Do you own an RCBS electronic powder dispenser? If you do, take the time to watch this ChargeMaster Tuning video from 8541 Tactical. This nine-minute video demonstrates how to re-program your ChargeMaster to “tune” the dispensing process. The video shows the exact programming procedures to follow, step-by-step. Some folks want a faster powder flow — others tune their machines for a more reliable drop (with fewer over-runs). One cheap and popular modification is to insert a 1″-long section of a McDonald’s plastic straw in the ChargeMaster’s silver dispensing tube. This works surprisingly well to smooth kernel drop and prevent “clumping” that can cause an over-charge. The McDonald’s straw MOD is demonstrated in this video, starting at the 6:22 mark.
Large-Diameter Dispensing Tube Mod
Many folks have had success with the McDonald’s straw modification demonstrated in the above video. However, some folks would like to get even better flow performance (with virtually no clumping). Forum Member Frank B. has come up with a new option using a brass hose fitting with a large outside diameter. The hose fitting (with tape wrapped around the barbed nose section) is placed inside the RCBS dispensing tube (have some kind of wrap — you don’t want metal-on-metal). Here’s how the unit looks installed:
Frank tells us: “I have found a cure for the over-throw problem. It is a simple 1/4″ barbed hose nipple. I wrapped a couple layers of tape around the barbed end for a snug fit. With this in place, I have thrown 100+ charges of Varget without a single overthrow. The ID of the barbed end needs to be approximately 3/16″ to feed a steady flow. This works because of the larger ID at the drop.”
Frank adds: “You can see in the photo that the powder is not stacking up. You can watch it drop one grain at a time. Hope this will take the aggravation out of your case charging.” For best performance with this brass fitting MOD, we recommend de-burring and smoothing out the front edge of the brass fitting over which the kernels drop.
Brass fitting mod suggested by Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "Tips for Enhancing ChargeMaster Performance & Precision"
Do you own an older RCBS electronic powder dispenser? If you do, take the time to watch this ChargeMaster Tuning video from 8541 Tactical. This nine-minute video demonstrates how to re-program your older ChargeMaster to “tune” the dispensing process. The video shows the exact programming procedures to follow, step-by-step. Some folks want a faster powder flow — others tune their machines for a more reliable drop (with fewer over-runs). One cheap and popular modification is to insert a 1″-long section of a McDonald’s plastic straw in the ChargeMaster’s silver dispensing tube. This works surprisingly well to smooth kernel drop and prevent “clumping” that can cause an over-charge. The McDonald’s straw MOD is demonstrated in this video, starting at the 6:22 mark.
Large-Diameter Dispensing Tube Mod
Many folks have had success with the McDonald’s straw modification demonstrated in the above video. However, some folks would like to get even better flow performance (with virtually no clumping). Forum Member Frank B. has come up with a new option using a brass hose fitting with a large outside diameter. The hose fitting (with tape wrapped around the barbed nose section) is placed inside the RCBS dispensing tube (have some kind of wrap — you don’t want metal-on-metal). Here’s how the unit looks installed:
Frank tells us: “I have found a cure for the over-throw problem. It is a simple 1/4″ barbed hose nipple. I wrapped a couple layers of tape around the barbed end for a snug fit. With this in place, I have thrown 100+ charges of Varget without a single overthrow. The ID of the barbed end needs to be approximately 3/16″ to feed a steady flow. This works because of the larger ID at the drop.”
Frank adds: “You can see in the photo that the powder is not stacking up. You can watch it drop one grain at a time. Hope this will take the aggravation out of your case charging.” For best performance with this brass fitting MOD, we recommend de-burring and smoothing out the front edge of the brass fitting over which the kernels drop.
Brass fitting mod suggested by Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "How to Improve Performance of Older RCBS ChargeMaster"
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 — Electronic Powder Dispenser Sale
⏺ Save big on Powder Scale/Dispensers from Lyman, RCBS, Frankford Arsenal
Looking for a good powder dispenser? With the Midsouth Powder Dispenser/Scale Sale you can get significant savings on a large variety of powder dispensers. Choose among quality Lyman, RCBS, and Frankford Arsenal scale/dispensers — all with major discounts. All of these machines will help you load more efficiently and with excellent powder charge precision.
2. EuroOptic — Vortex Optics Sale
⏺ Huge savings on Popular Vortex Scopes and Optics
Need a scope for your latest rifle build? There are some great deals right now at the Vortex Optics Sale, with savings up to 60% off MSRP. There are SFP high-magnification scopes for competition, rugged FFP scopes for PRS/NRL, and lower power scopes for hunting rifles and ARs. For a home defense application, there is a Vortex SPARC Red Dot for just $109.99.
