Powder Measure on a Redding T7 Turret... why no thanks

[@wemcal]

Great video and great information… thanks for sticking by your method. Everyone has their way of loading. I too like to inspect each round.. thanks for the upload

[@echosreloadingchamber7306]

I use and have used a Lee 4 hole classic turret press for over three years now. I have tried using a Lee drum powder measure on the Press to make it somewhat a semi Progressive. I noticed Because the actual turret itself moves it causes compression of the powder overtime and does not throw accurate amounts of powder from case to case. A progressive press moves the shell plate instead of the turret. This allows the powder measure to sit static and not be jostled around, causing powder compression. I have also used stand-alone powder measures to dispense powder with no problem. Just something to think about if you're thinking of putting a powder measure on your turret press. Echo

[@RealMrSmit]

I have a classic turret with the auto drum powder measure and it throws ballpowder extremely accurate for my 223 and 357. However I can’t get it to work with extruded powders.

[@jctexan8160]

Another great video. Attention to detail can’t be a bad thing.

[@Mkarver]

Thanks for taking the time to conduct this experiment. I had my eyes on a Lee turret press, but you saved me some grief. I’ll just wait longer to save up for a progressive.

[@alanfujinami7354]

Thanks for this lesson on powder dropping and how the different vibrations affect the powder drop. This was enlightening!

[@davespin9034]

This was an excellent presentation. Thank you. May put my powder measure on the stand above my turret. I did not know about compressing affecting my powder. I learn something every day 👍 Thank you

[@martinkolar3595]

Good job. I load with T7. Charge cases as you due to same concerns. Thanks for your time and proof positive.

[@bajadrifter]

Great video! I have been operating a Lee Precision Classic Turret press for fifteen years. I have used all three of Lee's onboard powder measuring/dispensing systems with excellent results. The three systems are 1)Pro Auto-Disc with an adjustable change bar, 2) Pro Auto-Disc with the double-disc kit, and 3) Auto-Drum. In my experience, the added vibration of a turret press helps the consistent dispensing of powder. Ultimately, the tradeoff of powder charge variation for productivity gain is your decision. I use my turret press for range ammo where we shoot 400 rounds per visit. I have a single-stage press for my precision 223 Rem, 6mm ARC, and 308 Win. Sometimes I enjoy taking the time to get everything perfect at times. Other times, I am ok with plus or minus 0.2 grains and .004 COL.

[@77thNYSV]

Thanks for your research and data. I'm a long time shooter (ex-Army) but brand new reloader. Because so many people have been getting into reloading in my area and dies and presses are so hard to get, I've just been buying stuff as I find them and then researching afterwards (erring on the side of buying something and seeing if it's what I want after the fact and if not, I can just return it for my money back). So far I have a Lyman Brass Smith All American 8 station turret press and I lucked out and got Hornady 10mm auto and 9mm luger dies (hard to find in my area, but somehow I did). And I've been trying to decide how I want to do my powder, and due to your video I'm going to have an independent scale to weight it out rather than putting it on my press. Thanks!

[@garrytalley8009]

If you single stage your powder drops you will be fine. One does not need to use a turret press like a progressive. I have a Dillon 550 progressive and I don't even use it full cycle progressive. I do have the Lyman All American 8 station like yourself and do have a powder measure on it as well as a bullet puller and universal repriming die. I also have stations that I can single stage any other caliber I do not have set up on my Dillon. This video more or less let you know that if you use a powder measure running a turret press you may encounter a large variance in powder drops. I will tell you that if you use it in single stage mode it will not. No big deal. In fact in some instances you may be able to do the job in less time doing it single stage. You still leave your dies set up. Lets get real It is harder on your press even when you are moving it from station to station for each and every cartridge. I found this video both informative as well as amusing seeing he did not tell anyone if you single staged the process it would be as accurate as just using it separately on a stand on the bench. I will be single staging on my Lyman American 8 when I use it anyway. You don't save a bit of time having to rotate the turret for all the operations than you do if you single stage each one. In fact you will be less apt to make a mistake in cycling that can happen doing it in a progressive fashion. That is the blunt truth of it. I have been reloading for well over 30 years.

