If you had to sell one, which one would you sell?

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

I have both a Star and a Ballisti-Cast luber sizer. Both have heaters, both have bullet feeders, both have air cylinder lube drive w/regulators & gauges, both have bullet feeder tubes. I am going to have to sell one, but am having trouble picking which one.

The Star is an original Star that I cleaned up, repaired and repainted, with original springs. The heater and bullet feeder on it is new, the air cylinder lube drive is exc/like new. As of right now, everything is in excellent condition and looks fantastic/like new/restored.

The Ballisti-Cast is new, has a new PID heater control and bullet feeder with bullet feeder tubes and hand wheels for several popular pistol calibers and at least one rifle caliber.

I've never used the Ballistic-Cast because my Dad got sick before I had a chance to set it up and get it going. The only flaw I'm aware of is the paint came from the factory peeling off of the aluminum base and I don't consider that a hard problem to fix. I think they didn't use a proper prep or proper primer for the aluminum before painting it. It would probably look good stripped to the bare aluminum anyways, like the new Magma/Stars are today.

I have to sell one in order to advance some other projects I have going on, including a full blown "dry" sandblasting setup and a rifle-sized parkerizing setup (My pistol sized setup is successful, but humidity in the sandblasting is a problem here in Georgia, hence the "drying" setup.).

So I need to pick one and so I'm asking those that have used both to comment, to vote and help me decide which one.

Thank you for your help,

[HATCH]

Keep the star. U will always have parts available

[kayak1]

I would keep the Ballisti-Cast, it's built like a tank and if the parts do fail it should be ones that should be off the shelf.

I think that you would get more $'s for the Ballisti-Cast version if you were to sell it.

[KohlerK91]

I would sell the star.

There are thousands out there to replace it. Yes you might have to pay more but its really not that much. When was the last time you saw a used ballisti cast for sale? And in the future if you really wanted a Star , Just sell the Ballisti Cast and buy one.

Disclaimer: I have not used a Ballisti Cast lube sizer.

[starreloader]

I'm with Kohler on this... Sell the Ballisti-Cast....KEEP THE STAR!!! I have 3 Stars and 1 Ballisti-Cast...... Should I ever need to get rid of a lube-sizer the Ballisti will be gone.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Starreloader, since I know you own both, why would you get rid of the Ballisti-Cast first? That fact the Stars have been around or? What is making you favor the Star other than you have three of them?

kayak1, I can't tell from your post, but sounds like you may own one of the Ballisti-Cast, do you?

[ReloaderFred]

The reason I would sell the Ballisti-Cast is because of the history of the company. I've watched it go from one owner to another to another, etc. over the years. That's what kept me from investing in their products when I wanted a commercial casting machine. I don't know if they will be around next year, or the year after....

I do know Magma will be around, and it's been around for a long time under the same ownership, and the vast majority of commercial casting outfits use Magma products. They make the Star sizer, and will continue to make them, and they'll even repair the old original Star machines. They repaired one of mine for a very reasonable fee just two years ago.

I'd stick with the Star, but then I've got six of them........

Hope this helps.

Fred

[kayak1]

Starreloader, since I know you own both, why would you get rid of the Ballisti-Cast first? That fact the Stars have been around or? What is making you favor the Star other than you have three of them?

kayak1, I can't tell from your post, but sounds like you may own one of the Ballisti-Cast, do you?


I have a star (that I love). I attempted to purchase a Ballisti-Cast sizer but I couldn't get a quote (The pricing wasn't as well setup on the web site last year) after two calls and a few e-mails it didn't happen. Bill was a bit scattered at the time and promised me that he would call me back.

It seems like things are better, my fear with them was that I would pay them but it wouldn't ship it. Sounds like things are getting better and I am still a few months from being ready to give them my CC. But if I had one I wouldn't part with it (I also won't part with my star).

[dragon813gt]

Whichever you decide to sell let me know, seriously. If you were going to post it for sale here let's make a deal. If you were going to sell locally or already have a buyer I understand.

[6bg6ga]

Havin owned both when push comes to shove the Ballisti-cast will size bullets that your Star will break trying to size.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Havin owned both when push comes to shove the Ballisti-cast will size bullets that your Star will break trying to size.

This is probably a decision maker for me, though final decision not done until poll has run the five days. But I got both down off my cabinet today and looked at them. Not much to break on the Mark VI you can't buy off the shelf, including the brass bushing the ram rides in. Only thing I don't like about it is the flaking green paint from the group buy and the glued in temperature probe/heater elements.

I do like both feeders are simple on both units and both keep your fingers away from the punch. I wish I had bought the roller handle offered on this board for the Star. I tried the Magma shovel handle and the air cylinder was right in the way of it. The L-shaped roller handles are mo better.

