At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Midsouth — Varget, H4350, N133, LT32 Other Powders
⏺ Hard-to-find premium powders IN STOCK at good prices
Wow, the unobtainable powders are FINALLY back in stock. But act soon. Midsouth has ultra-popular Hodgdon, Vihtavuori, Accurate, and Ramshot powders in stock. Hodgdon Varget, Hodgdon H4350, and Hodgdon H4831sc 1-pounders are all IN-Stock at $45.43 per pound. Short-range PPC shooters can get Vihtavurori N133 in both 1-lb ($43.89) and 8-lb containers ($293.48), along with many other VV powders. And short-range 30BR score shooters will find Accurate LT-30 and LT-32 in stock in both 1-lb ($44.19) and 8-lb jugs ($336.14). Also Natchez has Varget 8-pounders for just $327.49.
2. Palmetto SA — AR15 Lower with Buttstock, $129.99
⏺ Exceptionally good price for complete AR Lower
Here is an awesome AR bargain. Just add an upper and you have a Modern Sporting Rifle ready for gun games, varminting, or defensive chores. Right now you can save $170.00 on the price of a complete PSA Stealth AR-15 lower. The $129.99 Sale Price includes lower, FDE adjustable buttstock, buffer, plus installed trigger and magazine controls. Plus you get FREE Shipping to boot! Act soon — this New Year’s Sale deal won’t last long.
3. Sportsman’s WH — Save on Trijicon & Crimson Trace Optics
⏺ Significant savings on great FFP and SFP optics
Trijicon and Crimson Trace both make excellent optics with good glass and precise, repeatable controls. Right now you can save big on medium-magnification zoom optics that will work well for PRS/NRL, hunters, and varminters. You can save $200 or more right now. CLICK HERE to see all the Trijicon and Crimson Trace scopes on sale.
4. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Priming Tool, $59.99
⏺ Precise Depth Control, 12 Shell Holders, Quick-Change, Carry Case
Seating primers to a consistent depth helps deliver enhanced accuracy and low ES/SD. However, most priming systems don’t allow precise depth control. If you’re looking for a priming tool that allows you to adjust primer seating depth, check out the Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer. This tool comes in a protective case along with a full set of case holders and primer flip tray. A quick thumb release system allows you to switch from small to large primers quickly. Get this now for $59.99 on Amazon.
5. Locked-N-Loaded — SAR USA Mete 9mm w/ Red Dot, $329.99
⏺ Amazing deal on modern 9mm pistol with installed Red Dot
Here’s a great deal on a versatile 9mm handgun for self-defense and/or action pistol matches. The SAR USA Mete 9mm with Riton Red Dot is ON SALE now for just $329.99 at Locked-N-Loaded. Yes that low price includes the Red Dot sight! These optics-equipped SAR USA Mete pistols are offered with Safari Tan frame. Great bargain for just $329.99. There is a OD Green frame version also, but it could sell out fast.
6. Precision Reloading — Hornady Auto Charge Pro, $299.99
⏺ Good performance with convenient raised control panel
Every handloader needs a good, automated powder dispenser. The new-generation Hornady Auto Charge has many good features, including a smaller footprint, and adjustable trickle rates. This way you can customize the dispensing speed to your choice of powder. Having the control panel on top of the scale/dispenser is also handy. Precision Reloading’s $299.99 price is a very good deal — the same Hornady Auto Charge Pro currently sells for $359.99 at MidwayUSA.
7. Midsouth — Lyman Tac-Mat Shooting Mat, $56.31
⏺ Thick padded mat offers better comfort
Comfort counts when you’re on the ground for hours. We like this Lyman Tac-Mat 71″ x 36″ shooting mat. It has more padding than most mats on the market, providing better comfort. This is a good deal. This same Lyman shooting mat is $81.24 on Amazon.
8. Amazon — KUBEI USB Rechargeable Digital Scale, $24.99
⏺ Compact scale with USB-rechargeable battery at great price
Everyone can use an inexpensive, compact scale for loading at the range or sorting bullets or maybe even primers. One very affordable option KUBEI USB Rechargeable Digital Scale. Unlike most other inexpensive digital scales, this comes with a large dust cover with a “window” for your powder pan. Notably, this scale can be conveniently recharged with a standard USB cable — no batteries to replace ever! We have heard positive reports from Forum members about this $24.99 portable scale, which offers 9 types of weight units, calibration weight, and fold-down protective lid.
