using a mec 9000, newer to reloading with a progressive, but been reloading single stage for a while on a lee load all. Finding my powder inconsistent as far as I'm concerned. as little as 13.9-15.7 when using a digital scale. have checked the bar screw, making sure it is fully going across to the powder side on down stroke, any other ideas?
mec 9000 not consistent when dropping powder
- Thread starter brooksy08
- Start date
Got Juice?
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Peoples Republik of Kanukkistan
bushings can be rough inside causing issues with flake powder. Also, I have found that MEC's are VERY prone to static build up. The powder jugs are notorious. Grounding the press can help.
One thing with progressives, you have to be consistent with the vibrations thru the cycling process. Same with any powder thrower, has to be a consistent vibration cycle. You can tap the bar or the jug, but, if you do, do it every time, the same way. The way you bottom out the lever, has to be the same every time, keep the shot hopper within a close level to where you started, don't run it out. And like mentioned already, static is an enemy as well.
Right now, you may be averaging 14.8, according to your info, check the average over about 50 rds, see where you are, as to where you want to be, you may have to adjust a bit. You can hone out smaller bushings to fine tune it for that load. All you can do, is to be consistent, and try to cut down the spread as much as you can, it will always be there though. Shotshells are pretty forgiving that way.
Right now, you may be averaging 14.8, according to your info, check the average over about 50 rds, see where you are, as to where you want to be, you may have to adjust a bit. You can hone out smaller bushings to fine tune it for that load. All you can do, is to be consistent, and try to cut down the spread as much as you can, it will always be there though. Shotshells are pretty forgiving that way.
Last edited:
BlackSheepBrass
Regular
- Location
- Cobourg, Ontario
It sounds like you are using the adjustable charge bar. I had the exact same problem. I did the dryer sheet wipe-down and bonded it to earth with a cable to ground. Still was having variance issues.
Solution - Go to bushing system its better, still conduct the anti static measures and it will give you reasonable performance.
Solution - Go to bushing system its better, still conduct the anti static measures and it will give you reasonable performance.
beretta boy
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Orillia, Ontario
I got very consistent results with the 9000 with the standard bushing system ( polished with 1200 grit wet/dry paper on a mandrel) & a powder baffle.
Don't forget the rubber grommet & brass washer (installed correctly) ... and don't screw the powder bottle down too tightly into place.
(Dropped the adjustable charge bar long ago)
Don't forget the rubber grommet & brass washer (installed correctly) ... and don't screw the powder bottle down too tightly into place.
(Dropped the adjustable charge bar long ago)
I went from the adj charge bar back to the bushings......BUT.......when you fill the powder hopper,I tap it till the powder is settled and when I cycle the handle down,I hold,do a 2second count before I bring it back up.It made a big difference
