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Mec

MEC 302178 CHARGE BAR 1-7/8 OZ. (LEAD SINGLE)

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Mec Single-stage

Charge bar for lead shot

Quick-change Design

For MEC shotshell presses

Uses Removable

Powder charge bushings, sold separately

Anodized Aluminum

Construction

Soft Insert

Larger or hard shot

$29.99
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SKU: 302178-098489010481

Overview

This quick-change charge bar is built for MEC single-stage shotshell presses and is intended for reloaders who want a straightforward way to vary powder charges with removable bushings sold separately. The anodized aluminum construction and soft insert are designed to support use with larger shot sizes and hard lead shot while helping reduce shearing. It is designated for lead shot only, and it is not interchangeable with MEC steel shot charge bars. For load setup, consult your reloading manual or the powder manufacturer’s data before use.

Why Hunters Choose the Mec

Quick-change Charge

Bar design supports fast setup

Anodized Aluminum

Construction offers a durable, long-lasting

Works Removable

Removable powder charge bushings to

Soft Insert

Helps reduce shearing when using

Single-stage 302

Series compatibility fits MEC single-stage

Key Features

  • MEC single-stage charge bar for lead shot loads
  • Quick-change design for MEC shotshell presses
  • Uses removable powder charge bushings, sold separately
  • Anodized aluminum construction
  • Soft insert helps reduce shearing with larger or hard shot
  • Lead and steel shot charge bars are not interchangeable

Best Used For

  • For single-stage MEC press users loading lead shot with a 1-7/8 oz. charge bar.
  • For reloaders using removable powder charge bushings to adjust powder charges.
  • For shooters working with larger shot sizes or hard lead shot and wanting a soft insert.
  • For MEC single-stage press owners needing a quick-change charge bar designated for lead shot.

Specifications

Charge Bar TypeSingle Stage
Compatible WithMEC single stage presses
Lead And Steel InterchangeableNo
MaterialAnodized aluminum
NotesAccommodates removable powder charge bushings (sold separately) to vary powder charges. Equipped with a soft insert to help eliminate shearing when larger shot sizes and hard lead shot are used. Charge bars designated for lead shot and those designated for steel shot are not interchangeable. Charge bars designated as "Progressive" ("502") will function in all Mec progressive presses. Charge bars designated as "Single Stage" ("302") will function in all Mec single stage presses. When using soft #9 shot with the MEC standard bar it is possible that your charge weight will exceed that which is allowed by the NSSA. By using the "skeet special" charge bar, you will stay within the limits set by the NSSA.
Powder Charge BushingsRemovable powder charge bushings (sold separately)
Product TypeShotshell reloading charge bar
Shot TypeLead
Shot Weight1-7/8 oz.
Soft InsertYes

Pros

  • Quick-change charge bar design supports fast setup changes on MEC shotshell presses.
  • Anodized aluminum construction offers a durable, long-lasting component for reloading use.
  • Works with removable powder charge bushings to vary powder charges.
  • Soft insert helps reduce shearing when using larger shot sizes or hard lead shot.
  • Single-stage 302 series compatibility fits MEC single-stage presses.
  • Lead-shot designation keeps it clearly matched to the intended shot type.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Requires removable powder charge bushings, which are sold separately, to vary powder charges.
  • This is a lead-shot charge bar and is not interchangeable with MEC steel-shot charge bars.
  • The 1-7/8 oz. designation may not suit lighter or differently configured loads.
  • Load data should be verified in a reloading manual or with the powder manufacturer before use.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Shotshell reloading accessories
  • MEC progressive press accessories
  • MEC single-stage press accessories
  • Powder charge bushings

Suggested Accessories

  • Powder charge bushings
  • Shotshell reloading manual
  • Shotshell press accessories
  • Shot container

Frequently Asked Questions

What press type is the MEC 302178 charge bar made for?

This is a "Single Stage" charge bar, and the product notes say MEC charge bars designated as "302" function in all MEC single stage presses.

Can I use this charge bar for steel shot loads?

No. The product states that lead and steel shot charge bars are not interchangeable, and this model is identified as a lead single charge bar.

Does this charge bar work with powder charge bushings?

Yes. It is designed for use with removable powder charge bushings, which are sold separately, to adjust powder charges.

What is the charge bar made from?

The short and long descriptions state that these quick-change charge bars are made from anodized aluminum.

Does the product include load data or reloading settings?

No load data is provided with the product description. The specifications advise checking your reloading manual or the powder manufacturer’s website for load data.