Ballisti-Cast Mark VI Group Buy

[ballisti-cast]

This group buy is for the Ballisti-Cast Mark VI Lube Sizer. The cut off for the buy is 10 orders and that is also when it will go to production. I can produce it much more efficiently building and shipping 10 machines at a time and thus give you a better price. Compare the prices to the fully loaded Magma Star ($703.95) or the base model ($297.50). Ballisti-Cast, Star, or Lathesmith size dies all work equally well with the machine.

42665

Video Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk7m1_G6wmE

Prices:

Fully Loaded Mark VI (all of the following options)............$560
Air Pressure Regulator
Digitally Thermostatic Controlled Base Heater
Rotary Feed Wheel
Feed Tube Holder
Feed Tube
Sizing Die
Punch
Secondary Lube Tube Heater
Speed Handle

Base Model Mark VI (with the following options)............$300
Air Pressure Regulator
Punch
Speed Handle

Shipping to the lower 48 states............$25
Shipping anywhere else please contact me for a rate.


To place an order please email (sales@ballisti-cast.com) or PM me with the following information:

Name and shipping address
Email address
Base/Fully Loaded Model
Caliber(s) to be set up for

I will email out invoices when 10 orders are reached and you will be able to pay at that time. Accepted payment methods are PayPal, Credit Card, or Check

[M-Tecs]

Mike

I am not in a hurry on the fully loaded Fully Loaded Mark VI I ordered on the 22nd. Can I change that order to this GB?

Thanks, Joel

[ballisti-cast]

That's no problem. I made the change.

[gmsharps]

I'd be in for one fully loaded

gmsharps at cs dot com

[JeffHolt]

Mike,
We discussed purchasing this item several weeks ago, but I 'd like to get in on this GB as well. What a great deal.

Jeff AT appalachian ammo DOT com

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Mike,

Okay, that's it, I can't take it any more. I'm in. PM'ing you my information to get in on the group buy. Please keep us posted reference time frames and payment.

Can we get a list so we can see where we're at related to getting to ten?

Best Regards,

[fullofdays]

Mike,

Good to see this thread on the forum! I have emailed you and sent a PM for a Mark VI and need sizing for .356 (9mm) & .452 (45 ACP)

paulrsutton at hotmail dot com

[Steak Daddy]

Mark me down as pushed off the fence. Sent you an email with my request.

- SD

[kcinnick]

I'll take one, sending email!

[Don Purcell]

Mike, Sent an E-mail this morning for a fully loaded sizer set up for 38, 40, 44, 45. Thanks

[kcinnick]

Thats 8, come one, make these babies!

[LAH]

I have a Ballisti-Cast auto sizer which works great. I still hand size most my hand cast stuff & if I wasn't sitting on 3 Stars with all the goodies I'd jump on this.

[GLL]

I will take a fully- loaded version since all of my lathesmith dies will work !

Jerry

[6bg6ga]

Can I upgrade the one I have on order to this group buy and load it?

[1bluehorse]

Soooo, you're only going to accept 10 orders???Heck of a buy...

[ballisti-cast]

Can I upgrade the one I have on order to this group buy and load it?

Yeah that's no problem. Probably easiest to give me a call otherwise email works too.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Mike,

I am not entirely sure what "calibers to be set up for meant, so I sent a list of what I have dies on order for. Could you elaborate a bit on that one? I couldn't find any information on the website.

Thanks,

[kcinnick]

Looks like 10 didn't last long. I am in the wrong business, I am looking forward to my loaded (don't need a die, ordered from lathesmith already) when I was planning on getting a base model.


Nick

[little willie]

If it's not too late, put me down for a fully loaded machine, will let you know as to caliber(s) when you e-mail me the invoice.

little willie

PM sent with additional order data.

little willie

[ballisti-cast]

Mike,

I am not entirely sure what "calibers to be set up for meant, so I sent a list of what I have dies on order for. Could you elaborate a bit on that one? I couldn't find any information on the website.

Thanks,

This goes for everyone so please read it if your in the buy.

What I meant is all the different calibers you're going to use the machine to size for. Please MESSAGE/EMAIL me what size dies (if any) you want with it. I can knock $30 off the price of the fully loaded machine if you don't get a size die with it. I'll make the invoices up for all the punches, feed wheels, and feed tubes you will need for your calibers. Then once you receive the invoice you can email me back or even better call me and tell me what you don't want or if I missed something you do want on the invoice. I will then correct them and send the updated invoices out. Also, if you use gas checks for a particular caliber let me know that also as we put a round hollow in the punch so it puts all the force around the outside of the gas check to seat it properly.

[parrott1969]

How long will this run? I want in but I need a little time to free up funds.

[ballisti-cast]

I have one more spot open, sorry to put the pressure on. I wasn't expecting the group buy to fill up as quickly as it did. You won't need to pay until later in April though.

[6bg6ga]

Mike,

I sent you an email with my invoice number on it. Please let me know the additional amount and I will Paypal it to you.

Thanks,
Joe

[ilium]

email sent.

[ballisti-cast]

We hit 10 and the group buy is closed. I'll email out invoices here in a couple weeks. I wasn't expecting it to fill up nearly this quickly, and I'm swamped with work at the moment. Shooting to have the machines built and sent out sometime in May, hopefully earlier then later. There are a couple people that didn't email me yet, and need to. If they don't I'll open it back up to fill up until we hit 10 people again.

