Best Quick Change Reloading Press Mounts for Faster Setup
If you want to speed up your reloading workflow and reduce downtime between tools, a quick change mounting system is the answer. This article highlights five top options that fit a range of presses and benches, with clear guidance on who benefits most from each choice. Whether you’re setting up a compact bench, switching between a turret and a progressive press, or storing tools for easy access, these mounts streamline operation and improve stability. The picks below are selected for solid construction, ease of use, and practical suitability for American hobbyists and professional reloaders alike.
Overview snapshot: the Ultramount Quick Change Mounting System is designed to raise and stabilize presses, with dedicated top plates and docks that speed swaps. The Lee Bench Plate Kit provides a simple, versatile bench-ready platform for quick changes. The Dock accessories offer storage solutions to maximize workflow efficiency. Use the table to compare primary uses and fit for your setup.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultramount Quick Change Press Mounting System | InLine Fabrication Store | Want a rigid, elevated base for any press | Base only; top plate needed for full use |
| Ultramount Quick Change Press Top Plates | InLine Fabrication Store | Quick-change top plates for multiple tools | Need matching base for operation |
| Ultramount Quick Change Press Top Plates | InLine Fabrication Store | Same as above; alternative top plate option | Swapping plates under 30 seconds |
| Ultramount Quick Change Press Mounting System Accessories | InLine Fabrication Store | Storage and docking for presses/tools | Requires secure mounting to wall or bench |
| Lee Precision 90251 Bench Plate Kit | Precision | Bench-ready quick-change base | Fits many benches; simple quick-change compatibility |
InLine Ultramount Quick Change Press Mounting System
The Ultramount Quick Change Press Mounting System provides a rigid base designed to work with the appropriate top plate for your press. This base lifts the press, reducing the need to lean or bend during operation. It spreads downward pressure across a larger footprint to improve stability on your reloading bench. Best for shooters and hobbyists who value improved ergonomics and fewer interruptions when swapping presses. However, this is a base with no top plate included, so you must pair it with a compatible top plate for your press model.
- Best for: elevating the ram height and boosting comfort during long sessions
- Better for: setups needing a stable, high-access work position
- Choose this if: you plan to run a turret or progressive press in a dedicated base
- Caution: ensure your top plate selection matches your exact press model
InLine Ultramount Quick Change Top Plates
These top plates are constructed from 3/16″ steel with a durable black powder-coated finish. They are designed to swap onto the Ultramount base quickly and without tools. The rear plate slips into the base while the front is secured with wing-nut bolts, enabling fast tool changes while keeping the plate attached to your press. Best for users who frequently switch between presses or tools and want the swaps performed in under a minute. Note that this listing is for the plate only; you’ll need the corresponding base for full operation.
- Best for: quick, tool-free changes between presses
- Better for: users who store multiple presses on a single elevated base
- Choose this if: you want a streamlined, tool-free swap process
- Caution: you must pair top plates with the correct Ultramount base
InLine Ultramount Quick Change Top Plates (Alternate)
This plate option mirrors the other Ultramount top plates in construction and function. It remains a high-strength 3/16″ steel piece with a black powder finish. As with the other top plates, swapping is designed to be quick and does not require tools. The plate remains attached to the press, while the base remains attached to your bench, enabling rapid transitions. Best for multi-press workflows that require consistent plate compatibility.
- Best for: flexible setups using the same base with different presses
- Better for: reducing downtime during press changes
- Choose this if: you value uniform mounting across different tools
- Caution: verify compatibility with your base and press model
InLine Ultramount Quick Change Press Mounting System Accessories
The accessory lineup emphasizes quick changes and organized storage. The Single QC Dock stores one tool mounted to the wall; the Double QC Dock holds two presses or tools. Docks must be securely mounted with appropriate hardware to support the press weight. This is ideal for a workflow where you rotate between presses or reloading tools and want a predictable, fast transition. Limitations include the requirement for robust mounting and wall space to achieve optimal stability.
- Best for: creating a rapid-change workflow with stored tools
- Better for: maximizing bench space by wall-mounting unused presses
- Choose this if: you routinely switch between a few presses throughout a shift
- Caution: ensure wall and anchors can handle the load
Lee Precision 90251 Bench Plate Kit
The Lee Precision Bench Plate Kit provides a versatile, bench-ready plate system that allows quick changes between presses and accessories on a standard reloading bench. This kit is best for hobbyists seeking an easy, no-fuss upgrade to bench compatibility without specialized base hardware. It supports typical reloading workflows and is a practical addition for those who want a straightforward mounting solution that fits common bench configurations. A key limitation is that mounting options may be limited to certain bench dimensions and configurations.
- Best for: users seeking a straightforward, bench-ready solution
- Better for: small to medium reloading setups that prioritize simplicity
- Choose this if: you want quick-change capabilities without specialized bases
- Caution: verify bench thickness and mounting clarity for your space
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting a quick-change setup include compatibility with your press model, base-to-plate pairing, and workspace layout. Start by confirming which top plates match your press and ensure the base supports the press weight and intended height. Consider whether you need wall docks or bench-mounted solutions to maximize workflow. If you switch between multiple presses regularly, prioritize systems that offer fast, tool-free changes and reliable locking mechanisms. Stability, material quality (steel thickness and coating), and ergonomic height are essential for long sessions.
What should you choose if you have limited bench space? A compact Ultramount base with a single, secure dock can keep essential tools within reach while maintaining room for other tasks. For frequent tool swaps, the combination of a high-quality top plate and a stable base minimizes downtime. If you prefer a simple upgrade, the Lee Bench Plate Kit offers a cost-effective, bench-friendly entry into quick-change mounting without additional bases.
FAQ
- What is a quick-change press mounting system?
A system that lets you swap presses or reloading tools quickly, typically using a base and one or more top plates or docks to secure the tool.
- Do I need both a base and a top plate?
Yes. The base provides stability and height, while the top plate locks to the press for fast changes.
- Which option is best for compact spaces?
A wall-mounted dock with a compact Ultramount base can save bench space while keeping tools accessible.
- Can I use these systems with any press?
Compatibility depends on the top plate and base pairing. Check the specific plate-base compatibility for your press model.
- Are there safety considerations for mounting?
Yes. Secure mounting with appropriate anchors for the wall or bench; ensure the assembly can support the press weight and frequent changes.
- What is the expected setup time for changes?
With properly matched components, swapping between presses can take under a minute, depending on the docking method.