Amazing what one forgets in a year and a half. I had both these units in the process of getting setup when my Dad got to the point he couldn't take care of himself. Haven't used either one since then and forgot a whole lot.

6bg6ga,

Thank you for posting. I remember you bought your Mark VI around the same time I did, not sure if you were in the group buy or not.

As an aside, called Ballisti-Cast today and spoke with Keith yesterday to ask some questions. He's a new guy there and apparently, most of the family shake up stuff has gone by the way side and things are well on their way (better than 90 percent of the way) to where they ought to be. So good news there. I asked some pointed questions and he answered them comfortably. But I'm pretty laid back on the phone and shared with him what I knew as well.

[VHoward]

If you break a star sizing a bullet, then your doing something wrong.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

If you break a star sizing a bullet, then your doing something wrong.

What 6gb6ga is trying to say is the Mark VI is a much, much heavier duty sizer, which leads to longevity aka longer wear between worn out parts. And owning both and having both next to each other on the bench, the design of the Mark VI is better related to longevity and durability, both in materials and design. The Star does have parts that wear and break on it over time. I know, because I repaired/replaced those parts on my used Star when I rebuilt it.

Not about operation, more about longevity/durability.

[6bg6ga]

To answer your question about the group purchase of the Mark VI. I was in on the group purchase. I waited my turn which took time as everyone in the group purchase knows. I ordered the fully loaded all the bells and whistles unit and when it arrived it was magnificent. The paint was great and it worked flawlessly. Everyone that has been on the forum since the debate has come to play has seen the Mark VI that I fitted out with a bullet feeder (4 tube assembly).

Now, I'm not here to start a Mark VI is better than a Star/Magma debate. I will say I seriously thought I was going to break my Magma unit when I tried to size and lube some very hard 255-255 gr flat nose 45 long colt bullets. They simply wouldn't size in the Magma or my Star units. I then setup the Mark VI and sized them without a problem. To be blunt and I should be able to say this because what I'm saying is based on actual experience is the Mark VI is built heavier and has more leverage than the Star/Magma unit does. Now, if anyone wishes to question this I still have some of these very hard oversized bullets. Your welcome to stop in with your Star/Magma and try it. It won't take long before you will be thinking just like I was that I'm going to break something.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

6bg6ga, some comments in the quote in red.


To answer your question about the group purchase of the Mark VI. I was in on the group purchase. I waited my turn which took time as everyone in the group purchase knows. I ordered the fully loaded all the bells and whistles unit and when it arrived it was magnificent. The paint was great and it worked flawlessly.You were lucky, mine had paint peeling off and they dinged the brass bushing putting it in. Also, the punch holder/ram had a sharp edge on the bottom that scored the inside of the bushing. I'm currently working on fixing the bushing/punch holder issue with a dremel and some 800 grit lapping compound. That said, Keith at Ballisti-Cast said if what I do doesn't fix it, to send it in and they'll replace the bushing. I think I can fix it, but right now it feels as rough as a corn cob wiping your rear when you run the ram up and down. Everyone that has been on the forum since the debate has come to play has seen the Mark VI that I fitted out with a bullet feeder (4 tube assembly). I missed that being off the forum taking care of my elderly Father. Can you link me to the post? I'd love to see your bullet feeder setup.

Now, I'm not here to start a Mark VI is better than a Star/Magma debate. I will say I seriously thought I was going to break my Magma unit when I tried to size and lube some very hard 255-255 gr flat nose 45 long colt bullets. They simply wouldn't size in the Magma or my Star units. I then setup the Mark VI and sized them without a problem. To be blunt and I should be able to say this because what I'm saying is based on actual experience is the Mark VI is built heavier and has more leverage than the Star/Magma unit does. Now, if anyone wishes to question this I still have some of these very hard oversized bullets. Your welcome to stop in with your Star/Magma and try it. It won't take long before you will be thinking just like I was that I'm going to break something. Spoke like a man that knows the facts, having seen them with his own eyes. After having them side by side, I believe it and why I'm going against the grain and selling the Star, even with concerns about Ballisti-Cast.

[ssnow]

I'm with 6bg6ga here. I think they are both great machines. They are similar in operation, but it's a simple fact that the Ballisti-Cast has a greater leverage advantage, and I think the punch depth is a little easier to set also. Whether these items mean anything to anyone is subjective, but there they are.

I'm not personally worried about them going out of business, they seem to have turned the corner now. Even if they did, the parts could be made locally if need be. I would also point out that Star went out of business..........but Magma now makes the machine so that's not a problem :)

So I would (and did) buy a Ballisti-Cast. But if you are planning on automating the machine as some of the members here have done, then the bullet feeder on the Star has an advantage. So I would go with the Star if I were going to automate it, but with the Ballisti-Cast for manual use.