When traveling by air with a handgun, the pistol must be in a case with a TSA-recognized lock. The Snapsafe Treklite XL Lock Box fits that role perfectly. It will hold two compact pistols or one larger pistol with magazing (which must be UNLOADED). Made with a strong polycarbonate case, This lightweight (2.2 lb) lock box is one-third the weight of a steel box. Right now the Treklite XL FDE Lock Box is just $29.99 at Midsouth, 25% OFF the regular price.
10. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $10.99
⏺ Great value — works with both 1″ and 30mm rings
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. Price is $10.99 — a great value. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. User reviews have been very positive, with 85% four- or five-star Amazon ratings.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Palmetto State Armory — Savage A22 .22 LR, $249.99
⏺ Great Price on versatile self-Loader for plinking or NRL22
Looking for an affordable, versatile .22 LR rifle for NRL22 rimfire matches, varminting, and fun shooting? The Savage A22, now just $249.99 on sale, is a great value. The A22 features a strong steel receiver, chromed bolt, 10-round rotary magazine, and adjustable Savage AccuTrigger. The A22’s rotary magazine offers fast cycling, while the delayed blowback action is safe and reliable. For gun games where speed counts, we like semi-autos — follow-up shots are way faster than a bolt-action.
2. Midsouth — Frontier .223 Rem 55gr HP Ammo, $12.99/20
⏺ Yes, finally — .223 Rem ammo IN STOCK at a reasonable price!
Looking for good .223 Rem ammunition without breaking the bank? Midsouth has Frontier .223 Remington 55 Grain Hollow Point ammo in stock at just $12.99 per box of 20 rounds. Quality .223 Rem ammo at $0.65 per round is about the best deal you’ll find these days. So grab some now before it’s all gone. Verified buyers say this ammo is dependable.
3.Graf & Sons — Magnetospeed Sporter Chronograph, $170.99
⏺ Great Deal on efficient, reliable, easy-to-use Chronograph
Priced at just $170.99, the Magnetospeed Sporter Chronograph model costs less than half as much as Magnetospeed’s V3 models. This chronograph attaches directly to your barrel so you don’t have to go downrange to set up sky-screens or tripods. For most people the Sporter Model contains all the features they need. Using Magnetospeed’s XFR adapter (sold separately), data can be transferred easily to your mobile device. Check out this Magnetospeed Sporter Review to learn more.
⏺ No FFP scope can rival this 6-24X Athlon anywhere near this price
Looking to get into PRS or need an affordable FFP scope? Check out this Athlon Argos BTR 6-24X50mm riflescope. Now deeply discounted, this versatile optic features a wide 6-24X magnification range — just about perfect for PRS (or varmint hunting). Controls are precise and glass is surprisingly good. The Argos BTR’s advanced ATMR reticle features a 2 MOA center cross and 2 MOA hashmarks to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift. This scope has a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, meaning the reticle hashmarks stay constant relative to the viewed target as you zoom in or out.
5. Creedmoor Sports — Radians Safety Product Sale
⏺ All Radians products now discounted 10-15%
Protecting your vision and hearing is vital. Every shooter needs good eye and ear protection. If you’re looking to upgrade your current safety gear, check out the Radians Safety Equipment Sale over at Creedmoor Sports. You can find everything from earmuffs to custom fit earplugs to ANSI Z87.1-certified safety glasses, all on sale. Head over to Creedmoor Sports this week for 10-15% savings on quality eye and ear protection.
6. Amazon — Lyman Brass Smith Xpress, $119.99
⏺ Efficient, well-designed power trimmer that indexes off shoulder
Trimming brass is critical to precision reloading. However, with most case trimmers it’s a pain to adjust trim length, plus the hand-cranking becomes tiresome. A better, more efficient case trimming solution is offered by the Lyman Brass Smith Case Trim Xpress. We like this case trimmer for good reason. The smart design allows for .001″ trim length adjustments with the click of a dial. The tool ships with 10 bushings that cover the most popular neck sizes on the market. To see a video of the Case Trim Xpress in action, check out our Lyman Case Trim Xpress Review.
7. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Kilo1000 Laser Range Finder, $129.99
⏺ Insanely low price on good Laser Rangefinder for hunters
Get a quality Laser Rangefinder at an insanely low price. Right now the SIG Sauer Kilo1000 Laser Range Finder is just $129.99 on sale at EuroOptic. This unit is probably all a hunter needs for most ranging chores. SIG says it is good to 1200 yards on reflective targets, 800 yards on trees and 600 yard on animals such as deer. The handy Kilo1000 LRG is compact and easy to carry. Note: EuroOptic also has BDX model SIG Sauer LRFs on sale. These BDX units communicate via bluetooth with your Ballistics App. The SIG Kilo 1000 with BDX is $199.99. If you want more performance, EuroOptic also has longer-range-rated SIG Laser Rangefinders for a bit more money. For example the 2200-yard-rated Sig2200 BDX is $319.99 on sale, a $180.00 savings.
8. Amazon — Brifit Digital Mini Scale, $16.99
⏺ Good, very compact scale for component sorting, many positive reviews
Handloaders can benefit from having a speedy, compact digital scale for basic tasks. Use this as a supplement to your ChargeMaster or premium, full-size scale. The very affordable Brifit Digital Mini Scale is great for sorting duties — weighing bullets, brass, primers and other items. This handy Brifit pocket scale measures up to 200 grams, with stated precision of 0.01 grams. With the push of a button, you can switch between grams, ounces, or grains instantly. This $16.99 Brifit scale ships with a 50 gram calibration weight. The unit boasts a nice LCD Backlit Display and “Auto Off” feature that saves battery life.
9. Amazon — Meralian Range Bag and Pistol Tote, $26.99
⏺ Great Value for Range Bag that holds multiple pistols, muffs, and mags
Here’s a well-designed, functional range bag at a good price — just $26.99. The Meralian tactical pistol range bag is great for hauling handguns. With a 13″ x 7″ x 9″ main compartment, there’s plenty of room for your pistols, ammo, and safety gear such as muffs and eye protection. Under an outer zip panel are six dedicated pouches for magazines. This range bag is currently available in four colors. You may want to select a bright color so your bag stands out at the range.
10. Amazon — Feyachi AR Brass Shell Catcher, $11.99
⏺ Many great features — holds its shape, easy to empty
Shooting AR-platform rifles can be fun but they can eject spent cases a considerable distance. Nobody likes to chase down the fired brass tossed out by these semi-auto rifles.
An easy fix for brass-chasing chores is the Feyachi Brass Shell Catcher. This attaches to the side of your AR and capture all your ejected cases. This new version features a strong 45-deg upper wire frame so the entire unit sticks out further and holds its shape better. There is also an updated Velcro attachment plus reinforced mesh that retains large amounts of brass. With these design enhancements, this is a smart choice AR brass-catcher. This unit also boasts a zipper at the bottom for quick and easy brass removal.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
⏺ Modern cast-iron press at great price with FREE die set
For many reloading tasks, it’s tough to beat a solid, quality single-stage press and RCBS continues to make some of the best. If you need a reloading press, check out the RCBS Rebel Press. NOTE: On this new-design Rebel Press, spent primers exit through the bottom of the ram. That’s very convenient.
Right now this press is on sale at Midsouth, for $209.99 — that’s $20 off. And with the purchase of a Rebel press you get a FREE SET OF DIES making this a fantastic deal. NOTE: Free Dies offer ends 12/31/2020.
2. Grafs.com — Peterson Brass, Big Savings with 500ct Bulk Packs
⏺ Peterson brass is excellent; many cartridge types available
Peterson has emerged as a high-quality cartridge brass-maker. For Peterson brass fans, here is a great deal. Grafs.com has a big selection of Peterson bulk brass. The volume option lets you buy many popular brass types in batches of 200-500. This is a great way to pick up very high-quality brass at major savings.
3. Grafs.com — BOG Tripods & Accessories Sale
⏺ BOG makes quality gear favored by serious hunters
BOG Bipods, Tripods and Accessories are well-made, and very popular with hunters and varminters. BOG offers a diverse product line that is great for shooters in the field. You’ll find everything from field sticks to tripod mounts helping hunters get the most out of their hunts. The tripods are very versatile because the legs extend almost horizontal so you can shoot from prone. We like the long-reach cradle-head bipods for shooting from kneeling, or when shooting downhill.