[parrott1969]

Man your killing me![smilie=b:[smilie=b:[smilie=b:[smilie=b:

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Does the Mark VI accept Star punches as well as dies or are the punches different?

[ballisti-cast]

I believe the punches are different, but I'm not 100% positive. You could ask Lathesmith in a few days and he'd be able to give you a definitive answer. I just sent him one of our Mark VI's today.

[Dannix]

Wow, this was one record breaking group buy!

Are you planning on doing this again, perhaps later in the summer or autumn?


Please put me in the #10 spot if it opens up. (Though I will differ to Parrott if he would like in on this.)

Edit: Would it really be a bad thing to go ahead and make 11 or 12? ;)

[kcinnick]

Yeah, I am not giving up MY SPOT! Awesome deal, thanks for offering it. I am REALLY glad I didn't send Magma a check!

A 650XL, Miha HG68 4banger and Lee 6 banger 120TC and MKIV is really going to make my reloading room popular. Everyone is already wanting to come over to play in my leather shop. They just look in awe at tools made with solid metal, a guy tried to pick up on my foot operated press (snap setter, riveter, brass stapler, etc.) thought it was a hollow base and hollow tube, was surprised that it was 100% solid, he tweaked his back...

[Moonie]

Well poo, didn't have a chance to talk to the wife before this was closed, didn't realize it was only 10, thought it was minimum 10 orders. Oh well.

[mpbarry1]

If u do another of these down the road I would like in! Just bought a gun or I would be in for this one!

[ballisti-cast]

There will be another one, selling the machines this way works a lot better for me then taking individual orders for them.

[LAH]

There will be another one, selling the machines this way works a lot better for me then taking individual orders for them.

It's nice to gear up & do one thing for a period.

[kcinnick]

Well poo, didn't have a chance to talk to the wife before this was closed, didn't realize it was only 10, thought it was minimum 10 orders. Oh well.

Why would you need to talk to the wife, I don't understand? She doesn't doesn't need properly sized boolits for her guns?

[shawnsmc]

After seeing how much star's are going for on eBay I might just sell the star and get one of these fully loaded units.

[Mal Paso]

We hit 10 and the group buy is closed.

Well I for one am glad! This was shear torture for us Scotsmen who Can Na pass up a good deal.

[ssnow]

If 10 is good, wouldn't 20 be twice as nice :) Just saying :)

Well, if nothing else, put me down for the next one :)

[Springfield]

Wow, a heck of of good deal. If I hadn't been at the hospital with my wife the last 2 days I might have seen this before now and caved and bought one of these, in spite of already having Stars. Be interesting to see how they work in our real world, don't see too many reviews on them on this forum.

[fullofdays]

Mike, is there a boolit counter on the fully loaded machine? It would be a wonderful thing to have!

[Dannix]

There will be another one, selling the machines this way works a lot better for me then taking individual orders for them.
I hope those of us who missed out on this one get first dibs, hint, hint. ;)

[6bg6ga]

Quote:
Mike, is there a boolit counter on the fully loaded machine? It would be a wonderful thing to have!

I cannot speak for Mike but I can tell you how to make a cheap counter for the machine.

You will need a reed relay from radio shack or someone else. You will need a magnet and a calculator.

You will disassemble the calculator and solder wires across the equal button/parallel the equal button. Bring these wires out the bottom of the calculator and fasten them to the reed relay. This will be mounted stationary on the machine or bracket and the magnet will be attached to the handle of the machine so that it comes in close contact to the reed relay on each cycle of the press.

To start the cycle of the counter you will add 1+1= and then on each cycle of the handle the calculator will count. Note you will have to deduct from your final count the starting number.

Now there are other ways of doing this too. One could opt for a microswitch to be mounted on a bracket and have the handle come in contact with the switch and actually run a store bought counter or one could use a mechanical counter with a spring.

[6bg6ga]

I'm sure that if there was a demand for counters Mike could probably do some machining so that a counter option could be done. One has to remember that he is in business and that time is money. The more we want as consumers = more cost.

But yes I agree a counter would really be nice and I don't believe that any machines out there have that option as of yet.

[Mal Paso]

Counters are not hard to build. Built one for my photo enlarger to keep track of prints. That one was electronic but the printing industry has mechanical ones with a trip lever that could easily be fit to a sizer.

Oh yea. If there's a list, put me on it!

[ballisti-cast]

When I get a inexpensive collator designed and ready to sell I'll make sure to put a counter on it. As for the machine the way it is, the easiest solution to that problem would be to just count the number of bullets that fit in the feed tube and keep track of how many times you fill it up.

[Springfield]

That's how I do my Stars, just count how many in one tube and then count the tubes and multiply.

[Mal Paso]

Check "mechanical counters" Ebay Here's one for $8. http://www.ebay.com/itm/6-Digit-Counting-Adjustable-Rod-Mechanical-Pull-Counter-/370597403084?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item56495399cc

[6bg6ga]

I was just thinking about the group buy and it brought back memories of other group buys and general purchasing I have done in the past. It would be a neat touch if the orders pending were listed according to invoice number, shipment pending and or shipped status. This way no one would have to keep sending emails or making phone calls wondering where the product was or wondering when it would be shipped.

Just an idea:)

[ballisti-cast]

I was just thinking about the group buy and it brought back memories of other group buys and general purchasing I have done in the past. It would be a neat touch if the orders pending were listed according to invoice number, shipment pending and or shipped status. This way no one would have to keep sending emails or making phone calls wondering where the product was or wondering when it would be shipped.

