Is melamine-coated particle board Stout enough to use as a Reloading table?

[Muddy Creek Sam]

Howdy all,

Am planning to redo my loading table. So, is melamine-coated particle board Stout enough to do the job? I want to get Pat Marlins system, and don't want to order till I figure out a new top. I am using a Star Lube Sizer, Lyman Spar T, Lee Classic 4 hole Turret, and a Lee Classic Single Stage.

What say Y'all?

Thanks,

Sam

[ept000]

I think it's fine. My set up is made from 3/4" particle board but to be honest the bottom is two layers glued and screwed together, but it has no legs and is still very rigid.

[mike in co]

Howdy all,

Am planning to redo my loading table. So, is melamine-coated particle board Stout enough to do the job? I want to get Pat Marlins system, and don't want to order till I figure out a new top. I am using a Star Lube Sizer, Lyman Spar T, Lee Classic 4 hole Turret, and a Lee Classic Single Stage.

What say Y'all?

Thanks,

Sam

i used 3/4 hi density partical board...doubled...glued and screwed the two pcs together. inecpensive and solid. an alternative id oak form a large desk...or table. i have one just onder 2" thick, 8' long and about 32 deep.....( got it cheap)

mike in co

[Storydude]

If it's backed by a 2X6 or the like, yes. Also, use LARGE washers for any thru bolts, forget about Lag screws. they will pull through

[JeffinNZ]

If it's backed by a 2X6 or the like, yes. Also, use LARGE washers for any thru bolts, forget about Lag screws. they will pull through

Agree. And I mounted my press over an upright support.

[1hole]

I can tell you for sure that the answer lies more on what you plan for support under the presses, ESPECIALLY that Spar-T, than the top surface itself. Modern compound toggle presses stress the bench FAR less than older simple toggle lever presses do.

[cajun shooter]

I use it at the 1in thickness. I don't screw anything directly to it but mount all presses ,sizers, and other tools to 2x6 pieces of wood. I then use c-clamps to secure them to the bench top. This will also allow you to change things around for different stages.

[desteve811]

I think it's fine. My set up is made from 3/4" particle board but to be honest the bottom is two layers glued and screwed together, but it has no legs and is still very rigid.

Whats the bucket in the third pic used for? I see its been modified for something.

[Calamity Jake]

See if ypu can get your hands on a used solid core door, they make very good loading bench tops and should work good with P. M. system.

[mike in co]

Whats the bucket in the third pic used for? I see its been modified for something.

its a brass tumbler...

[ept000]

its a brass tumbler...

Yep. Once filled and the lid is snapped on it pivots down to a horizontal running position, then it rotates so it's all under the bench. When it's done running it rotates back out, the lid comes off, then it pivots down to dump it out. Works great.

[Edubya]

Yep. Once filled and the lid is snapped on it pivots down to a horizontal running position, then it rotates so it's all under the bench. When it's done running it rotates back out, the lid comes off, then it pivots down to dump it out. Works great.

Okay ept, you've got my curiosity up too much. How about starting another thread on your home-made tumbler and give us some pictures of the mechanical workings of it.
EW

[ept000]

Okay ept, you've got my curiosity up too much. How about starting another thread on your home-made tumbler and give us some pictures of the mechanical workings of it.
EW

Check out this thread. Sorry for the thread hi-jack
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=54602

[cajun shooter]

ept000, That is a very neat set up. It is projects like this that make this forum so good. Thanks for sharing. Later David