4. Various Dealers — Lapua .284 Winchester Brass Pre-Order
⏺ At last — .284 Win Lapua Brass, ideal for F-Open
F-Class shooters have been awaiting Lapua-made .284 Winchester brass for years. Now it’s finally coming. While delivery is expected in March of 2021, you may soon be able to pre-order your Lapua .284 Winchester Brass from Creedmoor Sports, Grafs.com or Brownells. By pre-ordering when possible, you’ll ensure you get your .284 Win cases as soon as they ship in 2021.
There are many compact, concealed carry handguns available but Ruger makes some of the best pistols for the money. The Ruger LCP Viridian Laser .380 Auto is no exception. This .380 ACP Ruger LCP features a 6+1 capacity, built-in laser, a slim form factor and a hammerless design it makes for a great carry pistol at a price that’s hard to beat
6. MidwayUSA — Range Gear Sale, Save 20% to 30%
⏺ Great mat for the money, and range bags are good values
Want to upgrade your shooting mat or range bag for next season? Then check out the MidwayUSA Range Gear Sale. This week quality shooting mats, bags, rifle cases, pistol cases and other gear are all on sale. Stock up now and be ready for those matches next year.
7. Palmetto State Armory — Rossi RS22 .22 LR Rifle, $119.99
⏺ Just $119.99 — Great first rifle for a young shooter
Looking for a “first rifle” that is affordable yet fun and reliable? Here is one of the very best deals on a .22 LR rifle you can find. Right now at Palmetto State Armory, you can purchase the handy, self-loading Rossi RS22 for just $119.99. User reviews are good — watch the video above. And if you want a little more punch for varmint duties the .22 WMR Rossi RS22 is $249.99, still a good value. NOTE: In many states a person must be at least 18 years old to own a rifle (and in some cases 21 years). Check laws in your jurisdiction. NOTE: The Rossi RS22 on sale has a matte black stock.
8. EuroOptic — Sig Sauer ROMEO5 Red Dot Optic, $149.99
⏺ Highly rated quality Red Dot $50 Savings
Shotguns, defensive ARs, 3-Gun rigs, and pistols can all use a quality red dot sight. If you’ve been looking for a good Red Dot, check out the Sig Sauer ROMEO5 Compact Red Dot Sight. This offers excellent performance at an affordable price that’s now $50 off. It features 40,000-hour runtime on one battery and has a 2 MOA dot for easy target acquisition without covering it completely.
9. Amazon — MAXUS Dante Milligram Scale, $15.99
⏺ Great price for nice hunting rifle; many calibers, coated action + barrel
Having a good utility scale around can be useful for so many reasons including weighing bullets, primers, and even powder. Everyone should have a small battery scale for loading at the range or sorting bullets by weight. Right now you can get a decent digital scale for a mere $15.99. Despite the low price, this MAXUS Dante Milligram Scale has earned good owner reviews. The scale reads up to 771 grains and comes with batteries, check weight, and powder pan.
10. Amazon — Drymate Gun Cleaning Pad, $9.99
⏺ Great price for nice hunting rifle; many calibers, coated action + barrel
There’s nothing worse than working on your guns and spilling solvent on your bench, or having costly, small part roll onto the floor. Avoid those annoying issues with the Drymate Gun Cleaning Pad. This absorbent pad caomes in various sizes starting at only $9.99. The pad is soft enough to keep parts in place when you put them down so the don’t roll off. The pad can also protect the finish of your firearms.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Amazon — Sig Kilo 1250 Rangefinder, $179.99
Hunting season is coming soon. That means going through your gear check-list before you head to deer country. If you don’t have a quality, compact Laser Rangefinder, here’s a great deal. The 6x20mm SIG Kilo 1250 Camo Rangefinder is now on sale for under $180.00. This is a very accurate LRF, that ranges deer-sized targets at long distances quickly. The scan mode is very fast (4X per second) and this offers both line of sight (LOS) or angle modified range (AMR). The unit is compact and light — a bonus for hunters. There are more expensive Laser Rangefinder that can range farther, but this $179.99 Kilo 1250 will definitely do the job on a hunting trip for one-third the price. NOTE: Check multiple Amazon vendors for current free shipping offers.