3. Brownells — Taurus Pistol Sale and $30 Rebate
⏺ Some of the best pistol deals of the year, plus $30 factory Rebate
How would you like an excellent, reliable 9mm pistol for under $300? Right now, at Brownells, you can get a variety of Taurus pistols for under $270 with rebate. In fact, you can get the TAURUS GS2 for under $200 after rebate! That’s a steal. With this Brownells sale, you’ll find great deals on the Taurus G-Series pistols such as the TAURUS G3 Tactical 9MM or the TAURUS GX4 T.O.R.O. 9MM Micro-Compact. You’ll find a wide selection of TAURUS pistols at very low prices PLUS you can get an additional $30 Mfg. Rebate. NOTE: Because of high Brownells Xmas site traffic, it may take 30 seconds to load the links.
4. Graf & Sons — Aguila Rimfire Ammo In Stock
⏺ Good, reliable .22 LR rimfire ammo for as little as 8 cents a round
If you’re looking for .22 LR ammo with great performance for the price check out Aguila .22 LR Ammo. Aguila rimfire ammo is reliable and works well for target shooting or plinking, in both rifles and pistols. Aguila offers a variety of options, including standard velocity, subsonic velocity (1024 fps), and high-velocity (1470 fps) types. The big attraction is the price — starting at just $3.79 per 50rd box. That works out to just 8 cents per round. Compare that to centerfire ammo that can cost over $1.00 per round.
⏺ Save $200 on great 25X spotter for match shooting
Kowa makes some of the finest spotting scopes on the market. For good reason, Kowas are used by many top competition shooters (including F-Class, Palma, and sling disciplines). Right now you can save $200 on the Kowa 82SV Spotting Scope with 25X LER Eyepiece. This $958.95 Creedmoor Combo includes a high quality, padded scope cover. The 25-power LER eyepiece allows you to maintain your shooting position, without needing to stretch over to see through your scope, making it ideal to read mirage between shots.
6. Amazon — Midland-EX37VP Radio Kit (Set of 2), $44.99
⏺ Quality Walkie-Talkies with good range and special Emergency functions
Having a good 2-way communication system is vital when hunting or wilderness hiking. And walkie-talkies really help during shooting practices when a buddy goes downrange to set targets. A good budget-priced walkie-talkie set is the Midland-EX37VP E+Ready Emergency Two-Way Radio Kit. These radios have a 26 mile range and feature 22 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan. With this kit you get E+Ready Emergency functionality, plus NOAA weather alerts. NOTE: This kit includes a compact flashlight, and compass with whistle and temp gauge.
⏺ Versatile 2-part shooting rest for pistols and hunting rifles
When sighting-in a hunting rifle or testing pistol loads, it’s really useful to have a basic rifle rest. The very affordable Caldwell Matrix Adjustable Rest (#ad) is specifically designed to work with both rifles and pistols. Use the front section by itself with a handgun, then attach the rear support for rifle shooting. An innovative spring-loaded elevation system allows for fast one handed, no wobble adjustment.
8. Amazon — Smith & Wesson Deluxe Range Bag, $63.74
⏺ Large capacity, nicely-made bag, now 15% off MSRP
A good range bag keeps your guns and gear protected from scratches and damage. The Smith & Wesson M&P Tactical Range Bag (#ad) has 8 pistol mag pouches, plus two 13.5″ x 9.5″ padded handgun cases. In addition this bag boasts two large external accessory pockets, plus two internal zippered side pockets. This bag even comes with a fitted, removable ammo bag to hold your spent cases.
9. Amazon — Adjustable 47.2″ Workbench, $141.99
⏺ Great addition to a reloading room — includes POWER OUTLETS
Having a stable work surface for reloading for firearm maintenance is critical for safe use but it can often be hard to find a table that fits your height whether sitting or standing. Get around those issues with this 47.2″ Adjustable Work Bench (#ad) that features an adjustable height from 27.5”-39.5”. And take note — this workbench comes equipped with built-in power outlets, allowing you to conveniently connect power tools, electronic devices, or chargers. You can easily customize the workbench’s height to achieve the optimal working posture, reducing fatigue during extended work sessions. NOTE: On the Amazon page is a orange “Coupon” icon below the product price. Click the Coupon box to save an extra $8.00. That lowers the price to $141.99, a very good deal.
10. Amazon — Rexbeti Digital Calipers, $25.99
⏺ Attractive price on digital read-out calipers in nice case
Digital calipers are easy to read and ensure you are measuring correctly so you stay safe when reloading. For just $25.99 you can get the stainless steel 6″ REXBETI Digital Calipers. This handy measuring tool features an LCD display that is readable even in sunlight and shows the measurements in inch and millimeters. These calipers will measure a 6″ max length.
