Help with powder dispenser

Silentstalker

Handloader
Jun 2, 2011
638
46
So, I am looking at getting either the RCBS Chargemaster Combo or the Hornady lock and load auto charge powder dispenser.

I reload for three rifles and occasionally for 2 handguns. Not high volume. The Hornady is quite a bit cheaper.

Anyone have experience with either of these that you would care to share? Pros, cons? Any input would be very much appreciated.
 
My research indicated that the RCBS was the way to go.
I was considering one but decided to stick with my Redding BR powder dispenser. It seems the RCBS one had the last complications and is the most accurate.

Vince

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After researching options and based on availability at the time I went with the RCBS Chargemaster and could not be happier. Most of the time it is spot on the exact charge and if it is not is shows over or under and the weight dispensed, which is typically 1 or 2 tenths of a grain. I have been using IMR 4350, H4350 and Reloder 22.
One modification that I did was place a piece of McDonalds beverage straw in the dispensing tube to reduce the diameter of the tube. Apparently more modifications canbe made by contacting RCBS for instructions to speed up the dispense and weigh process. I found factory settings very good for me.

The only word of caution is when removing the extra powder through the little port provided, which is very handy, be sure to close the port when finished.. Otherwise check to insure that it is closed before filling the powder reservoir... Failure to do either will end up with powder on your table... Please do not ask how I know...:). Good luck with your choice..
 
I've used the RCBS Chargemaster for quite a few years. It served and serves me well, being the standard of the industry. Lyman is constantly improving theirs, but it seems not to have caught up with RCBS. PACT makes a good system; but again, it is not quite up to RCBS standards. The Smart Reloader ISD system appears to be the closest competitor to the RCBS. SJB358 has this system and speaks quite highly of it.
 
I'm on my second RCBS unit. The first one gave out on me and was replaced under warranty.

Read through this thread, especially the quote I posted from the RCBS tech:

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=29620

Now that my new RCBS has "settled down" again it throws charges that are nearly identical to the .01 when using my Gempro 250 to compare. I really enjoy the RCBS unit.
 
Wow, thank you. It seems the RCBS is the way to go for me. I really appreciate the feedback and help! I enjoyed reading that thread Dr. Vette. Thank you all!
 
I had an RCBS to begin with and sold it when the first component shortages began in '08. Then I replaced it with a Hornady and just was not that satisfied with it. I sold that one and bought another RCBS and it's going nowhere!
 
Thanks hellrazor. I bought it and enough to qualify for the $50 rebate! Thanks for all the great input!
 
I've done well with the ISD system. No idea if it is better or worse than any other, but it has been plugged in and powered on for 3 years or better now. Can't remember when I got it, but it is adjustable for speed of throws and seems to throw good charges. Can't complain, paid 167.00 for mine.. I figured at the time, I could have bought two ISD's for what the RCBS was running.
 
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