It can be tricky to get consistent loads when reloading ammo. A good powder scale helps you measure powder accurately. This means safer and more consistent rounds. I’ve tested a bunch of scales. Here are my top picks to help you find the best one for your reloading setup.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Hornady Auto Charge Pro: Best overall, automatic dispensing, precise.
- RCBS Chargemaster Link: Great for large batches, Bluetooth connectivity.
- Frankford Arsenal DS-750: Budget-friendly, simple to use, good for beginners.
- FA X-10 Powder Scale: Compact design, fast readings, stores 100 loads.
- Smart Weigh High Precision Digital Milligram Scale: Ultra-precise, great for small charges.
Top 5 Best Powder Scale Reloading
1. Hornady Auto Charge Pro
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a top-tier automatic powder dispenser and scale. It offers exceptional accuracy and a range of features designed to streamline the reloading process. It’s a great choice if you want precision and convenience.
Pros:
- ✅ Very accurate powder measurements.
- ✅ Automatic dispensing saves time.
- ✅ User-friendly touchscreen interface.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ Can be a bit slow with certain powders.
- ❌ Takes up a decent amount of bench space.
Verdict: The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is perfect for reloaders who value accuracy and automation and are willing to invest in a premium tool.
2. RCBS Chargemaster Link
The RCBS Chargemaster Link is a popular choice. It’s known for its consistent performance and Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to control it via your smartphone. It’s a solid pick for reloaders who want reliability and modern features.
Pros:
- ✅ Bluetooth connectivity for remote control.
- ✅ Consistent and accurate powder dispensing.
- ✅ Large powder hopper for fewer refills.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be sensitive to environmental factors.
- ❌ Price is higher than basic models.
- ❌ Initial setup can take some time.
Verdict: The RCBS Chargemaster Link is ideal for reloaders who want a connected experience and reliable performance for high-volume reloading.
3. Frankford Arsenal DS-750
The Frankford Arsenal DS-750 is a great entry-level powder scale. It’s affordable and easy to use. This makes it perfect for beginners. Don’t expect all the bells and whistles, but it gets the job done.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable price.
- ✅ Simple and straightforward operation.
- ✅ Compact design saves bench space.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as precise as higher-end models.
- ❌ Lacks advanced features.
- ❌ Can be slow to stabilize.
Verdict: The Frankford Arsenal DS-750 is a solid choice for new reloaders or those on a tight budget who need a basic, functional scale.
4. FA X-10 Powder Scale
The FA X-10 powder scale is a compact and efficient digital scale. It is designed for reloaders who need quick and accurate measurements. Its ability to store multiple load data makes it a great time-saver.
Pros:
- ✅ Stores 100 load data.
- ✅ Fast and accurate readings.
- ✅ Compact and portable design.
Cons:
- ❌ Smaller display screen.
- ❌ Can be affected by static electricity.
- ❌ Build quality could be better.
Verdict: The FA X-10 is a good option for reloaders who value speed and portability and need to store multiple load settings.
5. Smart Weigh High Precision Digital Milligram Scale
The Smart Weigh High Precision Digital Milligram Scale is designed for reloaders who need extreme accuracy. It measures down to the milligram. This scale is ideal for very precise loads and small powder charges. I use this one when working with very sensitive loads.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely precise measurements (milligram accuracy).
- ✅ Ideal for small powder charges.
- ✅ Good for developing highly accurate loads.
Cons:
- ❌ Very sensitive to drafts and vibrations.
- ❌ Requires a stable and controlled environment.
- ❌ Not ideal for large powder volumes.
Verdict: The Smart Weigh Milligram Scale is best for experienced reloaders who demand the highest level of precision and are working with very small powder charges.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right powder scale can seem overwhelming. Here are some things to consider:
- Accuracy: How precise do you need to be? Milligram scales are for extreme precision. Tenth-of-a-grain scales are good for most reloading.
- Type: Manual beam scales are reliable but slower. Digital scales are faster but may be less consistent if not calibrated. Auto-dispensing scales automate the process.
- Budget: Prices range from under $50 to several hundred dollars. Set a budget and stick to it. Cheaper isn’t always better if it sacrifices accuracy.
- Features: Do you need Bluetooth connectivity? Memory storage for loads? Auto-dispensing? Consider what features will actually improve your reloading process.
- Calibration: Check how easy it is to calibrate the scale. Regular calibration is essential for maintaining accuracy.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other reloaders. See what they say about the scale’s accuracy, reliability, and ease of use.
- Powder Type: Some scales work better with certain powder types. Finer powders can sometimes cause issues with auto-dispensers.
Think about your reloading needs and your budget. This will help you narrow down your choices.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about powder scales:
Q: How often should I calibrate my powder scale?
A: Calibrate your scale before each reloading session. Also calibrate if you move it or suspect it’s not reading correctly.
Q: Are digital powder scales more accurate than beam scales?
A: Not necessarily. High-quality beam scales are very accurate. Digital scales can be accurate, but they need regular calibration and can be affected by environmental factors.
Q: Can I use a regular kitchen scale for reloading?
A: No. Kitchen scales typically aren’t accurate enough for reloading. You need a scale specifically designed for measuring small amounts of powder.
Q: What does “grain” mean in relation to powder scales?
A: A grain is a unit of weight commonly used for measuring gunpowder and bullet weights. There are 7000 grains in a pound.
Q: How important is it to have a precise powder measurement?
A: It’s extremely important. Inaccurate powder measurements can lead to dangerous overloads or inconsistent performance. Always use a reliable and accurate scale.
Conclusion
Finding the best powder scale for reloading depends on your individual needs and budget. Whether you choose a basic digital scale or a high-end auto-dispensing model, accuracy and consistency are key. Take your time, do your research, and choose a scale that will help you create safe and accurate ammunition.
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