Just an idea:)

I will do that.

[kcinnick]

Seems like everything I buy is hurry up and wait, suppressors, Sizers, Molds, STI's, EVERYTHING, can't I have instant gratification!

Just kidding, let me know when to send a check.

[Blake Stephenson]

I missed this one but would like to be in for a fully loaded unit on the next group buy.

Thanks,

Blake

[Dannix]

I've created a thread to keep a list of the guys who would like to get in on the next one.

Round 2 for the Ballisti-Cast Mark VI Group Buy (http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=149357)

If you see yourself on the list and would like off of it, please let me know, and if you see yourself not on the list and would like on it, please post in the above linked thread.

Thanks,

[6bg6ga]

Dannix,

Don't you think you have overstepped your authority here a little?

Your starting a second list for a group buy? That is something that should be up to ballisti-cast not you. Your thinking here may be flawed. What if the group buy costs go up? What if materials cost prohibit the same cost for a second buy? The second list in my opinion is something that ballisti-cast should start when and if he is ready to do this again.

[ballisti-cast]

We are a few months out from being able to do a 2nd group buy. The reason for the cut off number on the last one is because we are out of the aluminum castings we use for the base and handle. The prices on this one were based on what we paid for the castings last time and I'm waiting for the guy to get back to me on the pricing for the new castings. I'm unfortunately pretty sure prices went up but I'm really hoping by not much more then $10-$20. We're going to have to hold off on the 2nd one a little bit, but the next one there won't be a cut off number. We will also have the collator we're working on for it ready to go for a price range of around $500-$600 that we will be able to include in the group buy for those that are interested.

No harm done Dannix.

[bwgdog]

See that these sizers are mainly being set up for rapid sizing of handgun size bullets. Is this sizer capable of accurate sizing/lube of lets say-30cal-bullets? Thank You

[ballisti-cast]

It does rifle or pistol bullets equally well.

[Dannix]

6bg6ga, It is impossible for me to overstep my authority here -- because I have none here to overstep. :mrgreen:


Dannix,

Don't you think you have overstepped your authority here a little?

Your starting a second list for a group buy? In the discussion area, yes. Why not? That is something that should be up to ballisti-cast not you. ballisti-cast is one of my minions. Your thinking here may be flawed. In what way? OK, true, he isn't one of my minions. What if the group buy costs go up? ...then the GB price goes up? That would be my guess. What if materials cost prohibit the same cost for a second buy? Then it either gets axed or the guys are wiling to pony up for even a prohibitive price? That would be my guess on that front. The second list in my opinion is something that ballisti-cast should start when and if he is ready to do this again. I certainly hope he starts up an Active GB when he's ready! After maintaining the list for the Miha 9mm 124grn GB, I'm ready for a break! :mrgreen:


No harm done Dannix.
I'm really glad to hear that. Harm was certainly not my intention, which was more along the lines of hoping to not miss out if the next GB, should it also have a 2 day shelf life from discussion thread to close. :)

[ballisti-cast]

It's taking me a little bit longer then I had anticipated to get to making up the invoices, as I had a few unexpected things come up this week. I'm going to try and get them out sometime next week.

[little willie]

No hurry (on the invoices that is!).

little willie

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Yeah, I'm in no hurry either.

[6bg6ga]

I'm starting to get excited as I am patiently awaiting news on my sizer. Wondering if invoices went out yet.

[little willie]

Me too!

On the other hand, I know about work backlogs. If I didn't accept any more work from my customers (not shooting related business), I have at least 90 days worth of things to do, not counting my or my wife's own lists.

little willie

[ballisti-cast]

Backed up would be the right word for it. I'm going to try and get them out tomorrow night.

[kcinnick]

Backed up would be the right word for it. I'm going to try and get them out tomorrow night.

Did I miss out on my invoice, or did they not go out yet?

[6bg6ga]

I didn't get one either

[ballisti-cast]

Working on the invoices right now. I'll post on here when I get them out later tonight so people can contact me if they don't get one. Made a change on the machine thanks to Lathesmith too that will make it even easier to use. The adapter that connects the air cylinder to the lube tube on the sizer is going to be made from hex shaft instead of round so a wrench can be used on it if it ever gets stuck. Before you had to take a vice grip to it if it got stuck as there was no other way to get a good grab on it. This scuffed up the adapter and paint on it. You shouldn't ever need a wrench though unless the threads get dinged up by dropping the cylinder or something.

[kcinnick]

Working on the invoices right now. I'll post on here when I get them out later tonight so people can contact me if they don't get one. Made a change on the machine thanks to Lathesmith too that will make it even easier to use. The adapter that connects the air cylinder to the lube tube on the sizer is going to be made from hex shaft instead of round so a wrench can be used on it if it ever gets stuck. Before you had to take a vice grip to it if it got stuck as there was no other way to get a good grab on it. This scuffed up the adapter and paint on it. You shouldn't ever need a wrench though unless the threads get dinged up by dropping the cylinder or something.


Awesome. I also sent you an email about some other equipment if you have time to get to it... it was from my business email Nick at Ferraraleather dot com

[JeffHolt]

I'm ready and awaiting an invoice.

