How to "set" my powder measure for a load

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Stefan A

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So, I am about to change over to a new caliber on my turret press. I have the Lee Auto Drum Powder Measure set for 9mm. But, I will need to remove it and put it on my new turret for .357. I will be using the same powder so I don't need to remove what's in there. But I will have to adjust it for the larger load. Is there a way to set it so when I switch back and forth between 9mm and 357 (or 38 special) I know where to set the charge? Or do I need to just re-measure and re-adjust every time I switch?

Thanks
 
You'll need to re measure each time.

This is why I moved to using the Lee Auto Disk powder measure or the Lee dippers. I can just write down the disk configuration or what dipper I used along with what the powder weight should be. Then, to reproduce the load later, there is no endless tinkering with the powder measure to get it just right. Just slap in the disk you need. Confirm that the charge it throws is correct, and away you go.
 
My old Hornady had graduations on the cavity piston, I noted where all my favorite loads were... but it was only a guide to get me close the next time I adjusted for it, I still had to fine tune it with the balance beam to ensure I was dropping the right charge.
 
As limiting as the auto-disk was the ability to easily switch between loads was a nice feature. I've since moved on to RCBS measures with the micrometer adjustable screw.
 
It really isn't that hard to adjust a powder measure. Adjust a little at a time and weigh. Dump your charges right into the scale pan, weigh and pour back into the measure till you are dropping the charge you want.
 
I have the auto drum and a set of the drums. If I am just changing charge of the same powder I generally just adjust the one in the measure. I do have a couple of the drums set up and labeled but have not found a reliable way to label them and I throw some charges to check the weight. I am going to move on to a Uniflow with a micrometer.
 
I also don't like swapping drums. I measure and record my charges this way so I can dial in the next setting, at least it gets me close.
I bought a couple of these kits, but stopping swapping drums eventually. Some of the drums leaked, and others didn't, or maybe I didn't tighten them quite right. I have found it's easier to keep the same drum in place and adjust the charge.

LADPM Measurement 20200711_112312.jpg
 
After awhile I finally gave up on the auto drum. The leaking I came to terms with, but I couldn’t deal with the constant not returning to the fully upright position resulting in wildly inconsistent charges.
The auto disc is a much better system IMO. Still leaks with the ultra fine powders like True Blue but I get a full disc every time
 
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One thing to be aware of when setting the measure
Take a Lee turret as an example

If you just throw the charge and don't do the other steps for example deprime/resize your charges may be lighter than when doing all the other steps which tend to shake the measure and pack the powder a bit more.
 
If you just throw the charge and don't do the other steps for example deprime/resize your charges may be lighter than when doing all the other steps which tend to shake the measure and pack the powder a bit more.

I don't have a progressive and my measure isn't mounted to my press

I use a Lyman 55 powder meadure with a baffle and it isn't mounted to my bemch so vibration from press operation doesn't affect it.

Vibration will cause inconsistent powder drops.
 
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