[@jamesmiller360]

Thanks for the test. I've always used my powder measure on a stand. Enjoyed the video

[@jcampbell003]

You're totally right. The powder measure need to be on a stand.

[@montanaplease]

Thanks you just completely talked me out of buying a turret press. I am selling my Dillon XL 650 that I’ve used since 2004 because I’m tired of all the inconsistencies and reliable issues with it. I’m just gonna buy five $100 individual single stage presses with the rolling chair and do it that way.

[@ThecrazyScotsman]

I am the same way I always thought it being on there would affect the drop of the charge a stable bench and stand is best

[@sethtaplin8292]

i dont think it's meant to be used as a progressive in this configuration. i think it would be okay to put it on the turret because one simply just doesn't have anymore desk space. no need to use it as a progressive. just load the powder in all your cases then turn the press and move on

[@wyattreese2078]

Thank you for this info. I'm new to reloading and I will not make the mistake of having a powder measure on a turret press. Earned a sub.

[@JayHutchG]

I know this vid is 2 years old, but I still want to thank you for taking the time to do this test squatch. This confirms what I've always thought, but had only my gut instinct. No facts. I started reloading to make rounds for tight necked 6mm BR REM which is no longer factory made. It's a full blown bench rest action and bull barrel in a sporter stock. (looks like a hunting rifle but with full on bench rest accuracy) Anyway, creating those rounds was complex. Neck turning to .268 chamber, critical length & sizing and specific charge weight that complimented accuracy capability of this rifle. Such as hitting a peanut butter jar of tannerite at 250 yards ;-) Since I weigh every throw of the powder drop, it made no sense to put my Redding BR powder measure on my turret. Plus it's a pain in the arse putting it on the turret. Must remove all the dies, etc. You know. Well creating all those critical precision BR rounds made me want to be just as precise with my other stuff. Loading .223/5.56 rounds and the pistol calibers don't require benchrest precision, but it doesn't hurt to have better than factory precision ammo. I have the time, and rarely do more than 50+ rounds at a sitting. So the habit of weighing every powder drop is just part of my routine, as well as trimming & measuring every round for case length and OAL. Then testing every round in a Wilson case length gauge. I enjoy the process, so it's not a hassle. Thanks for proving my gut feeling correct squatch!

[@SquatchReloaded]

Thanks

[@davidblue435]

I have a Lee Classic press and use the RCBS Uniflow on stand. Never used Lee Powder measure on my turret. Your data should be an eye opener for those concerned about over charged cartridges or inaccurate loads. To each their own I just like the RCBS Uniflow Powder measure. Blowing up a gun or yourself is each re-loader's responsibility. I know we all have budgets and preferences, but in the end safety comes first. Thanks for a very informative video.

[@andrewsteele7663]

I agree with you on the cadence with the powder thrower, it has driven me to madness over the years, and as we have extruded powders from ADI AKA Thales for rifles calibers. You get such variances , that I have gone to an electronic delivery system that has let me keep my remaining hair, cheers

[@tymz-r-achangin]

Love your videos, man. Started following you directions soon after I bought my Redding T-7 press. Concerning the powder measure on it, and yes I know your video is a comparison of using the powder measure in a stand-alone process versus using it on the press in more of a 'progressive' style process, but when reloading the ammo in a more efficient manner of running all the cases through by only doing one step of the reloading process until moving to the next step, there isnt all of the horizontal and vertical ram motion which you said is the culprit to getting inaccurate charges. I reload my 223 rounds using the powder measure mounted to my T-7 press, I deprime and resize all cases in one sequence. Then I prep all of the cases primer pockets. Then reprime all of them. I then charge all of them in one sequence and so there is no switching the turret back n forth nor all of the extra vertical ram motion. From there I seat all of the bullets, and then finish all of them with the crimp. I use Winchester 748 and I never have any trouble with getting off of the acceptable charge weight. Nice thing for me is that I dont have to buy a stand for powder measure or have it taking up more space on my reloading bench

[@bustabass9025]

Exactly Dude! Same way I run my Lyman AA8. All that twisting on a turret completing one case at a time, would be a pain in the ass.👍🏿

[@tymz-r-achangin]

I think that i'm safe to say great minds think alike ;o) Yep definitely more of a pain in the a$$ doing each reload at a time

[@Heavy-C]

Your .1 grain variance is exactly what I get on my RCBC powder measure. I did 100 charges to get that. It is very consistent and exactly why I choose to use it in the stand.