[Springfield]

Sell whichever one you can get more money for. That's why you are selling one after all.

[6bg6ga]

I'm with 6bg6ga here. I think they are both great machines. They are similar in operation, but it's a simple fact that the Ballisti-Cast has a greater leverage advantage, and I think the punch depth is a little easier to set also. Whether these items mean anything to anyone is subjective, but there they are.

I'm not personally worried about them going out of business, they seem to have turned the corner now. Even if they did, the parts could be made locally if need be. I would also point out that Star went out of business..........but Magma now makes the machine so that's not a problem :)

So I would (and did) buy a Ballisti-Cast. But if you are planning on automating the machine as some of the members here have done, then the bullet feeder on the Star has an advantage. So I would go with the Star if I were going to automate it, but with the Ballisti-Cast for manual use.


As always Stacy has hit the nail on the head. More leverage, easier to change the punch depth.

If your worried about something wearing out on the Mark VI and Ballisti-cast going out of business I can tell you this much and that is there isn't a part on it other than the main casting taht any machinist couldn't make in a few minutes. Need a new bronze bushing? Thats easy to fix. To be factual its a more user friendly machine than the Star/Magma machine is.

The fact that you got a bum one would have had me sending it back to them for repair/replacement.

As Stacy has mentioned the automation both can be automated but the Star/Magma is far easier to automate for the general public.

[6bg6ga]

6bg6ga, some comments in the quote in red.



Dave,

I wouldn't be talking praise in the case of the MArkVI unless I believed it 100%. I'm sure that Ssnow feels the same way. If I were you I would seriously give them a call back and mention the paint and the problems and have everything fixed. You paid good money for it so you need to have what you paid for.

With respect to speed.... with the turret assembly I had on my Mark VI it would size and lube faster given an equal quantity of bullets than the Star/Magma did with the bullet feeder. I simply turned the turret and I had an additional 25 bullets to size. At the time I fitted the Star/Magma with an extremely long tube that held the same amout of bullets.

103551

[6bg6ga]

Another point of interest is in the lube seal. The Star/Magma uses a teflon type seal and the Mark VI uses two O-rings on a aluminum piston. Its not a $10 part plus shipping but rather more like a trip to the hardware store for a pack of two O-rings cost less than $1. I never lost a )-ring seal but I have the more expensive Magma seals.

[6bg6ga]

103555
Picture of the turret feeder


I seem to have two pictures showing and I cannot get rid of the bullet picture

[ssnow]

They are both great machines. I personally prefer the Ballisti-Cast, for the reasons already discussed. But either will do a top notch job, and I think most folks would be delighted with either. The way they work is simply so much faster and easier than other types of systems.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

103555
Picture of the turret feeder

Did you make that or buy it somewhere? I really like that and want one with a couple of tube sizes.

[ReloaderFred]

I have one of those and found it doesn't work as well as single tubes with approximately 50 to 60 bullets per tube. I bought mine from a gentleman in Yucca Valley, CA, who makes several parts for the Star sizers. I kind of wish I'd saved my money and purchased more tubes for the bullet feeder instead.

Hope this helps.

Fred

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

6bg6ga, in red again in the quote:


Dave,

I wouldn't be talking praise in the case of the MArkVI unless I believed it 100%. I'm sure that Ssnow feels the same way. Knowing you guys have had them since the group buy and all sure helped me make the decision. A lot of folks wanted me to sell the Mark VI, saying they would keep the Star. Reverse logic, but between knowing the Mark VI is tough and knowing the popularity of the Star made it easy to decide to sell my Star. Knowing dragon, a long time member here, wanted one, made it an easy decision. He'll be happy with the Star and I'll be able to accomplish the multiple things I want/need to do without messing with the family budget.

If I were you I would seriously give them a call back and mention the paint and the problems and have everything fixed. You paid good money for it so you need to have what you paid for. I did call and spoke with Keith and decided to correct the bushing issue myself (fairly easy to do with the lapping compounds and craytex dremel wheels I have), then go back to Keith and ask for a price break on a couple items I'm going to need. Since they didn't have to take up manufacturing time fixing a warranty issue, I'm sure they'll be amenable. Saved me the bother of downtime and shipping. Machine is back together and smooth as glass now.

