Modifaction to Lee Pro Powder measure system

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joecil

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Ok here was the problem. I wanted to load some 45-70 rounds using IMR-4198 using 40 grains of powder and discovered the if used the double disk system with the largest disk which are 1.57 that gives me 3.14 cc of volume or 38.7 gr. So I decided to try adding a 3rd disk and had to modify one set of spacers by removing one sides alignment tabs. So I did and changed the screws to 2.25" and dialed it in getting exactly 40 gr on 10 out of 10 throws with measurements compared on two scales an RCBS beam and Hornady electronic scale. So now I can get the volume up to 4.71cc which is even higher than the dippers Lee sells go. Below is a picture with it back to getting powder position and the other to dropping the powder. I had no problem with this mod other than spending about 5 minutes removing the tabs off of an extra set of the spacers and changing the screws to longer ones.
 

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SWEEEEET!! I love the stupid disk charger. Works like a dream. I really hate their graduations though. I wish they would sell a set that was in smaller graduations. Even If I had to buy a 10 disk set. Their system almost has no ryme or reason. My double disk kit is on order so we'll see if I can get more adjustment out of that. With your 3 disk setup you litterally would have infinite possibilities.
 
If it works, it's good!

Another method is to buy extra discs and very slightly increase the largest hole size --drilling from the bottom of the disc---just a little at at a time and retest the drops until it drops 20 grains x 2 discs=40

That drilled hole will work for any powder --just renumber those drilled holes adding a .1 , .2, or whatever after the existing number.
 
Now Lee Precision may need to offer the "Triple Decker Disk Kit" :D

Couldn't you have used two adjustable charge bars instead by filing the sliding tabs a bit? ;)
 
You could also use the Micrometer charge bar with any of the single or double setups also. It you are with in a few grains perhaps you could tune in exact amounts. Now I've not tried it personally.

It is my under standing however that the hole sizes represent cc of powder. For example a bottom disk of .88 and a top disk of .71 would be the same as a powder dipper 1.59 cc. So if you know the VMD of the powder and CC size of the hole you should be able to use the formula Charge in CC/VMD = grains of charge.
 
I have the micro-disk kit which works great for loading .380ACP. I don't know if they stll offer it?

A second set of disks is mighty affordable so a 'crafty' reloader could buy a pack and some JB weld, fill up the holes and then drill them out to their own custom size. Whether mictro or larger.

I have found the Pro Dispenser to be very consistent with the Win 231/HP-38 on my turret.
 
Yes I've never bought the double disk set since I own 4 Pro Powder dispenser which all come with the disks new. I just picked up some longer 6x32 bolts and the spacers from Lee. I actually have about a dozen of the spacers. The micrometer also works ok down to about 2 grs if you move from fully open and move down, the other way I've found it not as accurate. Don't know why but just an observation.
 
tcanthonyii said:
SWEEEEET!! I love the stupid disk charger. Works like a dream. I really hate their graduations though. I wish they would sell a set that was in smaller graduations. Even If I had to buy a 10 disk set. Their system almost has no ryme or reason. My double disk kit is on order so we'll see if I can get more adjustment out of that. With your 3 disk setup you litterally would have infinite possibilities.
Click to expand...
There is a micro set you can buy.
 
bds said:
Couldn't you have used two adjustable charge bars instead by filing the sliding tabs a bit?
Click to expand...
You can double stack the Adjustable Charge Bars by filing the slide tabs of one and it will give you more powder charge adjustment options (see yellow arrows in the picture below). You do still need to use the 2 double-disk risers (AD2493) and 2 longer bolts (FD1471) but you can order these from Lee Precision.

I metered up to around 47 grains of I4895/H4895/Varget and 48 grains of RL15 which are plenty for most popular .308 bullet weights and powder charges.

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Love the Lee disk measures. Unlike the "Perfect" powder measure (which surely ISN'T!), the disk measures work great. Never tried the "three disk" measure, but now that you mention it....
 
tcanthonyii said:
SWEEEEET!! I love the stupid disk charger. Works like a dream. I really hate their graduations though. I wish they would sell a set that was in smaller graduations. Even If I had to buy a 10 disk set. Their system almost has no ryme or reason. My double disk kit is on order so we'll see if I can get more adjustment out of that. With your 3 disk setup you litterally would have infinite possibilities.
Click to expand...
Buy a bunch of extra disks and ream each disk's cavities out a little larger.

Mark the modified disks clearly.

If you plan your reaming well enough, you will be able to have a set of in-between disks throughout the entire range.

Or, you could do what I am designing. Cut one of the holes completely out of the disk (a rectangle). Then get some plain plastic stock the same thickness as the disk and cut inserts that fit the rectangle you cut out of the disk exactly.

Now, drill calibrated holes in all the plastic inserts that drop the charge you want. When you want to change charge weight, just grab the appropriate insert and clip it into place.

Getting the clip system to work has been a challenge for me.

Lost Sheep
 
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I have the micro-disk kit which works great for loading .380ACP. I don't know if they stll offer it?
Click to expand...

No, it's not available anymore.

I recently aquired a .32 H&R Mag & have looked hi & lo to order one. :banghead:
 
bds wrote"You can double stack the Adjustable Charge Bars by filing the slide tabs of one and it will give you more powder charge adjustment options (see yellow arrows in the picture below). You do still need to use the 2 double-disk risers (AD2493) and 2 longer bolts (FD1471) but you can order these from Lee Precision.

I metered up to around 47 grains of I4895/H4895/Varget and 48 grains of RL15 which are plenty for most popular .308 bullet weights and powder charges."

I had the same thoughts. Glad you confirmed that it works. Saves me the trial and error. Thanx!
 
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