[@Jonnydeerhunter]

Thanks for sharing. I will be getting one of the Arms that holds the measurer above the press and just putting a funnel for powder on the head.

[@lesliemiller5980]

I load with 2 single stage presses side by side. One to size and prime and one set up with a powder thru charging die. Sometimes with the auto drum and sometimes with manual drop. I can size, prime, flare and drop, then fill my loading trays with the prepped cases and inspect. Quite a fast process. I change my dies to seat on one and factory crimp on the other and just go! No need for a turret or a powder stand setup.

[@jaybailleaux630]

I use a Load Master progressive with the case feeder and auto index to size and flare pistol cases. Hand prime with Lee hand primer. Use loading blocks and hand charge with a Lyman 55 powder measure. Stick bullets by hand in the flared pistol cases. Go back to the Lee Load Master . Seat bullets using Hornady bullets seater and crimp with Lee factory crimp. I will not prime and charge cases with powder on a progressive press for control and safety reasons. Full length case sizing , case neck flaring (even rifle cases) , bullet seating and crimping all can be done on turret and progressive presses without problems. I use Lee turret classic press or single stage press for full length resizing rifle cases because it flexes much less to get consistent shoulder bump.

[@johnmurphy2642]

Exactly spot on. I have a Redding T7. Love it. I have been using the Lee Powder Drum setup. It is all over the map. This video explains it better than I could have. Thank you for doing this. I have a Redding Powder Measure that is on Backorder with Brownells. I may call Redding and see which of the two powder measures 3R or Comp. 10X is the way to go with pistol. Thx. -John, San Jose,CA

[@galamonkey]

Definitely a bigger variation than I expected.

[@johnwilliams40]

I use the lee drum powder measure on my Lee Turret press for 9mm and .40 s and w and 45 a.c.p. and have had no issues.I m annul about checking my cases for powder and I check my charges to make sure their not over max. There isn't enough deviation to be worried about. I understand your logic but don't consider it much of an issue to worry about because I'm always aware and checking my charges anyway. I don't reload in a fast paced frenzy but take my time at an enjoyable pace.

[@DragonRandy1]

Good information helped me to learn the function dynamics between a Turret and Progressive,8 one pet peeve and that is the Raccoon shadow over your eyes caused by the Hat, to correct this using a diffuse spotlight or soft lightbox in front of you below the horizon of your hat brim will remove most of the shadow, the key is a balance between the bright lights above and behind you, using a forward light or a forward soft lightbox will also illuminate the overall scene and help reduce the glare behind you making the video easer to view.

[@robertverschueren9136]

thank you for your resurch and the results. Your are absolutely right. When you want to reload progressive, buy a progressive press. A turret press is not design for a powder measure. To much vibration when you move the turret. (for my resurch on the net for a turret press, i saw on youtube a video from the lymann 8 turret with powder measure on it and tought directly....that is not how i'm gonne do it!! To much vibrations!) I also want to visual check (and recheck) the powder inside the shell. It is like you say, we are all humans and make (sometime) mistakes. I reload untill today everything on a single press (Lymann) and gonna buy now a turret press (8 turret from Lymann) so that i can adjust 8 dies in the turret without removing them. The powder measure, i still stay on my digital scale powder measure machine (and visual check shell after shell....) 😀 Again, thank you for sharing your results and opinion. keep it safe on the reloading table (and the range). Greetings from Europe-Belgium Bob

[@davespin9034]

I use a Lee Auto Drum on my Lee Classic Turret, Lee 6000, and will be using it on for my new Hornaday Lock-N-Load AP which I'm very excited about. I added a RCBS powder checker which works very well for .223. The MOST my powder throw is off is about 2/10s high or low, for instance for 25 grains I may be 25.2 or 24.8 and that is max. For a visual I really like the RCBS powder checker. In my Turret my dies are resize, powder, powder check, bullet seat. I crimp on a 2nd operation. For .308 I use a funnel and don't use the powder checker, and trickle to perfect. One tip I can pass on, with .223 on my Lee 6000 the indicator rod which slides up and down sometimes touches the case and raises much higher than the white O-Ring. Being that there is a cone to guide the case, and the sliding rod hangs below it this can happen. So I am adding another O-Ring (black) to hold the rod up a little so it is above the cone. That should guide the case better and avoid the false overfill appearance. Don't know why RCBS didn't think of this

[@joesalas7761]

Hey Squatch, great video! I had your same thoughts on this subject. Even though I still haven’t started reloading because there are NO PRIMERS in NW Georgia. Hopefully this will change soon and I won’t have any excuses to not buy the equipment I will need! Have seen a number of your videos and appreciate your work doing them! Thanks.

