There is a review of the best powder measure in 2023.
So, I:
- purchased 9 powder measures
- spent over 52 hours testing by myself (because I love to reload ammo!)
- spent more than 33 hours talking to real press owners (about features of powder measure, not empty talk)
- have included both objective and subjective tests, real pros and… cons
- did not receive any funds from manufacturers for my assessments.
So, I am confident that I have identified the best powder measure:
“The RCBS Chargemaster is the best product for reloaders as it is accurate (0.1 grains), easy to use, and has a memory system for storing load data”
by me – Hans Wimberly
I received feedback from one of our readers regarding the RCBS Chargemaster, which I would like to share below.
“The RCBS 98923 Chargemaster Combo Scale/Dispenser worth the investment if you desire consistent and precise loads. I rely on this product for producing accurate long-range rifle loads. It is more convenient and accurate than a powder drop, dispensing both stick and sphere powders flawlessly. Additionally, it has useful features for storing your preferred loads.”
by Ben Booth
In this blog post, I will examine the advantages and disadvantages of various powder measures, highlight essential features for reloading, and offer some useful tips. So, let’s begin!
Best Powder Measure: our and customers’ choices
Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
RCBS Chargemaster Combination Scale/Dispenser is my top choice because it combines an accurate digital scale with a fast powder dispenser, eliminates the need for calibration, and provides easy and precise control over the powder charges.
Lyman Powder Measure is our runner-up since it is a popular choice for reloaders due to its versatility in handling different types of charges, ease of use with a clamp-on design, and convenient features such as a powder baffle and drop tubes for various case mouth sizes.
Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper Powder Measuring is a great tool because: 1) it is fast and accurate, 2) it has a proprietary powder calibration button for precise measurements, and 3) it has both auto and manual trickle capabilities for maintaining up to 250 grains of powder per throw.
Let’s look at the products in more detail and tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of each.
1. RCBS Chargemaster Combination Scale/Dispenser
- Hunting reloading scales
- Features the ChargeMaster 1500 scale and ChargeMaster Dispenser preassembled to form an unmatched combination of speed and accuracy
- 1 lb+ capacity powder hopper
- Use with smokeless powder only
Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The RCBS Chargemaster is easy to use, and I was impressed with its accuracy. The instructions are clear, and I appreciated learning how to mute the beeping sounds and engage in automatic dispense mode.
The powder measure remembers these settings after turning it off and back on again. Zeroing the machine is straightforward, and the weights are stored in two small compartments beside the weigh scale.
Challenges with Long Cylindrical Powders
When I loaded 50 new .44 pistol rounds using VIHT N-110, a fairly short cylindrical powder, I was pleased that all the rounds were finished to the exact weight I desired. On average, it took about 10-12 seconds for the machine to dispense the powder.
I required 52 load cycles since two of the loads were over by 0.1 grain. For the overcharges, I simply dumped the powder back into the hopper and loaded a new charge into the powder tray.
However, when I loaded 50 new 30-06 rifle rounds using Alliant RL-17, a long cylindrical powder where the grains tend to clump on top of each other due to the length, the process took about 30 seconds to dispense the powder.
I required 60 load cycles, with 10 extra cycles due to overcharges ranging from 54.9 to 55.2 grains. The Chargemaster has trouble with long powder grains since it shakes powder down a rotating horizontal tube, and powder grains that clump on top of each other tend to exit the tube all at once, throwing off the precise measurements.
The tool prevents inaccuracies
The Chargemaster is a good product, even with occasional overcharges. Even when the powder dispenser is wrong, the scale always measures the weight and lets me know if I need to intervene. In the end, my loads are always accurate to the tenth of a grain.
Before using the Chargemaster, one of my friends had zero experience in reloading. However, with the help of the Chargemaster, he was able to get things right in general. He likes that the machine helps him measure powder by weight, and not use a volumetric powder drop, which is especially important for someone who is inexperienced.