With respect to speed.... with the turret assembly I had on my Mark VI it would size and lube faster given an equal quantity of bullets than the Star/Magma did with the bullet feeder. I simply turned the turret and I had an additional 25 bullets to size. At the time I fitted the Star/Magma with an extremely long tube that held the same amout of bullets. Do you still have the turret assembly or did you quit using it? I'm quite interested in adding a turret type assembly or perhaps either a longer tube or bullet feeder. Right now I'm looking at modifying parts of a Lee bullet feeder, but think there may be better options out there I don't know about, since I've been away from the board for a couple years. The pic you show looks very interesting to me, where did you get that unit and are you still using it or did you replace it with something more advanced?

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Fred, in red in the quote:


I have one of those and found it doesn't work as well as single tubes with approximately 50 to 60 bullets per tube. There used to be a place you could buy plastic tubes the right size for bullet feeders for progressive presses online. I lost that information when I was taking care of my Dad. Do you know of a source for some fairly long plastic tubes that fit the "common" calibers (.380ACP, .38/357, .45ACP, .308, etc.) I'm thinking some kind of plastic might do the job to help out.

I bought mine from a gentleman in Yucca Valley, CA, who makes several parts for the Star sizers. I kind of wish I'd saved my money and purchased more tubes for the bullet feeder instead. What tubes were available for the bullet feeder besides those short factory ones? Yes, I'm probably being obsessive, it's late and I'm in that weird sleep/mental state I get in when trying to go back to day time hours from night shift.

Hope this helps. It does, as I'm trying to figure out the best way to set up to run 200-500 bullets through the sizer at a sitting without having to load any more tubes or anything while holding down costs.

Fred

[Springfield]

I don't see how the 4 tube turret will save any time in the long run. You either put four tubes on the feeder one at a time or you put four tubes on the turret and turn it as you need more bullets. Seems like a wash to me. but what do I know, I only cast and sell a few thousand bullets a week. Kinda like filling up a bunch of primer tubes for your Dillon and them doing a big batch. It doesn't speed things up, just makes it so you can more of one thing at a time. But you still have to fill the tubes. As far leverage, I can still size a .454 bullet down to .429 without bending/ breaking anything on my Stars. If you can't size down a bullet 3-5 thou then you just need to lube it a bit. Getting a bigger hammer isn't always the answer, sometimes a little finesse goes a long way. I had wanted to get a B/C during the original GB but missed it. I waited 2 years for them to repeat the offer to us as we waited patiently for them to resolve their problems, but the last I talked to them they wanted over 650.00 for sizer, and that's with no heater, dies or speed handle. No thanks, that's why I went with the Star in the first place years ago, just a better deal. That's also why I voted sell the B/C, keep the Star.

[dragon813gt]

The MKVI costs $700 fully loaded. It comes out cheaper than a Star at the moment. Looks like I will have a Star in my possession next week so it's time to order parts to make it run entirely on air. Sizing kills my elbows so the less I have to pull a handle the better.

[6bg6ga]

I don't see how the 4 tube turret will save any time in the long run. You either put four tubes on the feeder one at a time or you put four tubes on the turret and turn it as you need more bullets. Seems like a wash to me. but what do I know, I only cast and sell a few thousand bullets a week. Kinda like filling up a bunch of primer tubes for your Dillon and them doing a big batch. It doesn't speed things up, just makes it so you can more of one thing at a time. But you still have to fill the tubes. As far leverage, I can still size a .454 bullet down to .429 without bending/ breaking anything on my Stars. If you can't size down a bullet 3-5 thou then you just need to lube it a bit. Getting a bigger hammer isn't always the answer, sometimes a little finesse goes a long way. I had wanted to get a B/C during the original GB but missed it. I waited 2 years for them to repeat the offer to us as we waited patiently for them to resolve their problems, but the last I talked to them they wanted over 650.00 for sizer, and that's with no heater, dies or speed handle. No thanks, that's why I went with the Star in the first place years ago, just a better deal. That's also why I voted sell the B/C, keep the Star.


So, if I understand your post correctly you waited two years or more for Ballisti-cast to repeat their group buy purchase. You don't own one? Then why did you jump in with both feet into this thread?

You can size a bullet from .454 to .429? I'm waiting for your video on this one.

This thread should have specified that ONLY people owning or having owned both machines need reply to it and then we wouldn't have posts like yours. (Just my opinion here)

Dave, I can send you diagrams of the bullet tube assembly. I use it the following way... I load up single tubes and pull the pin on the tubes to load the feed tubes. It depends how you make it if it jams or feeds correctly. Mine is a copy of a design out there and if works fine with anything from 125gr 357's to 255 gr 45 bullets. The reason I went with a turret is I was tired of having a tube of bullets tip over and spill. I guess you use what you consider to work the best for you. Telling someone its a waste of time and or money as it didn't work for you may not be the best answer. There is absolutely no difference in the one I made and having a single long bullet tubes with the exception that it doesn't tip over and two with a turn of the turret another tube of bullets is ready to be sized.

