Chargemaster or throw?

[JimmyO]

I'm new to precision reloading and just purchased the chargemaster, I found the powder throw thread very interesting. Can someone please explain to me why a throw might be better than the Chargemaster or visa versa?

Thank you,
James

 

[ReedG]

Hi Jimmy:

I have never used a ChargeMaster,or Lyman or PACT) but have seen several in use by other loaders. The thing that has kept me from buying one is the "fussiness" of using one: Everything perfectly level, no drafts, no cellphones, etc., etc. With a Harrell's, Redding,or other good quality measure) you can literally use one anywhere, anytime. The accuracy of the Harrell's is as good or better than the ChargeMaster with everything but the long-grain "fence post" powders. A powder measure needs to be solidly mounted and you need to throw and measure lots of charges to get your operating habits consistent. Once you do, in my opinion, a good powder measure is better than the ChargeMaster. And the Harrell's is lots easier to change powders with.

There is some good info on this forum about the Quick Measure, also, which shows lots of promise and it can be mounted to progressive presses when you need high output.

When all is said and done, Jimmy, it comes down to a matter of personal preference most of the time. There are lots of ChargeMasters out there so they must fit the style of lots of reloaders. The concept is great to me, but the actual performance leaves me working the handle of my Redding BR30.

 

[Travelor]

I have both types of powder "throwers". The advantage of the mechanical one is that it can be used in the wind at the range. The advantage of the electronic one is that it measures every charge. Both have their uses in my opinion - one for the range and one for loading at home.

The BR guys seem to feel that mechanical ones are accurate enough and their targets prove it! I, being somewhat anal, like the electronic one as I do not load at the range and very much like to weigh every charge as I shoot 1000 yards F-Class.

Good shooting and watch the ChargeMaster! - use the auto throw and wait for the instrument to show the "second weight". This is the one after the inital stop, then the round count. The first weight displayed is just the DESIRED weight to be thrown. The second weight displayed is the ACTUAL weight that WAS thrown.

George

 

[benzh]

I have a RCBS Chargemaster. I don't reload often and when I do, I am short of time and get frustrated with re-setting up my gear.

The Chargemaster is the coolest tool I have. It takes less than 2 minutes to calibrate and it's super easy. I charge 1 case about every 20 seconds,.260) and they are charged perfectly.

Don't think, just buy one. It significantly improved my experience reloading and is damn sure faster and easier.