June 11, 2007, 07:36 PM | #1 |
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Join Date: May 17, 2007
Posts: 17
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Lee Powder measure kit
I bought the kit just reently and noticed that the conversion chart on different powders meant using different cups. Are the different powders measured by wieght insead of volume? I have a 45lc and am using Unique. My info says 8 grains of powder.The chart shows either 6.4 cup or 9.2 cup. Is this volume or wieght? Kinda confused.I'm thinking powder scale at this piont.Need one cheap ,but effective.Any recs.
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June 11, 2007, 10:22 PM | #2 |
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Join Date: March 22, 2006
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I'd recommend a powder scale be used in conjunction with the kit.Get a classic beam scale for less.Do you realy want to take any chances over an on line recommandation or your own missuse?...
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June 11, 2007, 11:23 PM | #3 |
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You don't really need a scale with the dipper set if used properly.
The dippers are designated by volume. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 etc, are their measurements in cubic centimeters. The chart tells you what each dipper will give you for the chosen powder in weight in grains. For instance if you are looking at Unique and you want 8 grains you look at your chart and see the 0.7cc dipper gives 6.4 grains and the 1.0cc dipper gives 9.2 grains. The problem here is you aren't using the dippers for their intended purpose, you will want a scale, and maybe even a powder dispenser for this because you are looking for a specific charge. In some cases you might be able to use multiple dippers, with extreme caution of course, but this in your case will be more trouble than it's worth because of your target powder and weight. If you wanted to load a cartridge with Unique and the manual gave a starting and max load, you could find a weight in that range that the dippers could give you and use it. For example the Speer Reloading manual states that for a .45LC case with a 250gr lead bullet using Unique they give a starting load of 8.6grains of powder and a max of 9.5. Looking at your dipper chart the 1.0cc dipper gave 9.2 grains of powder so you would use it. The Lee manual lists 8.0 grains for this same load but if you look at their data for which dippers or disks (for their disk dispensers) you use they have "NA" under dippers, meaning there isn't one that will give you their suggested load. So if you want 8.0 grains you will need a scale. If you want to use the dippers you need a different reloading manual. As for scales Lee makes a lower priced one but there are others out there. You may want to get a better one, mostly meaning higher weight range, because it will probably come in handy in the future. If not the Lee will work just fine. |
June 12, 2007, 09:18 PM | #4 |
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I must respectfully disagree. The Lee powder scoop kit is a great starter, but like EVERY powder measuring device, it should be used in conjunction with a QUALITY scale. Mistakes in manufacturing do occur, and tolerances aren't always as tight as they should be, and things sometimes get marked improperly.
Be safe. Buy a GOOD scale, and good check weights. A top end scale and set of check weights will cost you less than 1/10 the cost of a single visit to the Emergency Room!
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June 12, 2007, 11:54 PM | #5 |
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The Lee powder dippers work on the same principle as this fine product from RCBS.
http://www.ramseyoutdoor.com/product...m_campaign=nxs The only difference is they are not adjustable and are pre-set and configured. The chances that there is a mistake in their manufacture is much smaller than that for a GOOD quality scale or check weights because they are little more than a box of plastic spoons. The most important part of their accuracy is that the operator uses them according to their directions. Their biggest problem is they make your reloading very slow. I am not saying don't buy a scale, eveyone should have one. What I am saying is they are accurate enough that as long as you are not trying to push the upper level to the max they can be used without one. Their disk powder measure works on the same basis also, the only difference is there are more little holes to choose from. |
June 12, 2007, 11:56 PM | #6 |
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Join Date: May 17, 2007
Posts: 17
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That's alot to think about. I know I'm not real happy with the cups. Using the two smallest well only bring it to 7.3 grains although that may be a good place to start. At least I know now it's wieghed by wieght and not volume.I was temped to use my blackpowder measure,but had a feeling that wasn't a good idea. Thanks
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