RCBS drop tubes

[angryfatcat]

It seems that the one major weakpoint with the RCBS Uniflow powder measures is the horrible plastic drop tubes that are now standard on their powder measures.

I'd like to stick with my Uniflow, but I'm tired of the cheap plastic drop tubes. Does anyone know if the Hornady metal drop tubes will fit in the RCBS? I know the old Herters will not. Are there any other options for replacing these other than moving to a different powder measure?

 

[b money]

I've used a RCBS uniflow since I've started and haven't had any problems with the drop tubes, what problems are you having?

 

[angryfatcat]

I thnk it's more of a wear and tear issue. The drop tubes work fine - for a while. I've noticed that after a few thousand rounds (depending on the caliber - .223 seems to be the worst) the shell seating becomes poor and uneven and the drop tube starts to "stick". The uniflow measures used to be shipped with metal drop tubes that didn't wear out.

I'm not 100% positive, but it looks like the Hornady powder measures were based upon the RCBS design and a few people have said the parts were interchangable. I've ordered their small drop tube and will see if it fits my uniflow.

 

[Jimfern]

old RCBS tubes

You might be able to put a WTB ad in the trading section or look on ebay for the old RCBS metal style. I got my set from craigslist.

Good luck.

 

[cfullgraf]

Sinclair International makes some aftermarket drop tubes for the Uniflow. They work well.

 

[b money]

Oh ok that makes sense, I never really gave that much thought. I will have to keep my eyes open for a set

 

[Reloadron]

Per Chuck look to Sinclair or Brownells. I use aftermarket tubes with my Uniflow and they work great.

This is an example.

Ron

 

[angryfatcat]

Thanks to everyone for their advice. It turns out that the Hornady aluminum drop tubes are identical to the RCBS plastic drop tubes - just metal instead of plastic. In addition to that, they are cheaper than RCBS or the other aftermarket drop tubes.

Problem solved.