News Flash!! - Lee Auto Drum Powder Measure Fully Conquers Stick Powders

[@mikeruyle8179]

Been using one for awhile now & have had zero issues. Best measure I have ever used.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Mike Ruyle -- Thanks for posting this...Lee has done themselves proud with this one.... Happy Holidays, FC

[@ward5821]

This is the best reloading channel on the Internet., period..../Thanks

[@thevacuumtubejunky9774]

The Lee auto drum powder measure has an internal neoprene wiper that eliminates the binding when the drum rotates when throwing a charge. In my opinion for entry level and even the seasoned reloader, Lee products are hard to beat for the price, warranty, customer service and support.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Eric Dee - That is as clear as it can get...nice job...Lee should have you in their marketing dept... Have a great day, FC

[@thevacuumtubejunky9774]

Thank you for the kind words Mr. FC45LC . keep the tutorials comming, great content and educational as well. Kind regards, Eric Dee

[@brianb8903]

Thank you for another useful and insightful video. I am just beginning to reload and I greatly appreciate what you do. You are a valuable resource for me to expand my knowledge and gain insight into methods and equipment.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Brian B - Sure we read the instructions and the manuals, but videos really do fill in between all the lines...Thanks for posting your comments...much appreciated. And continued good shootin' to ya, FC

[@PucketyCrik]

Good comparison test of the two auto powder measures. I bought the Lee adjustable measure years ago, and at first it seemed a little flimsy, but it has worked well for all my powders. I didn't know you could but different measuring cones for it.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+PucketyCrik - That was Peter Seller's most challenging movie - 3 roles. And also the movie of George C. Scott's favorite role - the zany General Buck Turgidson. And the movie, in 1964, predicted the cause of the downfall of the Soviet Union " ...couldn't keep up with the arms race, the space race, the peace race...all the while our people grumbled about not having enough washing machines and nylon stockings..." I wonder if Ronald Reagan paid attention... The new Lee Classic Powder Measure is the Lee Perfect Powder Measure all grown up. No one has done a user video on that one yet...I'm going to order one to see if I can be the first...unless someone else beats me to it...I wouldn't mind one bit as I've already scored some other first videos recently....Been a little Lee heavy recently. Happy New Year to ya, FC

[@ByCo1]

I tried the new auto drum with IMR 4064 for some 30/30 last night and it worked great. I got pretty much the same result that you did, within .2 grains on all charges and only felt a slight bit of binding a couple of times in 20 rounds. I just got done loading 10 rounds with LeverEvolution powder, fine ball powder, and it was very accurate and minimal leakage. On a different note, I was loading the 160 grain FTX bullets today and with the Lee bullet seating die I had the seating stem bottomed out and it would seat the bullets just barely to the cannelure, about .016 over the COL that Hornady recommends. On a good note, I didn't see any deforming of the plastic tip that I've seen others comment about.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+ByCo1 -- That could be a problem if the bullet hits the lands of the barrel when chambered - that is a no - no. Or if the rounds will not cycle in your action. Is your Lee seating die body screwed down to the crimping shoulder. If so, and the seating stem is all the way down, then you have a problem that should not be - You should be able to seat to the cannelure. I would call Lee tech support on this for any possible solutions. Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@ByCo1]

The FTX being a spitzer type bullet has a more tapered ogive compared to the RNFP so I'm sure that the bullet will be well off the lands but I don't know about cycling in the 336, I'll check by running a few through with out firing them next time go to the range, I'll do that anyhow just to check that I have a good crimp to prevent set back. I scrounged some small rifle primers from a friend tonight to try loading 223 with IMR 4166 (improved? 4064) and the auto drum. I'm having alot of bridging with the stick powder and the small rifle charging die so it looks like I'll be sticking with ball powders for 223.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+ByCo1 -- Thanks for posting your information - helpful to others...why reinvent the wheel... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@Billbobaker]

Good informative research FC

[@doncooper7466]

Good demonstration . I know my next purchase Thanks

[@FatManLeather]

Most of my reloading gear is Lee and I like it. Sure looks like the Auto Drum is a winner.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Mr. Tolly (AKA: fatmantolly) - The Lee Perfect Powder Measure is regarded as flimsy plastic. I don't want my powder measures to be flimsy. But I did like the smooth handling of stick powders. Finally, Lee has brought the best of their older powder measure technologies together with new innovation (interchanging drums pre-set) in this Auto Drum and also their new Classic Powder Measure. They really do have a winner here. I wish they had used the zinc alloy for the Classic Powder Measure also as it would have kept the price down. The machined cast iron boosted the price up close to the RCBS Uniflow. Have a fine Holiday Season, FC

[@Patmclean232]

+Mr. Tolly (AKA: fatmantolly) same here most of my stuff is lee with the exception of like 3 tools. many of their designs are well thought out, work well and afford-ably priced. i have all lee casting equipment as well. the one thing lee has that im not a big fan of is tumble lube. no matter what i did with it it was always too messy for my liking. even with the 45/45/10 mix. so i have a lyman lubesizer i love.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Mr. Tolly (AKA: fatmantolly) -- I like it enough that I now have two of 'em... Have a great day... FC

[@Toolness1]

I set mine up and used varget for the first time and I'm incredibly impressed. Lee hit a home run with this measure. If it holds up in the long run, that'll be even more impressive. I don't see any glaring weak points so far, but with Lee products there seems to always be a weak point that wears out over time. Maybe it'll be that little white cutter thing inside the body. I wonder what will happen as that wears out?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Toolness1 - All that cutter does is cut through powder charges...if it wears out, it can be replaced with a new one - they are made of some kind of elastomer = soft polymer. I like these measures so much, I have three of 'em - one on each Dillon 550B and one floater. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to ya...! FC

[@Toolness1]