Comment on the Mark VI feed wheel....

When using a 45 cal wheel one can make a insert to fit the existing hole to allow sizing of 38 caliber bullets. The same technology I used with my Star with the bullet feeder.

[6bg6ga]

103673

plastic tubing with an internal of .400 and external of aprox .475 will fit in the bullet wheel or the star bullet feeder with the 45 cal feed.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

6bg6ga, in red in the quote again:


This thread should have specified that ONLY people owning or having owned both machines need reply to it and then we wouldn't have posts like yours. (Just my opinion here) Actually, I did ask that those that have used BOTH to comment and vote. Those that have and do own or have used both have put out the most useful commentary by far certainly and have avoided the green/blue(silver) argument type stuff.

Dave, I can send you diagrams of the bullet tube assembly. I'd love to see them and more pictures, if you have them. I don't have machines to make the parts, unless they're fairly simple, but I'm pretty good about finding someone to do the things I can't do due to lack of metal forming machinery.

I use it the following way... I load up single tubes and pull the pin on the tubes to load the feed tubes. It depends how you make it if it jams or feeds correctly. Mine is a copy of a design out there and if works fine with anything from 125gr 357's to 255 gr 45 bullets. It sounds good. Love to hear what sortof single tubes with pins you have, where you got them and that sort of thing. I'm pretty good at tuning things to get them to work, but I'm not real big on reinventing the wheel. I feel, when someone else has done a good job already, I'd rather copy their idea if their okay with that sort of flattery.

Comment on the Mark VI feed wheel....

When using a 45 cal wheel one can make a insert to fit the existing hole to allow sizing of 38 caliber bullets. The same technology I used with my Star with the bullet feeder. Please do tell me more. What did you use to make the insert? Plastic tubing? Metal? I have two wheels now for my Mk VI, one is a .25 caliber size and one is .308. Adding a .45 to take care of .45 and .38/357 would be great and cheaper too.

Thank you for the information,

Dave

[kayak1]

103673

plastic tubing with an internal of .400 and external of aprox .475 will fit in the bullet wheel or the star bullet feeder with the 45 cal feed.

The attachment isn't loading.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Springfield, in red in the quote:


I don't see how the 4 tube turret will save any time in the long run. It probably doesn't. What it does do is allow you to get setup for a run on the sizer without constantly being distracted by loading bullets into the short original tubes. It also has a very slight advantage over a single tube in that it's very slightly faster to rotate the turret and align another tube than it is to pull a tube, insert a fresh tube and pull a pin.

You either put four tubes on the feeder one at a time or you put four tubes on the turret and turn it as you need more bullets. Seems like a wash to me. but what do I know, I only cast and sell a few thousand bullets a week. Have you tried using a turret setup vs. single tubes? I have, on a progressive press. The turret was more convenient, though not tons more convenient.

Kinda like filling up a bunch of primer tubes for your Dillon and them doing a big batch. It doesn't speed things up, just makes it so you can more of one thing at a time. But you still have to fill the tubes. True, but there's more than one way of filling larger tubes or several tubes than there is of filling the original short factory tube and it's a better process than the constant distraction of keeping the short factory tube filled while trying to operate the machine. That's shown clearly in any of the youtube videos of guys using the factory tube while trying to reload. Distracting and a pain in the rear. Anything that reduces distraction during the operation of a machine without a guard on it is a good thing in my opinion.

As far leverage, I can still size a .454 bullet down to .429 without bending/ breaking anything on my Stars. If you can't size down a bullet 3-5 thou then you just need to lube it a bit. Getting a bigger hammer isn't always the answer, sometimes a little finesse goes a long way. Sometimes it isn't about the size of the hammer, but about the longevity and mean time between failure of the machine. I repaired my Star when I received it. The failed part was one that could either be welded or had to be machined to get a new one. Failure points on the Mk VI are likely to be the bolts screws it's held together with. Those can be bought at most hardware stores. Makes a big difference in repair costs.

I had wanted to get a B/C during the original GB but missed it. I waited 2 years for them to repeat the offer to us as we waited patiently for them to resolve their problems, but the last I talked to them they wanted over 650.00 for sizer, and that's with no heater, dies or speed handle. No thanks, that's why I went with the Star in the first place years ago, just a better deal. That's also why I voted sell the B/C, keep the Star. I haven't been around for the last couple years due to my Dad being sick, but I was recently on their website. You information does not make sense, especially with what they're currently offering. You might want to re-check their website. My understanding is they have product available now and prices are in line with what my group buy machine price was when you factor in the inflation of the last couple of years.