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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.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
CYBER MONDAY Special — Hornady L-N-L Classic Press Reloading Kit With FREE Case Prep Duo
On sale now at Midsouth for just $299.99 ($100 off), the Lock-N-Load Classic Press Reloading Kit comes with everything you need for case prep and powder measuring. This kit features an electronic scale, powder trickler, funnel, hand-held priming tool, reloading block, and Hornady Reloading Handbook, 11th Edition. This kit also includes a FREE L-N-L Case Prep Duo, which sells for $55 by itself.
1. Natchez — Big Savings on Burris, Leupold, and Trijicon Scopes
⏺ End of year sale with major brand scopes at huge savings
If you’re in the market for any type of optic from a red dot to a thermal scope (for night hunting) check out the current Natchez Optics Sale. A variety of quality scopes from Burris, Leupold, Trijicon (and more) are offered at very attractive end-of-the-year prices. You can save up to $819 or 69%. In addition, for a limited time, you get FREE Shipping for orders $99.99+ with Code FS231123.
2. Palmetto SA — Taurus G2C 9mm Pistol, $229.99
⏺ With rebate get a good 9mm carry pistol for just $199.99
If you need a good, reliable carry pistol, but have a limited budget, consider the Taurus G2C 9mm pistol, on sale at Palmetto State Armory for just $229.99. The G2C features an accessory rail, adjustable rear sight, textured grip, and smooth edges for comfort. The double-stack magazine holds 12 rounds. NOTE: This G2X pistol qualifies for the $30 Taurus Rebate right now. That lowers your net price to just $199.99 — a steal.
3. Midsouth — Hodgdon and Vihtavuori Powders in Stock
⏺ Ultra-popular Hodgdon and VV powders now available at good prices
Many super-popular Hodgdon and Vihtavuori (“VV”) powders are in stock right now at Midsouth. That’s right, you can order Hodgdon Varget, H4350, and H4831SC right now for $50.99/lb (or $43.62/lb for 8-lb H4350, H4831sc). And other Hodgdon powders are available starting at $36.99/lb. Plus many popular Vihtavuori powders are in stock at Midsouth including VV N133, N150, N310, N550, N560 and more.
4. EuroOptic — Meopta Optika Scope Sale
⏺ Save up to 37% on Meopta Optika riflescopes
Meopta makes excellent scopes with extremely high-quality glass. The larger Meopta scopes offer impressive 6 times zoom range (e.g. 3-18X and 5-30X). If you want a high-end scope at a moderate price, check out the Meopta Optika Sale at EuroOptic. Right now you can save up to 37% on Meopta scopes, including the FFP Optika6 5-30x56mm ED DichroTech, now discounted a whopping $450.00!
5. Graf’s — Mark 7 Autodrive Sale
⏺ Great advanced power accessory for big Dillon Progressives
Do you own a Dillon progressive press and want to load bulk ammo faster and easier? Check out the Mark 7 Autodrive sale at Grafs.com. Designed for Dillon 650/750 or 1050/1100 series presses, these Mark 7 Autodrives power the press cycles. That lets you produce more quality ammo in less time. The efficient Autodrives will reduce hand and muscle fatigue.
6. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer, $49.99
⏺ Great solution for drying brass after wet-tumbling
If you wet-tumble brass, you must ensure that the brass is dry inside and out before loading. You should never ever put primers and/or powder in damp brass. An excellent, efficient drying solution is the Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer, now just $49.99 on Amazon. Vented trays provide excellent airflow and the heavy-duty, 500-watt heating unit can dry a full load of brass in under an hour.
7. Amazon — Lock-N-Load Comparator Kit, $34.00
⏺ Good tool works with most popular bullet diameters
For best accuracy and optimal ES/SD, you must seat bullets precisely. With the Hornady Lock-N-Load Comparator Kit you can quickly yet precisely measure seating depth. This kit comes with seven (7) different comparator inserts for bullet diameters: .224, .243, .257, .264, .277, .284 and .308. With the comparator attached to your calipers, this system measures from the bullet ogive to the base of the loaded round with great precision. You can use this tool to confirm various seating depths when doing accuracy testing. For example you can test 0.010″ off the lands and then 0.015″ off the lands.
8. Midsouth — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $159.99
⏺ Great price on modern, fast dispenser with BlueTooth and App
A good electronic powder scale/dispenser lets you load more precisely with greater charge-weight consistency. The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper delivers 0.10 (one-tenth) of a grain accuracy. This modern, easy-to-use machine also connects via Bluetooth to a very handy App on your phone that stores your loads for various cartridge and bullet types. Priced at just $159.99 at Midsouth, this is a great deal. This same Intellidropper sells for $203.99 elsewhere. The Intellidropper boasts a proprietary powder calibration button and dispenses powder twice as fast as some other powder dispensers.