My drum broke after my first use. There's a rod shaped piece of cast material that connects the black vertical actuator arm to the internal mechanism. This rod broke, so my actuator arm is flopping around and connected to nothing. I had a feeling there would be a typical Lee weak point with this thing... I didn't think it would break after one use though. What a bummer! I'll get it replaced and try again, though. It's a good product, just unfortunate that they took a shortcut on a load-bearing part.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

toolness1 - Haven't heard of many complaints like parts breakage you just experienced. Thanks for posting as we can be on the lookout for similar happenings with ours...That's an easy exchange for Lee - let's hope you don't have any more problems with that measure... Best to ya, and Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to ya..!! FC

[@Toolness1]

I asked them if I might have done something wrong and they said earlier versions had an issue that they corrected with a new side plate, so they sent me one of those as well. I think mine already had the updated side plate though. I think I just got a poorly cast part, you could see the density of the cast was very poor where it broke, lots of space between particles. Thanks, and Merry Christmas to you too!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Toolness1 - Thanks for doing the legwork on this...Seems I have the early versions - drat!! They are working well, but I'm almost wishing that I had the newer version.... Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!! FC

[@echampine]

Thanks for the videos. they are awesome and have helped me a lot. Quick question please. I have a Dillon 550C and love it but everything is expensive and I load several pistol calibers. Slowly, I have been adding a powder drop to each of them. After seeing your videos, I am very tempted to purchase 3 of the Lee Auto Drum powder drops for my last 3 heads for my 550. What my question is, is your videos where posted in 2015/16. Are you still using the Lee Auto Drums today and how have they held up over the last few years? Thanks.

[@mcdsdaddy]

Great test. The Lee looks like a great option. Thanks for the review!!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+MCDSDaddy -- Great to hear from MCDS Daddy..!! This measure is a real coup for Lee Precision....finally metering extruded stick powders as if they were ball powders....incredible!! Happy Holidays, FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+MCDSDaddy -- Good to hear from MCDSDaddy!! Best of 2016 to ya..!! FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+MCDSDaddy -- I just loaded some 30/06 25 rounds 180 grain Sierras - 58.7 grains of 4831 with the Lee Auto Drum PM and every charge was 58.7 - 58.8 grains - every throw was smooth and accurate with that difficult to meter stick powder - that is impressive performance from a powder measure. It's on one of my latest videos...Best to ya, FC

[@l.a.3887]

Great video thanks for the information the lee did a great job better for the money

[@Patmclean232]

great video!! this is very exciting that lee makes an auto powder charge that works really well for stick powders! the pro auto disk works pretty well for pistol but works terrible for rifle... between my classic turret and loadmaster my mind is spinning with all the awesome applications i could use this measure for!! leave it to lee to take something simple and make it work great! i think i will definitely be ordering one of these!!! love your videos keep them coming!!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Patmclean232 -- It's a slick working powder measure for sure - I really like it, and with the riser installed also, the thing looks like a missile on the launch pad destined for Pandora... Happy New Year, FC

[@brianmlodzik]

I've been using LPPMs on a Lee turret press for years for IMR 4064, Varget, and RL-22. If you mount one on a Turret press, and cycle it all the way around before throwing a charge to check its setting, you'll find that the shaking and jarring the measure gets on the press actually makes it MORE accurate. Its very rare that I get variation outside of 0.1 gr from where I set the measure. A RCBS measure isn't capable of that kind of accuracy with stick powders, it crunches grains with just about every throw- I know, I've had one for over 20 years and used it extensively before I discovered that Lee wasn't 'entry level cheap junk' that I thought it was. I think the auto drum was made with the classic cast turret press in mind- there was no way to adapt the LPPM to auto actuate, and even if you did, the measure body was too flimsy to hold up.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+briaN M -- That AD is a game changing powder measure for almost all presses - single stage, turret, or progressive. Brian - I'm happy to report to you that taking the disconnector out (easy to do) makes the ADPM a case activated PM and perfect for the 4 hole Lee Turret...I've already been loading 45acp with that setup and it works like a dream...if you go with the AD, you won't have to hand throw the charges crank any longer. Or why switch since you've got good results... The disconnector on the AD is totally useless. Who knows? if Lee left that out, the cost on the unit might even be around $31... Lee should never have included it. Having to hit the disconnector button before stroking the press ito prevent double charging is a terrible idea - What have reloaders been doing all these years to prevent double charging that it was such a problem it needed a fix? Plus the squib loads created from forgetting to hit the disconnector button are very dangerous situations also. And having the chain to essentially deactivate the disconnector for use in progressives is a crock - you can deactivate that disconnector equally well by not having it in the first place. Good reloadin' to ya, FC

[@brianmlodzik]

+FortuneCookie45LC Good to know about the disconnector. I plan on picking up a few of these to try out (I have a Hornady LnL press that desperately needs something that will measure out stick powders better than the Hornady measure), Worst case scenario, the extra powder measures end up as permanent additions to turrets I have set up for rifle loads for my Lee turret press.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+briaN M -- These PMs at $35 a copy are going to change the way a lot of us reload - Currently, these are my go to, first consideration, use all the time PMs.. .Have a great day. FC

[@danpisula3531]

Excellent review Fortune Cookie.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Dan Pisula -- "Sold American...!!" Happy Holidays, FC

[@danpisula3531]

+FortuneCookie45LC I think you sold me on getting one powder measures. I have RCBS uniflow powder measurer, and have those extact problems you had with extruded powders

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Dan Pisula -- Dan, we've all had those problems and it's been that way for the last 40 years or so...those doggone extruded stick powders. That's why when I felt the smooth action of the powder cut and heard the free flow through the riser "drop tube" - like music to the ears (I've got to put that in the video), it was almost like the dawning of a real bright new day...!! Halleluyah!! Sold... American!!! Best to ya, FC

[@DimaProk]

