Choosing your first single stage press is a big decision. It’s the foundation of your reloading bench, a tool you’ll use for years. Two names dominate the conversation: the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme and the Hornady Reloader Special 5. Both are legendary for a reason.
This isn’t about finding a “bad” option. It’s about matching the right machine to your specific needs, budget, and goals. We’re breaking down the five key differences that matter most, from the raw cast iron to the clever spent primer chute. For shooters seeking a proven, no-compromise workhorse, many professionals consistently point to the RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme as the benchmark.
The Contenders in Single-Stage Reloading
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s set the stage. The single stage reloading press is the classic choice for precision, control, and learning the craft. In this arena, the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme is often seen as the gold standard, a press known for its indestructible feel. The Hornady Reloader Special 5, meanwhile, represents a compelling value proposition with smart, user-friendly features. This reloading press comparison cuts through the marketing to show you what you’re really getting.
Head-to-Head: 5 Key Differences Explained
At first glance, these presses look similar. They both perform the same core function with excellence. But the deviland the valueis in the details. Here are the five areas where they truly diverge.
1. Press Frame & Construction: O-Frame vs C-Frame
This is the most fundamental difference. The RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme uses a classic, fully enclosed O-frame design. Imagine a solid ring of cast iron surrounding the ram. This provides immense rigidity and minimizes flex, which is a key factor for consistent, precision reloading.
The Hornady Reloader Special 5 employs a C-frame design. It’s like a heavy-duty “C” shape that’s open on one side. This offers fantastic accessibility for handling cases and dies. While very strong, a C-frame can theoretically exhibit more flex under extreme loads compared to an O-frame. For most calibers, including a popular one like .308 Winchester, both are more than adequate. But the O-frame’s reputation for unyielding strength is a major part of the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme durability over time story.
2. Priming System & Features
How a press handles priming is a huge part of the daily user experience. The Rock Chucker Supreme uses a traditional, removable primer arm that slides into the ram. It’s simple, effective, and time-tested. The spent primers drop through the ram into a tube or a bottle you attacha clean system.
The Reloader Special 5 shines here with its innovative automatic primer catcher. It features a built-in chute that directs all spent primers directly into a sealed container. No loose primers on your bench. This is a brilliantly simple feature that many reloaders love, especially beginners who want to minimize mess. It addresses a common pain point elegantly.
3. The Linkage & Mechanical Advantage
Both presses use a compound linkage system to give you significant mechanical leverage. This makes sizing even large rifle cases feel smooth. The Rock Chucker’s linkage is known for its buttery-smooth, almost hydraulic feel through the entire stroke. It’s exceptionally well-machined.
The Hornady’s reloading press linkage is also very good, providing plenty of power. Some users note it has a slightly different feel, with a bit more cam-over at the end of the stroke. It’s not a performance issue, just a tactile difference you may notice side-by-side. The smoothness of the RCBS action is a frequently cited advantage in detailed reloader special 5 review comparisons.
4. Price & Value Comparison
Let’s talk numbers. The Hornady Reloader Special 5 typically comes in at a lower price point than the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme. This makes it a top contender for anyone reloading on a budget. You’re getting a tremendous amount of press for your money.
The Rock Chucker Supreme commands a premium. You are paying for that legendary O-frame construction, the flawless finish, and the brand’s long-standing reputation. It’s an investment. The question becomes: is the extra cost justified for your needs? For some, the answer is an immediate yes. For others, the savings with the Hornady are better spent on dies, components, or a good scale. You can explore more on the rcbs philosophy in our in-depth RCBS review.
5. User Experience & Ergonomics
This is where personal preference really comes in. The Rock Chucker feels like a piece of industrial machinery. It’s heavy, solid, and instills confidence. The handle has a comfortable grip and the action is consistently smooth.
The Reloader Special 5 often feels more “modern” in its user approach. The spent primer system is the star here for convenience. The open C-frame makes it very easy to place cases, especially for those with larger hands. Many ask, is the Hornady Reloader Special 5 good for beginners? Its user-friendly features and lower entry cost make a very strong case for it.
Detailed Breakdown: Frame, Priming, and Usability
Let’s visualize some of these core specs and features side-by-side. This table clarifies the engineering choices behind each press.
| Feature | RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme | Hornady Reloader Special 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Design | Enclosed O-Frame (Cast Iron) | Open C-Frame (Cast Iron) |
| Primer Handling | Removable Primer Arm, Ram-Through Drop | Automatic Primer Catcher with Chute |
| Linkage Feel | Exceptionally Smooth, Consistent Stroke | Powerful, Noticeable Cam-Over |
| Typical Price Point | Premium | Budget-Friendly / Value |
| Key Ergonomics | Industrial, Solid, Confidence-Inspiring | Accessible, Modern, User-Focused |
As you can see, the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme specs emphasize brute strength and precision, while the Hornady Reloader Special 5 features highlight clever problem-solving and accessibility. It’s a classic case of engineering priorities leading to different outcomes. For a deeper dive into how RCBS presses stack up against each other, our RCBS Rebel vs Rock Chucker test provides more context.
Who Should Buy Which Press? (Recommendations)
So, which press is right for you? Let’s match the tool to the task and the shooter.
Choose the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme If:
- You prioritize ultimate rigidity for precision reloading, especially for long-range rifle cartridges.
- You view your press as a “buy once, cry once” lifetime investment.
- The feel of a perfectly smooth, robust mechanical action is important to you.
- You’re loading high volumes of large magnum rifle cases where frame flex is a genuine concern.
It’s the press for the reloader who values heritage and uncompromising construction above all else.
Choose the Hornady Reloader Special 5 If:
- You are reloading on a budget and want maximum features per dollar.
- You’re a beginner asking, “what’s the best press for beginners?” and want an easier, cleaner start.
- Convenience features like the automatic primer catcher are a major selling point.
- You primarily load pistol or standard rifle calibers where extreme rigidity is slightly less critical.
It’s a fantastic, smartly-designed press that makes the hobby more accessible. Always check the latest official source for the most current specs and details.
The Precision & Caliber Question
A common long-tail query is: which is better for precision reloading RCBS or Hornady? For benchrest or extreme long-range shooters where every micron of consistency counts, the Rock Chucker’s O-frame has a theoretical and practical edge. In a reloading press comparison for 308 Winchester, both will produce excellent ammunition. The difference might only reveal itself at the very outer limits of the craft, or simply in the user’s confidence in their tool.
Final Verdict and Value Assessment
There is no single winner here. Only the right tool for the right person.
The RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme is the undisputed champion of reloading press durability and timeless performance. It’s the press you buy if you never want to question your equipment. It’s an heirloom-quality tool. The premium is real, but so is the product.
The Hornady Reloader Special 5 is the savvy choice. It delivers 95% of the performance with 100% more clever convenience at a friendlier price. It proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get into serious, high-quality reloading. It removes friction from the process.
Your decision hinges on your wallet, your priorities, and what you’re loading. Want the absolute benchmark and can afford it? The Rock Chucker Supreme is waiting. Want incredible value and smart design that makes life easier? The Reloader Special 5 is a brilliant option. In the great debate of RCBS vs Hornady, both companies have delivered a home run. You just have to decide which ballpark you’re playing in.