Powder Measure Recommendation for Pistols

[Knotwild]

I find myself in need of a powder measure to reload pistol sized cases. I was using an old RCBS Uniflow. But it was stored with some powder and unused for about 12 years - you can see the results of that on the main message board. It will 99% be used for 45ACP and a Hornet wildcat. I will probably do around 200 cases at the time. I don't want to spend more than I have to, but I do want something decent enough to throw Bullseye fairly accurately. I will also be using Titegoup. I'm not much on Lee stuff, but I see the Uniflow is available and Frankford Arsenal has one like the Uniflow for about the same money. I have a Neil Jones, but I believe dropping a little dab of Bullseye with a setting that results in a narrow and deep chamber isn't desirable. I'm also not interested in having to change drums and such.

What are your recommendations?

 

[jds holler]

I've tried a few, and have never been able to beat my Uniflow with the smaller chamber bore. I have verified this all the way down to 1.5 gr. of Bullseye. -- although I've finally decided that HP38 measures a little better for the wimpy charges. jd

 

[hpshooter]

Lee Perfect, best bang for the buck. Sorry, didn't see the comment on Lee equipment in the initial post.

 

[Kracken McGraw]

The Lyman brass smith is sure okay for the money.

 

[RetiredArmy]

I went with the RCBS little dandy. I use it to throw subsonic 300 blackout.
It just works!
Thanks Bill

 

[powderbrake]

Use the Niel Jones.
A narrow but deep chamber is the suggested correct way to set up a powder measure.
It "cuts" less surface area that way.

I use a Niel Jones to meter 2.7 gr of Bullseye in my 38 special when using a single stage press.

For a Dillon, I use the Lee precision Pro Auto disk measure on my 38 special (2.7gr bullseye), and 45ACP (3.8 gr Bullseye) for target loads. You can modify the hole you are using to give an exact weight that you desire.

 

[BigStrapper66]

I just picked up a Harrells Schuetzen measure.
Not cheap but boy they are accurate.

 

[K22]

Been using an RCBS Uniform for 50+ years loading thousands of pistol rounds even at low density, i.e., 3.0 grains of 231 and never had a problem with it.

However, the key to precise charges of low-density pistol loads is the small drum which you said you don't want to use.

However, I've loaded everything from 308 rifle to 38 Special target loads with the small drum so unless you are loading large volume magnums, it might work for you. Check with RCBS. It's been so long since I changed drums that I can't remember the limitations, but it might work for you depending which calibers you load.

 

[Knotwild]

However, the key to precise charges of low-density pistol loads is the small drum which you said you don't want to use.

I don't mind using a small drum. I just want to avoid having to buy extra accessories to make it work.
I liked my Uniflow, I only reloaded pistol calibers with it and just left it set.

 

[Knotwild]

I use a Niel Jones to meter 2.7 gr of Bullseye in my 38 special when using a single stage press.

I think you just answered my question and saved me some money. Years ago, when Ebay still listed bullets, I would buy deals whenever I saw them. So I have about 70 lbs of 45 acp bullets and some powder and primers. With the way things are going with prices and shipping, I think I will drastically reduce my reloading.

Thanks to everyone.

 

[RCE1]

I like the Little Dandy for some applications. Works really well with a turret press.

 

[ebb]

If you load the charge right from the thrower, a good little thrower may be the best idea. If you are going to drop on to a scale pan and trickle up, maybe just a dipper. I started using the lee dippers and found they were too big or too small for most of my loads. I saw how to make a dipper on Cast Boolits and have been making them from a 9mm case and a piece of brazing rod for a handle. I can grind the case to make any capacity i want. May work for you may not, something to think about.

 

[ebb]

Lyman #55 from $29 to $60 used on E bay

 

[Just Say Moe]

Send the damaged one back to RCBS?

 

[SKWERLZ]

I use my uniflow for blaster 223 and the Hornandy with removable chambers for pistol
I have a Hornandy chamber insert for 45, 40 and 9mm pre set for the powders I use for them.
I’m 100% satisfied with both throwers.