I think the average is not that important. If you average came out dead on target but your spread was five tens (0.5) of a grain, would it matter what average was? It wouldn't matter. I bought once RCBS auto dispenser at really good price on sale and after playing around with all sorts of straw/tube mods I just returned it because I didn't like the spread. The spread is what determines accuracy for me. My RCBS Uniflow with small cavity drum is very accurate with non stick powders, but for extruded powders it sucks just like FC demonstrated with his, so I drop a charge that's a bit less and trickle the rest with my home made electric trickler and precision scale. I think I am sold on this new Lee, I have lot's 4198 and for bulk loading .223 this might be the ticket.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Dima Prok - Thanks for your informative comments... this PM will give you the best spread you've ever seen with extruded powders...My guess is that precision reloaders will still do the powder dump / trickle up for their loads, but for all other uses (range, AR 223, even hunting - everything except long range - should be good) Funny thing is that benchrest shooters who have a barrel with great harmonics - any reasonable powder measure will do without weighing their charges. Other benchrest shooters will do the weighing. This seems to be right on or within 1/10th grain 80% of the time. It's got a lot of features and other measures cannot even handle the extruded, as you have noted... Best to ya, FC

[@crawford1911colt]

I know what the problem is with your, Uniflow 38 years it has arthritisHappy Holidays Steve,

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+DON C -- Heavens no...!! The heartbreak of arthritis...it was painful to see it trying to cut those stick powders... It hasn't metered those extruded stick powders in many a yarn.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@GunFunZS]

Lee should send you a big gift card for the fair shakes you give their stuff. As you said, anyone watching the comparison would choose the lee. I wish this was for sale when I bought my 'perfect' it is a much more capable tool. The chain reset is perfect for my tastes, since it works so well on my loadmaster. I have to 'be a better fool' to make a mistake there, and can limit my attention to primers and seeing powder just before the bullet is placed. p.s. I have nothing against pot metal or plastic used appropriately. Pot metal is more than strong enough for applications like this. What I care about is the regularity of wearing and sealing surfaces. I also think the nylon screw thread portion acts like a thread locker. if that were a fine screw into metal threads it would tend to back out as the measure cycled. That would be a nuisance but is not even a concern the way this is made.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+GunFun ZS -- Good points you make. I have avoided the Lee Perfect Powder Measure all these years because of the construction and materials. When I saw this new powder measure I had to get it as I did like the promise of being able to meter stick powders without the gaffs that the Perfect had provided for many years. And the quick change drums rivals the capability of the Hornady at substantially less cost. As you already mention, the zinc alloy is much more appreciated than the plastic of the Perfect Measure. At least the Auto Disk has a metal frame. If this measure meters flake powders well, I'm going to be using it instead of my Dillon measures on the 550Bs. I've already got a second one of these measures on the way. Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@GunFunZS]

The perfect is a fine measure as a manual measure. I have no fear of breaking it, and I have never cut a grain of IMR with it. It is not Perfect when used with the kit to make it case operated though. Occasionally it will bind. All in all, I think it is a more useful tool than the uniflow or similar, and way more cost effective. $24 and you have a tool that will smoothly and accurately measure all powder types without leakage or cut grains. I think it is a little too easy to knock off the powder hopper and its lid if you are a clutz like me. All things equal I would never suggest someone buy a $100+ powder measure when the perfect exists. The auto drum is more to my taste, because it was designed from the get go to be case operated.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+GunFun ZS - I think the Lee Perfect PM is misnamed - it cannot be perfect because it is flimsy. This is not in regard to its durability or strength. It lacks heft, rigidity, stability, robustness - things some value in a powder measure (otherwise, we'd use dippers). And it lacks a good system on the adjustment stem. Plus, missing is easy change of pre-set measuring inserts. And the hopper is too small. The unit is designed to be used at bench level - accident prone - should be elevated bicep height. So it can't be Perfect. But the new Classic Powder Measure - might be the intention for the Perfect - machined cast iron chassis, with quick change drums that are infinitely set, the powder action of the Perfect...and if press mounted, the Auto Drum PM is the Classic in zinc alloy disguise. Lee has finally come to seriously play in the powder measure arena - too long in coming. Best to ya for a fine Holiday Season, FC

[@gapster46]

I have the RCBS Uniflow, and with extruded powder, I set it well under my target and use a powder trickler to get to my target. I do not have the jamming that you got in this video. I wonder if 38 years of use has dulled the cutting surface? Loading .45 Colt using Unique, it is not dependable at all, and I've been tempted to get the powder trickler out. I find myself weighing every charge. A time consuming pain. However, with AA9, the Uniflow is smack on every single throw. Some day I will step up to the Lee Turret Press or a Dillon 550. I will certainly keep this powder thrower in mind if I get the Turret press. I do like the ease of drum changing. Much easier than with the Uniflow. However, for a single stage press, I don't think one can pass on that Hornady Auto Powder Dispenser.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gapster46 -- My RCBS Uniflow works very well with powders like Red Dot, Bullseye, and Unique. Sometimes we feel a squashy feel with some powders right at the moment the cutoff is happening. This also does not make us feel good about the charges being thrown. It looks like Lee has really solved this with their elastomer cut off. Now it remains to be seen how durable it is. Would not make much sense for Lee to make it so that it wears out every year. There would be too many complaints and returns...Lee is not into that. We shall see... Best to ya for a great Holiday Season... FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gapster46 -- Thanks for posting your experiences with the powder measures... all good stuff... Have a great day, FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gapster46 -- This Lee Auto Drum is a game changer - check out my latest video on loading 30/06 with the Lee ADPM. The thing was a smooth as glass throwing accurate and consistent charges... Best to ya, FC

[@scottgrizzle5879]

I like lee products,they work and they are affordable.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+scott grizzle -- When they are also excellent, then the value goes through the ceiling.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@ecleveland1]

Looks like a good powder measure and for the money it's going to be hard to beat.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+ecleveland1 - You can say that again...it just blew the competition right out of the water.... I just ordered a second one.... Happy Holidays, FC

[@mckwilly]

Hello ! I scored a old new sealed case (10lb) of the 4831 last summer 2022, from the 70s they had stored it correctly it's great powder

[@nickl1682]

Good test very fair.stay with what works.good info ,keep the videos coming .

