CO-AX PRIMER SEATER Reviews & Ratings

Bench mounted priming tools have been popular with reloaders for years because they are faster and do a better job of primer seating than many of the press mounted primer seaters. The CO-AX Primer Seater from Forster has automatic shellholder jaws which close securely on most modern rifle and pistol cases(no additional shellholders needed). Primers stack sideways in the primer feed tubes for added safety, and the tubes are open in front so it is easy to view the remaining primer supply. The tool base is a quality machined casting and includes a built-in primer flip tray. Large and small rifle and pistol primer tubes are included.

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Reviews Summary

The CO-AX Primer Seater has mixed reviews with some users praising its efficiency and comfort, especially for larger rifle cartridges. However, many express frustration over the design flaws related to small rifle primers, as well as issues with the seating jaws. While some appreciate its value, others faced significant operational challenges.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Product Design and Functionality

60%

Several reviewers highlight design issues, particularly with the primer tube for small rifle primers, which tends to malfunction, causing frustration. Despite the initial design concerns, some users find it works well for larger primers, indicating a divide in functionality based on preferences.

Adjustability and Usability

70%

The difficulty in adjusting the seating jaws is a common point of contention, with many users reporting that changing calibers results in a cumbersome process. Some reviewers note that while it may work best for single calibers, managing multiple ones can be time-consuming and challenging.

Build Quality

40%

Reviewers have mixed feelings regarding the build quality of the tool. While some found it sturdy and effective after initial adjustments, others experienced breakage after limited use, raising concerns about durability, particularly under heavy usage.

Speed and Efficiency

50%

A number of users praise the tool for its speed and efficiency once correctly set up, appreciating the quick priming process and good tactile feedback when seating primers. This aspect is especially noted for those who rely on high-volume reloading.

Value for Money

55%

Many customers feel that the product offers good value for the price, especially for experienced reloaders looking for efficiency and reliability. However, the mixed experiences with performance lead some to question whether it fully meets this expectation.

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Only good for specialized use

I bought one of the Co-Ax Primer Seaters from Brownells in September of 24. I had a lot of problems setting it up but didn't write a review then as I thought it might be me and not the machine. After using it for over a year I can say this is definately not what you want if you reload a lot of different cartridges. It is very finicky to set up and has usuall taken me 50 to 100 rounds before I could get it to operate well. Even then, I usually have it spit out at least one primer on the floor out of every 100. I suppose if you were going to set it up for just one cartridge base and were able to lock it down well it might be usable, but that is not practical for most reloaders. I may load servera hundred of one round then switch to another and this thing is almost useless in that scenario. Buy something with a fixed head and that minimizes errors. It also is not nearly as safe as most other systems because the prime stack is directly above the primer being put into the casse. I haven't had any problems with detonations, but I do get lots of primers with punch marks on them where the mandrel that pushes them into the pocket is not perfectly alligned. That even occurs frequently after the system is correctly adjusted and functioning well.

by Clark on March 25, 2026

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I usually love my forster products, however this is an exception. I bought this a couple months ago and have been trying to get the hang of the seating jaws. THEY DON'T WORK EASILY! If you plan on using this for one caliber I am sure it would be fine, set the jaws once and leave it. If you plan on using this for all your reloading needs you probably want to look elsewhere. I am beyong frustrated trying to get the jaws to hold the case tightly. There is obviously only milimeters to play with and if it's not right the case comes out and primers get lost. Too tight and the case wont come out. Can't seem to find the sweet spot easily, its easily a 20 minute ordeal every-time I switch cartridges. Forster make the jaws easier!!

Easy to use but broke after 150 shells

The press is made from casted metal and mine broke after only priming 150-200 cases. contacted Forster to see if they will replace it.