your reloading press is a simple but vital step in ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate reloading. While moly grease offers superior performance under high stress, lithium-based grease provides a reliable and affordable alternative. Carefully consider the factors mentioned above to choose the best grease for your specific needs and enjoy years of smooth, reliable reloading. Remember to always consult your press's manual for specific lubrication recommendations from the manufacturer.
