In recent months, Forster Co-Ax® presses have been somewhat hard to find, as demand has out-stripped supply. But they are still worth looking for. The Co-Ax Single Stage Press accepts any standard 7/8″ X 14 reloading die, but Forster suggests using Forster Cross Bolt Lock Rings for best results. As the Co-Ax is currently back-ordered at most vendors, but you can try multiple sources.
If you are not yet familiar with the many unique features of the Forster Co-Ax, we recommend you watch the video embedded below. This shows how the press operates and highlights the design elements which set the Co-Ax apart from every other reloading press on the market.
Video Shows Special Features of Forster Co-Ax Reloading Press
Forster Co-Ax Press Video Review
This is a very thorough review of the Forster Co-Ax done by Rex Roach. This 14-minute video shows the key Co-Ax features, explaining how the floating case-holder jaws work (3:30 time-mark), how the dies are held in place (4:40 time-mark), how spent primers are captured (6:10 time-mark), and how to set the primer seating depth (10:00 time-mark). We’ve used a Co-Ax for years and we still learned a few new things by watching this detailed video. If you are considering purchasing a Co-Ax, definitely watch this video start to finish.
The Co-Ax case-holder features spring-loaded, floating jaws. These jaws have two sets of openings, small and large. This allows the system to adapt to various rim diameters. The jaw plates can simply be reversed to switch from small jaw to large jaw. In the photo above, the Co-Ax is configured with the large jaw openings in the center.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Stocky’s Stocks — LRC Stocks with AccuBlock Now $188.88
There’s a great sale going on this week at Stocky’s Stocks. This sale covers many different LRC (Long Range Composite) stock styles, all with the built-in AccuBlock System. Chose a high-comb benchrest style LRC stock, a hunter-style MRC stock, or the new LRC thumbhole stock. All are now just $188.88, even with premium finishes, such as Kryptec Camo. The Stocky’s LRC series with AccuBlock Bedding System is a terrific choice for a varmint rifle, and you won’t find a better value anywhere.
2. Bruno’s — Huge Sale on Barrels, Bullets, Brass, Actions & More
There’s a big SALE going on right now at Bruno Shooters Supply. Save $20 on Krieger Barrels for starters, then you can also save on bullets, brass, powder, and loaded ammo. In addition, high-end BAT actions and Flavio triggers are on sale. Rimfire shooters will find some excellent ammo deals, and ALL Hornady products are discounted. But you MUST ACT SOON! This SALE ENDS Monday evening, June 10, 2019 at 11:59 PM Arizona Time. Discounts apply to items in-stock ONLY.
3. EuroOptic — Great Sale on Vortex Strike Eagles
Need a good basic optic for your hunting or varmint rifle? Have a tight budget but still need good glass and adjustable parallax? Then check out these Vortex Strike Eagles. Save $140-$150 now at EuroOptic.com. Sale price is just $349.99 for the 4-24x50mm and $309.99 for the 3-18x44mm. EuroOptic’s Jason says these scope are a “killer value” with “target turrets, parallax adjustment close enough for rimfire, and good zoom range”. These Strike Eagles are also fairly short and light-weight, so they are good for hunters. Both these Second Focal Plane scopes offer 1/4-MOA clicks and nice EBR-4 illuminated reticles.
4. Midsouth — MTM Shooting Range Box, $39.20
The MTM Shooting Range Box employs a two-piece design. The removable top storage compartment holds oils, solvents, brushes, patches, and small accessories. Unlatch the top box to reveal a large, deep storage area that will hold tools, earmuffs, ammo boxes, and other larger items. With 18 compartments, MTM Shooting Range Boxes are big enough to hold pretty much everything you need at the range (except shooting rests). Plus there are cradles so you can do gun maintenance at the range. This MTM Range Box is also offered through Amazon.com for $39.20 with free shipping.
5. Graf’s — 10% Off All Forster Products
Forster makes GREAT products. Our staff own and use Forster presses, dies, case trimmers, primer tools, chamber/deburring tools, and more. And Forster has outstanding customer service. And did you know that Forster will custom-hone your full-length dies for a modest fee? Right how you can save 10% on ALL in-stock Forster products at Graf & Sons. But folks, don’t delay — this 10% Off Forster Deal expires June 12, 2019 at 11:59 pm CT.
6. Palmetto State Armory — Smith & Wesson 15-22 Rifle, $299.99
Here’s a fun .22 LR rifle with the style and ergonomics of an AR15. Smith & Wesson’s M&P 15-22 Sport features a 10-inch M-LOK handguard, and nicely-designed Magpul MBUS® front and rear folding sights. The buttstock is a classic AR-style unit that easily adjusts for Length of Pull. The upper boasts an integrated Picatinny-style rail for optics and other accessories. NOTE: S&W 15-22 owners love this little rimfire — it has earned dozens of 5-star reviews from actual buyers.
