Hornady Classic Kit Powder Thrower.

[TN RAT]

I used the above kit this weekend after a long hiatus from reloading. There are several reasons I went with this kit and one top reason was the powder measure/thrower. I really like the ability to press a spring loaded pin, pop out the powder insert that is preset, and throw in another preset insert that will give you a different powder charge.

This weekend I noticed that is was VERY difficult to get a consistent weight with this measure, however. While loading Unique for the 44 Special Blackhawk a buddy just bought with CCI primers and Speer and Hornady bullets I was shooting for a powder weight of 6.8 and 5.8 grains respectively. It was far too common for me to have to throw 3 or 4 charges to get one that weighed correctly, with many charges varying as much as 0.6 grains.

Since I like to be consistent and could care less about speed I took the time to adjust each charge until I had the correct measurement and then placed the powder in the cases.

I was thinking of getting rid of this thrower until it dawned on me that I may be using the insert that is rated for up to 90 or 100 grains of powder. Would this not mean it could be less accurate at the low end of the measurement spectrum?

I am going to find the pistol inserts and continue working with this measure since I still like the overall package.

I am also going to purchase a dedicated stand for the measure since I can't stand the quick change breech block inserts that just slow things down since I only have 3 currently.

Thanks.

 

[OKFC05]

One thing you might try before tossing the powder measure is to use it with ball powder.
A powder like Unique with this measure is not the most happy combination if you are wanting very precise weights.
For moderate pistol charges, I doubt that you will notice the Unique load variations in ordinary shooting.

 

[PoorGuy]

Just read the other thread on metering Unique. I am going to try other powders, get a powder baffle, and get the pistol insert.

Thanks.

 

[pinkymingeo]

Hornady ships their measures with a coating of metal preservative. It must be cleaned off, or your throws will be all over the page. Brake parts cleaner does the job like a champ.

 

[HAWKEYE10]

i have never used this type of powder measure. does it throw pwd charges as good as the other
type. this sounds like a good idea.

don