9. Amazon — Neolube Neck Lube, $22.99
⏺ Very effective liquid lube for inside case-necks
Neolube is a little-known secret of top shooters, who use it to lube the inside of case-necks. That helps smooth bullet seating which, in turn, can help provide a more consistent ES/SD. Easy to apply, Neolube provides a very thin film, so this 2 oz. bottle will last for multiple seasons. Using Neolube during brass prep can help ensure consistent seating.
Heavy recoil can hurt your shoulder and potentially make you miss your shot. Installing a mechanical recoil-reduction system can be expensive but we found these handy KEEPER MG Recoil Pads. Priced at $28.99 for a twin pack, these pads employ a HQ visco-elastic absorption gel that dissipates recoil vibrations and reduces felt recoil. The pads are made from 4-way stretch neoprene to fit snugly.
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Do you own an RCBS electronic powder dispenser? If you do, take the time to watch this ChargeMaster Tuning video from 8541 Tactical. This nine-minute video demonstrates how to re-program your ChargeMaster to “tune” the dispensing process. The video shows the exact programming procedures to follow, step-by-step. Some folks want a faster powder flow — others tune their machines for a more reliable drop (with fewer over-runs). One cheap and popular modification is to insert a 1″-long section of a McDonald’s plastic straw in the ChargeMaster’s silver dispensing tube. This works surprisingly well to smooth kernel drop and prevent “clumping” that can cause an over-charge. The McDonald’s straw MOD is demonstrated in this video, starting at the 6:22 mark.
Large-Diameter Dispensing Tube Mod
Many folks have had success with the McDonald’s straw modification demonstrated in the above video. However, some folks would like to get even better flow performance (with virtually no clumping). Forum Member Frank B. has come up with a new option using a brass hose fitting with a large outside diameter. The hose fitting (with tape wrapped around the barbed nose section) is placed inside the RCBS dispensing tube (have some kind of wrap — you don’t want metal-on-metal). Here’s how the unit looks installed:
Frank tells us: “I have found a cure for the over-throw problem. It is a simple 1/4″ barbed hose nipple. I wrapped a couple layers of tape around the barbed end for a snug fit. With this in place, I have thrown 100+ charges of Varget without a single overthrow. The ID of the barbed end needs to be approximately 3/16″ to feed a steady flow. This works because of the larger ID at the drop.”
Frank adds: “You can see in the photo that the powder is not stacking up. You can watch it drop one grain at a time. Hope this will take the aggravation out of your case charging.” For best performance with this brass fitting MOD, we recommend de-burring and smoothing out the front edge of the brass fitting over which the kernels drop.
Brass fitting mod suggested by Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "Tips to Improve ChargeMaster Performance and Precision"
Erik Cortina is one of the nation’s top F-Class shooters. A member of Team Lapua-Brux-Borden, Erik has been a top performer at National and World F-Class Championships. Erik is also a very smart guy and a skilled toolsmith who has upgraded his shooting equipment in interesting ways. Today we feature three “How-To” videos from Erik. These show how to upgrade a SEB Coaxial Rest, how to improve the performance of an RCBS Chargemaster, and how to create your own Modified Case for measuring length to lands. Watch and learn…
1. How to Make a Modified Case for the Hornady OAL Tool
In this video, Forum member Erik Cortina shows how to create a custom modified case for use with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Overall Length Gauge (formerly the Stoney Point Tool). While Hornady sells modified cases for many standard cartridges, if you shoot a wildcat such as the 6mm Dasher or .284 Shehane, you’ll need to create a custom modified case. And even if you shoot a standard cartridge such as the .308 Win, you can get more consistent measurements if you make a custom modified case from a piece of brass fired in your chamber.
MORE INFORMATION: Want to learn more? We published a much longer story in which Erik explains in greater detail how to made the Modified Case. That article illustrates the 5/16″ – 36 RH HSS Tap required and shows how to set up the lathe to drill and tap your case. If you are serious about making your own Modified Cases, you should Read the Full Article.
2. How to Upgrade your SEB Co-Axial Joystick Rest
Joystick (coaxial) rests are used by top shooters in benchrest and F-Open disciplines. With coaxial rests, you can adjust both vertical and horizontal aim instantly in one fluid movement — there are no mariner wheels to spin or knobs to turn. Just gently stir the joystick to move up, down, or sideways. Erik Cortina explains: “If you want to get into F-Class (Open) and want to win, you should get a SEB rest. SEB makes an excellent product, but the one thing we upgrade automatically … is adding the F-Class feet. These have a bigger footprint and a spike on the bottom [so you can] dig the feet into the ground and make your rest a lot more stable.” In this video Erik installs a set of Blake Machine Co. F-Class feet. These feature a set-screw, so they are easy to attach and then remove for travel (no Loctite!). “Simple yet effective” declares Erik.