Feedback from a reloading expert: “When utilizing it, this apparatus is nearly imperceptible. You needn’t bother with any button presses; you can simply place the container onto the scale, receive your weighty charge, and proceed with the remainder of the reloading operation. In the event that you utilize a lot of rifle rounds, or on the off chance that you reload for an exorbitant, high-precision cartridge, this may be the solution to meeting the exacting requirements of obsessive-compulsive reloaders while also sparing yourself the time it takes to make each cartridge. Despite the fact that reloading is enjoyable, I would rather spend my time shooting.”
by the team of huntinggearguy
Feedback from a manufacturer: “The ChargeMaster Combo features the ChargeMaster 1500 Scale and ChargeMaster Dispenser, preassembled to form an unmatched combination of speed and accuracy. There is no longer a need for timely calibration to the type of powder being used. Simply fill the 1-plus-pound capacity hopper with smokeless powder, enter the desired charge and press the dispense button. Average dispensing time is less than 30 seconds for a 60-grain extruded powder charge. It carries a one-year limited warranty.”
by RCBS
Feedback from our reader: “After reading positive reviews of this particular scale both with and without the combo, I decided to give it a try. One of the features I appreciate most is that it dispenses and trickles the powder for you, which saves time and minimizes the risk of errors. The automatic mode is especially helpful, as the scale starts dispensing the programmed charge weight as soon as you put the pan on the scale and it zeros out. This allows me to focus on seating the bullet into the previously charged case while the scale takes care of dispensing the powder.”
by our reader Bill Mally
I asked 12 reloaders about the features of RCBS Chargemaster, so we have pros and cons below:
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides precise charges for rifle rounds | Temperature-sensitive and may lose accuracy when used in cold temperatures |
| Allows for multitasking while dispensing charges, which can speed up the overall reloading process | |
| Stores a lot of loads and can be reprogrammed to suit individual needs | |
| Works well with flake powders | |
| Scale is very accurate |
In conclusion, the RCBS Chargemaster is precise and simplifies the task, allowing me to load double the number of rounds during a reloading session. It’s not just due to the speed, but also because it’s easier to use, enabling me to work longer without the need to take breaks.
2. RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser
I recently got my hands on the RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser and Scale, and I have to say, I’m pretty impressed with this product. I’ve been reloading my own ammo for years, and I’ve gone through my fair share of electronic scales and powder dispensers. So, I know what I’m talking about when it comes to these types of products.
Accuracy and Stability
One thing that really stood out to me with the MatchMaster is its accuracy and stability. The scale is incredibly precise, and I love that it uses strain gage technology. I’ve had issues in the past with scales drifting and varying over time, but that’s not the case with this one. It’s stable and always accurate within .02 grains, which is impressive. It’s also sensitive enough to detect a single kernel of certain powders, which is great.
Dispensing
The dispensing function is where the MatchMaster falls a bit short for me. In standard mode, it’s accurate to only .1 grain, which is not great for match loads. And, in match mode, it has a tendency to drop too much powder even when set to slow. The small drop tube can also cause clumping, which can be frustrating. However, it is tunable to account for different powder types, which does improve accuracy.
Overall Impressions
Despite the issues with dispensing, I still think the MatchMaster is a game changer. It’s a much faster, more accurate, and enjoyable process overall. I appreciate the app that comes with it, which is very polished and user-friendly. The dispenser appears to be well-built, although I have noticed some slight issues with it. Cleanup is also easy and not messy thanks to the drain port and only having one hopper to empty.
Feedback from a manufacturer: “The RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser takes powder dispensing and weighing to the next level. Utilizing Patent Pending dual tube dispense technology most charges can be thrown in under 20 seconds to 0.10 grain accuracy. Pharmaceutical grade scale components enables .04 grain accuracy for the ultimate in precision.”
by RCBS
Feedback from an reloading expert: “The precision of the RCBS MatchMaster is highly impressive, which is not always the case with previous models from RCBS or other manufacturers. In the past, these devices often had dispensing times of one minute or more per charge, but the MatchMaster can handle this task in standard mode and with the right dispense speed, completing it in under 20 seconds. However, the higher-resolution match mode takes a bit longer. Additionally, the device has a wide range of setting options, and for technology enthusiasts, it can be controlled with a smartphone.”
