Finally...there is a press in my house. now i'm lost.

[chaparrito]

I have a Lee balance scale as well as an Ohus triple beam. I use them to periodically check up on the cheapo Frankford Arsenal digital I use, and as long as I keep the batteries fresh, it doesn't drift or refuse to hold zero. Very accurate.

 

[eb07]

Reloading for beginners:

https://thedesertsedge.wordpress.co...ight-walled-handgun-cartridges-for-beginners/


Go slow. Take your time. Double check. Have fun.

 

[daboone]

the scale is a Redding Master powder and bullet scale. Is that a quality scale?

There is an early model of that scale that is not magnetically dampened but oil dampened. The old oil dampened model is a great ballets beam, as accurate as the 505 and Lyman scale weight set proves it every time it's checked. It is a tad slower in settling but if checking accuracy it can't be beat.

Like you I got this scale from my dad. He got this scale back in the 50ies. The box it came in is marked $12.50.

 

[SMSgt]

I concur with sticking with the beam scale. Good suggestions throughout the replies. As for the bench, I'd reinforce with a 5/8 " plywood overlay or a sturdy countertop.

 

[M1A]

Digital scales:
I bought a Dillon many years ago. Checked it often against a balance scale. Never a problem.
I've had a RCBS 1500 for a couple of years. The scale can be purchased separate of the powder dispenser which can be purchased later. No trouble with this either.
It is important to keep any other electrical devices away from them.
That being said. You don't really need a digital since your not going to measure for each load, only set the powder dispenser and dump the charges.
Depending on how fussy you want to be for 5.56, you might want to add a powder trickler to your list.

 

[fixitfred]

Take it slow. find a local mentor if you can. Start with reloading manuals and read them thoroughly. Lot's of info out there not all of it good.