In the second half of the video (starting at 5:30), Erik installs a Dan Bramley Joystick Holder. This features two clamp-on cradles that hold the joystick crosswise below the top (see photo). This handy accessory ensures your handle always remains with the rest (and doesn’t get left at home when you travel to a big match). This joystick holder has been popular with competitors. Erik says, “The Bramley Joystick holder is $60.00 — money well spent.” To order, email Dan at dbramley [at] yahoo.com.
3. How to Make the RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 Work Better
Erik Cortina has been fiddling around with his RCBS ChargeMaster and he discovered something interesting. Through a series of tests he determined that the ChargeMaster dispensed slightly more precise charges when he trickled the last few 10ths of a grain on to the RCBS pan. Erik wasn’t expecting this result, but he confirmed there may be a slight benefit to this trickling method (as opposed to allowing the ChargeMaster to dispense the full charge). You can see Erik’s test procedure in this video:
We should note that Erik’s preferred method of weighing powder is to first dispense a slightly lower charge with the RCBS, transfer the pan to a laboratory-class Sartorius magnetic force restoration scale, then trickle up with his Omega (Dandy Products) Powder Trickler. However, if you don’t have a $800+ laboratory-grade scale, you might just try trickling on to the ChargeMaster pan.
MORE INFORMATION: We have published a more lengthy Bulletin Article that covers Erik’s Chargemaster Performance Findings in greater detail. That article has more photos plus a clever, bonus “Beep Defeat Tip”. If you own a Chargemaster, we recommend you READ the Full Article.
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Do you own an RCBS electronic powder dispenser? If you do, take the time to watch this ChargeMaster Tuning video from 8541 Tactical. This nine-minute video demonstrates how to re-program your ChargeMaster to “tune” the dispensing process. The video shows the exact programming procedures to follow, step-by-step. Some folks want a faster powder flow — others tune their machines for a more reliable drop (with fewer over-runs). One cheap and popular modification is to insert a 1″-long section of a McDonald’s plastic straw in the ChargeMaster’s silver dispensing tube. This works surprisingly well to smooth kernel drop and prevent “clumping” that can cause an over-charge. The McDonald’s straw MOD is demonstrated in this video, starting at the 6:22 mark.
Large-Diameter Dispensing Tube Mod
Many folks have had success with the McDonald’s straw modification demonstrated in the above video. However, some folks would like to get even better flow performance (with virtually no clumping). Forum Member Frank B. has come up with a new option using a brass hose fitting with a large outside diameter. The hose fitting (with tape wrapped around the barbed nose section) is placed inside the RCBS dispensing tube (have some kind of wrap — you don’t want metal-on-metal). Here’s how the unit looks installed:
Frank tells us: “I have found a cure for the over-throw problem. It is a simple 1/4″ barbed hose nipple. I wrapped a couple layers of tape around the barbed end for a snug fit. With this in place, I have thrown 100+ charges of Varget without a single overthrow. The ID of the barbed end needs to be approximately 3/16″ to feed a steady flow. This works because of the larger ID at the drop.”
Frank adds: “You can see in the photo that the powder is not stacking up. You can watch it drop one grain at a time. Hope this will take the aggravation out of your case charging.” For best performance with this brass fitting MOD, we recommend de-burring and smoothing out the front edge of the brass fitting over which the kernels drop.
Brass fitting mod suggested by Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "Tuning Tips for RCBS ChargeMaster — And EZ Straw Tweak"
Many thousands of hand-loaders, including this Editor, acquired the original RCBS ChargeMaster 1500 powder scale/dispenser. Mine has worked well for many years. Yes I do have to watch for scale drift, and I use a high-end Force-Restoration scale when loading for major matches, but the original ChargeMaster has served me well, throwing thousands of charges over the years.
RCBS ChargeMaster Lite Reviews
A few years ago, RCBS introduced a new version of the ChargeMaster, the RCBS Chargemaster Lite. This newer unit has some features we really like. The new touch screen is easy to use and the powder tray cover slips off easily — no more hinges to fight. Most importantly the CM Lite has a redesigned, fluted dispensing tube which delivers powder kernels in a smooth flow with no clumps. The RCBS Rep told us “No more McDonald’s straw required”. We tested the unit and it does seem like the newly-designed dispensing tube is better. In fact, this new design will be adapted to the next generation of larger ChargeMasters. The ChargeMaster Lite ships complete with calibration check weights and cleaning brush. MSRP is $299.95 with “street price” around $239.99 at Amazon.