by Christopher Hocke
Feedback from our reader: “I was searching for a way to enhance my shooting precision at the range. My previous scale was only accurate up to +/- 0.1 grain, but with the MatchMaster, I have an accuracy of +/- 0.04 grain. The results speak for themselves – I went from shooting .560 at 100 yards to .375..”
by Rufus Wallaker
I asked 15 reloaders about the features of RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser, so we have pros and cons below:
| Pros | Cons |
| The unit weighs with 0.02 grain accuracy, even though it advertises 0.04 grain accuracy. | The “Auto” mode doesn’t work when you have a custom powder program, and you have to hit the Go button after replacing the powder pan |
| Cleaning up is easy and not messy at all thanks to the drain port and only one hopper to empty. | |
| The extensive calibration of the device allows for accurate dispensing of different types of powder | |
| It is easy to control the device with a smartphone app | |
I highly recommend the RCBS MatchMaster Powder Dispenser and Scale. While the dispensing function could be improved, the accuracy and stability of the scale more than make up for it. And, at the end of the day, it makes reloading ammo a more enjoyable experience.
3. Lyman Powder Measure
- Package length: 17.2 cm
- Package width: 18.2 cm
- Package height: 38.0 cm
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The reloading tool I purchased is a Lyman powder measure. Upon receiving it, I let it warm up for about 30 minutes and then calibrated it per the instructions. I also verified the calibration using my check weights. All variations I tried from .5 through 45.5 grains were dead on.
Accuracy and Consistency
When I threw 50 charges, 20.5 grains of Lil’Gun, it threw 3 charges that were .1 grain high according to the scale. I returned these to the hopper and ran it again. The next charge was fine every time. I also weighed 10 random charges on my RCBS beam scale, and 8 of the 10 were dead on. One was maybe .1 high and the other .1 under. This level of accuracy and consistency was impressive.
Possible Variations
I did notice that some of the heavier charges may have been due to my bench not being perfectly level front to back, which caused a couple of extra granules to sneak out of the dispenser. To fix this, I’m going to try shimming the front with a couple of thicknesses of paper and see if that solves the problem.
Speed and Simplicity
While the Lil’ Gun powder dispenser is not as fast as I had hoped it would be, I found it to be a whole lot simpler and very consistent. I can probably throw charges almost as fast with my beam scale, a powder dipper, and a trickier, but the dispenser was much more efficient.
Auto Function
I also used the auto function after the first 7 or 8 charges and it worked perfectly. All I had to do was set the charge, hit the Auto button, and go. As soon as I put the pan back, it started throwing the next charge.
Cleanup
Cleanup only took a few minutes once I figured out the instructions. When emptying the hopper, be sure to read the instructions carefully and pay attention because I was surprised at how fast the powder came out of the chute. You’ll need to be able to move the unit to the edge of your bench or have a very shallow and wide pan to empty it.
Feedback from a manufacturer: “Based on re-engineered digital technology that overcomes problems commonly experienced by older designs, the system is packed with additional state of the art improvements like fast, 3 minute warmup, anti-static and anti-drift technology and has sophisticated electronic shielding to resist interference from other electronic devices like cell phones, etc.”
by the team of Lyman
Feedback from a reloading expert: “In my opinion, the Lyman GEN6 Compact Touch Screen Powder System is a fantastic powder dispensing system overall. While I do have a minor issue with the touch screen sensitivity and ease of use, it’s still a great machine. As someone who has reloaded manually for most of my life, I believe that this type of machine is worth the investment for near-perfect precision powder dispensing, and I would highly recommend it to any reloader.”
by hunter Al Quackenbush
Feedback of our reader: “As I charge and seat a round, the next charge is already prepared and ready for me to do the next one. I set it to drop 1/10th of a grain light and then just thump the tube with my finger to trickle in a few grains to make it perfect. I have checked the charges against both of my digital scales and they have been dead on. With this product, I can now load 50 rounds in the same amount of time that I used to do only 20 rounds.
by our reader Ken White
I asked 15 reloaders about the features of Lyman powder measure, so we have pros and cons below.
