Ideas for bending a press handle?

[Not_A_Llama]

I'm trying to get some bend on my Hornady LNL's press handle, so that I can put my weight into primer seating a little better, and not have to lean over so much when sizing. Problem is, it's about 0.620" of what appears to be steel, and I don't really have a credible vise (not sure it'd make a difference - the handle's pretty damn stout)

Is a propane torch going to help with bending? Or would some sort of local industrial shop have the equipment to easily do this? I think I only need about a 10 degree bend, and I won't get too broken up about the paint on the handle.

Thanks, guys.

[Circuits]

Yes, you'd probably be happier having a shop do the work, but you could do it yourself with a torch to soften the handles where you want it to bend.

If it's hardened, the rod will be too soft after bending, where you heated and bent it, and might have a tendency to bend back there. A shop will be able to check for this, and usually re-heat-treat the handle if that's required.

To bend 5/8 steel, even cold rolled and soft, will take several guys, and/or lots of leverage and a sturdy fulcrum to bend on...

[ridgewalker]

Not likely the handle is heat treated. You could also cut it and weld it at the angle you want. Cut it part way through; bend it; weld it in place.

Your leverage will decrease somewhat (become more difficult) the more you bend it unless you lengthen it.

Good luck.

[68Charger]

Isn't it bolted/threaded on? why not build a new one, and that way you have that one to fall back on if you don't like the new one?

[jscwerve]

Good sturdy vice, map gas or acetelene torch, BFH. In that order.

[SideShow Bob]

You can get a mapp gas canister for a propane torch, screws right on, doing it your self you can get the bend exactly where you want it or keep tweaking it until it I s perfect.
And if there is a heat treating problem, then take it to a metal shop for that.

[Not_A_Llama]

All right, guys, I'll check out my options with heat - I think the MAPP may be my best DIY option, otherwise I think I'll need to find someone to do it for me.

I don't have any heavy equipment, so welding, lever setups, and heavy-duty die sets to thread a new length of rod are beyond my capability.

[mcantar18c]

I have an angle grinder, a welder, and the skills to use them... let me know if you need a hand.

[gnihcraes]

I'm doubtful that MAP gas will be enough to get it bent. I have acetylene available and it wouldn't take just a minute to get it the right temp. (I'll have to check my tanks, they might be empty though)

PM if interested, just west of you most likely.

[Great-Kazoo]

I have an angle grinder, a welder, and the skills to use them... let me know if you need a hand.

Please........ this is not going to turn in to another Train thread is it? Because i have the skills and tools to do it too.