Loaded 200+ 44m & 38sp. Had completed the “Poor Man’s ERGO” upgrade for my RCBS Jr II press. Press is probably 45 - 50 years old. Friend of mine and fellow poster saw a Rock Chucker with the ERGO (Inline Fabrication) handle and made one out of spare parts. He decided it was a bit “overkill” for some operations as he only loads pistol. He then found a ball and fabed up an alternative which he switches as needed.
I looked at the ERGO handle for the Jr. Some of the reviews had said it was overkill and they choked up or held it by the shaft and not the ball for some steps.
Bottom Line. I made an adapter (4” sleeve) with a 2” Bakelite ball for mine. I ordered a bunch of different balls and the concept has evolved as most mods or redesigns do, My handle is slightly longer...maybe 2”. That would be good if you were forming brass or running bottle neck cartridges. The Jr. is OK for that, but the 2” would help here. I necked down a LOT of 30-06 brass to .270W many years ago on this press. Have now loaded almost 500 rounds and love the ball.
I have since figured out HOW to adapt one using the extra 2” balls to the existing handle. I may try that. I have also ordered a 7/8” plastic “bicycle handle bar” grip to go on mine. I find that half the time I just put my hand around the grip.
I have also got some extra balls for 1/2” shafts....that might be used on other presses.
IF anyone is interested in upgrading their press (Jr. or one with a 5/8” or 1/2” shaft), I will make a custom one and ship it for my material cost. The single ball can be attached via a recessed Allen screw....and if you don’t care to make it removable....a dab of Gorilla glue will permanently affix it. My sleeve is overkill as I have TWO Allen screws in it. If someone wants my sleeved ball, I might part with it and stay with. Single ball. You can ALSO use the existing grip handle with the single, non sleeved ball.
BTW....my original intent was ALSO to add a counter weight to the toggle arm so that the ram would stay DOWN. This would be an aid when seating bullets or swapping cases. Worked GREAT....until I added the weight of the sleeve.
If you want a picture of the counter weight and a $1.25 fix (you provide the flat stock for the weight), I will describe off line. The attaching bolt for $1.25 from Ace or Lowes is all you need.
Really cool setup. I don’t have any shoulder or arthritis issues, but if some do, this might be a God send.