If you’re interested in the RCBS ChargeMaster Lite, here are three recent video product reviews. By watching these videos you can see all the features of the ChargeMaster Lite demonstrated. In the third video, the host also “compares and contrasts” the ChargeMaster Lite with the original ChargeMaster 1500, explaining the differences between the two units. Have at it:
Panhandle Precision ChargeMaster Lite Bench Test and Demo (Good Detailed Review):
Here is the RCBS Press Release: “The new RCBS ChargeMaster Lite packs unparalleled powder-measuring accuracy in a compact package. The one-piece unit features an LCD touchscreen display that ensures accurate data input. The hopper holds nearly a pound of smokeless powder, and can dispense anywhere between 2 to 300 grains with a +/-0.1-grain accuracy.”
UltimateReloader ChargeMaster Lite Unboxing:
Original ChargeMaster 1500 vs. ChargeMaster Lite:
Worth Considering Also — the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Intellidropper
Frankford Arsenal also offers an electronic powder scale/dispenser, the Intellidropper. This unit dispenses quickly, loads can be controlled with a Mobile App. Two years ago we did an in-depth Intellidropper Review. If you are in the market for a powder scale/dispenser, you should definitely consider the Intellidropper as well as the RCBS Chargemaster Lite. Watch this video to see how it works:
The Intellidropper is the most high-tech powder scale/dispenser to hit the market. This machine offers a unique powder calibration mode and the first-ever, mobile APP-controlled powder dispensing system. With a retail price under $200, the new Intellidropper is $70 less than the ChargeMaster Lite.
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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. Natchez — Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper, $179.99
⏺ Fast, programmable, accurate dispenser at great price
If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable and accurate upgrade for your powder measuring system check out the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. It’s accurate to one-tenth of a grain, dispenses in seconds, and can be controlled by a handy Spp on your phone (that can remember various charges weights for different cartridges). IMPORTANT: The advertised price is higher. However, when you add the Intellidropper to your Natchez online shipping cart, the price drops to $179.99! That’s a killer deal.
2. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Ruger American Rifle, $399.99
⏺ Good choice for affordable hunting rifle with strong warranty
Hunting season is around the corner. Who doesn’t want a new gun to take on that big fall hunt? Hunters looking for a good, solid deer rifle that’s very affordable should consider the Ruger American rifle. Right now you can get this in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .243 Win, .270 Win, or 7mm-08 — each for the low price of $399.99. Grab one of these Ruger Americans and be set up for hunting season. For optics, consider a Vortex Strike Eagle scope for $299.99, as listed below.
3. MidwayUSA — SnapSafe 2-Gun Vault PLUS Pistol Safe, $99.99
⏺ Twin pistol safe package — good for home and workshop
Keeping your handguns safe and out of unwanted hands is the responsibility of every gun owner. Here’s a good 2-for-1 option for safe handgun storage. MidwayUSA is offering the SnapSafe 2-Handgun electronic vault PLUS free pistol safe for just $99.99. The electronic vault has a top-mounted finger keypad for rapid access. This is bigger than some of the competition so it easily holds two handguns plus other valuables. The smaller pistol safe has a key-lock and fits easily in a drawer.
4. Creedmoor Sports — Kowa 82SV Spotting Scope With 25X LER Eyepiece Combo and Creedmoor DLX Scope Cover, $999.00
5. Amazon — 10000mAh Dual USB Battery Charger Packs, $19.99
⏺ Recharge your smartphones and tablets — good for Labradar too
Do you have a cellphone, tablet, LabRadar, barrel cooler or other device that needs mobile power? If so, we found a killer deal on a pair of Miady 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Chargers. Yes you get TWO (2) charging packs for just $19.99 total! Featuring USB and USB-C ports and fast 2 amp charging capability, this pair of portable power banks is one of the best deals we’ve seen.
6. Brownells — Caldwell Fire Control Coaxial Front Rest, $246.99
⏺ Functional Coaxial Rest at fraction of cost of big mames
Most people have seen or heard of high-end rests like SEB or Farley, but did you know there’s a great entry level joystick rest for under $300? For those getting started pick up the Fire Control front rest from Caldwell and you’ll be off and running. These rests are a great upgrade from standard lead sleds or sandbags and the integrated joystick control give you pin-point adjustments for the best shooting experience possible.
7. EuroOptic — Vortex Strike Eagle Scopes, $299.99 and Up
⏺ Good basic scopes for hunting rifles — 33% Off savings
Vortex offers great “bang for the buck” in optics, along with an industry-leading warranty. And here is one of the best Vortex Sales we’ve seen. Right now EuroOptic has deeply discounted Vortex Strike Eagle scopes. A wide variety of Strike Eagles, a good choice for a deer rifle or AR, are now up to 33% off, with retail prices as low as $299.99. Chose your preferred zoom range — from 1-6X to 5-25X.