[ballisti-cast]

The invoices are all sent out except for ilium. Waiting on shipping and caliber size information from him. I set up the invoices based on the calibers you had specified. I chose the common size die diameters for those that didn't specify, but please verify that the size dies on the invoices are the correct sizes for the guns you are sizing for. I also minimized the number of punches and feed wheels you would need. You can use a smaller punch on a larger caliber bullet and a larger caliber feed wheel on a smaller sized bullet with in reason. For example if you were sizing for a .44 and .45 the necessary components would be a .45 feed wheel and a .44 punch. Please get in payments as soon as you can and let me know if your paying by some other means then PayPal. I'm beginning on the work that needs to be done to get them out the door, but it's going to be the 3rd week in May at the earliest before they are shipped, so please get your payments in by then. Worst case will be the 1st week of June, but I'm going to try my hardest to get them done earlier. I'll post updates on this thread as to progress and a shipping date as the time gets closer.

[6bg6ga]

Mine is paid in full:smile: Just counting the days now until it ships:D

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Found a problem/question with my invoice and sent an email with a correction. Ready to pay as soon as the question is cleared up.

[M-Tecs]

I didn’t receive my invoice and I was # 1 on the first GB see post #2. PM and e-mail sent.

[JeffHolt]

I had some changes/clarifications necessary on my invoice also.
Sent a return e-mail to update the invoice and I am waiting for confirmation from Mike.
READY AND WAITING with the cash.
I can't wait (after all that lead I sold last winter to get a sizing gizmo).

[Steak Daddy]

I also need to tweak my invoice a bit first, but other than that I am good to go!

[denul]

I wanted in on this and somehow missed out. Any way to get back on board?

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

denul,

After this one is complete, Mike said he's going to run another. Start saving your money and planning on something towards the middle to end of this month.

For everybody else,

Got my invoice corrected and gave Mike a credit card number for the items I'm getting. He's projecting third week of May if my memory serves right from our conversation on the phone.

[denul]

I believe that I was trying to follow 2 different threads about the same item. I will watch closely as the month progresses.

[JeffHolt]

Invoice paid!
Now for the hard part- The WAIT!

[M-Tecs]

Invoice wasn't making it through the firewall but its paid now!!! +1 on ”Now for the hard part- The WAIT!”:drinks:

[little willie]

Mike,

OK, I sent my payment via USPS MO this morning, SO WHERE'S MY MACHINE? After all it's been 20 MINUTES now!

Just joking around, now, what they said"Now for the hard part- The WAIT!” X3.

little willie

[parrott1969]

Anyone heard anything about a time frame for delivery? I am not in a hurry, just trying to figure out how much longer I have to come up with an excuse for this purchase. Man, my wife is going to be hard to live with for a week or so once she finds out. Kind of hoping that my company sends me to Florida for a couple of weeks just before it arrives. Gives her a little time to cool down.

[ballisti-cast]

I'm waiting on the steel and aluminum to get delivered to make the parts I was out of. It's supposed to be here next week as they were out of stock on a few things I needed. I'm going to get them out ASAP but I don't have an exact date yet as stuff always seems to take longer then I allowed for. Should be with in the next few weeks though.

[parrott1969]

Please, make me the last one to ship so that I can arrange to be in another state when it arrives. I am really not looking forward to anal reaming that I am about to receive. She hit me up for a new car a few weeks ago and was told her NO WAY JOSE. So she is not very happy with me at the moment.

[ballisti-cast]

I'm finally getting the steel and aluminum in for the parts I need tomorrow. They steel company dropped 2 pieces off last monday, neither of which I needed for the Mark VIs, and the rest they were out of stock in. Hopefully will be able to get them out the door pretty quick here.

[Springfield]

Funny, I had thought there were 10 of these ready to go last March 28th when this all started, and near as I can tell nobody has theirs yet? Going by the last post the raw materials haven't even arrived. Guess I mis-understood the whole deal, thought we would be on the second GB by now.

[6bg6ga]

Actually I ordered mine on the 20th of March and then upgraded to the group buy options and price. You are correct in it has been a wait but then again we will be receiving a premium product as a result of the wait. One has to take into consideration that there has been construction and probably some re-tooling at Ballisti-cast and this takes time and money to become more efficient. As one that was once in the manufacturing occupation I can relate to material outages and delays. Delays happen and certainly Mike cannot be held responsible for situations beyond his control. I'm as anxious as anyone else here I have a sale pending on my Magma as I wait for my new sizer to arrive.

[parrott1969]

Ballisti-cast was very specific in the posting of the buy. Stated that they were MTO and the discount comes from building 10 units at a time. We all knew that there would be a waiting period. As Confussious say " Good things come to those who wait"

[Springfield]

Actually what was said was that he only had enough parts to build 10, thus the cap on orders. I don't have a dog in this fight, I missed out on the buy, just seems like what is happening isn't exactly what was promised. These aren't custom built machines, he just needs to include the right accessories. I hope this all works out OK 'cause I was really wanting to order one and see if it is better than my Stars. Looks like I might have lots of time to save the money for it.

[Moonie]

I'm starting to get concerned as well, almost 3 months have gone by and he still doesn't have the supplies in stock to build the first 10? It was mentioned that it would take a few months before the second group buy would get underway, the 3 month mark from that statement is in 2 weeks...

[Springfield]

Personally, I think what happened is he threw out the GB to see if there was any interest and we all jumped on it hard and surprised the snot out of him.

[RoGrrr]

Ballisti-cast was very specific in the posting of the buy. Stated that they were MTO and the discount comes from building 10 units at a time. We all knew that there would be a waiting period. As Confussious say " Good things come to those who wait"



Parrot
I agree with you (and Confucius) about waiting/being patient.
I was seriously considering getting in on this GB. However, in the interim, I found a star.
About then I found a boolit feeder.
I bought both, without batting an eye.

