Is a Versa MEC a good shotgun shell reloader?

[RJW1951]

I have an opportunity to buy a Versa MEC shotgun shell reloader. Is this a good reloader and what is a fair price for a used one in good condition?

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[1892]

It is an obsolete Mec press. You can still get parts for it direct from Mec. It is similar to a Mec 600jr. If its a complete press it would be in the $50-$75 range. If its not complete it could get expensive to get in working order. You can get a used Mec 600 jr for under $100 for reference.

 

[WillametteWill]

I've been using the same Versa Mec (700) for all my 12 gauge loads for over 45 years. It just works. I've replaced the plastic wad guide a few times, keep some grease on it, and it just chugs along. It was my first loader and I have no intention in ever replacing it. Although it does size shells (and I've never had an issue with it), I have moved to using a MEC sizer (this is a squeeze-type sizer over the press it back to size one that is on the Versa Mec). Preference, not required...I watch a movie and size a few hundred at a time.

The output is 100 - 150 shells per hour. I don't make many adjustments, as my trap load has remained unchanged for the 45 years I've been loading (STS hulls now from RXP or Blue Magic). But I do swap out powder bars for loads between 1 and 1 1/8 oz and have tried a few different powders in the past few years.

I picked up a 16 gauge 600 jr a few years back and had to add "Pro check" part that prevents double charges and other issues; I believe this is standard on Versa Mecs and likely became so on the 600s.

It looks like new 600s are about $350, I see them used for under $100 (I paid about $50 for the 16 gauge about four years ago). If it's in good shape and you can get the Versa Mec for around $100 ish, I would say it is a good deal. Personally I would go a bit higher for one in good shape.

 

[Peteralexander78]

I just bought a 600 jr and it was over $100. If it has everything I would say at least $100-$150