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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
Anyone here using the Lee auto disk powder measure?

I have one that i was reviewing the data on and have a question.

Loading 9mm with Unique and the chart that comes with it shouws that the .57 disk should be approximated 5.2 grains, but upon measuring the throw, the scale (lee scale) indicated 4.4 grains.

When i use the .61, should be around 5.6 but scale shows the throw at 4.8.

ive zered the scale many times so i'm confident in its accuracy, and realize the data fr the disk Lee provides are approximates, but does everyone else experience such a great variance?
 

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I use the double disk. You just have to experiment a little, but it is fairly consistent.
 

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Discussion Starter · #5 ·
Thanks, i just wanted to see if anyone else was running into that as well, which it seems so.

I'll do throws and take notes on the disks that seem to be where I want to be 5.2, 5.4, and 5.6 Unique to go with 124 gran Speer Gold Point HP
 

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I have 3 of the auto drums, So far they have been fast and easy to adjust and very accurate. I have many been using them during testing different powders. Now I have the one for 45 acp on the 450 instead of using the Dillon powder measure.
I would also suggest getting a better scale.
 
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I like the Dillon Eliminator beam scale. I also have RCBS digital and Charge master scale. With any scale you will want to get check weights. It's the only way you will know if your scale is reading right or not. I personally know of two beam scales that went bad.
A good digital scale like the Dillon also is good if you do a lot of like weighting bullets. Scales is one thing you do not want to go cheap on.
 

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Anyone here using the Lee auto disk powder measure?

I have one that i was reviewing the data on and have a question.

Loading 9mm with Unique and the chart that comes with it shouws that the .57 disk should be approximated 5.2 grains, but upon measuring the throw, the scale (lee scale) indicated 4.4 grains.

When i use the .61, should be around 5.6 but scale shows the throw at 4.8.

ive zered the scale many times so i'm confident in its accuracy, and realize the data fr the disk Lee provides are approximates, but does everyone else experience such a great variance?
The Lee data is very off with Unique, your scale is fine (at least with regard to what you are seeing). Many powders are just slightly under what the Lee chart shows for the cavity, some dead on (like W231/HP38) and one or two I loaded in the past, heavier than the chart said it would be for that cavity.

I used the auto disk with success for a lot of rounds, I preferred the round hopper over the square one (I think they call it the pro model). If you have this model (round hopper), make sure you screw down the Phillips screw that keeps it from closing on its own. I bumped my hopper once when it wasn't tightened and made a bunch of rounds that were under charged, stuck a bullet in the barrel, (very bad outcome, lots of pounding to get the jacketed bullet out of the barrel, then lots of pounding to pull the remaining bullets).

For a scale, I prefer a beam scale. Dillon sells a good one. I have an RCBS 1010, not sure they even make it any more, great scale. If you don't already have some, get a cheap set of RCBS check weights, always a good check.

Have fun.
 

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Weigh the charges for each cavity (within reason) and make up your own charts for the disks and each powder you acquire and post them on the wall next to your press. You'll find that you look at them quite frequently.
 

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I suggest the Frankfort scale. It comes with check weights, is digital, more convenient IMO and has the best ratings at Midway while still being affordable.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/3...ic-powder-scale-with-case-1500-grain-capacity




And I strongly suggest the Redding 3 Powder Measure with Universal Metering Chamber. No guestometer disks needed. It comes with a micrometer, just deal it in and be done. Accurate down to 0.1gr. extremely good reviews and made by a quality orientated company. I own 2 Redding powder measures. It's also on sale at Midway right now:

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/466608/redding-3-powder-measure-with-universal-metering-chamber


 

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Discussion Starter · #17 ·
Really appreciate everyone's input on this.

I am kind of on a budget so my thinking is rather than investing in drum and a new scale, i'm going to put into nice scale now with check weights, and then do as schrag4 mentions, weigh and create my own table for the auto disks.

Then, maybe next year get a drum or something nicer like that Redding 3 Powder Measure.

Need to get new gun belt and holster for my new G19, gotta spread funds :)
 

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Really appreciate everyone's input on this.

I am kind of on a budget so my thinking is rather than investing in drum and a new scale, i'm going to put into nice scale now with check weights, and then do as schrag4 mentions, weigh and create my own table for the auto disks.

Then, maybe next year get a drum or something nicer like that Redding 3 Powder Measure.

Need to get new gun belt and holster for my new G19, gotta spread funds :)
I think your plan is sound.

I will say, other than being fussy to use, the Lee scale works perfectly well from an accuracy standpoint for handgun loading. If you buy the check weights first and spend a little time checking and rechecking (which you will be doing if you build your own table of cavity/weights), you may find the Lee scale works well enough, at least for the first few years.

On the other hand, a reliable and easy to use scale (they call them balances when you are spending crockett kind of money) makes everything seem, well, so easy.
 

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Tell you what. PM your address and name and I will send you a very slightly used Lee Auto Drum. I have 3 and probably will never get around to load .30 cal carbine that I got it for.
 

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The drum is much nicer than the disk. Especially from an adjustability standpoint. I still use my disk though. I have holes sanded out and marked for specific loadings. It's reliable and accurate, just not easily adjustable. I'll second unclebob's recommendation on the Dillon Eliminator. Quality scale for only $75.
 
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