[@timstanley3307]

I have used a lee drum measure and have never had a problem with powder trows on my turret. They are always very consistent. I have done for over 5 years with many different powders Ramshot, H110 2400 even Tite group power pistol the only powders that seem to be some what of a problem that I used is 4227 and unique I like a hand powder measure for these Lyman brass smith or Lee perfect powder measure and trickle up

[@xlasvegan7x]

Good to know..I will be using my T7 with a powder measure for .45 and 9mm. If I load rifle I will definitely take your advice and do the charging as a stand alone operation.

[@TartanJack]

Excellent. Like another poster I use a Lee 4 hole Classic Press with a Lee Auto Drum powder measure. It's a totally different animal to what you're talking about, but I have to note that using Titegroup targeting 3.3 grains I get a spread of .3 grains in the course of 50 rounds (3.2-3.4). I know that because I weigh every charge. Call me crazy. All that said, when it comes to true turrets like the T7, I'm totally with you.

[@projectedclarity1256]

Totally agree. Though I often use turrets in a single stage setup, I have had my best results when my dropper is isolated. RCBS has their power measure on the turret in their video, Lol. Gotta love it.

[@muthaflaco75]

I agree with and have seen this myself. I use the Lee 4 hole with the auto disk. I tried a powder baffle. I ran 223 with a charge of 25gr H335. If the press got jostled in any way, I was looking at a charge of 25.2-25.5 for that case and I had to dump it back. Just got a chargemaster lite, moving powder charge offline.

[@randlecarr3257]

Good experiment! Thanks

[@surfnblues729]

I use a Lee powder measure on my t7 with good results I check every 10 rounds or so using a scale, it seems to be very consistent it never varies more than .1 grain I also use a powder check for. but I don’t see a reason not to bench mount it either other than it involves more steps , charging them putting in tray than moving them to turret press. Also I think the added vibration helps condense the powder in the hopper.

[@garrytalley8009]

Personally, I use an auto measure for most everything now. One thing you do not think about is to use the powder measure on the turret just like you do the one on the bench in a single stage mode. It just stays mounted on the turret press. I have a Dillon 550 that I do multiple stages on but not all of them. I single stage size, I also single stage prime all my cases, charge my cases single stage and seat bullets and crimp in the Dillon 550. I am getting a turret press to use my universal de-capping die, collet bullet puller and size brass from time to time. One can get creative with all the tools. I do use the Dillon with a Dillon powder measure with ball powder and some of my magnum rifle calibers where the powder meters well enough. I do mostly use an auto measure most of the time though.

[@almiraabsin7809]

Agree 100% keep the powder measure off the T-7.

[@tomcooke6670]

Luke eric cortina says. When you reload befocesed even turn off your phone. I think I agree with this and I dont always agree with Eric

[@piker6410]

Well done. Enjoy watching your channel.

[@briansupermag3918]

Personally I don't see how you got flack for this in the first place. Well done video supporting your case

[@WvMnts]

Thanks for sharing. Great data

[@ranger5309]

I know this is an older video, but have you tried the RCBS baffle for the powder measure? I believe that would have a better result.

[@CHAOSMOVEMENT]

I entirely agree. I think a turret press is meant for die setup efficiency above all.

[@BrucePotter]

do you have a baffle in the powder hopper? to reduce compaction and improve free flow of powder.

