RCBS Customer Service — Expert, Practical Guide

Overview: What RCBS customer service handles and how to prepare

RCBS (the reloading equipment manufacturer) supports a product range that includes single-stage and progressive presses, die sets, powder measures, electronic scales/dispensers, and accessory tooling. Typical support cases are: warranty claims on mechanical failures, calibration and electronics issues on dispensers/scales, replacement parts for wear items (shellholders, primers trays, linkages), and technical guidance for setup and safe operation. Knowing the exact model name (e.g., “Rock Chucker Supreme,” “Pro Chucker 7,” “ChargeMaster/MatchMaster”) and serial number will materially speed any interaction.

Before contacting support, collect three items: a clear photograph of the damaged part or error screen, the original purchase receipt or invoice (date, dealer name), and any packaging/box or barcode with serial number. If you bought the item used, have the seller’s invoice or a dated receipt; many manufacturers require proof of original purchase for warranty coverage. Organize this information into a single PDF or ZIP to attach to an email or upload to an online ticket — that reduces back-and-forth and shortens resolution time.

How to contact RCBS and what to expect

The authoritative online entry point for RCBS is the company website (https://www.rcbs.com), which provides product manuals, parts diagrams, and a contact/support page. Most manufacturers prefer support initiated through an online form or email because it creates a ticket trail; phone calls are helpful for complex troubleshooting but rarely replace the documentation request. When you open a ticket, include model, serial, photos, purchase date, and a short timeline of the problem symptoms — the more precise you are, the faster triage goes.

Typical triage will classify the case as (A) user setup/adjustment (instructions and parts diagram emailed), (B) warranty repair (requires proof of purchase and return authorization), or (C) out-of-warranty repair/parts order (estimate provided). Be prepared for a few business-day initial response and an overall repair cycle that commonly ranges from 7–30 business days, depending on parts availability and whether the unit must be sent to a central service depot.

Warranty, RMA process, and documentation

RCBS warranty coverage varies by product category — mechanical presses and steel dies often have longer limited warranties, while electronic dispensers and scales may have shorter manufacturer warranties and require calibration checks. To initiate a warranty claim, request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) or service number from support. An RMA ensures the parcel is tracked correctly and prevents rejection upon arrival; shipping without an RMA can result in delays or refusal of service.

When an RMA is issued, the support team will specify shipping address, packaging instructions, and any pre-approved labor/parts allowances. Keep copies of all shipping receipts and insure the package for the current replacement cost — typical declared values frequently range from $50 (dies) to $1,000+ (automated dispensers). If a unit is repaired under warranty, ask for a written summary of work performed, parts replaced (with part numbers), and any remaining warranty on the repaired assembly.

Troubleshooting common RCBS product issues (what to try before shipping)

Many service calls are resolved without sending the unit in. For presses: verify proper headspacing, check that fasteners are torqued to manufacturer torque specs, and inspect linkage pins/snap-rings for wear. For electronic powder dispensers and scales: recalibrate using a certified calibration weight (100 g or another manufacturer-specified mass), check sensor and battery contacts, and confirm firmware version if the product supports updates. Recording a short video of the error (obvious mechanical jam, error code on display) is often decisive in remote troubleshooting.

If the device emits abnormal noises or binding occurs, document the sequence (e.g., “press bottomed out, then grinding at 1/3 travel”). For primer feed or case-carrier jams, remove and clean with a soft brush; inspect for dusty primer residue and replace worn springs/drive belts. If an electronics issue persists after reset/recalibration, request firmware support or an RMA for bench diagnostics.

Packed-value checklist: what to have ready before contacting support

• Product model and serial number (photo of product label), exact purchase date and vendor — required for warranty validation.
• High-resolution photos and a short video (20–60 seconds) that show the symptom, including close-ups of failed area and any markings/part numbers.
• Order/invoice PDF or proof-of-purchase screenshot; if bought used, include seller contact or dated receipt.
• A brief timeline of events (when symptoms began, steps already tried, whether product was modified or used with aftermarket parts).

Costs, turnaround expectations, and shipping tips

Out-of-warranty parts commonly fall into these ballpark ranges: small wear items (springs, pins, shellholders) $5–$25; die sets $30–$90 per die; press rebuild kits or major mechanical parts $50–$250; electronic module replacement or scale recalibration $75–$350 depending on complexity. Labor charges vary — expect hourly shop rates in the reloading-equipment sector typically between $50–$100/hour for non-warranty bench work.

• Turnaround: initial response 1–5 business days; typical diagnostic + repair 7–30 business days depending on parts and queue.
• Shipping: pack heavy metal equipment in double-walled boxes with 2–4″ foam; use a traceable carrier and insure for full replacement cost; retain tracking and insurance receipts until service completes.

Finally, maintain a service log for each machine: record dates of maintenance, parts replaced (with part numbers), and any dealer or factory service records. That log makes warranty claims straightforward and increases resale value. If you need model-specific troubleshooting steps, supply the exact model name and serial number when contacting RCBS support via the official website (https://www.rcbs.com), and they can provide parts diagrams, manuals, and RMA instructions tailored to your unit.