[@SladeMcCuiston]

I have had excellent results using stick powder in my Lee Pro Auto Disk as well. I have two Hornady powder measures (one bench mounted and one that came with my LNL-AP). The stick powders do not agree with either of my Hornady powder measures. I actually get more consistent charges with the Pro Auto Disk than I do with the Hornady powder measure even with pistol powders like Bullseye, although the Hornady powder drop is definitely throwing acceptable charge weights - usually no more variation than 3/10ths of a grain. I'm beginning to wonder if the Hornady powder drops are meant for ball powders. I think Lee products are outstanding. Never had a problem. :) Thanks for the video. It was an outstanding and surprising result.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Slade McCuiston -- The powder measures advertise one tenth variation + and - or a two tenths range. But they use ball powders to get that. The extruded stick powders give trouble. We've all measured the powder into a scale pan and then trickled up in the past...With the smoothness of this new Lee, the hard to meter powders drop like ball powder. It is a revelation..!! Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

[@SladeMcCuiston]

Thanks for the clarification on exactly how they measure variation. Thanks for the holiday wishes. You too!

[@tompatrick3281]

Great video, was thinking about getting this measure so now I know how its going to work

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Tom Patrick - this measure has been a real winner for Lee... Best to ya, FC

[@Thorsaxe777]

Well Cookie, Reloader to Reloader, That was a real torcher test. H4931 as well as you and I know from experience is one of the most difficult powders to meter in ANY powder Measure that has been manufactured for the average reloader. I'm getting one of those. As Darth would Say "Hummm,,, Impressive". Good review..

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Thorsaxe777 -- We are all reloading Jedi of the Old and New Republic...!! Hail to the far reaches of the Galaxy!! Nothing like a blaster at your side, kid... Happy New Year to ya, FC Steve

[@Thorsaxe777]

Hahahahaha.. Made me smile Cookie!

[@justinberwick2827]

Look like Lee makes good products despite the lower cost.

[@peteralexben]

Nice product of lee again

[@ezrabrooks12]

This is the same EXACT PROBLEM I have with stick powders.Drives me Insane.I don't mind throwing a lower charge,then trickle up.This Stick powder is all over the place,Cookie is having the same problem I've been having.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

ezrabrooks12 - We've had that problem, but this PM, with the elastomer powder cutoff now gives us a good option fo the successful dispensing of stick powders. Have a great day, FC

[@russnelson5175]

I've been planning on buying several of these but couldn't find any reviews on KZbin until yours. Thank-you for your review, It was quite informative. I was wondering if you could answer a couple of questions for me? When you change the drum, you turn off the hopper to stop the flow of powder but I'm wondering how much powder is left in the powder measure below the hopper. It seems that I heard that there were still about 70 grains in it but that seemed like a lot of powder to me. Also I noticed you used a powder riser and it made me wonder if you could mount this on a Dillon 550 after other dies were in the tool head or if you have to mount the powder measure before inserting the other dies on the tool head or if the riser is needed to put the powder measure after the other dies are mounted? I'm just wondering if I also have to purchase a powder riser with this measure or can get by without it.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Russ Nelson - Sorry that this reply did not get to you - reason is Google put your comment into a suspected spam zone, and then never posted anything in my inbox for me to see - only way I found it was another comment that got posted led me to the spam zone and I found yours there - took a year. Yes, best to cut off the powder and empty out the remaining powder in the measure - remove the hopper after cut off and unscrew the measure from the press, then simply pour remaining powder out the top of the measure - it comes out clean. Then change drums - The Lee ADPM mounts readily on any press that has no overhead interference (will not work on a Co-Ax because the press handle goes over the dies). The riser is used if other dies interfere with the movement of the powder measure. The riser is quick, easy and inexpensive - also helps the powder to drop and fill. Best to ya, FC

[@msmax1138]

for extruded powder I use my rcbs chargemaster. works great, but not so much with ball powder the little balls come rolling out of the tube too quickly resulting in frequent overcharges so i dont think its suitable for ball. BUT for ballpowder the lee perfect measure is the nuts, ball powder flows like water thru it. never more than 1/10 grain off and few enough of those. blc-2, win 760,ramshot hunter all work well with it. i can afford anything i wish to use but the little plastic lee just works.

[@ezrabrooks12]

I've only been serious about reloading,the last 7 to 8 years.I COULDN'T GET ANY AMMO,LIKE TO NEVER FOUND POWDER AND PRIMERS.LUCKY THAT I STILL HAD MY GRANDFATHERS OLD PRESSES AND DIES,POWDER,PRIMERS.I have since bought several POWDER MEASURES,NONE OF THEM WILL THROW A CONSTANT CHARGE.WHAT POWDER DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR LOADING 223 IN LARGE BATCHES,OR ANY RIFLE?30-06,308.IS BALL POWDER BEST FOR METERING?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

ezrabrooks12 - The order of ease of powder metering is best 1) Ball powders 2) modified ball powders (flattened) 3) flake powders 4) extruded powders. If any powder measure falls short for you in the accuracy department, then we can throw the charges and trickle them up with a powder scale...or use the automatic powder dispensers currently available. Good reloadin' to ya, FC

[@robertpowell2746]

Fortune cookie that is probably why I don't have any equipment from Dillon. Just about every manufacturer has case activated drum powder measures but Dillon they're sticking with the old school slide bar and pull it down to reactivate it.