7. Graf’s — Buy 8-lb keg of select powder, get FREE 1-pounder
Save on powder — right now at Graf & Sons, if you buy an 8-lb keg of select Hodgdon or IMR powders, you get a FREE one-pound or 14-ounce container of the same powder. This deal works with fourteen (14) popular Hodgdon and IMR powders for rifles, pistols, and shotguns. So if you’re running low and need to stock up on your favorite powders, here’s your chance to cash in on some savings. That free one-pounder can be worth up to $32.00. CLICK HERE for POWDER DEAL.
8. SIG Sauer — Buy P226 Pistol, Get FREE X-5 Air Pistol
Here’s a cool deal for Father’s Day. Buy any new SIG Sauer P226 pistol now through June 30, 2019 and get a SIG STORE Rewards Coupon for a free X-FIVE Air Pistol. This 2 for 1 Father’s Day Promotion offer runs from 06/01/2019 until 06/30/2019. To claim your free X-FIVE visit Sigsauer.rebateaccess.com, follow the instructions to complete the form, and upload or mail your receipt. Once validated you will receive a promo code that can be redeemed at Sigsauer.com for an X-FIVE Air Pistol.
9. Amazon – Proster Wind Meter, $16.99
Wish you had a modern impeller-style wind meter but only shoot a couple matches a year and can’t justify spending $150 (or more) on one? This Proster wind meter has a very impressive 4.5 star overall rating (with hundreds of reviews), so buy with confidence. Now on sale for just $16.99, this is a very useful tool for a bargain basement price. Get this affordable Wind Meter to ensure you have reliable wind readings for ballistics calculations. And unlike a costly Kestrel, with this low-priced wind meter, you won’t feel too bad if it gets lost or misplaced some time.
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This article, written by Sinclair’s Phil Hoham, originally appeared in the Sinclair Int’l Reloading Press.
Forster Products’ Heritage
I toured Forster Products’ Lanark, Illinois plant with Forster owners Robert Ruch and Rod Hartman. Forster Products was founded by the Forster brothers in 1935. The company’s first production was in the basement of their home. There, the brothers crafted the famous “Forster 99” model airplane engines, establishing a reputation for quality right from the start. In 1946 the company expanded into firearms reloading products, starting with headspace gauges, universal sight-mounting fixtures, and Forster’s famous case trimmers. All of these tools are still being manufactured and sold by Forster Product today.
In the 1950s, Forster’s reputation for precision allowed it to become a Rolls-Royce subcontractor making fluid and fuel control parts used in Rolls-Royce aircraft engines. Forster also manufactured fluid control parts used at the Hoover Dam and in the United States MX missiles. With this precision background it is no wonder that Forster Products holds an ISO 9001-2008 quality certification!
Forster Acquired Bonanza Reloading Co. in 1984
Forster reloading dies and presses came into being in 1984 when Forster purchased the Bonanza Reloading Company from its owner Clarence Purdie. Mr. Purdie designed the CO-AX press with its floating jaws, easy die installation and tremendous leverage. He also held the patents on the famous “sliding sleeve” featured in the Forster “Ultra” and “Benchrest” seaters. His sizing die design positioned the expander ball high up in the full length and neck dies so the case neck is supported as it resized while it is being withdrawn from the die. This design feature is also unique to the Forster brand. All of these innovations make Forster dies a quality product for producing precision ammunition. No wonder Carl Bernosky and John Whidden (NRA High Power and Long-Range champions) swear by them! It was great seeing that “Made in the USA” quality is still alive and well and that Bob and Rod along with their staff have such a great commitment to precision manufacturing and quality customer service.
Forster’s Time-Saving 3-in-1 Case Trimming/Chamfering Tool
Forster’s CFO, Robert Ruch, demonstrates the 3-in-1 Case Mouth Cutter tool in the video below. This unit trims the case to length, puts a 14-degree chamfer on the INSIDE of the neck, AND (last but not least), it cuts a 30-degree chamfer on the OUTSIDE of the neck. As you can see, the tool turns very smoothly (no chatter) and the job is finished in a few seconds. Forster’s 3-in-1 Carbide cutting tool works with all existing Forster case trimmers and other hand lathes with a .490″ shaft diameter. The tool typically sells for about $60.00 at major vendors, and Robert says it should last for a lifetime of use. The unit fits over the Cutter Shaft and easily secures with one set screw. The 3-in-1 cutter is available for five (5) calibers: .224, .243 (6mm), .264 (6.5mm), .284 (7mm), and .308.
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The latest Forster Products Catalog is now available. If you haven’t received a copy yet, you can download a digital PDF version, or submit a request for a print catalog.
Report from Jim Jewell: “Having read through the New Forster Catalog, I am pleased to report that it is as great a pictorial guide to important concepts and techniques for precision reloading as you are likely to find. It is best of all free!”