[@isaiahfurrow7414]

Thank you for this video... I have some single stage stuff that I use for a few rifles as well as 9mm and .40... I have been looking into getting something to set up specifically for loading 9mm... but I think I will still deprive and clean cases in batches, andnuse the hand primer tool after trimming and such... then use the press for loading and finishing those batches of prepped cases... just can't afford a progressive and don't plan to do THAT much more shooting... I like the relaxation and precision working with this stuff. Do you think that a simple turrett would be OK for that purpose, if I were to still do one stage at a time in batches, rotate the turrett, do the next stage, fill them all as a batch... then seat all projectiles, then crimp all of them? I was kinda thinking a turret would just help as I could have all the dies set up for that cartridge and not be swapping them, a powder measure specifically set for that one load, etc...? Then keep doing the low volume rifles and such on single stage as I have previously. Looking at that as one way, or possibly Hornady Lock and Load or Dillon progressive at some point down the road... I don't need to load tens of thousands a year, but will have a half dozen or so of my extended family training a bit with 9mm soon and would like to be able to do a couple hundred a session (1-3 hrs) so we could shoot like once a month or so... Was looking at possibly a Lee turret press(not a kit) , and deciding which powder measure to use... have Hornady dies and typically reload XTP into spent Federal cases, but might look into also some bulk projectiles for practicing... Any suggestions would be most appreciated. For now we will just be collecting brass while I research and try to source some ammo and components...

[@Supertrack238]

I was planning to place a powder measure on my T-7 because I don't have that much bench space. I was NOT planning to use it as a progressive. So I think in my case, it would be fine.

[@garymalchow6996]

level of powder can also make a difference in the powder measure.

[@woodworker1946]

I agree . It introduces variation and is clunky and slow on a T 7

[@davecundiff3663]

Great video, thanks for testing. seems valid.

[@darcy1234100]

I’m thinking the type of measure you use will make a difference. Some fill the chamber while the handle is down and lifting it dumps the charge. In that case the chamber has time to settle while performing the other steps. Some, Lee perfect powder measure for example, and maybe some others fill the chamber when the handle is raised. Therefore the powder is not filling the chamber and being moved through every other step in the process. Just a thought. Not saying it should or shouldn’t be done but it may make a difference

[@michaelfunk5951]

I agree with your assessment.

[@diyreloading]

Awesome info man, exactly what I was looking for. It's too bad that we can't accurately run a turret like a "diet progressive" because I'm in a weird middle spot where I wouldn't really benefit from full progressive with the fairly small amount of target AR ammo I load. For my precision stuff, I still like loading on my Co-Ax. Looks like a Dillon will still be in my sights for the future after all.

[@SquatchReloaded]

Perhaps the Lee Turret press would fit the bill for you?

[@diyreloading]

@@SquatchReloaded It probably would! I was looking into the Classic Turret. Do you think a powder measure would have as much deviation on the Lee? Its auto index looks pretty smooth. Having near dead on consistency for the AR isn't quite as important to me.

[@myanaloglife9450]

Squatch I assume your a big guy, name. I’m not 5’6 reason I ask is I’m in the market for a press and have been looking at base I noticed that online you have is around 1ft of the table. I’m thinking i might be ok with out one or the short one around 4inch I like the idea of easy on off on the bench along with the stability it looks like it adds? If you don’t mind you thoughts?

[@SquatchReloaded]

All depends if you want to stand or sit. I setup so when I lower the handle my hand is at it lowest point without me bending over. So bench height and riser combo varies from person to person but that how I set up

[@timstanley3307]

They powder measure needs to be adjusted when it's in the turret and cadence is important . I always adjust the measure for how it's being used be it in a turret or stand

[@MrFxwizard14]

I agree absolutely no powder measure on a turret. If you really want that buy a progressive. I normally reload all my rifle round on my Redding T-7 .

[@x-calibearusallc]

I have 3 turret presses and use the same powder measure on all of them. Both case activated and not. I don’t use these presses for precision cartridges. Plinking ammunition only. A Rock Chucker, Co-Ax and occasionally an arbor press for seating only are available for those duties. Check my KZbin channel to see.

[@jameshill5304]

I'm curious if it's the same results as when using a RCBS linkage on the powder throw. I've been looking at making a few upgrades because I just can't find any extra Lyman ST-6 turrets. Yea I know it's an old press but it's been a solid press. I do use the RCBS throw as well. It's time consuming especially on PCC but I know I'm accurate each and every cartridge made.