I got a heater and PID/TC thru ebay so I'll add those to the base.

Got the feeder in the mail yesterday and spent today making a base for it.

I'm glad all this is coming together since I was out of boolits to load.

[parrott1969]

If you read through his post you will discover that Ballisti-cast states he only had 10 "castings" ie bodies. All dies, punches, etc are MTO.

[6bg6ga]

Almost two weeks since his last post. I hope we are getting closer to getting our machines. I'm thinking seriously about purchasing their manual bullet casting machine but would like to have my sizer first.

[Springfield]

How hard can it be to make 10 punches and 10 dies. Lathesmith coulda made them by now. I mean, he didn't have ANY in stock? But that isn't the issue, the issue is that almost 2 months after telling you guys he only had parts for 10 he says he is still waiting for materials to finish up those same 10. I personally believe someone jumped the gun on doing this GB at this time.

[6bg6ga]

If you read through his post you will discover that Ballisti-cast states he only had 10 "castings" ie bodies. All dies, punches, etc are MTO.

I'm sure these rough castings need to be machined. In addition valves need to be purchased as do seals and springs. I'm sure the air cylinder and regulator need to be purchased. I'm sure that the lube piston needs to be machined as does the feed wheels and bullet tubes.

[6bg6ga]

How hard can it be to make 10 punches and 10 dies. Lathesmith coulda made them by now. I mean, he didn't have ANY in stock? But that isn't the issue, the issue is that almost 2 months after telling you guys he only had parts for 10 he says he is still waiting for materials to finish up those same 10. I personally believe someone jumped the gun on doing this GB at this time.

Are you actually in the first group buy or are you here just to stir the pot? Just wondering because your starting to get me anxious about this whole group buy.

[Springfield]

I missed the first GB, was wanting to be in the second, so I am watching this one closely. Don't mean to stir the pot, just looks to me things aren't going as quickly as I thought they were, and not as fast as was quoted. This guy just bought Ballisti-cast and as such has no track record. I hope he pullls it all together and things work out fine because I was hoping to get one of their sizers and compare it to my Stars. I am always willing to move up to better equipment. The old Ballisti-cast though their stuff was made of gold, probably why they had to sell, almost no one here had one, but lots of Stars on this board. I'll shut up for now and see how this turns out.

[6bg6ga]

I emailed Mike today asking for an update. Hopefully I will receive an answer. As someone that originally ordered a Mark VI March 20 of this year and upgraded and paid the additional amount on April 30th for the group buy I am starting to wonder.

[ballisti-cast]

I'm extremely sorry for how long this has taken me. I'm wrapping up work on them right now and will be shipping them out Monday & Tuesday of next week. This was the first Group Buy I've done and things came up and took longer then expected. In the future, for Lube Sizer Group Buys, I'm going to have the number I'm selling in the group buy sitting on the shelf and ready to ship so this doesn't happen again. I appreciate your patience.

-Ballisti-Cast 701-360-1145

[Springfield]

Glad to hear that. Sorry if I seemed to be dumping on you but I really want you to succeed here as you seem to want to make things we can use at a decent price. And nothing will kill you here faster than to not deliver what you say you can, especially if you fail to communicate. I make custom goods and believe me, people HATE that. This site used to do lots of business with LEE , but after finding some mould makers that actually listened to us, and kept us in the loop, I don't think we have had a GB with them for over a year or more.

[6bg6ga]

Communication is a key factor. Thank you for this update on the progress of the group buy. I am looking forward to receiving my group buy sizer.

[Steak Daddy]

Don't sweat it Mike. You've offered up a great buying opportunity on a well designed product. A few extra weeks are nothing in the grand scheme of things.

Thanks again for offering these up.

[parrott1969]

I will never understand some people. :confused: There is always that ONE guy that has to pipe up and cause a few nervous people to freak out. :veryconfu And as usual THAT PERSON HAD NO VESTED INTEREST IN WHAT WAS GOING ON. :killingpc I blame this on our instant gratification society.[smilie=w: We all knew that it would take a little time.:coffee: He clearly stated this.:evil: He also posted that he was running a little behind.[smilie=p:

[6bg6ga]

Two weeks without any communication leaves something to be desired. We are all guilty of getting anxious.

[JeffHolt]

Communication is the "thing".
But rather than just dump on somebody in a open forum, I PM'ed Mike and I am satisfied.
I had been looking into buying one of these jobbies from Mike about 6 weeks before the GB even came up.

I don't like having to wait either, but if- in the end I get some great equipment, and Mike irons out the wrinkles for the next GB, we will all benefit.

[parrott1969]

Exactly my thoughts, Jeff. Personally, I have been worried about it shipping too soon. Guess I better fumigate the dog house this weekend. Sure would hate to get a bad case of flea's.

[6bg6ga]

Communication is the "thing".
But rather than just dump on somebody in a open forum, I PM'ed Mike and I am satisfied.
I had been looking into buying one of these jobbies from Mike about 6 weeks before the GB even came up.

I don't like having to wait either, but if- in the end I get some great equipment, and Mike irons out the wrinkles for the next GB, we will all benefit.

Don't think I personally dumped on anybody. I did express my desire for some communication and I don't believe I was out of line. I'm sure I wasn't alone in my desire to hear something. The last communication was 2 weeks plus. I also sure there are others that were starting to feel anxious just like I was.