[6bg6ga]

103746


Bullet feeder insert

[Springfield]

Sorry, I missed the part about you had to own both. I will do the video this afternoon if I can, but be warned my camera doesn't do sound, so you won't hear the bullet squealing like a pig when I size it. :) Right now I am off to pick up the kids from school and then bring them to Karate class, so it might be a bit before I post the video, assuming I can figure out how to do that.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Bullet feeder insert

What's it made out of? What's the ID and OD? Yes, I'm ignorant, I know, but at least I'm sincere.:)

[6bg6ga]

ok,

Plastic tubing measuring aproximately .440 OD, .400 ID, wall thickness .020

Cut them so you end up with a piece .400 in length.

Wrap painters tape around the outside in order to obtain a tight fit in the wheel feeder holes or in the case of the Star/Magma a tight fit in the feeder slide unit.

The plastic can be purchased in lengths of several feet.

The excess paortion not used can be inserted inside the feeder tube using painters tape to insure a stopping point for the tube and a snig fit inside the tube.

The LEE brand bullet feeder tube assemblies have the correct tubing size.

[Springfield]

Dave: I would never waste my time filling the Star feed tube. I have about 100 plastic tubes with clips on the ends that I fill all at once, then change them out while sizing. I like to do at least 1000 bullets at a time. As to prices on the B/C, here is the original GB post I found.

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

300.00 GB price does not equal 431.00 current price no matter how many times I add it up. Although they have seemed to have lowered their prices since last time I looked, may have to consider getting one again.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Springfield, responses in red in the quote, as usual:


Dave: I would never waste my time filling the Star feed tube. I have about 100 plastic tubes with clips on the ends that I fill all at once, then change them out while sizing. I like to do at least 1000 bullets at a time. Sounds reasonable to me, though I think the turret would be effective as well if each tube held at least 25 boolits.

As to prices on the B/C, here is the original GB post I found.

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

300.00 GB price does not equal 431.00 current price no matter how many times I add it up. Although they have seemed to have lowered their prices since last time I looked, may have to consider getting one again. One thing you need to be aware of is the economy and the dollar's value have both changed significantly since the group buy occured. Both have gotten much worse. You can't expect to buy in today's dollars what was bought several years back now. You have to deal in today's dollars. That said, due to the shake up, Ballisti-Cast may have to lower their prices some to get business they've lost due to the delays of the shake up. Here's the current price list, right off the Ballisti-Cast website. In today's dollars, the prices are quite reasonable:

Mark VI Manual Luber Sizer
Mark VI Standard Lube Sizer$349.50
Mark VI Deluxe Lube Sizer (fully loaded with all options below)$700
Options
Digital Thermostat Upgrade$120.00
Air Pressure Regulator$40.00
Thermostatic Controlled Base and Lube Heater (includes digital thermostat)$170.00
Rotary Feed Wheel (Calibers: 25, 38, 45 or 50)$25.00
Feed Tube Holder$40.00
Feed Tube, 18 inch (Calibers: 25, 38, 45 or 50)$18.00
Sizing Die (Actual bore size 0.0005 inch smaller than requested and labelled size to compensate for lead springback)$55.00
Punch (standard flat nose)$22.00
Speed Handle$20.00

So either buy or don't, but I seriously doubt you'll see another group buy, much less those prices. Were it me and I wanted one, I'd buy. Carping about prices from years back never got a soul a thing. The past is gone. Just my .02 on that.

BTW, I wasn't the one challenging you on you buying one. But you're carping in my thread, so I've addressed the issue.

[dragon813gt]

Just wanted to let you know I received the Star today and I'm happy you decided to sell it :)

I'm already putting together a list to make it fully air operated so all I have to do is use a foot pedal. My elbows thank you for saving them by deciding to sell the Star :beer:

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Just wanted to let you know I received the Star today and I'm happy you decided to sell it :)

I'm already putting together a list to make it fully air operated so all I have to do is use a foot pedal. My elbows thank you for saving them by deciding to sell the Star :beer:

You might not be saying that if that other thread I've got started ends up bearing fruit. :)

[Springfield]

Hopefully here is a video if me sizing 2 .452 bullets down to .429. May take a while to download, I don't know how to reduce movie size. Narrative is, I measured a .452 bullet, put it in the sizer and pulled the handle. Measured a second bullet and did the same, pushing out the first bullet, which now measure .429. Pushed out the second bullet which also measures .429. These are my normal Brinell 11 hardness bullets, not terribly hard, but if you can't size down a hard bullet to .004 then you really need to lube the die some. I only have about 400,000 bullets through this sizer, and don't see any sign of wear yet, and I am not worried about it breaking. No, I don't have any B/C sizer to compare with, but can't see how it would work so much better that I should sell these and convert over. They may not be the "best" but they sure get the job done. IMHO

http://s29.photobucket.com/user/mwhyte123/media/SizingVideo_zps4534aa72.mp4.html

[ssnow]

No, I don't have any B/C sizer to compare with, but can't see how it would work so much better that I should sell these and convert over. They may not be the "best" but they sure get the job done. IMHO

If I owned one of them (and I do:)), I would not sell it to change over, no matter which one I owned. They both have their advantages....... The purpose of this particular thread, was simply for the OP to determine which one was the best for his particular application. Which one best suits any one individuals needs is rather subjective.

