Extruded powders through powder measurer

[bmf1321]

I know extruded powders are known to clog or be inconsistent out of powder measures but I was wondering if anyone had experience with a certain measurer or had a tip or technique to kind of ease the pain. I am getting tired of measuring each load and would like to be able to throw consistent accurate charges without worrys and with less measuring. I am currently using a RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure.

[308Nut]

To battle the inconsistency, most guys use a standard throw and set them a bit low. Then they fill the scale and add the rest via a trickler set up right next to the scale. If it clogs during the throw, a good tap or two typically will free it up.

[DesertBull]

I'm very new to reloading, but I find it much better to just spoon the powder into the scale pan until the scale barely moves then and trickle up. I can see if you were loading more than 20 rounds, the powder measure would be better though.

[bmf1321]

That is what I have been doing. I am just looking to eliminate the scale every throw step if possible.

[bmf1321]

I typically load 50-100 rounds of ammo at a time unless I am developing a new one.

[youngbuck]

I use the method 308 described with the trickler on my LR rifles. I generly dont load up more than 20rds a time though. I want to be sure the charge is as acurate as I can make it. I go through a lot of time developing a load with a low ES so the few extra seconds is worth it for me with the trickler and scale every throw. On my 243 and 223 WSSM, I check every 3-5 throws. I use Varget powder in those and it seems to meter consistantly. I don't really load any pistol stuff. I've only used a RCBS powder thrower. Maybe some of the dillon users or guys that shoot ARs a lot will have some more experience.

[PRDATR]

I've loaded lots of 7-08 with IMR 4064 using that powder measure and never had a problem with clogging even once. Just get into a rythm and move the handle firmly on the up and down strokes.

[Mike S]

I usually drop the charge a little short and use a trickler like .308nut mentioned. If you do want to use the measure alone try to keep a good rhythm. You can also "feel" when a lot of kernels are being cut on an individual powder drop.When that happens, dump that charge back into the measure's hopper.

 

As soon as a charge appears to have completely flowed into the case, slightly raise and tap the measure handle back down once or twice (just be consistent). This helps free any jams and settles the next charge in the measures chamber, set up the measure using the same tapping method for proper weight.

 

With my RCBS measure I like to use the small chamber instead of the large one. It is smaller in diameter and seems to be more consistent due to less shearing area across powder at the chamber entrance when operating.

 

Some stick powders just meter better than others, the shorter the sticks the better.