RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Spent Primer System Review

If you’ve spent any time at a reloading bench, you know the mess. Spent primers seem to defy gravity, bouncing off surfaces and finding every crevice. They’re a minor nuisance that becomes a major cleanup headache. The RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme spent primer system is designed to solve exactly that. It’s a dedicated accessory that captures those spent primers directly from the press, channeling them neatly into a container. For anyone serious about keeping their workspace clean and efficient, this system is a game-changer. Many reloaders find the official authority guide on reloading fundamentals a great companion to hardware like this.

This review isn’t just about a simple tube. We’re looking at an integrated spent primer system that affects your entire reloading workflow. We’ll break down what’s in the box, walk through the setup, and give you an honest look at its performance. You’ll get the real pros and cons, not just marketing fluff. For instance, if you’re looking for a dedicated upgrade, many users seamlessly integrate the RCBS Primer Catcher tube assembly for a more robust solution. Let’s get into it.

Unboxing the RCBS Spent Primer System

Opening the package, you get a sense of RCBS’s typical build quality. The components feel solid, not like an afterthought. The kit is designed specifically for the Rock Chucker Supreme, which means fitment is usually spot-on. It’s one of the most sought-after Rock Chucker accessories for a reason.

Key Components Explained

The system isn’t overly complex, which is a benefit. Heres what youre working with:

• Primer Arm: This is the heart of the operation. It replaces the standard primer arm on your Rock Chucker. It features a small, angled chute designed to direct the spent primer.
• Primer Catcher Tube: A flexible plastic tube that attaches to the chute on the new arm. This is where the primers travel on their way to your container.
• Mounting Hardware: Typically a small bracket and screws to secure the tube’s exit point to your press or bench.
• Collection Bottle (Not always included): Some kits include a small plastic bottle; others expect you to provide your own. A spent 35mm film canister or a small medicine bottle works perfectly.

The design philosophy is clear: intercept the primer at the source and guide it away. Simple. Effective when it works. This focus on reloading bench cleanup is what makes it a worthwhile investment for many.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the spent primer system is a straightforward process. You can typically complete it in 15-20 minutes with basic tools. Heres a detailed guide on how to install RCBS spent primer system on your press.

1. Remove the Old Primer Arm: Start by raising your press ram to its highest position. You’ll see the existing primer arm held in place by a pin or set screw. Carefully drive out the pin or loosen the screw and remove the old arm. Keep these parts in a safe place if you ever plan to revert.
2. Install the New Primer Arm: Take the new arm from the kit. Align it exactly as the old one was positioned. Insert the retaining pin or tighten the set screw. Ensure it moves freely without binding. A drop of light oil on the pivot point isn’t a bad idea.
3. Attach the Primer Catcher Tube: Slide the flexible tube onto the small spout on the new arm. It should fit snugly. Route the tube down the front of the press. Use the provided bracket to secure the tube’s end near the base of the press. This prevents it from swinging around.
4. Attach Your Collection Bottle: Place your chosen container (bottle, canister, etc.) on the bench or affix it to the press leg. Insert the end of the tube into the bottle. Make sure the tube reaches near the bottom so primers don’t bounce out.

That’s it. The physical installation is simple. The real test is in the function, which we’ll cover next. While working on your reloading press maintenance, it’s a good time to inspect other components. If you’re curious about how the Rock Chucker stacks up against other options, our RCBS press comparison dives deep into the details.

Performance Review: The Good, The Bad, The Practical

So, does it work? In a word: usually. When installed correctly and with a compatible case, the system performs admirably. It turns a messy scatter of primers into a tidy, contained stream. However, like any mechanical system, it has its nuances.

The Pros: Why It’s Worth It

• Dramatically Cleaner Bench: The primary benefit is undeniable. No more chasing tiny brass cups across the floor. Your focus stays on reloading, not cleaning.
• Integrated Design: Because it’s made by RCBS for this specific press, it looks and feels like part of the original machine. No clunky add-ons.
• Simple Operation: There are no moving parts beyond the arm itself. This means very little to wear out or break under normal use.
• Improves Workflow: You empty a bottle of primers every few hundred rounds instead of stopping to sweep constantly. It’s a small efficiency that adds up.

The Cons and Common Problems

This is where we address those forum threads about RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme primer catcher problems. Most issues are preventable or fixable.

• Primer Jams: The most frequent complaint. A spent primer can get sideways in the primer catcher tube, especially if the tube has a sharp bend. Solution: Ensure the tube has a gentle, sweeping curve from the arm to the bottle.
• Inconsistent Ejection: Some case brands or calibers with tight primer pockets don’t always kick the primer out with enough force to make the turn into the chute. The primer may fall straight down instead. This is less of a system flaw and more a reality of physics.
• Tube Detachment: The tube can occasionally pop off the arm’s spout during vigorous operation. A small zip-tie or a dab of hot glue can secure it permanently without preventing future removal.
• Not 100%: Expect about 90-95% capture rate on average. One or two in a batch might still escape. It’s not perfect, but it’s a massive improvement over 0% containment.

The system demands a slight adjustment in your technique. You need to operate the press handle with consistent, firm strokes to ensure positive primer ejection. It becomes second nature quickly.

Final Verdict and Looking at Alternatives

Is the RCBS Spent Primer System a must-have? For the Rock Chucker Supreme owner who values a clean shop, absolutely. It transforms a fundamental annoyance of the reloading process. The installation is simple, and when set up correctly, it works reliably well. It’s a classic example of a thoughtful reloading press accessory that does one job and does it well.

However, it’s wise to manage expectations. It’s not a magical, zero-maintenance system. You’ll need to check for jams occasionally and ensure the tube is clear. For the price and effort, the payoff in reduced frustration is significant. Pairing this with a precise scale like the RCBS Chargemaster Supreme creates a incredibly efficient and clean reloading station.

How Does It Compare? Exploring Other Options

The debate over the best spent primer catcher for Rock Chucker often leads to comparisons with other brands. Let’s break down a quick RCBS vs Hornady spent primer system and other solutions.

The RCBS system wins on seamless integration. The Hornady-style systems can be more capacious. The choice often comes down to personal preference and how much you value a factory-fitted part versus a potentially higher-capacity solution. For most Rock Chucker owners, the OEM system is the path of least resistance and offers excellent results.

Your reloading bench should be a place of precision and focus, not a constant battle against clutter. The RCBS Spent Primer System directly addresses a universal pain point. It requires a minimal investment of time and money for a disproportionately large return in cleanliness and convenience. Install it carefully, understand its quirks, and you’ll wonder how you ever reloaded without it. Just remember to empty the bottle before it gets too full.