I would be quite pleased with either, as they both do a great job and function in a similar manner.

[6bg6ga]

Hopefully here is a video if me sizing 2 .452 bullets down to .429. May take a while to download, I don't know how to reduce movie size. Narrative is, I measured a .452 bullet, put it in the sizer and pulled the handle. Measured a second bullet and did the same, pushing out the first bullet, which now measure .429. Pushed out the second bullet which also measures .429. These are my normal Brinell 11 hardness bullets, not terribly hard, but if you can't size down a hard bullet to .004 then you really need to lube the die some. I only have about 400,000 bullets through this sizer, and don't see any sign of wear yet, and I am not worried about it breaking. No, I don't have any B/C sizer to compare with, but can't see how it would work so much better that I should sell these and convert over. They may not be the "best" but they sure get the job done. IMHO

http://s29.photobucket.com/user/mwhyte123/media/SizingVideo_zps4534aa72.mp4.html

Well, I'm surprised .... a dead soft bullet sized down .023 I don't use dead soft lead in my loading.

What I'm really surprised about it your posting on this thread. You don't own a BC sizer nor have you ever. You just seem to be a sore looser that wasn't able to purchase from the original group buy and are unhappy because you weren't able to have BC open up another group buy just for you.

[VHoward]

It does not matter that he does not own a Ballisticast machine. He was responding to your assertions earlier in this thread that a star would break if you sized an oversize bullet in a star. Use what ever machine you like. It doesn't matter why you like it, it just fits your needs.

[dragon813gt]

Is there a need for personal attacks?

[VHoward]

No personal attack meant. Just wondering why he opposes someone responding to one of his statements in this thread.

[kayak1]

No personal attack meant. Just wondering why he opposes someone responding to one of his statements in this thread.

I don't think that your post was the one that was being referred to as to the personal attack.

[6bg6ga]

I don't think that your post was the one that was being referred to as to the personal attack.

I didn't think mine was a personal attack but view it as you wish and for those soft hearted there is that little button you can push to alert the moderators.

As for the content on my post....

I'm not impresses with sizing a DEAD soft bullet big deal. As for the poster jumping on the thread that he has no business posting I mentioned it. He has NO BC sizer period therefore no comment is needed. The thread is instead directed toward those that HAVE owned or DO own a BC sizer and NOT those that missed the group buy and are upset because they cannot secure the same pricing.

I'm surprise someone didn't call me a Troll which is the newest form of bee sss here.

My suggestion is to worry about what you post. If you have good content in which to add to this thread post it.

[VHoward]

And yet you spend so much time worrying about whether anybody else should be allowed to post in this thread.

[VHoward]

My suggestion is to worry about what you post. If you have good content in which to add to this thread post it.
Springfield responded to you with his answer with content he thought was good. Your the one making a mountain out of a mole hill. Still does not matter that he does not own a BC sizer.

[kayak1]

I didn't think mine was a personal attack but view it as you wish and for those soft hearted there is that little button you can push to alert the moderators.

As for the content on my post....

I'm not impresses with sizing a DEAD soft bullet big deal. As for the poster jumping on the thread that he has no business posting I mentioned it. He has NO BC sizer period therefore no comment is needed. The thread is instead directed toward those that HAVE owned or DO own a BC sizer and NOT those that missed the group buy and are upset because they cannot secure the same pricing.

I'm surprise someone didn't call me a Troll which is the newest form of bee sss here.

My suggestion is to worry about what you post. If you have good content in which to add to this thread post it.


Wow it's getting to where we might have to hold a beer summit.

It's not like we are talking about pan lubing. These are two great solid machines. I own a star and will be purchasing a BC sizer. (I paid a lot more than $700 for my star with the heater, feeder etc).

They each do the job and do it well. They take the same dies (different punches). Magma is a rock solid company selling the BMW of sizers on the other hand BC is attempting to get back on it's feet selling the Mack truck of sizers. The good thing is BC has them and is now shipping them, they have them on the shelf and are shipping IMO a fully setup sizer of that quality for $700 is a good deal. I am saving for a new house and thus the BC sizer isn't in my budget until Aug.

