Optimum location for the reloader

[m0topilot]

So guys, I'm just getting into reloading and I have an 8ft bench and pony'd up for a Dillon 650 with case feeder, strong mount. I'm fabricating a steel plate (similar to RCBS steel plate) and will drill and tap holes to mount the strong mounts to the steel plate. I just didn't want to put too many holes through the bench when I eventually get more reloaders.

I want to ask the experienced loaders where they have their reloader located on the bench?

I ask myself whats more efficient?? To reload in the middle or have the reloader off to one side or 2/3's the way. Have you positioned your reloader at a location only to find out that you need more space on one side or the other and need to reposition it.

It's a subjective question, but just wanted to get your thoughts.

Thanks,
Matt

[anyracoon]

Mount it to the far right. That way you have plenty of space to work on guns, prep cases, etc.

[Fjold]

You will need room on both sides. If I had one reloading press I would put it 18" from the right hand edge which leaves you room to put the empty cases on your right hand side and the bullets on the left hand side with room around it all for your ammo boxes to put the completed rounds in, etc.

[Sheldon]

With presses where you need to manually feed cases into the press (like the Square Deal B or the 550) you need room on the right side of the press to accomodate placement of your container of shell casings. In those presses you'd be using your right hand to place the cases into the first station of the press. On the 650 especially with the casefeeder you would free up that space, but most would still want the scale (to periodically check your powder charges) mounted/placed somewhere on the right side for ergonomics sake.

[smokingloon]

I mounted my press to a piece of wood and used c clamps for now. That way I can see what I like and adjust it if I need to. Later, I will attach it directly to the bench.

[m0topilot]

smokinglong, good point about the c-clamps... thats what my neighbor suggested as well. Definitely I think I should have some space on either side of the reloader. I was thinking one side will have a table vice and the other will have the reloader.

Thanks,
Matt

[BillyGoatMachine]

I guess it depends on if your right or left handed. I mount mine on the far right side of the bench. On the left if your a southpaw.

[7222 Hawker]

I guess it depends on if your right or left handed. I mount mine on the far right side of the bench. On the left if your a southpaw.

Agreed on the far right side if you are right handed... at least that's where it felt natural to me. However, what I did was set it up, run through a couple of dry cycles and see where it made sense. You may have a different feel for how you want it.

[ar15barrels]

18" from an edge like Frank said is about right.
Just make sure you have ample knee/leg clearance under the bench if you are going to load while seated.
I prefer to load standing so I built my reloading bench 51" tall.
This gets rid of the need for strong mounts and it puts the machines at the right height for me to stand at them.
I'm 6'3" so you may have to adjust that height downward some to accomodate your height.
Ideally, you want the handle height about even with your shoulder height when you are at the machine and the handle is up.