The RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool is a bench‑mounted, manual lever priming station that uses primer tubes to feed small or large primers automatically into prepared cases. It targets reloaders who want to prime off‑press with more feel and consistency than most on‑press systems, but who are not interested in high‑priced automated priming solutions. It fits well on a dedicated reloading bench and is aimed at medium to high volume shooters who are willing to load primer tubes in exchange for reduced hand fatigue and uniform seating depth.
In terms of specs, this tool is a cast‑metal bench unit with a steel handle and linkage, steel primer seating components, and steel primer tubes covered by a clear plastic safety shield. It supports both small and large primers via separate seating rods and tubes, and uses standard RCBS press‑type shellholders (not included). There is no power requirement; all operation is via the lever. Typical street price in the U.S. runs roughly $110–$150, with an MSRP historically around $150–$170. RCBS backs it with their limited lifetime warranty, and most listings note U.S. manufacture. For a full breakdown of dimensions, parts, setup steps, and maintenance tips, see the dedicated setup and specs article on the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool.
Reliability & Issues
The design is simple, so there is not much to fail.
Long‑term reliability:
- Generally considered reliable for thousands to tens of thousands of primers when kept clean and properly adjusted.
- Most reported issues are about primer feed quirks, setup, or shellholder alignment rather than broken major components.
- RCBS customer service has a strong reputation for supplying replacement tubes, shields, and small parts if something does fail.
Common issues:
- Primer feed can be finicky if tubes or the feed path are dirty or have small burrs.
- Crushed or sideways primers usually trace back to mis‑seated shellholders, wrong primer rod/tube, or an overly fast, inconsistent stroke.
- Some users find loading primer tubes slower and more tedious than tray‑fed hand primers.
- Small primers are more sensitive to debris or rough spots in the feed system than large primers.
- Plastic primer tube shield can crack if dropped or overtightened, though replacements are available.
- Rare reports of primer detonation in the tube exist; the shield is designed to mitigate this risk, but meticulous cleanliness and alignment are important.
What usually wears or loosens:
- Pivot pins and linkage joints can develop minor play over time; light lubrication and occasional inspection help keep the stroke smooth.
- Primer tubes can be bent if mishandled; keeping them in a protective tube or rack when not in use extends their life.
- Small springs or pins in the feed mechanism can be lost during disassembly; working over a tray and following the manual reduces this risk.
For a deeper look at real‑world reliability, including user‑reported problems and fixes from forums and retailer reviews, see the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool – Feedback article, which focuses specifically on long‑term owner experiences.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Below are common alternatives and how they compare based on the research.
1) Lee Auto Bench Prime
- Where the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool is better:
- Heavier, more robust construction and linkage for long‑term durability.
- Generally better tactile feedback and perceived consistency in seating depth.
- RCBS warranty and customer support are often rated higher.
- Where Lee is better:
- Lower purchase price.
- Tray‑fed primers (no tubes), which some users find faster and simpler to load.
- Lighter and more compact, easier to mount on smaller benches.
2) RCBS Hand Priming Tools (Universal or standard shellholder type)
- Where the Automatic Bench Priming Tool is better:
- Much less hand fatigue during large batches.
- Bench‑mounted leverage and stable feel, especially with tight primer pockets.
- Often more consistent seating depth for high‑volume work.
- Where hand primers are better:
- Highly portable; no bench mounting required.
- Faster to set up for small runs or quick adjustments.
- Tray‑fed primers can be quicker to load than tubes for short sessions.
3) Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer (and similar premium hand primers)
- Where the RCBS bench tool is better:
- Bench leverage and ergonomics for very large batches.
- Simpler mechanical interface at the hand, which some users find more comfortable.
- Where premium hand primers are better:
- Micrometer‑style adjustable seating depth on some models.
- Tray‑fed systems with no tubes to load.
- More portable and compact for small spaces or travel.
4) Older RCBS Bench Priming Tool (MPN 09460) and APS Bench Priming Tool
- Where the Automatic Bench Priming Tool is better:
- Current production with better parts availability.
