Which Redding Powder Measure?

[doc540]

Initially plan on only loading handgun ammo, but a unit that measures rifle loads accurately might be a plus.

Redding makes several different models, but I can't find a FAQ that explains the difference between them.

 

[novalty]

The 3BR is a great powder measure, with pistol metering chamber. Generally the big difference between them is the range of powders they throw. If you have a lot of money to spend the 10X pistol model is very good quality.

 

[jepp2]

I have used a Redding 3BR with both micrometers for over 20 years. Zero problems and very repeatable. So for handgun you can't go wrong with this, but they are not cheap.

I added an RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 powder scale and dispenser combo about 2 years ago. I wanted the automation feature for rifle loads and the electronic scale gave me more capability. It has performed flawlessly during that period. I use the scale to weigh brass to sort by internal volume. But, it doesn't work very well with low volume handgun loads.

For easy to measure ball type powders the volumetric Dillon RL550B measures work very well.

Before I got the Redding 3BR I used a Lyman 55 powder measure, but was never happy with it. Looking back, I don't think I used the 3 adjustments properly to use the measure in the best way.

If you use long stick powders, you are going to get some shearing with any volumetric measure you use. Minimizing the opening size will reduce the shearing you encounter.

 

[doc540]

3BR it is.

Found a "like-new" used one online and snagged it.

Now, for the Rocker Chucker and dies.

With a $300 total purchase, RCBS has a $50 cash rebate.

 

[rodsvet]

Buy the Redding and keep it for the rest of your life and then your heirs can sell it. I've had mine for 43 years. Only thing I would change is to get the longer powder hopper. Enjoy, Rod

 

[doc540]

Buy the Redding and keep it for the rest of your life and then your heirs can sell it. I've had mine for 43 years. Only thing I would change is to get the longer powder hopper. Enjoy, Rod

ha! That's exactly what my local FFL told me.

"Use it for LIFE"

 

[Steve in Vermont]

The 3BR is a great powder measure, with pistol metering chamber.

That's what I use with W231 powder. Set it and forget it. Once or twice a year I'll disassemble it for a complete cleaning. Very quick and easy.

 

[doc540]

I'm not sure what chamber I'm getting.

I suppose they can be swapped if necessary.

 

[Mike_in_VA]

I'm not sure what chamber I'm getting.

I suppose they can be swapped if necessary.

Yup.

Takes about 1 minute (or less).

 

[jepp2]

I kept records of the micrometer setting for each powder loading by powder type. I put them in an Excel table and would run a linear regression analysis to fit the line to the data. This makes setting up for a different powder loading than you have loaded before a snap.

 

[doc540]

Found out it's the 5gr and up chamber.

That'll work since it appears everything I'll be loading will be 5+.

Later, if necessary, I could always snag the low grain chamber and swap'em out.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

The problem with jepp2's idea of a "chart" is that powders vary from lot to lot. The chart would still be a good idea as a place to start then weigh for the final setting.