[@SquatchReloaded]

Honestly the accuracy aspect is pretty small in reality. Based off your reference to the ST6 I am assuming you got some experience reloading. Thanks for watching.

[@bustabass9025]

Nuthin' wrong with installing a powder measure on a turret press. I have the Lyman 8 station press and the Lee Powder Drum Powder measure. I don't try to use it like a progressive, because that's not it's intended use. I use it as a multifaceted single stage operation. For me that means completing all steps in handloading a prepared case, in each separate operation, not twisting the turret each time for each single case loaded to completion. In that purposing, it works fine. I would argue that not only the charging function, but none of them, sizing, decapping, seating, etc., should be carried out the same way they are on a progressive. I've been a handloader for over thirty years. I think it's pretty obvious how each style of press works to its level of optimal performance; from single stage to commercial factory ammunition production.

[@SquatchReloaded]

In your scenario basically using the turret as a powder measure stand would be a non issue as long as it’s stationary and used in that manner. The issue comes when it’s used in a multiple step operation causing the side to side movement.

[@danielgodismyjudge]

Yo!!!! 🤔 hmmm. A smart remark... I'll let you know when I think of one..mmm ok 👌

[@richg7952]

Why don’t you adjust your powder drop for being on a turret??? Check 10 or so charges on your turret, to Compensate for the vibration and powder packing in the drum. Then run your test again. I bet you would see different results. JS!

[@anamerican481]

Food for thought 🤔

[@frenchaccent540]

Great topic! What is the variation in powder weight with your multistage reloaders?

[@SquatchReloaded]

0.1 grain

[@bensonmunyan4145]

Really liked the data-driven approach here. Question: Was the powder level in the powder measure refilled to the same level between stand and turret-mounted in the hopper? Secondly, do you use the plate within the hopper like RCBS includes? I'm wondering if either of those might affect the outcome of your results. Great video!

[@SquatchReloaded]

Yes baffle was in the powder measure and same powder measure on both trials.

[@D4nnypery]

Great video! From your impressions on this experiment (and experience) would you say that there would be reasons against using the turret-style press as a 'stand' while the powder measure is attached and dispensing? So if you did batches of measuring and dispensing where you were not indexing the turret position before measuring and dispensing again. I personally would like to use the turret as a stand, only for simplicity and space efficiency.

[@SquatchReloaded]

The big change was the horizontal side to side movements in my opinion. That should work.

[@D4nnypery]

@@SquatchReloaded Ok, I appreciate your feedback!

[@AlmiraAbsin]

Absolutely do not add powder drop on this T-7. Use a Hornady 95360 Lock-N-Load AP Powder Funnel Die instead. Work great and since every drop is precisely measured it is really better. A powder drop on the press tends to get in the way.

[@johnmurphy2642]

Just to clarify. My Lee is mounted on the T7

[@adambrown1353]

What if you use a progressive powder measure?

[@SquatchReloaded]

I put this out as an informational video. It boils down to what your comfortable with. Aside from the minimal variation you will see between charges the bigger issue is the potential for missing a charge. Again this is just my thoughts on the subject.

[@Shamokin69]

Did your powder measure have a baffle in it?

[@SquatchReloaded]

Yes

[@19K3A8]

Well Done

[@dustyfoster9272]

I believe him. I see 10 fingers.

[@404React_Media]

Could you do that same test on you frankford arsenal vs your hand powder measure.

[@SquatchReloaded]

I can tell you the FA Electronic Dispensor is in a different category. Really would be unfair unless I go out a couple decimal points.

[@404React_Media]

@@SquatchReloaded ok thanks, keep up the good work on your channel.

[@chris3383]

thats great info!!! ...some powders you can go from not cycling to blow your face off!!! good enough reason not to do that for me...

[@berserkmaniac]

0.4 for 26.2 it's 1.5% of variation do you think i'ts so important? 11:50 0.4 i'ts for 26.2 grain you cannot say that's the difference is the same for 4 grains (9mm reloading) and if i'ts true you have a big problem with your powder mesure. NB; My English is poor but i hope you understand what i wrote

[@nationalmatch1]

I think I'm going to sell my T7 and get a Dillon.

[@rockybaker4693]

I'd be interested in it!!

[@davidschneider7677]

Buy you a Lyman then.