[@rogernevez5187]

Great video. What are the risks of firing up the gun powder during this process?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Roger Nevez -- Unless there are flame sources nearby, the risks are barely discernable. Thanks for your comments.... Happy Holidays to ya.... FC

[@rogernevez5187]

+FortuneCookie45LC > "[...] the risks are barely discernable." The risk of internal friction igniting the gun powder is also barely discernible?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Roger Nevez -- You are referencing the dangers of metering black powder - a much more hazardous powder to handle and load than smokeless powders. I would only use powder measures rated for black powder to load that. For our smokeless powders, we just don't have problems with our powders igniting. When I say barely discernable, it's because can anyone say absolute zero chance? Companies like Lee, RCBS, Hornady, Dillon, Lyman, Redding et al, don't deal in reloading equipment that produces sparks or heat - they would not be able to stay in business long as reloaders would shun like the plague. I have never had any gunpowder ignite during any reloading procedure in over 40 years of reloading and multiple hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammo produced. Plus I have not heard of any powder ignitions either. Happy New Year to ya, FC

[@ghostshadow9046]

I have a 30 year old RCBS uniflow that still works great, how do you think the Lee would hold up to 30 years of use. to get best results adjust the powder measure to throw your desired weight then throw 10+ charges and just dump them back in the hopper and check the weight of a thrown charge, you will most likely need to adjust again Umm you're going to have high and low charges if you're just looking at an average. What happened to your RCBS hopper? also I only use the small plunger drum it appears to throw more accurately and less hanging/binding on extruded powders, but you need to really screw it out for the larger powder charges, if you have it to the back like yours the adjustment screw would be hitting your support

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Ghost Shadow - I have the same RCBS UniFlow - and also on the old side...still works well, but has a hard time cutting some powders as you know... Still use it for the easy to flow stuff... Best to ya, FC

[@peteralexben]

hello fc 45lc ,i am using also a couple of uniflow measure`s, but on a different way. the filling space up while doing something else .so the powder has more time to fill, and a even pressure on the fill with a powder baffle in the measure, a small hole drum if possible , you wil have less to cut. en bridging wil be less. a and as last let it flow slow not dumping at once and knock with the handle at the end. yours peter

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

peteralexben -Wow, Google filed this comment with the spam and comments in need of approval...I wouldn't have seen it ever except that another comment that was in my inbox led me to the comments in need of approval file...Everything is dated after a year... Have a great day, and sorry for the delay... FC Steve

[@STMwoodturning]

The only measure I have is the RCBS and have used it for 4831 many times. My procedure with all rifle loads has been to intentionally throw them a little short and bring them up to target load with my trickler.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+MrTaco250 -- I used my RCBS Uniflow just that way for 35 years - but the new reloaders have this one...and I can't see my new Lee powder measures failing any time soon... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@STMwoodturning]

It's good know there's a viable alternative now. Thanks for doing the video!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+MrTaco250 -- Thanks for your comments. It's the least I can do since - if it's a good measure, I sure want one of those (or two of those), and also because this measure has been out for long enough that there should have been other videos on it - so now the floodgates should be open... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@bushed2743]

The Lee is the better measure. No sense in the RCBS being made of more expensive materials and having a higher price tag if it won't do the job. And yet some reloaders look down on those who use Lee products because they are significantly cheaper.

[@varanidguy]

Hey FortuneCookie! So, I got my replacement from Midway on Wednesday, I set it up and started trying it out today. The darn thing still spills out the bottom! I mean, a lot! Probably several cartridges worth of grains in the end...I just couldn't get it to not spill...with .223. I tried with .308 and it doesn't spill at all! Have you tried this with .223? I tried it with both drums, large and small, and it spills regardless. I thoroughly cleaned it, dry lubed with graphite, made sure it was attached securely, everything, and still it spills constantly. I'm loading with AR-Comp, it's very small extruded powder. Goal weight is 24 grains.

[@varanidguy]

Hey FortuneCookie! With the mouth of the 223 being barely smaller than the opening of the insert for the rifle charging die, just the slightest amount of too much force caused the case mouth to bevel inwards by a tiny amount. Just enough of a lip to bridge the powder and have it spill...everywhere. Once I noticed this, I changed my downward force accordingly, and the problem miraculously disappeared. I had to take a break most of the day because I was frustrated, and I don't want to load frustrated for fear of making a mistake. The bevel inwards was small enough to miss, but upon close inspection of the case, it was there...it wasn't even enough to prevent the seating of a bullet, but it did what it did. So, if anyone is using the Lee powder through dies for rifle, and you're loading .223 with an automated powder dropping system that requires a bit of force to make it actuate, look out for this. Obviously YMMV.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

-- You and I have got it - I was loading the 223 the other day with the AD and I got the mouth bend and powder spill. A little adjustment of the die and if no bend, no spill. I reduced the amount of force at the top of the press stroke solved the problem. When it happened, there was a cascade of powder coming down from the case - the mouth bend was doing it... this is not a problem with other calibers...you and I have found out first hand the problem... Best to ya, FC

[@varanidguy]

Wow, thank you for the reply! Glad to see I wasn't the only one. I wonder if Lee sells a slightly smaller insert for the rifle powder through die to prevent this from happening with 22 caliber cartridges.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

-- No other inserts for those powder through dies. The problem we are having is not with the measure, but with the powder through die. If the die is adjusted to excess pressure at the end of the stroke, that is where the case bend happens. When I lightened up the pressure by backing the powder through die out a bit, that solved the problem. It's a touchy adjustment for the 223. Good reloadin' to ya, FC

[@varanidguy]

FortuneCookie45LC Thank you again! You are truly awesome! You have earned yourself another fan.