2. MidwayUSA — Norma Match-22 Ammo, 1500 Rounds, $99.99
This Norma Match-22 ammunition is good stuff. In many rifles it shoots as well as $8/box products from other makers. But now you can get Match-22 for the equivalent of $3.33 per 50-round box when you buy 30 boxes. MidwayUSA is selling 1500 rounds of Match-22 (three 500-round cases) plus an ammo can for just $99.99. That works out to just 6.7 cents per round. If you don’t need that much .22 LR ammo, you can also buy 500 rounds for $39.99. We think you’ll be happy with this Norma Match-22 ammo. It is a good choice for tactical cross-training, rimfire silhouette, and fun shooting. This Editor just ordered a 1500-round can.
3. Bruno Shooters Supply Sale — Save on Optics, Bullets, Brass Etc.
Bruno Shooters Supply is running a major Spring Sale. Lapua brass, powder, Berger bullets, Sierra bullets, rimfire ammo, optics, chronographs — all this and more is on sale at Bruno’s right now. But you have to act quickly. This storewide sale ends April 2, 2018 at 11:59 pm. You snooze, you loose. NOTE: You don’t need a special discount code — the sale prices are already shown online. No Back-orders with special sale pricing. As part of the Spring Sale, Bruno’s is also offering free shipping on Krieger barrels, Jewell triggers, and LabRadar chronographs.
4. Brownells — Howa 1500 Barreled Actions, Starting at $259.99
Howa makes excellent, smooth-running actions, and the Howa HACT 2-stage trigger is WAY better than most domestic factory triggers. Right now you can save big bucks on Howa 1500 barreled actions, complete with HACT trigger and trigger-guard, starting at $259.99. Both regular actions and Mini Actions are offered. Available chamberings include 6.5 Grendel, 6.5 Creedmoor (back-ordered), 7.62×39, .308 Winchester, and .300 Win Mag. Some of these barreled actions come with a rugged Cerakote finish, while others have a blued finish. You can also get FREE Shipping with Code MDV during checkout. But note, this item requires delivery to an FFL-holder.
5. CDNN Sports– Walther Creed 9mm Pistol, $269.99
The Walther Creed offers excellent ergonomics, good accuracy, and well-designed controls at a killer price — $269.99 at CDNN Sports. This gun, designed to be a value-leader, emulates Walther’s more expensive PPQ model (MSRP $649.00) at a much lower price. The Creed’s frame size and shape is the same as the PPQ, but the Creed lacks interchangeable backstraps. Slide and trigger are very similar. The Creed features a snag-free bobbed hammer. Testers have praised the new Creed, saying that, despite the bargain price, it “sacrifices little to nothing in… ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability.”
6. FosPower 10200 mAh Waterproof Charger, $25.99
When you’re at the range or on a hunt, it’s smart to have a USB-output battery pack for smart phone, target-cam monitor, even a LabRadar. There are many battery packs available, but most are fairly fragile, with exposed ports. This “ruggedized” FosPower 10200 mAh charger is different. It is waterproof, dust-proof, and shock-proof. (IP67 certified: dust and water resistance for up to 3ft/1m for 30 minutes under water.) It can handle all that a PRS competitor or hunter can dish out. It even has a handy LED light. Right now it’s priced at $25.99 with FREE Shipping (on orders over $25.00).
7. Grafs.com — Lyman Pro-Touch Digital Scale, $44.99 (42% Off)
We like this little Lyman Pro-Touch scale for the price — $44.99. No this compact digital scale won’t compete with a $700 Force Restoration balance that can measure a half-kernel. But this little Lyman is good enough for range loading, and for other tasks, such as sorting bullets and brass by weight. Graf’s $44.99 price is a genuine bargain. Lyman says the scale has “accuracy to 1/10th grain with anti-drift technology”. It can run with supplied AC adapter or three AAA batteries. This very same scale sells for $79.59 right now on Amazon. You can save over 40% by buying from Grafs.com this week.
8. Amazon — Jialitte Scope Bubble Level, $12.49
All serious rifle shooters need a scope level. This nicely designed Jialitte Scope Bubble Level features a 30mm milled inside diameter, plus an inner insert ring so it will also fit 1″-diameter main tubes — that dual-diameter versatility is a nice feature. We also like the way the unit is nicely radiused, and has a low profile in the middle. Price is just $12.59 with free shipping. User reviews have been very positive. You could easily pay $35.00 or more for a 30mm scope level. Purchasers have praised this product — nearly all verified buyers rated this five stars.
