Let’s Talk About Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press is a reloading workhorse designed for both the novice and seasoned reloader. Manufactured by Lyman, this press boasts an impressive eight-station turret, a robust cast-iron frame, and a smooth, reliable priming system. It’s designed to streamline the reloading process, offering efficiency and precision in a single, durable package.
I was seeking a single press capable of handling multiple calibers and reloading stages without constant die changes. The eight-station turret was the key selling point, promising a streamlined workflow compared to my older single-stage press. Upon unboxing, the Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press felt solid and well-built. The weight of the cast iron frame inspired confidence, and the powder-coated finish appeared durable.
Compared to the Lee Classic Turret Press and the RCBS Turret Press, the Lyman stood out with its larger turret capacity and seemingly more robust construction. I chose the Lyman for its potential to significantly speed up my reloading process and its promise of handling larger magnum cartridges with ease. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential time savings and the promise of increased precision in my handloads.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press in my home reloading workshop. The initial session focused on loading .45 ACP rounds. The press performed smoothly, and the straight-line primer feed, although requiring a bit of getting used to, functioned reliably.
The only issue I encountered during the first use was with the spent primer catch basin, which failed to catch all the primers. Some primers ended up on the floor around the press. After a little adjustment I was up and running, and the press handled resizing and bullet seating without issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, loading thousands of rounds in various calibers, the Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The finish remains largely intact, with only minor wear marks appearing around the die stations. Maintenance involves wiping down the press and lubricating the ram with gun oil every few hundred rounds.
Compared to my previous single-stage press, the Lyman dramatically reduced reloading time. I can now switch between reloading tasks quickly, and can load multiple calibers in one session with minimal adjustments. The priming system is smooth, the turret allows for mounting multiple dies without having to re-adjust.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press
Specifications
- Eight-Station Turret: Allows for multiple dies to be mounted simultaneously, streamlining the reloading process. This eliminates the need to constantly swap dies when changing operations.
- Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Frame and Turret: Provides exceptional rigidity and stability, minimizing flex and ensuring consistent results. The cast iron construction ensures long-term durability.
- 1″ Diameter Ram: Delivers ample force for resizing even the toughest cases, including magnum rifle cartridges. This ensures consistent sizing and proper chambering in firearms.
- Straight Line Primer Feed: Provides reliable and consistent primer seating, reducing the risk of primer detonation. It offers both large and small primer tubes.
- Large Press Opening: Accommodates even the longest rifle cartridges, offering versatility in the types of ammunition that can be reloaded. This allows for reloading a wider range of calibers.
- Accepts Standard 7/8″x14 Dies and Shell Holders: Offers compatibility with a wide range of reloading dies and shell holders from various manufacturers. This increases flexibility and customization.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Accuracy is excellent due to the press’s rigid construction and smooth operation. The press is reliable and can handle a high volume of reloading.
While the priming system can be finicky, it is generally functional after some adjustment. The press meets and often exceeds expectations in terms of speed, precision, and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press boasts a robust and functional design. The cast iron construction contributes to its weight, providing stability during operation. The press is generally user-friendly, although the priming system may require some getting used to.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure years of reliable service. The press is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only basic gun oil and cleaning supplies.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press comes with small and large primer feed tubes. The press is compatible with standard 7/8″x14 reloading dies and shell holders from various manufacturers. A popular customization is adding an aftermarket ergonomic handle.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press
Pros
- Eight-station turret dramatically speeds up reloading.
- Heavy-duty cast iron construction ensures stability and durability.
- Accepts standard dies and shell holders, offering versatility.
- Large press opening accommodates even the longest rifle cartridges.
- Smooth and consistent operation enhances accuracy.
Cons
- Primer feed system can be finicky and requires adjustment.
- Spent primer catch basin may not catch all primers.
Who Should Buy Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press?
Perfect for reloaders who want to load multiple calibers without constant die changes. It’s also suitable for reloaders who are looking to increase production speed while maintaining precision.
Those who primarily load a single caliber or prioritize compact size might consider a single-stage press. A must-have accessory is a sturdy reloading bench to support the press’s weight.
Conclusion on Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press
The Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press is an excellent reloading press for reloaders looking for versatility and speed. The eight-station turret, heavy-duty construction, and smooth operation make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. The price is justified given the press’s capabilities and durability.
I would recommend it to anyone looking to streamline their reloading process. If you are ready to take your reloading to the next level, consider investing in the Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Turret Press.