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast and accurate powder measuring | Some parts of the powder dispenser may not be durable long-term |
| Easy to change powders and assembly/disassembly | Occasionally throws charges 0.1 short or long |
| Saves a significant amount of time compared to manual reloading | |
| Provides precise measurements within 0.05 grains of the target charge | |
| Auto restart function alerts you when weight goes over the target charge |
Overall, I was impressed with the Lyman powder measure. It’s accurate out of the box, relatively easy to clean, and has a fairly small footprint. If it were a little faster, I would give it 5 stars. I highly recommend this reloading tool to anyone looking for a reliable and consistent powder dispenser.
4. Best Electronic Powder Measurement: Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper Powder Measuring
- ACCURACY: Features a self-optimizing powder calibration, auto and manual trickle capability and a +/- 0.1 grain accuracy
- EASE OF USE: Features a large, backlit LCD display with easy-to-see controls
- VERSATILITY: Operate the powder measure from the touch screen or use your phone and the app
- CONVENIENT: The free app features preloaded information such as bullet and powder databases, cartridge list, powder list, bullet database with type, weight, ballistic coefficient and sectional density and more
- RELIABLE: Stores load data in the free downloadable app
Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I recently got my hands on a reloading scale and wanted to share my thoughts on it. The unit arrived in great condition, all the parts were accounted for, and everything was wrapped up nicely.
Putting the scale together was easy, and the leveling instructions were straightforward. I plugged it in, let it warm up for 30 minutes like the instructions said, and downloaded the app. The app was user-friendly, and I had no trouble connecting it to my phone via Bluetooth.
Calibration Process
I ran into a bit of an issue during the calibration process, as the instructions were a bit confusing. The instructions stated that after pressing the CAL key, I should see 50.00 flashing on the display, indicating that I should place the 50g weight on the pan.
However, I didn’t get any flashing on the display. I assumed that the 50.00 and 100.00 were supposed to be flashing, so I moved on with the calibration process. In the end, everything calibrated just fine, but it was a bit frustrating at first.
Powder Calibration
The powder calibration process was straightforward, and I ran through it twice just to be sure. This process helps the machine “learn” the powder you are using and how much it takes to move a certain amount of powder to the pan. I chose to set things up for .223 reloads with Winchester 748 powder at 26 grains.
Performance
I set the machine to “auto,” and the first drop into the pan was perfect. I dumped the contents of the pan onto my digital scale, and it was spot on. I repeated this process for 100 rounds and only had two measurements that were 0.01 over.
This was pretty impressive to me, as the machine consistently dropped powder until it got to either 25.6 or 25.7 before pausing and then trickling the last couple of grains. The machine wasn’t particularly fast, but it was faster than me when I tried to race it with my digital scale, grain spoon, and manual trickier.
Feedback from the manufacturer: “The Intellidropper features a proprietary powder calibration button for fast and accurate powder measurements. Auto and manual trickle capability maintain up to 250 grains of powder per throw. Holds more than 7,000gr (1lb) of powder and offers +/- 0.1 grain accuracy. The Intellidropper dispenses powder two-times faster than other powder measures on the market”
by Frankford Arsenal
Feedback from an reloading expert: “The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is an excellent and reasonably priced scale and dispenser that consistently throws charges with great accuracy. Its software app is extremely useful, and it has a range of practical features that are hard to find in other products on the market.”
by F-Class John
Feedback our reader: “I was pleasantly surprised by the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. I was expecting a decent powder measure, but this unit exceeded my expectations. I previously owned a Hornady powder measure, which required a lot of setup for every load, depending on the powder, load, and caliber. However, with the Intellidropper, there is an Auto Calibration feature that works flawlessly. Additionally, the unit has a built-in bubble level to ensure accurate measurements, and it has Bluetooth connectivity for easy setup with a smartphone.”
by Robert K.
| Pros | Cons |
| The reloading process is fast and accurate | The application has several weaknesses, such as no-load recipes and painful data entry. |
| The scale returns to zero each and every time | |
| The powder thrower works well | |
| It does not need a straw in the trickle tube to get consistent results | |
Overall, I’m happy with the scale’s performance, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for some automation in their reloading process. One suggestion I have is to wipe the inside of the powder chamber with a dryer sheet to reduce the amount of powder clung on the plastic container.
