Some equipment questions

[1899]

My friend is getting set up to reload and I had a couple of questions. Has anyone tested the accuracy and precision of scales? I've always used an RCBS 5-0-5.

The kit from Lee includes:

Challenger press
Perfect Powder Measure
Lee Safety Scale
Powder funnel
chamfer tool
sizing lube
Lee Auto Prime
primer pocket cleaner
set of shell holders


The kit from Lee seems reasonably priced, but I wonder if a fellow would be better off to, instead of getting the kit, go with the basic press (which I think is alsmost the least important) and upgrade to a better scale. The powder throw in the kit is quite cheap too, one has to wonder how accurate and precise that is too. In other words: get a basic press, a good scale (which do you recommend?) case trimmer, Lee auto-prime and a good set of dies, plus the little extras.

Any ideas? What to stay away from is just as appreciated as what to go with.

 

[rgv]

I have a Lee Safety scale, and it was always accurate, though I use an electronic one now.

with any scale, you should get a selection of test weights, I have a 25 grain 17 cal bullet, a 52 gr 224 bullet, and a 75 grain 243 cal bullet I use to check my scale before each session, using the one that is closest to my charge weight

 

[1899]

RGV: out of curiosity, have you ever compared charges from your Lee Safety Scale and the digital scale you are using? Which digital scale did you go with?

I have to confess this is one area that I haven't upgraded my equipment for over a decade, so I am not up to speed on the new stuff.

 

[rgv]

the Lee scale is consistent with the electronic scale (RCBS forget the model). More correctly, the electronic scale is consistent with the LEE.

the LEE scale (and most reloading 'scales') is a balance, and not a scale. As such, when you reach balance, there can be very little error from measurement to measurement. It is the electronic scales that have to be constantly checked and zeroed

 

[cosmic]

I've used both the Lee powder throw and the Lee balance as supplied in the anniversary kit, with good success. I throw charges, and check them on the balance. Repeatability is generally achieved, with the following considerations:

- Keep powder inventory up in the powder throw. As it gets close to empty, it starts to throw less.
- The powder throw becomes less repeatable if the air is dry - I suspect static causes bridging. This can be overcome by tapping the storage canister.
- The scale benefits from having a level powder profile. If "piled", the centre of gravity shifts slightly, introducing a slight error - up to 2/10 of a grain
- The powder throw doesnt like fine ball powder. I tried BlC2 - it bunged up pretty bad.

 

[1899]

Thanks Cosmic.