7. Amazon — Flambeau 6500AR AR Tactical Gun Case, $46.22
⏺ Case has compartments for magazines and rust-fighting feature
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Hunting season is here. Grab those extra gear items you need before you head out into the backwoods on your hunt. At MidwayUSA you’ll find great hunting items at bargain prices right now. As shown above, here are some of our top hunting gear picks:
When we first ran this story a while back, it spurred a hot debate, with strong opinions on both sides of the issue. Some guys argued vehemently that volumetric powder dispensing was best — citing the experience of short-range benchresters, most of whom still throw their charges. Others say weighing your charges is best, so long as you have a very precise, and very repeatable scale. Many of the top F-Class and 1000-yard shooters now weigh their charges to the kernel.
Most competitive long-range shooters weigh powder charges for their handloads. Some even use ultra-precise magnetic force restoration scales to load to single-kernel tolerances. But is weight-based measuring always the best way to fill a case with powder? Another option is volumetric charging. This method fills a precisely-sized cavity with powder and then dumps the charge into the case. A Harrell’s rotary powder measure works this way, as does the sliding powder filler on a Dillon progressive press.
For long-range applications, most people believe that precise weighing of powder charges is the best way to achieve optimal accuracy and low ES/SD. However, those short-range Benchrest guys do pretty darn well with their thrown charges, at least at 100 and 200 yards.
Our friend Dennis Santiago recently observed something that made him scratch his head and wonder about weighing charges. His AR-15 match rifle shot better with volumetric (cavity-measured) charges than with weighed charges dispensed by an RCBS ChargeMaster. Here’s what he reports:
Cavity vs. Dribble (Dennis Santiago Report) I had the chance to compare nominally identical ammunition loaded two ways. These were all .223 Remington match loads using 77gr Sierra Match Kings over 23.4 grains of Hodgdon Varget. Same gun. However I loaded some ammo with charges dispensed with a Lee cavity-style powder measure while other rounds were loaded with powder weighed/dispensed by an RCBS ChargeMaster. The cavity-drop ammo (with powder dropped from the Lee unit) was consistently better than the weighed-charge ammo. I have no idea why…
So, ladies and gentlemen — what do you think? Why did Mr. Santiago’s volumetrically-charged ammo shoot better than ammo filled with weighed charges? What’s your theory? Gary Eliseo suspects that Dennis’s Chargemaster might have been drifting. What do you think? Post your theories in the comments area below.
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Folks who load at the range need to bring a lot of gear — reloading presses, powder dispensers, scales, funnels, sizing/seating dies, brass prep tools and more. And there may be other important items to transport — such as ammo caddies, LabRadar mounts, over-size rest feet, and even barrel fans.
A rifle case works fine for carrying your scoped rifle, but you still need to organize all your reloading tools and other gear, and transport them safely from home to range and back again. Some guys have built their own loading tool-boxes from wood. Other may stuff gear in a couple of plastic range boxes. But clever Chris Covell came up with an even better solution.
Chris sourced a handsome, sturdy metal Horse Grooming Box from eBay. Chris reports the multi-feature metal box “works perfectly for reloading. My ChargeMaster is now out of the wind.”
Bullets, Trickler, and Priming Tool on Top
On top, below the hinged metal lid, is a large compartment that holds Covell’s funnels, scales, priming tool, trickler and other vital gear (photo on right). This top compartment is deep enough to handle wide-mouth funnels with no problem.
Slide-Out Drawer with Dividers
Below the top level is a handy sliding drawer with multiple dividers. This is perfect for holding Covell’s inline seating dies, case-neck deburring and chamfering tools, among many other smaller bits and pieces.
In the bottom of the Horse Grooming box is a large compartment that holds bigger gear. In the bottom section, Covell places his RCBS Chargemaster Lite, along with a case-trimming tool, an arbor press, and various other bulky tools. Check it out:
Chris Covell’s Range Box was featured on the Benchrest Shooting and Gunsmithing Private Group Facebook Page. You may want to sign up for this Group — with membership you can access a wealth of information for accuracy-oriented shooters.
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RCBS has come out with a new, twin-tube powder scale/dispenser that promises to deliver 1- or 2-kernel precision in the slower, more precise “Match Mode”. If it really works, this new RCBS MatchMaster unit could compete with an Auto-Trickler V3 mated to a Magnetic Force Restoration scale. However, the new MatchMaster employs a strain-gauge scale, so it will be interesting to see how the unit actually performs.
This is an impressive new machine, but it represents a signficant investment. MSRP for the MatchMaster is $1123.95 with street price around $899.00 (MidwayUSA). At around $900.00, the MatchMaster competes with an AutoTrickler system, which is definitely fast and highly precise.
Ultimate Reloader Tests the New RCBS MatchMaster
Our friend Gavin Gear of UltimateReloader.com got his hands on one of the first production MatchMasters. Gavin put the machine through its paces in a “first look” video using two powders, Bullseye and Varget. In the video, Gavin explains the machine’s design features. Then he tests the new MatchMaster in both Standard Mode (faster) and the slower, more precise “Match Mode”. Gavin also published a full-length MatchMaster Review with detailed test results.