- Updated ergonomics and feed system compared to the older 09460 design.
- Uses standard loose primers in tubes instead of APS strips, which are harder to source.
- Where older tools may be preferred:
- Some users like the “feel” and simplicity of the older 09460 bench tool.
- APS strip systems appeal to reloaders who already have a stock of strips and compatible tools.
To see how these trade‑offs play out in real benches, the feedback article on the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool collects user comments comparing it directly with Lee, RCBS hand primers, and older bench tools.
Below is a summary table of pros and cons for the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool compared to its main alternatives.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Robust, heavy‑duty construction compared to many bench and hand primers. | Requires loading primer tubes, which some users find slow and tedious. |
| Excellent tactile feedback and consistent seating depth once adjusted. | Primer feed can be sensitive to dirt, burrs, and setup; small primers especially. |
| Bench‑mounted leverage greatly reduces hand fatigue on large batches. | Needs permanent bench space and solid mounting; not portable. |
| Works well for both pistol and rifle, including precision rifle applications. | Not as fast as a well‑tuned progressive press for very high‑volume pistol shooters. |
| Uses standard RCBS press‑type shellholders already common on many benches. | Off‑brand or out‑of‑spec shellholders can cause misalignment and crushed primers. |
| Backed by RCBS’s limited lifetime warranty and strong customer service reputation. | More expensive than basic hand primers and some budget bench priming tools. |
| Safer feeling, shielded primer column vs open trays on some hand primers. | Plastic shield and small parts can crack or be lost if mishandled (though replaceable). |
Who Is It For?
Good fit for:
- Reloaders who want a dedicated bench priming station with repeatable seating depth.
- Shooters loading moderate to high volumes (hundreds to a few thousand rounds per month).
- Precision rifle reloaders who value tactile feedback and off‑press priming.
- Handloaders experiencing hand fatigue or discomfort with handheld priming tools.
- Reloaders who prefer to keep priming separate from their main press operations.
Poor fit for:
- Very low‑volume reloaders who only prime a few dozen cases at a time and can get by with a simple hand primer.
- Extremely high‑volume pistol shooters relying on progressive presses for maximum throughput.
- Reloaders who strongly dislike loading primer tubes and insist on tray‑fed systems.
- People with very limited bench space or no permanent bench; a portable hand primer may be more practical.
Buying Tips
Common ordering mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Confusing it with other RCBS bench priming tools:
- Confirm the product name is “RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool” and the MPN is 9580, not 09460 or 88501.
- Assuming shellholders are included:
- This tool does not ship with shellholders; you must purchase RCBS‑style press shellholders separately for each cartridge family.
- Assuming it uses primer trays:
- The 9580 model uses primer tubes, not a tray‑fed system. Plan on buying or using a primer flip tray to load tubes.
- Misjudging space requirements:
- Check bench depth, height, and overhead clearance for the handle swing and primer tubes before ordering.
- Overlooking the need for a solid bench:
- A flimsy bench will compromise feel and consistency; consider a mounting plate or reinforcement if your bench is light.
For exact part numbers, dimensions, and a step‑by‑step mounting and adjustment walkthrough, refer to the dedicated setup article on the RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool. To see how other reloaders feel about their purchase after thousands of rounds, the feedback article provides a concentrated look at user satisfaction, complaints, and tips.
Final Thoughts
The RCBS Automatic Bench Priming Tool fills a useful niche between simple hand primers and fully integrated progressive press priming systems. It offers strong leverage, good tactile feedback, and consistent seating depth for reloaders who are willing to dedicate bench space and time to loading primer tubes. Its strengths lie in durability, ergonomics for larger batches, and RCBS’s well‑regarded warranty support. Its weaknesses center on the primer tube system’s learning curve, sensitivity to cleanliness, and the fact that it is not the fastest option for extreme‑volume pistol shooters.
If you are building or upgrading a bench and want a reliable off‑press priming station, this tool deserves serious consideration. Start with the setup article for detailed specs and installation guidance, then review the feedback article for long‑term user impressions before deciding whether the trade‑offs match your style of reloading.