5. Hornady Auto Charge
- Take Charge – The new Hornady Auto Charge Pro provides precise, customizable powder dispensing in an easy-to-use, space-saving unit. Make handloading straightforward and efficient
- Customizable – Precise to within 0.1 grain, the Auto Charge Pro offers customizable trickle speeds for various powder types, as well as custom time setting. Store settings for up to four custom loads or use the factory setting
- Premium Features – The backlit touch screen is easy to read, while a large knob and removable trickler tube on the side simplifies powder emptying. Other features include large powder capacity and built-in bubble level
- For the Reloading Enthusiast – Enjoy quick and easy calibration with this precision instrument. Designed with a small, compact footprint so it takes up less space. Instruction manual included. NEVER use with black powder – for smokeless powder only
- Why Handload? – It's fun, economical and you can obtain maximum accuracy if you have the right materials. Hornady provides everything you'll need, including this Auto Charge Pro Powder Dispenser
Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As someone who’s not relatively new to reloading, I decided to try out the Hornady Auto Charger. I confirmed the results using two additional digital scales and found that the consistency was very accurate across the board.
Consistent and accurate for different powders
I use three different types of powder for my reloading: Pistols, Cowboy Action, and Rifle. And I have to say, this Auto Charger is very consistent and accurate across all three. It’s a breeze to use and I’ve had no issues with it whatsoever.
Adjustable trickle speed and instructions
One thing I did change was the trickle speed, as the factory default was way too slow for my liking. However, this is easily adjusted and the instruction booklet provides clear directions on how to do it. There’s also a DVD included, but I haven’t watched it yet.
Garage environment and overload errors
I do my reloading in my garage, and I’ve found that I have to keep the door closed during use. Even the slightest change in air pressure can cause overload errors, which can be a bit frustrating. However, I’ve found that with the door closed, the overload errors are much less frequent. And when they do occur, they’re easily corrected by dumping the powder back into the hopper, placing the cup back on the scale, and pressing “enter”. The machine then goes back to automatic mode.
Workflow and speed
At first, it seemed like using this machine was very slow. But once I adjusted my process to accommodate the automatic dispenser, it actually ended up being about the same speed as doing each individual step in batches. And as I mentioned before, the consistency is much better with the Auto Charger.
Comparison to other electric digital powder dispensers
I’ve had two other big-name electric digital powder dispensers in the past, and I have to say that this Hornady Auto Charger blows them both out of the water. One required a lengthy calibration every time I changed powders, while the other required constant re-zeroing due to drifting.
But with the Auto Charger, it auto zeros itself before throwing a charge each time the pan is placed back on the scale, thus eliminating the drifting and re-zeroing problems. I haven’t had a single under-charge issue with this unit, and it’s only dropped an overcharge by 1/10 of a grain a couple of times out of the hundreds of rounds I’ve loaded with it.
Feedback from the manufacturer: “The Hornady Auto Charge Pro provides precise, customizable powder dispensing in an easy-to-use, space-saving unit. Precise to within 0.1 grain, the Auto Charge Pro offers customizable trickle speeds for various powder types, as well as custom time settings. Store settings for up to four custom loads or use the factory setting. The backlit touch screen is easy to read, while a large knob on the side simplifies powder emptying.”
by Hornady team
Feedback from a realoding expert: “If you’re new to reloading, using this automatic powder dispenser is a huge improvement over weighing powder manually. Surprisingly, it not only offers 1/10 grain accuracy, but it also improved my group sizes. I believe this is due to the dispenser’s more thoughtful design, particularly the leveling system and the interface between the scale plate and the scale mechanism. The only way Hornady could make this product better is by sending it pre-filled with H4350, in my opinion”
by FRANK MELLONI
Feedback from a realoding expert: “As someone who has been reloading for a couple of years, I regret not buying the Hornady Lock N Load Auto Charge sooner. When making precision rifle cartridges, my previous powder drop dispenser was great for high-volume reloading, but not that great for ensuring every cartridge got the exact same amount of powder. If it happens to go over by more than 0.1 grains, it will flash “OVER” and not reload again until I clear it out by pushing “ENTER”. For those of you saying it goes over a lot, there are three speeds that you can choose from: “slow”, “normal”, and “fast”, depending on how fast the powder you are using trickles at.”