RCBS claims that the MatchMaster can dispense charges to within ± 0.04 (four hundreths) grain in Match Mode. That’s 1-2 kernels of an extruded powder such as H4350. Gavin’s testing, using an A&D FX-120i Magnetic Force Restoration scale as a control, showed that RCBS’s claims are solid.
“You can actually fine-tune the settings for the large dispensing tube and the small tube. There are quite a few parameters… quite a bit of flexibility.” — Gavin Gear.
RCBS MatchMaster Features
— MatchMaster offers two modes, Standard (Faster) and Match (More Precise)
— MatchMaster has two powder dispensing tubes, a larger diameter for large flow and a second smaller tube for precise trickle.
— MatchMaster Settings can be controlled with RCBS Mobile App that works through BlueTooth.
— Powder is removed from the BOTTOM of the machine. This means you must lift the unit up off the bench, then plug a drain tube into the bottom of the unit. See photo.
How Accurate Is the MatchMaster?
Near the end of his video review, Gavin threw an 84.20 grain charge of Varget with the MatchMaster. He then weighed the same charge with his A&D FX-120i Magnetic Force Restoration scale. The charge weights agreed exactly at 84.20 grains. When the same pan was placed a second time, the FX-120i showed 84.16 grains. That’s still a mere 0.04 grain variance, which is RCBS’s stated precision claim for Match Mode.
Note: This shows first placement of pan on the A&D FX-120i. A second placement of pan on FX-120i stabilized at 84.16 grains.
How Fast is MatchMaster in Each Dispensing Mode?
Gavin started testing the MatchMaster in Match Mode with Bullseye, a popular flake pistol powder. With a 24.00 grain Bullseye charge, one dispensing took 26 seconds (11:40 time-mark), while another took 40 seconds (12:30 time-mark), an average of 33 seconds. In standard mode, the MatchMaster dispensed 24.0 grains of Bullseye in 18.5 seconds average (15.03 time-mark, 15:32 time mark). So Standard Mode was 44% faster with Bullseye.
Next Gavin filled the machine with Hodgdon Varget powder and dispensed a 25.0 grain charge in Standard (Fast) Mode. The first try took 12 seconds (18:30 time mark) to dispense the charge, while the second run of 25.0 grains took just 11 seconds (18:50 time mark).
“Hodgdon Varget performed VERY well with the MatchMaster powder dispenser. I would call this powder the ‘Speed King’ here — it dispensed way faster than the Alliant Bullseye with the settings I used, and I only had one overage which was corrected when I changed powder settings. Bravo!” — Gavin Gear
Then Gavin switched to Match (Precise) Mode and dispensed two more 50.00 grain charges of Varget. These two precision throws finished in 20 seconds (20:38 time mark) and 17 seconds (21:09 time mark) respectively, for an 18.5 second average. That’s very good for large 50.00 grain charges, although the first charge was actually 50.06 grains, about two kernels high. But Gavin explained that the machine permits fine-tuning of the powder type setting. He changed this to account for larger extruded kernels and got a perfect 50.00 grain throw in 35 seconds (22:01 time mark). The “customized” powder settings can be loaded into the RCBS MatchMaster App for future use (See below):
Conclusion — Initial Tests Show Good Performance
Based on Gavin’s testing, the MatchMaster delivers on its promises. With Varget extruded powder, it was quite fast, even in “Match Mode”. The dispensed charges were exact within .04 (four hundredths) of a grain, i.e. a couple of kernels, as confirmed by the A&D FX-120i Force Restoration Scale. Gavin actually liked the system of removing the powder through the bottom of the machine, using the supplied tube. It takes some practice, but it worked fine, as you can see in the video.
The RCBS MatchMaster employs a strain-gauge scale. It remains to be seen if there is a bit of drift, as you will observe with strain-gauge dispensers in the $200-$300 range, such as the original RCBS ChargeMaster. During his MatchMaster test session, Gavin said he did not observe any drift, a good sign. Overall, it looks like this is an impressive machine. But, with a $899.00 price, this is a serious investment. Anyone considering the new MatchMaster will also want to look at the AutoTrickler V3 system with AutoThrow. It costs $520.00, NOT including a lab-grade Magnetic Force Restoration balance ($600 to $1000+).
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Most competitive long-range shooters weigh powder charges for their handloads. Some even use ultra-precise magnetic force restoration scales to load to single-kernel tolerances. But is weight-based measuring always the best way to fill a case with powder? Another option is volumetric charging. This method fills a precisely-sized cavity with powder and then dumps the charge into the case. A 
Bullets, Trickler, and Priming Tool on Top