[@denverdwc7801]

Hey FC, as always I love your videos! I just have a question on how far you screw in the die? I just got this measure and I can't seem to find the answer. The Lee videos just show how to screw the measure onto the die...total waste of time. I can't believe they made that video!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Denver DWC - Thanks for the good question...the Neck Expander, Mouth Flare Powder Thru Die is screwed into your press and the empty case is run into the die far enough so that the expander plug engages the case. Then the die and expander stem is adjusted downward until the case mouth gets enough flare to allow the bullet to sit into the case mouth opening. That's it - done...then do the video and install the powder measure into the die - the activation of the measure will, of course, be automatic... Good reloadin' to ya, FC

[@cameronwilson3800]

Nice one, Christopher Walken.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Cameron Wilson -- Christopher Walken is a fine actor (when he's not chasing Tanya Roberts around Silicon Valley...on second thought, what's wrong with that? Sounds like fun...lol) ... Best to ya, FC

[@jwelsh1238]

That auto drum sure looks impressive! I guess it'll always have to be used with a powder-thru expander die right?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+jwelsh1238 - Absolutely. But Lee makes a new stand alone crank powder measure, but the price point is the same as the RCBS and Hornady stand measures. However, if it handles extruded stick powders as well as this Auto :Drum, it will obsolete all the older measures overnight.... Happy Holidays, FC

[@jwelsh1238]

FortuneCookie45LC I've seen that new classic cast one. it looks nice. I've been using an auto disk for a while now. I like it ok, but it does leak and it doesn't do well with stick powders. I'm thinking about changing to one of these new ones.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+jwelsh1238 -- You've got the best features of all press mounted powder measures at a fraction of the cost for the measure and also the quick change drum inserts. Happy Holidays, FC

[@dowdawg9165]

Ok im gonna go buy one!!!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+dowdawg -- I just got my second, and it is on the reloadin' line as we speak...Happy New Year, FC

[@joeprimal2044]

So this is the 90811, not the 90058? What's the difference between them? Thanks.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Joe Primal - Many reloaders, including me, avoided the Lee Perfect PM 90058 because we just didn't want a flimsy plastic powder measure. The elastomeric cutter to smooth handle stick powders was not enough to get us to buy a plastic body PM. Now, this 90811 has the metal body, the smooth cutoff action, and the latest is the quick change inexpensive drums that are fully adjustable. And, this 90811 is case activated for press operation with a reliable return spring to assure reset in progressive presses as well as our single stages. The 90868 is another winner with all these features in a handle operated measure - costs more though. Happy Holidays, FC

[@joeprimal2044]

FortuneCookie45LC Thanks, and happy holidays to you as well.

[@ericbeck6417]

FortuneCookie45LC have you tried CFE 223 powder in this measure? I can not get the measure to stop leaking with CFE 223, wondering if anybody else is having an issue with this powder? The measure works great with all my other powders.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Eric Beck - No, have not tried CFE 223 as of yet...Based on my findings, the Lee ADPM will have some of the nylon drums leak the fine grained powders like Win 296 or H110. Flake powders like CFE 223 should be no problem unless you have a bad drum. Try that drum with other powders like 4895 or Varget and you should have no leakage; then switch out the drums and try CFE again...if leakage, another cause is the drum knob needs a bit more tightening...not enough to strip the drum threads, but say 1/4 turn. The drum that leaked should be reserved to do powders that will not leak using it. Please let me know how this works out as I've had the leak with Win 296 and any powder leakage is unacceptable. Best to ya for a fine 2017..!! FC

[@ccthepope]

I know what I am asking Santa for Christmas !

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+r aeronca - And for whoever will be giving this to you, it is an extremely high value gift that you will be enjoying and using often...How good a gift is that? -- veritably the gift that keeps on giving and dispensing and measuring and metering... Happy New Year, FC

[@ocean374]

hi how are you question different from this video I'm trying to make a shotshell load with a lee 1oz slug the parts i have are couldn't find any other parts hard to find federal gold metal hull fed 209a primer fed 12s3 wad and the lee load data sheet calls for 40 grains of hs-6 powder i find that bit to high is it ok to take it down 10% thank you

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+ocean374 - Those should work well together - you might need a 1/8 inch card wad under the slug though as that wad might need it to get a good crimp. But on second though, the 40 grains of HS6 (or 36 grains) may be enough to allow a good crimp without the card wad. The Lee data is for full load slugs, you can load a little lighter with HS6 without problem. Good shootin' to ya.... FC and Happy Holidays

[@ocean374]

+FortuneCookie45LC thank you and happy holidays to you and your family

[@kidmac4214]

how do you remove the disconnector so I don't have to keep pushing down on the disconnector

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

KidMac - There is a little screw on the vertical stem - take that out and remove the little press knob disconnector link, then remove the little stirrup just past that link. Replace the screw in the other hole on the connector platform to keep the connector bar from disconnecting itself and it's done...If you have the instruction sheet, it's all there. When you have it done, you have the two plastic parts of the disconnector should you choose to put it back in - but the disconnector is really a useless rascal... Best to ya, FC

[@kidmac4214]

THANKS

[@redneckmini14]

with that kind of powder i think id stick with the lee. i think if i were to get one id get two: one for rifle and one for pistol, so i dont have to remove the drum so often.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+redneckmini14 - You have read my mind - I like this measure so much, I just ordered a second one....Happy Holidays to ya... FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+redneckmini14 -- Great idea... I've already taken you up on that one... FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+redneckmini14 -- With the price point of this measure, we can afford to do that - in fact, I just got my third one so I can keep one on each of my tow Dillon 550Bs and then have one to float. I might even get a fourth one for my turret press and keep it on there. Have a great day, FC

[@ward5821]

For pistol, I still use the Little Dandy.

