The RCBS AmmoMaster Index Rod (Part # R788690 / 788690) is a factory replacement mechanical indexing shaft designed for the legacy RCBS AmmoMaster Auto progressive press and the AmmoMaster 5-Station Single-to-Auto Progressive Conversion Kit. Operating through 100% manual and mechanical action, the rod interfaces directly between the press ram stroke and top plate assembly to mechanically drive the automatic advancement of the shell plate during high-volume reloading workflows.

Key Features

• Automatic Shell Plate Advancement: Functions as the primary mechanical linkage that drives the rotation of the 5-station progressive shell plate as the press ram cycles.
• Restores Factory Timing: Replaces bent, worn, or missing original rods to restore smooth advancement and factory indexing alignment.
• Precision Steel Construction: Machined from polished steel to withstand repetitive ram cycling during multi-stage cartridge production.
• High-Volume Output Support: Facilitates progressive reloading speeds of 300 to 500 rounds per hour for handgun and standard rifle calibres within the 5-station envelope.

Specifications

• Brand: RCBS
• Part Number: R788690 (Internal: 788690)
• Product Type: Progressive press index rod / replacement drive rod
• Material: Precision-machined, polished steel
• Power Requirement: None (100% manual/mechanical operation)
• Platform Compatibility: RCBS AmmoMaster Auto Progressive Press and 5-Station Single-to-Auto Conversion Kit
• Station Capacity: 5 stations
• Operating Output: Up to 300 to 500 rounds per hour depending on user pace and feeding components

Who is the RCBS AmmoMaster Index Rod for?

• Legacy RCBS AmmoMaster Auto progressive press owners — Requires a 100% manual mechanical replacement rod to restore the timing and rotation of the 5-station shell plate assembly.
• High-volume handgun and standard rifle reloaders — Relies on this progressive press index rod to maintain continuous auto-indexing production across 5 stations at output rates reaching 300 to 500 rounds per hour.

Less suitable for: Reloaders producing .50 BMG cartridges, which exceed progressive clearance and require converting the press to a dedicated single-stage press configuration with 1-1/2"-12 threaded die support, or reloaders using modern 7-station progressive presses or standard single-stage presses.