Author Topic: Best powder for metering? (Read 548 times)

Will52100 · « **on:** March 28, 2005, 03:10:35 PM »

I don't load much smokless, but when I do I'd like to be able to use the Lee powder measure that came with my press and not have to weigh every single round.

I like Unique powder, but it's a flake type and I have to wiegh every charge to keep it within a couple tenths.

I only reload smokless in 38 long colt and 45long colt and at cowboy loads at that.

Would an extruded or ball powder meter better?

Thanks

Glanceblamm · « **Reply #1 on:** March 28, 2005, 04:59:36 PM »

I am not familure with the Lee powder measure but do have success metering Unique through my Lyman #55 measure.
This three slide unit allows me to keep the larger bottom chamber completely closed and use the middle & top chambers to create a long shallow trough that works well with Unique & Blue dot.

safari · « **Reply #2 on:** March 28, 2005, 09:26:08 PM »

A ball powder will meter best in the Lee measure. Try Hogdon HP38, Win 231, AA#2 or #5. They are all ball powders and will meter quite fine in the Lee measure. HP38/231 (the same powder) and AA#2 are quicker powders, and will use a smaller charge. AA#5 is closer to the speed of your Unique, and will fill up more case volume.

Will52100 · « **Reply #3 on:** March 30, 2005, 06:05:38 PM »

Thanks Safari, AA#5 sounds like what I'm looking for. The Unique meters pretty close, close enough that for pistol ranges it realy doesn't make much differance, but I like to right on if posible.