Loading longer cases on Dillon SDBs

[cfullgraf]

I load several cartridges on Dillon SDB progressive presses.

With 45 ACP, 9x19 and 380 ACP, I can see in the case to insure that powder has been dropped.

But with 38 Special, the case is too tall and the press to small to be able to see small powder charges such as those for wadcutter loads. While I am confident that the powder measure throws the appropriate amount of powder when necessary, I would like to have some warm/fuzzies that the powder is actually there.

What do folks who load on Dillon SDBs do to insure that the case has powder in it before seating the bullet?

Besides 38 Special, I can see similar issues with 357 Magnum, 44 Magnum, 45 Colt and other cartridges of similar or longer length.

Thanks.

 

[Catpop]

I'll follow this as I too use SD.
A small fixed dental mirror and led light come to mind, but never tried it.
Catpop

 

[Bush Pilot]

Although it would be nice to see inside every case for powder it's almost impossible. I always watch to make sure the powder slide activates and I take it on faith that there is powder in the case. I load thousands of rounds a year on my Square Deals and have never had a squib.

 

[Catpop]

Bush pilot,
I have on my SD (not B). But it was b/c the shoulded lever screw backed out and I didn't catch it fast enough.
Catpop

 

[cfullgraf]

I operate my SDB much the same as Bush Pilot and have yet to have a squib (knock on wood).

I have several decades of reloading and have confidence that a powder measure actually is dispensing powder.

I was hoping someone might have come up with a sexy solution that would make seeing inside the taller cases such as 38 Special a possibility. Sometimes, old habits die hard.