My suggestion is I don't think we need to start beating a dead horse here so lets all just rest..ok When they get shipped and we receive them we will all be happy and then those on the list for the second group buy can benefit from our wait our patience and our lack of patience.

[JeffHolt]

Your paying much attention to yourself, 6bg6ga. My post was not directed anyone in particular.

[6bg6ga]

Well, I'm guilty of getting anxious about the lack of communication so your post kinda struck home as possibly directed toward me and another individual. Personally I cannot see why you bothered posting since your not involved in this group buy.

[JeffHolt]

6b,
Read post #5 and then tell me again how am I NOT involved in this GB?

Again, my post was a general comment and not to be taken personally by anybody.
I have no problem contacting you or anybody else if I think there is something that needs to be said on a personal basis (in which case I would have PM' ed you). Sheesh!

[6bg6ga]

Mike,
We discussed purchasing this item several weeks ago, but I 'd like to get in on this GB as well. What a great deal.

Jeff AT appalachian ammo DOT com

There is your post #5

I don't see from this that you are on the list. But that you would like to be on the list so excuse my confusion. I have been looking and don't seem to find a list on the 1st group buy. Maybe its the lack of coffee or sleep that keeps me from finding it. If your on it then fine:smile: you are also in this long wait group.

As to your comment on dumping on him on the forum. You PM him..good for you ....sound like you got an answer.

For the record I emailed him and didn't get a reply until after some communication was posted on the board.

Thus my comment on the lack of communication. Sometimes the "general comments" here are what causes the problems thus my comment on beating a dead horse here.

My suggestion still stands...instead of pointing out that "someone" dumped on an open forum lets just give it a rest. Some comments were made and I'm not entirely sure that it didn't prompt a reply finally. Who cares who said what or what was said?

I'll be pleasantly surprised if my sizer does arrive next week barring anymore shortages of materials and supplies.

[little willie]

6b,

Although I've not been involved with this bickering, see posts #73 & #78. (I'm on post #80.)

Everybody is in a hurry for machines and everybody wants a play by play update and hold my hand e-mail. Computer babysitting eats up time that could/should be used for productive things. You can't run a machine shop and spend hours on the computer at the same time.

Yes, it's probably taken Mike more time than he figured (I don't know, I haven't bugged him), that's why I won't take a customers deposit for the products I make here until I'm ready to ship it out. I my customer changes his mind and backs out, there's several in line waiting that would LOVE to jump up on the delivery list.

I've been in my business for almost 20 years so fortunately I have developed an operating fund that allows me to do that. When I was first starting out, it was way to $kinny to be able to afford that option.

little willie

[6bg6ga]

Hopefully things have progressed to the point of becoming more efficient for Mike and the next group buy will go without a hitch and be a lot quicker for those purchasing the group buy sizer.

[JeffHolt]

"Who cares who said what or what was said?"

Apparently, YOU DO!

Later.

[6bg6ga]

Just give it a rest ...ok?

[ballisti-cast]

Is anyone interested in having a 220-240V model? They are identical except for the thermostat voltage and the 220v ones will heat the lube up to temperature in 10mins instead of 20 and let you hit temperatures above 130F (the upper limit for the 110V machines) for high temperature lube. I mis-inventoried my 110V thermostats and am 1 short. I have more ordered, but it's 2 weeks until they are in. I'm hoping I have an extra one laying around the shop and I'm keeping my eyes open, but if one of the machines has to go out a little later I'll compensate the person with that order.

I worked on the sizers all weekend and am finishing them up today. I'll be shipping them out Tuesday-Thursday. I'll email tracking information as they go out and put a post on here at the end of the day saying whose went. JeffHolt and Joe T. machines are going out first as they had orders in before the group buy started.

Please keep it a little more civil on the thread. The machines being a month behind what I had hoped for is my fault and no one else's. I way underestimated how popular this group buy was going to be and how fast it would fill up along with how long some of the parts took me to machine.

[little willie]

Mike,

You can send mine out LAST. I'm not in a hurry, if it was here right now, I couldn't set it up and start using it until late July/early August at the earliest anyway.

little willie

[ballisti-cast]

Thanks a bunch. The thermostat is going to be in sometime July 5th to the 11th. I'll send it out to you when I get it. If anyone want's a 240V anyway let me know because there's about nothing to switching them over.

[parrott1969]

hey, i was first to be last!!i do not cotton to the idea of catching fleas

[happy7]

Didn't see this till just now. 220 is ok with me. You probably already sent mine off though.


Is anyone interested in having a 220-240V model? They are identical except for the thermostat voltage and the 220v ones will heat the lube up to temperature in 10mins instead of 20 and let you hit temperatures above 130F (the upper limit for the 110V machines) for high temperature lube. I mis-inventoried my 110V thermostats and am 1 short. I have more ordered, but it's 2 weeks until they are in. I'm hoping I have an extra one laying around the shop and I'm keeping my eyes open, but if one of the machines has to go out a little later I'll compensate the person with that order.

I worked on the sizers all weekend and am finishing them up today. I'll be shipping them out Tuesday-Thursday. I'll email tracking information as they go out and put a post on here at the end of the day saying whose went. JeffHolt and Joe T. machines are going out first as they had orders in before the group buy started.

Please keep it a little more civil on the thread. The machines being a month behind what I had hoped for is my fault and no one else's. I way underestimated how popular this group buy was going to be and how fast it would fill up along with how long some of the parts took me to machine.

