Help with RCBS

[dbaird]

I have an RCBS 304 scale that seems to be off somewhere. I have two digital scales (RCBS and Denver instrument) that I will get identical readings for an object but when I weigh it with the RCBS 304 I will get a different reading-usually .3 grains or more grains-the heavier the weight the more difference in readings. The 304 is level and on zero. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[jpretle]

Keeping an eye on this thread. Have the 304, but don't have the problem.

 

[CatShooter]

I have an RCBS 304 scale that seems to be off somewhere. I have two digital scales (RCBS and Denver instrument) that I will get identical readings for an object but when I weigh it with the RCBS 304 I will get a different reading-usually .3 grains or more grains-the heavier the weight the more difference in readings. The 304 is level and on zero. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Start with a set of check weights.

http://www.midwayusa.com/find?userSearchQuery=check+weights

 

[jonbearman]

Start with a call to an rcbs tech. They are very helpful and will work to make you happy.

 

[DataSmith]

I'm going to be rather impertinent here but, various things can throw a scale off and they need to be re-calibrated from time to time. Have you done that?

 

[CatShooter]

I'm going to be rather impertinent here but, various things can throw a scale off and they need to be re-calibrated from time to time. Have you done that?

Just how do you "re-calibrate" a reloading scale - re-cut the weight notches??

 

[amlevin]

I'm going to be rather impertinent here but, various things can throw a scale off and they need to be re-calibrated from time to time. Have you done that?

Just how do you "re-calibrate" a reloading scale - re-cut the weight notches??

When I'm using my beam scale (which I do rarely) and want an accurately measured charge weight, I load the scale pan with a combination of check weights that add up to an amount closest to the desired charge weight. Most check weight sets have the ability to get down to .5 grains so you will be within .25 gr of the load you'll be measuring. With the weights on the pan I then just "level" the scale so it zeros on the weight of the check weights.

I really don't care if the scale is not accurate at zero weight, only how close the "calibration" is at the weight I'm loading.

The problem with checking one scale against others, without actually using check weights, is that you really don't know which scale is right and which is wrong.

When all is said and done, it really doesn't matter how accurate the weight of the charge is in grains, only that it's consistent. Your load that shoots in the zero's and weights 39 grains on YOUR scale but weighs 40 grains on someone else's is of no consequence. Just keep using YOUR scale and don't sweat it.

 

[M-61]

"When all is said and done, it really doesn't matter how accurate the weight of the charge is in grains, only that it's consistent. Your load that shoots in the zero's and weights 39 grains on YOUR scale but weighs 40 grains on someone else's is of no consequence. Just keep using YOUR scale and don't sweat it."

+1

 

[DataSmith]

Perhaps I'm using the wrong phrase. I used balance scales back when I worked in a clinical lab and in addition to checking zero, we had a set of known weights that we used to check to make sure that the scale was correct across the range we were working in. If the scale was off, then something was wrong.

Scales differ but the principle remains the same.

 

[hogan]

The guy earlier said it all: Get A Check Weight Set...


I use electronic tools, but no electronic scale or powder measure. I prefer manual scales because they can be adjusted and verified. About 25yrs ago, bought an RCBS Deluxe Check Weight Set. Best Handloading item I ever bought. Want to verify True/Actual weight to the .5gr? This set will do it.

Need to adjust your scale? The pan support lid screws off and you can add weight there. It ain't rocket science.

Gonna shoot Max Loads? Best be sure you have valid weight factors.

Weigh every charge just to be careful? Unless you Verify the weight, all you are is consistently off by whatever amount you are out of spec. That works, unless you're pressures are too high, because consistency is Much Of The Ticket.... Yet, if your scale is Off???

Get the check set and use it. Be Sure!



If you are a Pressure Signs Reloader, it will catch up with you one day... At least having valid/Proven weight factors will mitigate lots of variables to your favor. Start from Verified Factors and give yourself and gear a break...