Reloading ammunition can be a real time-saver and a fun hobby, but let’s be honest, manually measuring powder for each cartridge? That gets old fast. An auto powder dispenser can seriously speed up the process and give you more consistent loads. I remember when I first started reloading, I was so meticulous, weighing every single charge. It took forever! That’s why I decided to check out the best auto powder dispensers on the market and share my findings.
Here’s a quick look at the top contenders, so you know what to expect:
- RCBS ChargeMaster Link: High-tech, precise, and fast.
- Hornady Auto Charge Pro: User-friendly with great features for the price.
- Lyman Gen6 Compact Touch Screen Powder System: Compact design, easy to use, and budget-friendly.
- Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper: Bluetooth connectivity and a smart app for tracking loads.
- Ponsness/Warren P/W 3000: Progressive shotshell reloader with auto-indexing.
Top 5 Best Auto Powder Dispenser Reviews
1. RCBS ChargeMaster Link
The RCBS ChargeMaster Link is the latest iteration of RCBS’s popular powder dispenser. It features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control it with your smartphone. The large LCD screen and intuitive interface make it easy to set up and use.
Pros:
- ✅ Very accurate and consistent powder dispensing.
- ✅ Bluetooth connectivity and mobile app control.
- ✅ Large, easy-to-read LCD screen.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
- ❌ Bluetooth connectivity might be unnecessary for some users.
- ❌ Initial setup can take a little time.
Verdict: The RCBS ChargeMaster Link is a top-of-the-line option for reloaders who want the best in accuracy and convenience. If you don’t mind the higher price tag and appreciate the added features like Bluetooth, this is a great choice.
2. Hornady Auto Charge Pro
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is designed to be user-friendly and precise. It offers a good balance of features and affordability. The digital display is clear and the controls are straightforward, making it easy to program and use.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to set up and use.
- ✅ Accurate and consistent powder dispensing.
- ✅ Good value for the price.
Cons:
- ❌ Dispensing speed could be faster.
- ❌ Some users have reported issues with static cling.
- ❌ The powder hopper could be larger.
Verdict: The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a solid choice for reloaders who want a reliable and accurate powder dispenser without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for beginners due to its ease of use.
3. Lyman Gen6 Compact Touch Screen Powder System
The Lyman Gen6 is a compact and user-friendly powder dispensing system with a touch screen. It’s a good option for those with limited bench space or who want a simple, no-frills dispenser. I found the touch screen surprisingly responsive, even with slightly gloved fingers.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact design saves space.
- ✅ Easy-to-use touch screen interface.
- ✅ Relatively affordable.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit slow compared to higher-end models.
- ❌ The powder hopper is on the smaller side.
- ❌ Not as many advanced features as other dispensers.
Verdict: The Lyman Gen6 is an excellent choice for reloaders who need a compact and simple-to-use powder dispenser. It’s perfect for beginners or those with limited bench space.
4. Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper stands out because of its Bluetooth connectivity and integration with a smartphone app. This allows you to store load data and track your reloading progress. It’s a modern take on powder dispensing, perfect for tech-savvy reloaders.
Pros:
- ✅ Bluetooth connectivity and smart app integration.
- ✅ Accurate and consistent powder dispensing.
- ✅ Stores load data for easy reference.
Cons:
- ❌ Relies heavily on the app, which may not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options.
- ❌ App updates and compatibility could be a concern in the future.
Verdict: The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is a great option for reloaders who want to take advantage of technology to track their loads and streamline their reloading process. If you love data and apps, this is for you.
5. Ponsness/Warren P/W 3000
The Ponsness/Warren P/W 3000 isn’t just a powder dispenser; it’s a complete progressive shotshell reloader. It automatically indexes and performs multiple reloading steps, including powder dispensing. This is for high-volume shotshell reloaders.
Pros:
- ✅ Complete progressive shotshell reloading system.
- ✅ Automates multiple reloading steps.
- ✅ High-volume reloading capability.
Cons:
- ❌ Expensive compared to single-stage dispensers.
- ❌ Requires a significant investment in setup and tooling.
- ❌ Primarily for shotshell reloading, not rifle or pistol.
Verdict: The Ponsness/Warren P/W 3000 is a top-tier choice for serious shotshell reloaders who want to maximize their efficiency and volume. It’s an investment, but it pays off in speed and consistency.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right auto powder dispenser can feel overwhelming, but breaking down the key factors can make the decision easier.
Accuracy: This is the most crucial factor. Look for dispensers with a reputation for consistent powder drops, typically within +/- 0.1 grain.
Speed: How quickly does the dispenser measure and dispense the powder? If you reload large quantities, speed becomes more important.
Ease of Use: Consider the interface. Is it easy to program and operate? A clear display and intuitive controls are a plus.
Features: Some dispensers offer advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, load data storage, and adjustable dispensing speeds. Decide which features are important to you.
Budget: Auto powder dispensers range in price from a couple hundred dollars to well over a thousand. Set a budget and stick to it.
Type of Reloading: Are you reloading pistol, rifle, or shotshell cartridges? Some dispensers are better suited for certain types of reloading.
Bench Space: Consider the size of the dispenser and whether it will fit comfortably on your reloading bench. Compact models are available for those with limited space.
FAQs
Q: How accurate are auto powder dispensers?
A: Most good auto powder dispensers are very accurate, typically dispensing powder within +/- 0.1 grain. However, accuracy can be affected by factors like powder type, humidity, and proper calibration.
Q: Can I use any type of powder in an auto dispenser?
A: Most auto dispensers can handle a wide range of powders, but some powders (like very fine-grained powders) may cause issues with metering or clumping. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: How often do I need to calibrate my auto powder dispenser?
A: It’s a good idea to calibrate your dispenser regularly, especially when you switch to a different type of powder or if you notice inconsistencies in powder drops. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration.
Q: What is the difference between a powder measure and an auto powder dispenser?
A: A powder measure is a manual device that dispenses a set volume of powder. An auto powder dispenser uses an electronic scale to measure and dispense powder by weight, providing greater accuracy and consistency.
Q: Is an auto powder dispenser worth the investment?
A: If you reload frequently, an auto powder dispenser can save you a significant amount of time and improve the consistency of your loads. For casual reloaders, the investment may not be necessary, but for serious reloaders, it’s definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
Choosing the right auto powder dispenser really comes down to your individual needs and budget. The RCBS ChargeMaster Link offers top-tier performance with advanced features, while the Hornady Auto Charge Pro provides a great balance of features and affordability. For those on a budget or with limited space, the Lyman Gen6 is a solid choice. And if you’re a high-volume shotshell reloader, the Ponsness/Warren P/W 3000 is a game-changer. No matter which you choose, an auto powder dispenser can make reloading faster, more accurate, and more enjoyable.
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