[ballisti-cast]

45565

I worked all weekend and thought i was going to be able to have them finished up Monday by noon so I could get them all shipped by Tuesday. I'm sorry it took so long but I'm shipping them out this afternoon. I don't think I'll make UPS today, but they'll be sitting on the table waiting to be picked up tomorrow. They were all tested and approved, but if something doesn't seem like it's working right don't hesitate to give me a call because it's generally something small I can get you straightened out on right away. You'll have to figure out the temperature and pressure that works best for you. Start somewhere in the 30-60 psi range and between 100-115 degrees. The users manual has a ton of information in it too so make sure you look it over. I'm looking forward to getting some feed back and ideas on how to improve the Mark VI.

[Steak Daddy]

Cool! Which one is mine? :p

[parrott1969]

the green one

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Now that is a nice looking picture. Good job fella. Looking forward to trying the machine out. Don't sweat the delays. Someone's gonna complain even if they're being hung with a new rope.

[Springfield]

Guess I better start saving my pennies so I can be in the next GB.

[6bg6ga]

the green one


I needed that:)

Hey!! Thats a heck of an idea. Different colors an added option. Red would be nice too. Maybe a polished aluminum handle or a jiggered aluminum base plate available as an additional option. A custom engraved plate with owners name on it.

[ballisti-cast]

I just emailed out tracking information. Let me know if you didn't get one. I'm going to be out of town until Monday so I'll get anybody I missed then. Approximate shipping time for UPS is:
ND, MN is 1 day
MT, NE, WI 2 days
OH, OK, WA, 3 days
Anything farther from ND then those states is 4-5 days.

[6bg6ga]

I haven't gotten one

[parrott1969]

I like the Ford approach, "You can have one in any color you want so long as it's BLACK" or in this case GREEN.

[6bg6ga]

You have made a valid point. You keep it simple with one color. My thought was see if its feasible to have several colors. A green model for the standard sizer, a more deluxe model is say red for example. A lot of options or something custom might warrant a custom tag that the purchaser is willing to pay more for. I myself would purchase a aluminum jiggered mounting plate if available.

[6bg6ga]

I haven't gotten one


So, I'm the only one that hasn't received tracking information?

[little willie]

6b,

I haven't received one either but I told Mike to send mine last, so I figured that is why my tracking number hasn't shown up.

As i stated before, I'm not in a hurry, in fact I'm leaving on July 8 and won't even be back until July 16. We always leave word with Fed-Ex and UPS to hold all of our packages until we return.

If I don't post here again, everybody have a safe happy Independence Day.

little willie

[ballisti-cast]

So, I'm the only one that hasn't received tracking information?

Yours shipped. Check your junk email, and send me an email if you didn't get it. Little Willie, your's is going out as soon as I get the thermostat. It's supposed to be here between July 5th and 11th.

[little willie]

Mike,

Please don't ship mine until July 12, even if the thermostat gets there on the 5th. That will be one less thing for Fed-Ex/UPS to hold for me.

Thanks in advance,

little willie

[6bg6ga]

Sent you an email

[parrott1969]

Does anyone know what size lube these use? Standard hollow stick? Solid stick? commercial stick (2X6)?

[6bg6ga]

The 1"X 3.750 RCBS works fine as will any of 1" diameter. I make my own 50/50 mix and I have been using the lube sticks that I originally made for my other sizer. If the cylinder is completely empty you might be able to get a 1"X 6" in it. The ones I made measured 1" X 5" and have a hole thru the center. My experience is that it doesn't matter if it has a hole in the center or not. Others claim a problem using lube sticks with a hole in the center. Some heat their lube mixture up and simply pour it into the cylinder. To each his own I guess.

Added note... did experience some bullets not filling the grooves so I just increased the air pressure and everything went to being fine again. The sticks I originally made for the other sizer I owned I simply drop one in and if there is room left over I cut part of a second stick and drop it in. End result ...lube tube is filled. Pressure and heat will overcome the hole in the center if using lube with a center hole in it.

[parrott1969]

6bg6ga, thanks for the information. I have 6 or seven sticks of white label 2500 lube but I think I am going to order Carnuba Red for this one. The 2500 works well but its a little sticky. What do you think?

[6bg6ga]

The white 2500 is supposed to be good lube and probably may not need any heat. It should work well the the sizer/lubricator. The red is harder and will require some heat. As with anything I would suggest starting low to see how it performs.

It would be nice if there were a chart available that listed both pressure and temperature. I don't know if there is one available or not at this writing. If there is make a copy of it and use it for a rough guide. The actual pressure and temp may also vary with the size of the heater and mounting plate also. My mounting plate is larger and my heater is a 300 watt unit on my Magma and I seem to run lower pressure and temp than some here do. Since it is a guess go in small steps charting your progress.

[rollmyown]

OK, now for the stupid questions. Did you do any extras, and if not, how long are we looking at before a repeat of the group buy?

What sort of PSI does the gas line need to be? (will a single phase home compressor generate adequate pressures to run this?

I don't need one, but I want one. (I need the 220V version)

Thanks

[6bg6ga]

OK, now for the stupid questions. Did you do any extras, and if not, how long are we looking at before a repeat of the group buy?

What sort of PSI does the gas line need to be? (will a single phase home compressor generate adequate pressures to run this?

I don't need one, but I want one. (I need the 220V version)

Thanks

Gas line? You mean air pressure line. I personally use a very small compressor capable of a max pressure of 100psi.