These Six-inch “splatter” targets display a bright yellow ring around each bullet hole. We like these adhesive Glow Shot targets for practice at 300-600 yards. The neon yellow on black provides high contrast so you can easily see 6mm bullet impacts at 600 yards. The 6″-diameter is one-MOA at 600 yards — a good aiming center size. Priced at just $14.99 for a sixty-count package, these are a good value compared to the larger Birchwood Casey Splatter Targets. Note: This Glow Shot target is also available in a Red Circle version, and Tri-Color version (red, yellow, and green).
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The RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 electronic powder scale and dispenser is the most popular product of its kind on the market. In our original Electronic Powder Dispenser Comparison Test, the ChargeMaster normally dispensed most kinds of powder faster than competitive units from Lyman and PACT. However, after the initial release of the ChargeMaster 1500, RCBS “tweaked” the software a bit to achieve more consistent charge-throws. This slowed down the process somewhat. Some owners have wanted to speed up their ChargeMaster. This IS possible with a relatively simple reprogramming. Most of the internal parameters of the Chargemaster can be modified, under guidance from the tech staff at RCBS.
Gunsmith and Forum member NAT Lambeth reports: “I thought My RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 Combo was fast enough. But I still called RCBS and asked for the programing changes to see if I could speed it up. It was a lot easier than I thought. My 1500 Combo was taking from 15-30 seconds to dispense the powder to the tenth of a grain. I reprogrammed the numbers and now it takes between 7 and 15 seconds to dispense to a tenth. This effectively doubled my loading speed. I only changed the HSB_A1, HSB_B1, and BSP_C1 settings.”
Key ChargeMaster Parameters with Default Settings
HSB_A1 (15.68) Grains under target weight to go from full to high speed
HSB_B1 (3.42) Grains under target weight to go from high to slow speed
BSP_C1 (1.08) Grains under target weight to go from slow to final trickle speed
Nat cautions that you should talk to a RCBS tech before attempting to re-program your ChargeMaster: “You will benefit from talking to the RCBS tech. I have now gone back and played with the numbers a couple of times. (The numbers given to me by the tech at RCBS were still a little conservative.) I think each machine may have its own likes and dislikes. If you get too aggresive with lowering your numbers it will over-throw your intended load.”
Source for ALL the Parameters
There is an extensive discussion of RCBS ChargeMaster programming on the South Africa Hunting Rifle Shooting Assn. (SAJSV) Forum. In this SAJSV Forum ARTICLE, Jaco Brink lists virtually all the programming codes. Importantly, Jaco also provides the default values for various parameters. This is very important, because the ChargeMaster does not have a “return to default” option. Once you change any value, if you want to return to the original value you must enter it manually.
Jaco cautions: “I have to advise you to only make changes to your scale if you are confident to do so, and remember that there is not a ‘return to default’ setting in the scale. If all else fails return your scale to the default settings [I have listed].”
Use a McDonald’s Straw to Reduce “Over-Throws”
Jaco Brink provided another useful tip to avoid “over-throws” (excess charge weight): “The RCBS employee advised me to take a McDonnell’s straw (because it is thicker than a normal straw), cut off about a half inch piece and put it into the tube where the powder exits. This caused the last part of an extruded powder to clutter less, and reduced the amount of overthrows dramatically.”
Hey folks, here’s a very good deal if you want a combo electronic powder dispenser/scale. The Hornady Lock-N-Load AutoCharge typically retails for around $240 (currently it’s $229.99 at Cabelas and $249.99 at MidwayUSA). Right now, ManVentureOutpost.com has the AutoCharge for just $186.01 (plus shipping). That’s over $50 off typical retail. NOTE: You MUST use Coupon Code SPR2012 during checkout to get that $186.01 price. Act quickly — supplies are limited at that price.
3/5/2012 UPDATE — ManVentureOutpost.com Sold Out of this item, which is now back-ordered. ManVenture is still (apparently) honoring the $186.01 price (with SPR2012 Coupon Code).
Hornady AutoCharge Is Much Less Expensive than RCBS ChargeMaster
That price for the Hornady unit is about $155.00 less than typical pricing for the RCBS Chargemaster (Sinclair sells the Chargemaster for $340.99 plus shipping). For most tasks the Hornady performs quite well. However, RCBS ChargeMaster fans will be quick to note that there has been more accumulated knowledge on tweaking the RCBS machine. But if you want a bargain, consider the “red option” — the Hornady AutoCharge.