by Kendrick Stephens
Overall, I have to say that the Hornady Auto Charger is the best powder dispenser I’ve ever used. It’s fast, accurate (1/10 gr. as advertised), and has saved me a lot of time at the loading bench. My only complaint is that I wish someone made a dust cover for it.
| Pros | Cons |
| Calibration after a 10-minute warm-up every time ensures accuracy | The drain cap is non-removable, making it difficult to clean and remove all powder without making a mess |
| Digital readout and alarm provide confidence that the charge is correct | The unit stops working in warm temperatures without any indication or warning, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. |
| Auto dispense feature allows for increased speed while maintaining accuracy. | |
| The unit has a large capacity, allowing you to load multiple rounds without having to constantly refill the hopper | |
| The digital display is easy to read and provides accurate readings |
Different types of powder measures
Powder measures don’t always look the same and have a wide range. There are three basic types of powder measurements you can choose from. Each type of powder measure has a unique design and pros and cons.
Types of powder measures: Volume Powder Dippers
Volume powder dipper has the main advantage that it is very affordable. It’s actually so inexpensive that you often get it as a freebie when you purchase other reloading tools.
This is the simplest method. You simply use a spoon to measure the powder. Then, you weigh the powder on a scale. This is easy enough to grasp for beginners.
It’s similar to putting a cup of coffee in your coffee maker.
This is a tedious reloading process that doesn’t result in consistent powder amounts. It may take too long to get the right amount of powder for consistent charges.
Automatic powder or manual powder dispenser
The automatic powder type is best suited for a single-stage reloading progressive press. It’s also suitable for low-volume reloading.
Simply calibrate the scale first to determine the amount of powder to be thrown. Then, you can set it up to measure that powder onto your scale and use the single-stage reloading press.
Measurement of Case Activated Powder
You can now use a variety of reloading presses and can even set it up as an independent tool.
The basic design of the powder dispenser is the same. It has a powder container that needs to be calibrated and a dispenser that will throw the desired amount of powder.
Types of powder measures: electronic dispensers
These powder measures are usually the most expensive. The powder dispenser comes with a keypad and an LCD display.
Simply enter the amount of powder, and the dispenser will weigh it so you get the correct weight every time.
These dispensers aren’t very popular because the digital scale built into them may not be as accurate or as the reloader requires. This means that you may need to pay more to have another powder scale work with yours. It also slows down the process.
Why Should You Use a Powder Measure?
There are a lot of reasons that a powder measure is used by various users despite their preferences for bullet types or reloading size. If you are one of those people who has included the ‘old school’ type, you might want to consider getting one as it might help you a lot in the process!
Basically, if you wish to become a professional reloader without wasting twice the time other people do, a powder measure is necessary to do. While you might have read or watched how powder measures can be inaccurate, that fact is relative to how much short or over is accepted.
You can also use trickling-up method to ensure accuracy for each bullet.
There are also many tutorials and videos that help you gain the highest consistency on each bullet, such as by giving it 2-3 taps for every turn of the lever to get the maximum, correct amount per charge.
Things To Consider When Buying a Powder Measure
A powder measure is very efficient and helps you reload with ease and much less time than the old-school way of measuring the same cartridge 10 times before continuing with a second one.
For every reloader, however, there is always a powder measure that works better for you, and other factors may turn your head into investing in a certain brand.
Budget and price range
Obviously, we realize that not all of our readers are ready to invest hundreds of dollars into every piece of reloading equipment. The best powder measure doesn’t necessarily have to cost a hundred dollars for you. There are some affordable ones that still work decently and accurately.
Double Check and Triple Check
If necessary because no matter how accurate the metering seems to be after using it a few hours, you never know if it accidentally let a little bit more through. Get a reliable beam or digital scale to double-check and triple-check the load in the cartridges every 10 or so bullets. A powder measure can never be 100% accurate all the time.
Versatility
Because if you are the type that reloads various sizes of bullets, you know that cheap guy isn’t going to make it. The Hornady powder measure is typical with both quality and versatility. Some others require you to purchase the metering separately, so calculate this in.