I bought a fully loaded model.

[happy7]

You don't really need a compressor. All you really need is a pressure tank. The setup uses pressure, it doesn't really use air as such. Now there is air loss when you refill the lube, so the tank does need to be refilled every once in a while. If you don't have a compressor at all, you can always fill the tank at a gas station, or from your neighbor's compressor, etc.

I have a compressor, but I still bought a tank. I don't really want a loud compressor in my reloading area.


OK, now for the stupid questions. Did you do any extras, and if not, how long are we looking at before a repeat of the group buy?

What sort of PSI does the gas line need to be? (will a single phase home compressor generate adequate pressures to run this?

I don't need one, but I want one. (I need the 220V version)

Thanks

[ballisti-cast]

I included a sample of the Lube we sell. The customers that currently use it swear by it. It's good for low velocities all the way up to 2600 fps with hard gas checked bullets. It's also a lube that requires around 120 degrees of heat to get soft so you won't run into issues of it getting all over other bullets in a box on a hot day. For those of you fortunate enough to live in sub zero climates like myself the lube doesn't crack or fall off the bullet when it gets cold either.

[Springfield]

If you don't have or want to buy a compressor or air tank you can do what I did. I bought one of those small 12v tire inflators from Sears, is rated to 200 PSI. I cut off the tire inflator end and put on a quick release air attachment. I hook it up to an old 12v battery I had and run it like that. It disconnects easily for refilling the lube reservoir and is relatively quiet, and takes up no room at all on by bench. Been running it every week for 6 years now, no problems. I have a large compressor about 10 feet behind the bench but it is LOUD inside the shop.

[rollmyown]

Will there be any extras made in 220V? If not will there be another group buy on these?

[ballisti-cast]

I don't have any extras made. There will be another group buy, and 220V will be a free option on the machine. I'm not quite sure yet on the time frame, as I'm waiting for the mill I machine the castings on to be retrofit with a new computer. I'm putting together 100 of the Mark VIs though so there shouldn't be a shortage in the next one.

[rollmyown]

Cool, I'll keep an eye on this thread and in the active GB's

[LAH]

I included a sample of the Lube we sell. The customers that currently use it swear by it. It's good for low velocities all the way up to 2600 fps with hard gas checked bullets. It's also a lube that requires around 120 degrees of heat to get soft so you won't run into issues of it getting all over other bullets in a box on a hot day. For those of you fortunate enough to live in sub zero climates like myself the lube doesn't crack or fall off the bullet when it gets cold either.

Many people here frown on hard lube but in my business it's a must for the bulk of our castings. I've used the Ballisti-Cast lube for some 10 years now. When Kelly Brost operated Cast Performance Bullet Co. he suggested this lube to me & I went with it & never looked back. From customer testimonies & the shooting I've done with hard lubes I like this lube the best among the hard ones.

[ilium]

I received my Ballist-Cast Mark VI Mini-Sizer today. Looks awesome.

To hot here for the next few days to try it out.

Thanks Ballisti-Cast for offering this group buy.

[JeffHolt]

The Brown Truck of Happiness should be coming up the Driveway annnnnnyyyyy minute nowwwwwwww....

Well, within the next hour or two!

[gmsharps]

Received a big brown box a few days ago I may get to open in August when I return for R&R

[Springfield]

So how are these sizers working out? Anybody able to do a Star/BC side by side comparison?

[Springfield]

10 guys received a new sizer and no one has anything to say about it?

[6bg6ga]

I have a thread on it in the Star section

Ballisti-cast Mark VI observations and comments

[little willie]

Springfield,

Make that 9 guys, I had Mike postpone my shipment until I would be here to receive it. When I informed him yesterday (Friday) that I was back, he said mine will go out Monday.

It will still take me several weeks before I will have time to get it set up and in use.

little willie

[JeffHolt]

Ditto,
This is my first machine and I don't have many bullets cast yet to size and lube. I don't own another sizer to compare it to.

I did try a handful of Mihec 452 200 gn HP bullets to set the punch depth.
The Ballisticast produced some decently lubed and sized bullets that I have not loaded yet.

[little willie]

Mine arrived today, now I've got to MAKE time to clean off the bench and start setting it up!

little willie

[fullofdays]

If you don't have or want to buy a compressor or air tank you can do what I did. I bought one of those small 12v tire inflators from Sears, is rated to 200 PSI. I cut off the tire inflator end and put on a quick release air attachment. I hook it up to an old 12v battery I had and run it like that. It disconnects easily for refilling the lube reservoir and is relatively quiet, and takes up no room at all on by bench. Been running it every week for 6 years now, no problems. I have a large compressor about 10 feet behind the bench but it is LOUD inside the shop.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d068d484-bda4-32e0.jpg

None of the air couplers from Home Depot or Lowes will fit in the female section of the pressure regulator. Anyone know of the part that will fit to the standard 1/4 inch air compressor coupler?

And what goes in this threaded section near the base?
http://img.tapatalk.com/d068d484-bfe7-2fd6.jpg

[6bg6ga]

And what goes in this threaded section near the base?


Its a two way cylinder. Inject air into this opening to retract the cylinder. Its not used because there isn't a need for it.

[ballisti-cast]

Correct, nothing goes in the bottom hole of the cylinder. The top is 1/8" NPT threads. You may need to get a reducer to go from 1/8" to 1/4". Those are questions that can easily be answered over the phone, and evening or weekend calls are expected as I know a lot of people use the equipment during those times.