This Youtube video shows the Hornady Lock-N-Load AutoCharge in action.
If you want to learn more about the Hornady AutoCharge, there is a detailed review in Shooting.com.au, a popular Aussie gun forum. This product review features actual test results along with lots of sharp, jumbo-sized photos. Here is the summary of the reviewer’s test results: “Weighing [20 charges of a stick powder] on a Redding beam scale (the only other scale I have) showed that 12 were spot on and the remainder we fairly equally split between 0.1 grain under and 0.1 grain over according to this scale. I consider this to be more than adequate for me.”
Electronic scales, even expensive lab-grade units, can be influenced by a wide variety of electronic “emissions”. We’ve seen Chargemasters being affected by cordless telephones and older CRT computer monitors. When stray emissions interfere with digital scales, you can get erractic readings, or the scales can drift with time. The smart thing to do, of course, is to physically isolate your digital scale from the sources of interference — keep them away from computer equipment and wireless base units. If you still have problems with drift or unstable read-outs, thankfully there are some inexpensive accessories that can restore your scale’s reliability. Reader Scott G. found a ferrous (magnetic) filter that attaches to the cord of his digital scale. This inexpensive filter cured his scale’s tendency to drift.
Scott explains: “I had an issue with a drifting zero on my PACT, which made it unusable. It was happening at my house, but not at other locations, such as my office. The fix for my issue was a ferrous noise filter on the scale’s power supply cord. It is basically a hinged barrel-shaped plastic tube that contains two magnets. Near the scale end of the cord, lay the cord into the slot, wrap it back through, then close the filter around the cord. Before installing the ferrous filters, my scale would drift off as much as 2.9 grains, which was being caused by some type of electronic ‘noise’ in the environment. The PACT is absolutely stable now.”
Finding and Installing Magnetic Noise Filters
Scott tells us: “You’ll see a lot of these type filters on the cords for computer acessories. You may have to experiment to find one that works for you. Some have different magnets that have different filtering abilities. My filter cost about $3.00. I purchased it at Randolph and Rice Industrial Electronics in Nashville, TN, item #SF.065.” You should also be able to find these kind of filters at Fry’s, Radio Shack, or other electronics supply stores.
While some magnetic filters require the power cord to run straight through, other designs allow you to loop the cord once around the filter (see photos). Looping the cord actually enhances the performance of the filter. You can also get improved filtration of electronic interference by putting a magnetic ‘noise’ filter on BOTH ends of your scale’s power cord.
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Many reloaders are now using precision digital scales that can measure down to a single kernel of powder. These scales, such as the Denver Instrument MXX-123, are remarkable measuring systems, but you can’t expect them to perform optimally with inconsistent electrical output from a wall socket. We’ve seen the line voltage in some houses vary from 95 to 160 volts. That kind of fluctuation can damage sensitive electronics. A line conditioner can help you get the most from your digital scales and electronic powder dispensers. The line conditioner takes the “juice” from the outlet and actively corrects the voltage to provide a constant 120 volts AC to your machines.
Forum member Danny Reever explains: “We have talked before about the need for surge protection and line conditioning for sensitive electronic equipment like scales and powder dispensers. However the price of said equipment is perhaps a turn-off for a lot of guys.”
Thanks to Danny, now our readers can afford a heavy-duty, high-performance line conditioner/surge protector. Reever has found a quality line conditioner from APC, a well-known manufacturer, at a bargain price — Just $99.99. The APC H10, 1000VA unit is rated for 1000 Watts (continuous). The APC device automatically steps up low voltage and steps down high voltage to levels that are suitable for your equipment. The APC H10 also provides noise filtering and industrial-grade surge protection. Selling elsewhere for $275.00, the APC H10 1000VA is now available for just $99.99 from Tiger Direct.
Danny tells us: “This is a real deal for 4900 joules surge protection. The unit weighs a hefty 16.1 pounds and measures 17″ wide X 9.5″ deep. I received mine yesterday and all I can say is $99.99 buys you one nice piece of equipment. It’s built like a tank for worry free and better component performance.”
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Folks have been asking us where they can obtain the RCBS Chargemaster 1500 Combo (both scale and dispenser) at the best price. We’ve done some searching and the lowest price we found was at Natchez Shooters Supply: $289.95. The unit is listed “in stock” as of today.