[@murimurimrui]

question, I was reloading 30-06 with IMAR 4064 powder for 48.5 grains with this powder dispenser, but i couldn't seem to get an accuary of what you're getting in this video. My powder measure went from 47.1 to 49.0 grains. Any tips on to fix this problem?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Thanks for posting this question... If you are getting some pops and clicks from the measure as you are throwing your charges, that would explain the wide variation. Try neck expanding as a separate operations, then run them through with the LADPM installed and throw your charges - there will not be any clicks or pops on the second pass into the die...your charges should be much more uniform.... Good reloadin' to ya, FC

[@murimurimrui]

Hey, Ya, there's no pops nor clicks, but the charge is still not accurate... ._. I set it up for 48.5 Grain, but it would jump from 47.5 to 49.5 grains. I had to manually measure all the powder charge due to the big difference... Not really sure what i'm doing wrong.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Thanks for your comments. You may not be doing anything wrong at all... but only thing I can add is that with charges in the 40+ grains, we have to allow time for the powder to fill and exit the measuring chamber - recommendation is for 3 seconds for the powder to drop. If you are reflexing the measure at the end of the stroke, you can have inaccuracy from that...If you are doing all this, then I would suggest using a different drum - plus does the measure give you inaccuracy with other powder charges or others powders? Good reloading' to ya, FC

[@edadpops1709]

Will this work on 800x type powders that are so hard to meter

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Edad Martin - I had a pound of 800x about 25 years ago and used it up - it did not meter well at all. I have avoided 800x ever since so I cannot say yes or no on how it meters through the LADPM. Best to ya, FC

[@andrewjames5671]

Lee has come a long way and they are cheap. I don't know about you but I don't want to cut my powder in half considering it will change the burn rate.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Andrew James -- Once you feel the smooth dispensation and hear the free flow through the riser (FortuneCookie is calling that a drop tube), I'm a goin' outside and shoutin' "Sold American...!!" Finally, after 70 years - Lee Precision has conquered the stick powders!! This is huge. I just ordered a second measure, in fact, I might even buy their new free standing crank measure with the cast iron body (even though the price point is the same as RCBS on sale) - if it handles stick powders like this Auto Drum, that one is going to be a winner also.... Happy Holidays, FC

[@Patmclean232]

+Andrew James i aggree lee really has come along way. they have come up with some pretty good designs like the case trimmer they have that deburrs and trims all in one step. funny thing is allot of people talk smack about lee. people that talk smack about lee are just to simple minded to figure it out

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Patmclean232 -- Lee remains the major player in reloading equipment by offering high value and innovation in equipment that reloaders can use. I have every reloading company on my two reloading benches except Redding. Someday soon, I'll have some Redding. Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@Patmclean232]

i agree some of the hardcore Dillon guys talk smack about lee. but you honestly cant beat it for the price. i have a loadmaster and honestly i see some of the gripes people have with it. but honestly after tinkering with it and learning some of the quirks it has and how to work around them its a pretty good press all in all. i paid $200 cash for it where else can you get a progressive for $200??

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+Patmclean232 -- Congrats on your Loadmaster..!! All I need to know about Lee progressives is a good shooter and friend at the range (shoots a fair bit better than I can although he says the reverse - but I'm right) has always used Lee Loadmaster and he swears by it...I've always been Dillon, it has quirks also - all presses do. Lee is fine.... Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

[@georgescarlett2320]

I'm thinkin' that the 'Rock Chucker' needs "CHUCKUN"????

[@SargesAdventures]

Have you tried the newer Lee Deluxe Perfect Powder Measure yet?

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

Sarge's Adventures - No, but I have the one before that one - the Classic - but it was a dog - leaked powder like mad and was not accurate...also too expensive - the LDPPM is their reintroduction of the same after some tweaking and corrections...hope it works as it promised... Best to ya, FC

[@rapidrrobert4333]

Tighten until the thread strips, then back it off half a turn.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+RapidRrobert -- I know it bothers many, but that part doesn't strip that easy if we are just mindful of that...(but I'm going to order extra drums for good reasons). Happy Holidays, to ya FC

[@rapidrrobert4333]

+FortuneCookie45LC Happy days to you too FC, I love your videos, all information, NO BS. By the way, I found an 8# Unique, and an 8# red Dot, this sets me up pretty well for a while, but with things the way they are, if I see more (Bullseye, where are you?) I'll buy it. There is irrational fear in the air and people are buying guns and shooting supplies like crazy. Crazy is the operative word by the way.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+RapidRrobert -- Thanks for your post and congrats on your powder scores. They are making our favorite powders 24x7 and can't keep up with the demand. I know those 8 pounders are out there somewhere...glad you got a hold of some of it. I'm in the Greater Bay Area of Northern California, but we have a very hard time buying powder and moving it around the country with all the hazmat and stuff. It really looks like powder will be loosening up a bit probably in the first part of 2016 - Let's hope.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

RapidRrobert - Great news for reloaders that IMR has new powders they call Green, Red, Target and the cost is nice and low...Precision Reloading has them all and also has Alliant Promo which is Red Dot in generic form and less cost. Thought I'd let you know about those even though a year has gone by... Best to ya, FC

[@GunFunZS]

I still prefer the CFE 223, but this makes Varget an the IMR range less annoying to work with.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+GunFun ZS -- and CFE pistol is a good powder also. I need to check Precision Reloading, but I've spent my stash on shooting stuff for the rest of the year. Gotta build it back up again...Have a fine Holiday Season... FC

[@GunFunZS]

I've been wanting to get a bargain on that. I've heard enough good things about it that I expect to eventually do a bulk buy and migrate away from Bullseye.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+GunFun ZS -- Bullseye was the old standby for PPC and NRA Bullseye shooting. Now, with the demand for lower smoke, powders like CFE Pistol are moving in to pick up the sector share...Good shootin' to ya, FC

[@GunFunZS]

FortuneCookie45LC Smoke is less of a concern vs how touchy bullseye can be about small fluctuations in charge volume.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+GunFun ZS -- We used to complain about getting vertical stringing with Bullseye in wadcutter 38 loads. Going to Unique helped that. TiteGroup powder also another good option along with 231. I'm almost certain that you have found this to be the case in your travels around the reloading galaxy. Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

