setup Reloading Press on a plastic table?

[nidm]

hi, Guys,

I just bought a reloading kit(RCBS). Very excited about it.

However, I didn't realize that I need to install the loading press on a workbench. I only have a plastic fold table, like this:

https://www.lifetime.com/gallery/tableschairs/rectangular/4-foot-adjustable-height/80160

A real sturdy workbench is quite expensive, and my space can only 4 feet-long. Wondering whether it is ok to install the press directly on the plastic table? Hopefully, I don't have to go through the trouble to get a new table just for the press.

thanks

nidm

[Cincinnatus]

Build your own with plans you can find online. Use 4x4s & subfloor plywood, plus cross-bracing or turnbuckles. If your space is 4' long, cut the subfloor plywood in half and double the thickness of the table top.

[Barbarosa]

You might get by if you put down 12"x12" plywood squares on the top and bottom of the table to make it stiffer. I worry the lack of weight on the table might make it tippy when you are pulling the lever. If that happens you could use a couple L brackets to attach the table to the wall.

[wbunning]

I don't think that's going to work for you. The arm on your press generates quite a bit of torque on the mounting bolts, and I fear this will work the plastic too much, and that there will be too much flex in that thin top. Since it sounds like you are on a budget, maybe you could consider this unit from Harbor Freight. It won't be rock solid, but considerably stronger than what you have, fits in your available space, has a light, plus room for some storage. Under $100 w tax : http://t.harborfreight.com/multipurp...ght-62563.html

There may still need tombe some modification done to that unit, but it would give you a much better start.

[Cincinnatus]

Yeah, I'd think that thing is too light for chucking rounds, but whatever.

[nidm]

guys, thanks for the suggestions

the one suggested by wbunning, looks a good option for me.

BTW, I also found this : http://precisionrifleblog.com/2012/1...g-press-plans/ , a good alternative for a handy person(not me)

[dwalker]

I use a Frankfort Arsenal portable table,

https://www.amazon.com/Frankford-Arsenal-489621-Platinum-Reloading/dp/B00HTN98X6

And before that I have used a harbor freight worktable with the top reinforced with a 2x2 3/4" plywood worktop.

http://m.harborfreight.com/adjustable-height-heavy-duty-workstation-46725.html

[Dragginpanda]

Because you have a limited space, 4ft, you should think of shelves or placing on top of a cabinet. Soon you will have a tumbler, dies, bullet puller....etc to store.

[stilly]

My friend took his Harbor Freight grinder stand and shot it into the floor so it did not move, then he loaded up three presses on top and he just rotates it based on what he wants to do...

http://www.harborfreight.com/heavy-duty-bench-grinder-pedestal-68321.html

For what it is worth, he also drilled and tapped the collar underneath to make the top more stable.

[sixoclockhold]

People toss tables away all the time in dumpsters or yard sales. Pick a cheap one up (night stand/end table) and slide it under the bench for now till you can do it right. Press bolted to it.

Here is a cool heavy sucker with shelves ! $19..bet he takes $10

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/fuo/5914805224.html

[nidm]

have to admit that I didn't expect so many surprised great suggestions so quickly. Appreciate the inputs from all of you.

@sixoclockhold suggested http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/fuo/5914805224.html, is the best considering how limited the space and budget I have . However, the location is the killer. :-)

@dwalkers' 2nd suggestion definitely fit in both space and my budget. Hopefully, it not too light to be tippy . http://www.harborfreight.com/adjusta...%3Ft%3D1281906

I also looked at this one: http://www.harborfreight.com/Multipu...ght-60723.html, price is ok. but a bit large for me, acceptable as an alternative

thanks. Guys

[Lamski]

I live in an apartment and do not have a table that can stay out so I use a Black and Decker Workmate that was given to me. I just replaced the top with a solid laminated butcher block (plywood can also be used). It's heavy and is solid enough to not tip when pulling the press lever. I have to pull it out and set up every time I reload, then tear it down and put it away when finished. There are tons of people using these B&D Workmates for reloading. Here's one:

http://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/gun-shots/diy-how-build-compact-reloading-bench

https://smile.amazon.com/WM425-Workmate-550-Pound-Capacity-Portable/dp/B0000224R9/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1482046797&sr=8-4&keywords=workmate

If you can leave your 4 foot table out all the time I would definitely build a mini workbench that is solid all around.

[elpaisa1]

Check out 2X4 basics on amazon

Sent from my SM-N920T using Tapatalk

[farmerjoe]

When I first started out, I was reloading in the living room in my apartment. I found an ugly as hell end table at a yard sale. I think I paid $5 for it. I used projectiles as ballast to weigh it down. Take a look on Craigslist. If you don't care too much about looks, you should deb able to find something cheap.

[8mmFMJ]

I use a 2x6 and lag bolted to a 6' long 3/4 ply shelf in my garage. Then I lag bolted my Hornady press to that 2x6. A stuck large rifle case with a press on the end will pick up a 100lb table all day long. I'd say my shelving units weigh 1000lbs.