Two new, very small and light reloading scales have recently been introduced. These are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. While not as precise as a bench-top unit, they can deliver read-outs to within 0.2 grains. These ultra-compact scales should prove very useful for any shooter that needs to load at the range. Additionally, they are affordable enough to be used as a back-up to a larger electronic or balance beam scale.
We knew readers would want to learn about these brand new products. However, both these scales are so NEW that we haven’t yet been able to comparison-test them with a laboratory scale to confirm the claimed levels of weighing precision and see if there are any calibration or “drift” issues. Stay tuned for future test reports.
MTM Mini Reloading Scale — $30 The new DS-1200 weighs up to 1200 grains. MTM claims accuracy (resolution) to plus or minus 0.1 (one-tenth) grain. You can switch measurements among grains, grams, ounces and carats .The unit features a high-impact, plastic sensor cover that doubles as a large powder pan. The DS-1200 comes with a calibration weight, two (2) CR2032 Batteries, and a foam lined storage/travel case. Up to 1200 grain capacity with To save battery power, the large, backlit display shuts off automatically after 3 minutes. Here are sources for this bargain-priced new scale:
Acculab Pocket Pro Mini Scale — $112
Sartorius, makers of the popular Acculab-123 scale and its Denver Instrument clone, the MXX-123, has introduced a new, portable reloading scale that is truly pocket-sized. The compact model PP-62 will work as a portable scale or a back-up for a benchscale. It measures 3.5″ long, 3″ wide, and just 7/8″ thick.
The Pocket Pro can handle a maximum weight of 1000 grains. Acculab claims resolution down to 0.1 (one-tenth) GRAM, which provides readability to 0.20 GRAINS. We like the fact that the unit runs on a single, easy-to-purchase AA battery. Battery life is up to 20 hours, if you turn off the back lighting on the LCD display. A sliding cover also protects the weighing mechanism during transport. The PP-62 offers easy one-button calibration with the supplied check weight.
Sinclair Int’l sells the new Acculab PP-62, for $111.50 (Item 10-6200). This includes battery, weighing pan, and 50 gram calibration weight.
CONSUMER ALERT: On the web you’ll find other versions of the Acculab Pocket-Pro® Scales, priced at $45-$60.00. These are the PP-201 (photo above) and PP-401. Though these scales appear identical to the PP-62 (Sinclair item 10-6200), they are NOT the SAME. The cheaper PP-201 and PP-401 are only rated to one-TENTH of a GRAM. The PP-62 is RATED to one-HUNDRETH of a GRAM — that gives you an 0.2 GRAIN precision.
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Shooting AR-platform rifles can be fun but they can eject spent cases a considerable distance. Nobody likes to chase down the fired brass tossed out by these semi-auto rifles.
The RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 electronic powder scale and dispenser is the most popular product of its kind on the market. In our original 
Source for ALL the Parameters
Electronic scales, even expensive lab-grade units, can be influenced by a wide variety of electronic “emissions”. We’ve seen Chargemasters being affected by cordless telephones and older CRT computer monitors. When stray emissions interfere with digital scales, you can get erractic readings, or the scales can drift with time. The smart thing to do, of course, is to physically isolate your digital scale from the sources of interference — keep them away from computer equipment and wireless base units. If you still have problems with drift or unstable read-outs, thankfully there are some inexpensive accessories that can restore your scale’s reliability. Reader Scott G. found a ferrous (magnetic) filter that attaches to the cord of his digital scale. This inexpensive filter cured his scale’s tendency to drift.
Two new, very small and light reloading scales have recently been introduced. These are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. While not as precise as a bench-top unit, they can deliver read-outs to within 0.2 grains. These ultra-compact scales should prove very useful for any shooter that needs to load at the range. Additionally, they are affordable enough to be used as a back-up to a larger electronic or balance beam scale.
The new DS-1200 weighs up to 1200 grains. MTM claims accuracy (resolution) to plus or minus 0.1 (one-tenth) grain. You can switch measurements among grains, grams, ounces and carats .The unit features a high-impact, plastic sensor cover that doubles as a large powder pan. The DS-1200 comes with a calibration weight, two (2) CR2032 Batteries, and a foam lined storage/travel case. Up to 1200 grain capacity with To save battery power, the large, backlit display shuts off automatically after 3 minutes. Here are sources for this bargain-priced new scale:
