Forster case trimmer question

[ShooterAZ]

I have the Forster "Original" trimmer. I can't seem to find the correct collet to fit the 7.62x54R cartridge. I see that Forster has the #5 collet to fit the "Classic" trimmer. Are the Original/Classic collets interchangeable? Thanks in advance...

[metricmonkeywrench]

Yes, same same for both trimmers

[ShooterAZ]

Good to know, Thank You.

[EDG]

https://www.forsterproducts.com/product/classic-case-trimmer-collets/

Collets #5 – #8 are designed for use only with Classic Case Trimmers. Note that they are not interchangeable with Original and Power Case Trimmers..


Always verify you are posting correct information.

[ShooterAZ]

Thanks for clarifying that EDG. Is there not a 7.62x54R collet that will fit the Original trimmer?

[EDG]

They only list a #5 which requires the Classic trimmer.
You might buy both the housing and the collet.
Forster has a listing of all parts for the Classic.

I have a number 4 collet that has a single step for a .45-70 rim which is larger than the 54R rim.

You might find a used #1 collet (most common size) and have it bored for the 54R.

Don't laugh but I have 5 Forster original trimmers.
The collet housing on one had to be changed for a Forster supplied housing that was bored to clear the 45-70 rim.
So you might have to buy that housing or have yours bored out too.

Forster told me that newer trimmers are bored out for the 45-70.
My first trimmer was bought in 1976.
The others I got in brass purchases or trades since then. NONE of the newer trimmers work with the 45-70 unless the housing is changed or bored out for the larger rims.

[472x1B/A]

These trimmers are good for long runs of brass with the power adapters. You do have to know which model fits with which collet as EDC has indicated. As we all know, as time changes companies change tool models. It can get annoying but, sometimes it is good.

I guess I won't laugh at your 5 Forster trimmers EDC, if you don't laugh at my 14 Forster trimmers. I do like them a lot once they are set up and fine adjusted. YMMV

[EDG]

Well Heck I have been one upped again.

I am glad to know I am not the only one with a trimmer surplus.
I also have 4 Wilson trimmers. Three are original Wilson's and one is a .50 BMG that I was going to use for a .50-70 Govt.

[metricmonkeywrench]

Shooter, My apologies for a hasty reply, I stand corrected.

[ShooterAZ]

No worries. I'll look at either buying some parts or a new Classic trimmer. The irony in all this is that I only spent $69.95 for my Mosin Nagant back in the day. All my molds, dies, sizers, etc. investments have far surpassed that tidy sum. Thing is, this rifle shoots fantastic with Cast Boolits and I really enjoy shooting it. Thanks to all for your help.

[ShooterAZ]

I emailed Forster regarding getting a collet, here is their response:

"We could make a "custom" collet that would fit the original trimmer and
eliminate the need to purchase the classic trimmer parts.

The cost of this collet would be $17.20 for the collet plus a custom
machining fee of $30.00 plus shipping. This could be ordered with us at
815-493-6360 from 7:30am to 4:00pm Central time. Depending on the age of
your trimmer, you may need to have the collet housing enlarged as well.
This is a service we offer at the factory for no charge. This is required
on trimmers that were manufactured before 2010. Those housings we have made
since 2010 have this modification done to them already. If you think your
housing would need this modification done to it and would rather just order
the new housing, we could ship a new one with the collet when we have that
ready to be shipped. The cost of a housing would be $12.00.

Thank you for contacting us. Please let us know if we can be of further
assistance."

Diane

Forster Products
Customer Service
PO Box 123
310 E Lanark Ave
Lanark, IL 61046

I placed my order with them today. Thought this might be helpful to anyone else needing this service.

[EDG]

I bought a new housing for my first trimmer since they paid the shipping and it was going to cost $3.50 to mail my old housing back.
The change was required to trim a .45-70 with a #4 collet.