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SHOT Show 2013 has been underway since Monday. This show seems bigger than ever, and the sheer number of noteworthy products on display is mind-boggling. We’ve seen some remarkable new scopes from Nightforce, Kahles, and IOR-Valdada. Dave Kiff at PT&G has some “game-changing” new products. Winchester’s new 17 Win Super Mag rimfire cartridge has generated lots of interest, and Savage showed off its new B.MAG bolt action chambered for the new cartridge.
Here’s a quick sample of some cool or interesting products we saw in action on Media Day or on display inside the Sands Convention Center. We’ll do more complete write-ups/reviews once we “back to the office” and have a change to digest spec sheets and edit video. But please enjoy this photo “sampler” from SHOT Show 2013.
New Kahles 10-50X Competition Scope, with Central (big wheel) Parallax Adjustment
New Savage B.MAG Rifle Chambered in 17 Win Super Mag Rimfire
Prototype “Tinkertoy” Benchrest Rifle from McMillan Built on “Alias” Action
New Datum Dial Ammunition Measurement System from Forster Products
New .338 Lapua Magnum Action and Complete .338 LM Rifles from Kelbly’s
New Savage Bolt from PT&G with User-Adjustable Spring Tension
Futuristic $22K Tracking-Point Rifle System with Automatic Ranging, Ballistic Calculation, and Aiming Solution
New .375 Caliber, 350 grain, ultra-high-BC Match-King Bullet from Sierra
Vectronix Laser Rangefinder Units ($1995.00 – $8510.00)
Air Arms S400 Multi-Purpose Rifles (Regular and Biathlon Models)
Accuracy Int’l PSR Multi-Caliber Rifle System — ‘Takedown Edition’ in .338 LM
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We are organizing our crew for the 2013 SHOT Show, which runs January 15-18 in Las Vegas, at the Sands Expo Center. To whet your appetite, here is a product report from SHOT Show 2010 that you may have missed the first time around. In this video Robert Ruch, CFO of Forster Products, shows off the Forster’s 3-in-1 Case Trimming Tool. This is a very smart tool that can dramatically speed up your case prep operations.
Tool Cuts Brass to Length, and Chamfers Inside and Outside
Forster’s new 3-in-1 Carbide cutting tool works with all existing Forster case trimmers. This unit does three jobs at the same time. It trims the case to length, it puts a 14-degree chamfer on the INSIDE of the neck, AND (last but not least), it cuts a 30-degree chamfer on the OUTSIDE of the neck. It does this all quickly and efficiently — in a matter of a few seconds. We tested the new tool ourselves on a few cases. The tool is solid and well made. The carbide cutting tips do perform a very clean cut. Be aware, however, if you have turned your necks already, you may have to reset the blade positions before you start trimming your brass.
Forster’s CFO, Robert Ruch, demonstrates the 3-in-1 case trimming/chamfering tool in the video below. As you can see, the tool turns very smoothly (no chatter) and the job is finished in a few seconds. The actual cutting time, per case, is just a few second. The tool has an MSRP of $70.00, but we expect it to sell for around $50.00 at major vendors. It can be fitted on Forster trimmers and other hand lathes with a .490″ shaft diameter.
John Whidden Demonstrates Forster Co-Ax Press and Trimmer
In this promo video, produced for the Outdoor Adventure ‘What-the-Stuff’ TV show, John Whidden of Whidden Gunsworks, talks about the benefits of precision case trimming and demonstrates how to use the unique Forster Co-Ax Press.
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Forster Products has released a comprehensive product catalog in digital format. This FREE 36-page PDF (Adobe Acrobat) file includes all of Forster’s most popular products, such as the Ultra Micrometer BR Seater, Forster Case Trimmer, and Co-Ax® Press.
In addition, the catalog includes the many less-well-known but handy specialty tools crafted by Forster. These include: 3-in-1 Case Mouth Cutter, Power Case Trimmer (for drill presses), Oversize Expander Balls, Co-Ax® Primer Seater, Inside Neck Reamers, Collet Bullet Puller, Stuck Case Remover, Swiv-O-Ling Vise, Magnetized Headspace Gauge Removal Tool, Gunsmith Screwdivers, and much more. CLICK HERE to Download Catalog.
As shown above, all products are clearly illustrated with photos or diagrams, and inventory numbers are provided so you get exactly the right part when ordering. If you’re a serious reloader, you should download this catalog and browse through Forster’s full product line. We guarantee you’ll find something new and interesting — did you know, for example, that Forster makes a universal sight-mounting fixture for gunsmiths (photo below)?
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Forster Products’ Heritage
The latest Forster Products Catalog is now available. If you haven’t received a copy yet, you can download a digital PDF version, or submit a request for a print catalog.