[6bg6ga]

Just curious here...what does the first post say? Please do re-read it.


The thread is kinda explains itself in my opinion. If you had your choice between the Star and BC machine which would you sell? Kinda implies that either you own both or have owned both. Simply put others need not answer simply because their not qualified to.


Let Springfield answer for himself instead of getting your feathers ruffled sticking up for your friend.

[VHoward]

I wonder why you make a statement in post #10 "Havin owned both when push comes to shove the Ballisti-cast will size bullets that your Star will break trying to size. " and then complain when someone responds to you.

In post #29
Quote Originally Posted by Springfield View Post
I don't see how the 4 tube turret will save any time in the long run. You either put four tubes on the feeder one at a time or you put four tubes on the turret and turn it as you need more bullets. Seems like a wash to me. but what do I know, I only cast and sell a few thousand bullets a week. Kinda like filling up a bunch of primer tubes for your Dillon and them doing a big batch. It doesn't speed things up, just makes it so you can more of one thing at a time. But you still have to fill the tubes. As far leverage, I can still size a .454 bullet down to .429 without bending/ breaking anything on my Stars. If you can't size down a bullet 3-5 thou then you just need to lube it a bit. Getting a bigger hammer isn't always the answer, sometimes a little finesse goes a long way. I had wanted to get a B/C during the original GB but missed it. I waited 2 years for them to repeat the offer to us as we waited patiently for them to resolve their problems, but the last I talked to them they wanted over 650.00 for sizer, and that's with no heater, dies or speed handle. No thanks, that's why I went with the Star in the first place years ago, just a better deal. That's also why I voted sell the B/C, keep the Star.

So, if I understand your post correctly you waited two years or more for Ballisti-cast to repeat their group buy purchase. You don't own one? Then why did you jump in with both feet into this thread?

You can size a bullet from .454 to .429? I'm waiting for your video on this one.

This thread should have specified that ONLY people owning or having owned both machines need reply to it and then we wouldn't have posts like yours. (Just my opinion here)

Dave, I can send you diagrams of the bullet tube assembly. I use it the following way... I load up single tubes and pull the pin on the tubes to load the feed tubes. It depends how you make it if it jams or feeds correctly. Mine is a copy of a design out there and if works fine with anything from 125gr 357's to 255 gr 45 bullets. The reason I went with a turret is I was tired of having a tube of bullets tip over and spill. I guess you use what you consider to work the best for you. Telling someone its a waste of time and or money as it didn't work for you may not be the best answer. There is absolutely no difference in the one I made and having a single long bullet tubes with the exception that it doesn't tip over and two with a turn of the turret another tube of bullets is ready to be sized.

Comment on the Mark VI feed wheel....

When using a 45 cal wheel one can make a insert to fit the existing hole to allow sizing of 38 caliber bullets. The same technology I used with my Star with the bullet feeder.



In that post highlighted in red was your request for him to post a video of him sizing a bullet from .452 to .429. When he did you again complain that he dared to post in this thread because he did not own a BC sizer.



Who made you the thread police?


If you don't like the answers you get, stop asking the questions.

And I'm not defending a friend, just wondering about you. You seem to get all upset when someone elses opinion does not match yours.

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Okay folks, let's let this thread die. It's turning into a tinkling contest and I'm not interested in that. I've gotten the information, made a decision and sold a lube-sizer to a man that needed/wanted/was looking for one. He's happy and I'm happy and that's all that matters.

As far as which sizer is better, I own both myself and after evaluating both for sale, the Ballisti-Cast got the "keep" nod and I sold the Star. Personally, both would do the job for me in most things I do, which are pretty standard calibers and smaller quantities of lead removed. So my decision wasn't about which was better. I recently checked with Ballisti-Cast about an issue with my Mark VI. They sent me a replacement part in a reasonable time frame, so I'm comfortable with their warranty support, as mine is long out of warranty and they still supported the product and corrected issues induced by some "hurried/sloppy" machine work, most likely related to the son's youth and inexperience mixing with the group buy.

I still would not hesitate to buy a Magma/Star lube sizer if Ballisti-Cast were out of business or their machine was on back order. Either machine will do the job for most folks.

I'm asking folks not to post any more mud-slinging/personal attack type stuff in the thread, though they're welcome to thread drift about the two machines and the good/bad/differences/positives/negatives of each machine, all of which is useful information.

If the mud slinging persists, I'm going to ask the mods to close the thread to calm things down.

[Springfield]

Ok, I will answer for myself. Last I checked dead soft is more like 5 Brinell, the bullet I sized was 9-10, more like current WW. If you want I can take a dead soft one and size a .454 down to .356. :)