[@jabixl]

Another Great Video F.C 45 !!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+ja bixl -- Appreciate the comment and thanks to you for taking the time to post - Have a great day, FC

[@spraynpray]

Only 80 grains? Dang, man. I was gonna get one.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+spraynpray -- ;) :) ;) No, we won't be able to load 50 BMG with that measure unless we are doing reduced loads...Happy Holidays, FC

[@spraynpray]

I'm dropping 104.6 or 105.6 in my 338. I'm using spherical powders because stick powders are a PITA.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+spraynpray -- I won't be able to use that measure for the 375 H&H either. But that's OK, 5.56 and 308 are good to go... Happy Holidays, FC

[@martinennor5551]

+FortuneCookie45LC cut it in half and do 2 drops....as always test and weigh to see if it would work

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+martin ennor -- That would surely work, and I could definitely weigh those as necessary - if the throws are spot on, we would only have to weigh every 10th, if not, we'll have to do the old meter to pan and trickle up method ... But my three ADs have been nicely accurate in throwing charges. Best to ya, FC

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

Only 70 years? :-)

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+JunkfoodZombie - 70 years ago was when Bruce Hodgdon really made surplus extruded stick powder propellants available to the American sportsman. When the Lee Perfect Powder Measure came along, it was the only one that could measure those powders without the gaffs and hangups. But the flimsy construction was hard to accept. Now we have the best of the Perfect Measure coupled with better materials and new innovations added to give us winners in the handling of powders.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

+FortuneCookie45LC I understand that they try to keep costs down by using pot metal, but it would be nice if they made a steel version as well for those that want a sturdier model. Happy holidays to you as well.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+JunkfoodZombie -- Lee did that - (they do tend to be one step ahead of us when they aren't one step behind us) - the other new measure they have out is their Classic Powder Measure - it has a machined cast iron chassis with the same technology that the Auto Drum has so that it is perhaps the perfect powder measure that the misnamed plastic Perfect Powder Measure could never be. More on this when I get one of those.... FC

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

+FortuneCookie45LC Sweet. Can't wait to see it! Make me a video! 😄

[@gman77gas]

I would think Lee would need to install / epoxy in a metal threaded insert in the drum. But I guess they stand behind their products.....so we will see.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gman77gas -- The drums are cheap enough that if we strip one, we can just pop in another. Also, I'm almost certain that we can send worn out drums back to Lee for replacement. Best to ya, FC Happy Holidays

[@omnidj]

+gman77gas - The thread is never really under any stress. As long as you start the thread properly and don't cross thread it, I think it will operate flawlessly. I don't think there's any real chance of stripping. If you were to tighten the screw enough to strip it, it would be way past the point where the drum binds and won't move

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gman77gas -- Been taking those drums in and out, so far, the music is sweet... Best to ya, Gary!!

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+gman77gas -- The nylon takes that screw tightening OK. We have to really want to strip it to do so...I haven't come close to stripping one of those drums yet. We'll have to see now that I have a board to organize - I'll have pre-set drums - if I use one a lot, we'll see how the thread holds up... Best to ya, FC

[@hf140952]

Powder measure Lee is brand new. The RCBS is old and tatty.What about the Lee in 20 years. My powder measure is a Redding that Ihave bought in 1980, loaded something like 150 000 cartridges and right now functions like it was new.Regarding quality, I had my money worth.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+hf140952 -- My trusty RCBS Uniflow may be old, but it works just fine - It never was able to meter the stick powders like 4831. The trouble it had was not a surprise - What was a surprise was how easily the new Lee did - like it was metering ball powder.... My RCBS is still as good as it was when it was new - I've used it often and regularly for flake and ball powders without problems, but the new Lee is more accurate. You and I both got our money's worth out of our respective PMs. I've always wanted a Redding measure - just never got around to getting one... Best Regards, :FC

[@hf140952]

+FortuneCookie45LC I have to admit the quality of the PM Lee, because my Redding scrapes a little with some powders but it makes it anyway.

[@philliprubin8962]

If you want to drop charges, ball powder is the only way to go...

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

+phillip rubin -- That is for sure..!! Part of the reason the military back in the late 60s early 70s went to ball powder (main reason was ball powder was easier, quicker, safer to manufacture). We like ball powder. But for big cases, we like fluffier powder rather than the compressed ball types. It is therefore important that our powder measure be able to throw good charges of the other types of powder. Have a great day... FC

[@teucer4]

Averaging is not useful here. This application requires extreme spread and standard deviation notation for safety.

[@nicovj100]

No go with IMR 4198 in a Lee Auto Drum

[@papawx3]

One thing that bugs me about Lee products is their liberal use {some say OVER use} of cheap plastic in the construction of their items. I'm not at all impressed by that. You mentioned the RCBS powder measure that you own has given you 35 years of faithful service. How long do you expect that cheap plastic measure to last? I guess it depends on how often you use it, but if you use it as often as you used the RCBS, you MIGHT get 5-10 years out of it before something breaks, splits or cracks. Then you can pitch it into the trash can where it belongs. Not to worry though, your RCBS measure will still be there, ready to provide you with many more years of faithful service.

[@FortuneCookie45LC]

papawx3 - It's like my Lee bullet molds - when one wears out or breaks, I just replace it...and the cost versus production results allows that to be acceptable even equalized over time...The iron molds last and last, but the bullets look the same and shoot the same... It's all OK to go either way... plus the low cost allows new shooters, reloader or casters to get into the activity without bigger outlay of cash. Best to ya for a fine 2017..!! FC

[@ralphdouglas1001]

How much does the RCBS measure cost?

[@ralphdouglas1001]

How much does the RCBS powder measure cost?

[@josephhenrich7784]

Your rcbs Mount is so flimsy it can’t possibly shear extruded powder.

[@MrHeuvaladao]

Please, say "mmkaaaay"