Not using a powder measure on a lee turret (for now)

[TennJed]

As I stated in my last thread I am think of getting a Lee Classic Turret and batch loading using it as a single stage to start off with.

I have loaded 100 rounds of 357mag using an old lee classic loader kit (the kit where you use a rubber mallet instead of a press), a RCBS hand primer, and a Lee Powder Scoop kit and (a couple) of scales. I did this in part to get a good handle on the actual basics of reloading.

My plan is to charge the cartridges by putting 50 brass on a loading block and scooping a charge onto my scale and pouring it in the cartridges. I believe this will help me to visually double check for a double or light charge. i know this is probably not the fastest way to go but right now I am not worried about speed. i feel like with the turret press I can always upgrade later.

Does this sound reasonable or should I get a stand alone powder measure? I plan on eventually attaching a Lee Pro Powder Measure to the turret press and taking full advantage of the turrets capabilities. But for now I am thinking of going the batch load route and would rather not buy a stand alone powder charge if I will not be using it for the long hall.

Thanks again for putting up with me everybody. i know I have flooded the forum with questions today but have gotten some great responses. Maybe I should petition for my own forum

 

[RandyP]

My wallet is not your wallet. That said if you have about $50 to spend, you can get the very nice Lee PRO auto-disk powder measure, and adjustable charge bar, riser and swivel adapter. The investment is worth every penny in productivity.

https://factorysales.com/html/xcart/catalog/powhan1.html

Doing ALL operations 'on the press' saves time and simplifies the process. The 1st die in the turret deprimes and sizes then primes on the down stroke, the next die flares the case and dumps the powder, die three sets the bullet to depth and I use the Lee FCD in station 4 to final crimp. Four handle pulls = one finished round.

The way you want to do it you would put the casing in the shellholder and deprime-size-prime and then take the case out of the shell holder to charge with powder, then put it back on the shell holder for the rest of the operations? Might as well just batch load single stage? Not saying your process will not work, it indeed will.

I would NOT buy a stand alone powder dispenser if I already knew I planned on getting a turret mounted one.

 

[Lost Sheep]

Yes, pass on the stand-alone powder measure

Absolutely sounds like a perfect plan, almost.

I would start out with the loading block empty. I would keep the 50 empty, primed cases in a bowl (or a second loading block, upside down, to absolutely ensure each is empty) and put them in the loading block as you charge them. In this way, the probability of a double charge is even further reduced.

What powder will you be using? Bullseye does not occupy much volume and is hard to see in the bottom of the case. Trail Boss takes up more volume and will be easier to see a double charge or detect a missing charge.

By the way, I predict if you weigh each and every charge and have used a good scooping/dipping technique, you will discover that scooping will be very consistent. Weighing every fifth or tenth charge will be enough to ensure your loads are well charged.

If you have a full set of scoops (or two, so you can modify some of the scoops for volume), you may decide you don't need a powder measure at all.

Your story brings back memories of my early loading days in 1975.

Another "by the way". Kempf's Gun Shop sells a Classic Turret Kit consisting of a few MTM Ammo Boxes,
Set of Lee Deluxe (the set of 4) Dies
Lee Classic Turret Press
Auto-Disk Powder Measure (upgradeable to the Pro model)
Lee Auto Disk Riser (Required for the Safety Prime System)
Primer dispenser (in large or small, upgradeable to include both)

Everything you need to load except a scale (and you already have two) which sounds perfect for you.

Good luck. Keep us posted on your progress.

Lost Sheep

 

[Seedtick]

Here's a link to Kempf's Lee Classic Turret Kit.

You don't have to use everything now but you can save a little on shipping by getting it all on the same order.

Seedtick

 

[psyshack]

I would get a pro powder measure ASAP! Years ago I dipped and scooped. What a waist of time. If your going to weigh every charge at least get a good beam scale and powder trickler.

The beauty of reloading over all is,,, you can do it any old way you like!

 

[TennJed]

Thanks guys ...I have some 2400 that I have used to load some 357 on the old lee mallet kit....I was considering unique b/c it seems popular in my manuals but Trail boss sounds like a good plan..... I do want to load some ruger only loads at some point...anyone got a good suggestion for powder to use that will fill the case but give me a good kick