Read The Manual
Because every powder measure has its own method of cleaning, prepping, and changing the metering as well as ensuring a sealed system with no leakage. Make sure you lock everything in place before you start using the powder measure.
Also, make sure that you know how to operate the powder measure properly, and do not test it with black powder. Again, please never use it with black powder!
Charge capacity
While it’s not the biggest concern, Hornady has the biggest capacity between the three of them. That means you will do a lot of refilling if you are working on a lot of rounds. It’s also worth reminding you that you are not advised to completely fill the hopper because the pressure will work its way, causing the excessive powder to flow through the metering.
Powder Types
That you will use the powder measure because each one has something it’s best in. Due to sizes and shapes, some powder measures work well with certain types of powders that others can’t work well with.
The Lee Precision, for example, works very well with stick powder, which tends to not work with Hornady or RCBS (RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure). But on the other hand, it cannot handle fine grain with a big leakage in the process of reloading.
Settle Powder
Before operating any powder measure you have by discharging about 5-10 rounds. Accuracy tends to sway on the first 10-25 accurate charges. Do not use it in a hurry and allow powder consistent charges to flow all the way into the chamber before you release button the lever.
Top Powder Measure Brands
For our list, we have included four of the most well-known brands in the reloading business. These brands include Hornady, Lyman Precision, Lee Precision, Hornady, and Lyman.
Lyman
This brand is the most important in reloading. It is so ancient that it has been around since the early 1800s.
This means that they have a lot of experience in manufacturing reloading equipment. It speaks volumes about their commitment to quality over the years and the brand continues to thrive.
RCBS
Another well-known brand in reloading is this one, which was established in California in 1943. It is part of a group that has been associated with military weapons and it continues to be one of the most important reloading equipment companies worldwide.
This brand is well-known for listening to customers, you can send product ideas via their website or buy RCBS uniflow powder measure.
Hornady
Hornady has a large selection of reloading accessories and tools, as well as ammunition. It was established in 1949.
It is a US-owned family brand and the current boss of the company is the son of Joyce Hornady, the founder.
Which Powder Measures are the Best for Reloading?
This question is not answered by a consensus. You might get many different answers if you ask different reloaders which powder measures are best.
It is fair to say, however, that you will get a great powder measure if you visit a US brand that has been in the reloading business for a while.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best method to clean the powder measure tube?
You can wipe it with a dryer shit so that the powder doesn’t stick or keep a small paintbrush on the bench to get the stuck powder out.
Is it important to pay attention to how you mount the powder measure?
Yes, it is. If the device is wiggling around, it will not yield consistent results no matter how many adjustments you make..
Is it okay to leave powder in the powder measure overnight?
Overnight, yes. Unless you have some pretty whacked-out humidity levels.
How to test the consistency of the machine?
After you have filled the hopper, make at least 10 to 15 dummy accurate charges as a test. This will give you an indication of the machine’s consistency.
Should I tap on the side of the hopper in order to level the powder?
We recommend that you do not tap on the side of the hopper to level the powder. You do not need to do this at all.
What do I do if the powder clings to the hopper?
To solve this problem, simply empty the hopper first, wash it and then dip it in a soapy water solution. Let it dry before putting it back on again.
Maybe after you finish the progressive press shoot out, a comparison of different powder measures would be a great series.
Hope you don’t need one any time soon I ordered the co-ax press 6 months ago – they said 6 weeks- just got email said sometime in august
Yes that is very helpful. I can do this myself as well. There are things that I want to add as well like my feet above sea level. Because I live above A.B.S.L. it does have a lot to do with the burn in the cartage and Berral as well. Thanks for thi.
Excellent testing method Gavin! Don’t know why I haven’t thought of doing this.
I would like to see this on several powder dispensers. It would be easy to range the Gambit from the expensive electronic dispensers like RCBS, middle of the ground like Frankford Arsenal and you could even go as far down the economic hole like $25 Lee Precision Powder dispenser.
Wonder if Forster is ever going to come out with something to compete with the chargemaster? I think they would be ones to come out with something in between the chargemaster and the auto trickler.