Powder check die question

[Bill Steele]

So I am thinking about a future upgrade but want to avoid disappointment.

I would really love to hear the impressions of those that run a powder check die in your progressive setup (powder cop, lock out or electric buzzer style).

Specifically, I would like to hear about how much powder the ram picks up and subsequently spills when the ram returns to home position. Also, any feedback on which powders seem to pick up more and which ones less.

Currently I look into each case to confirm a charge before seating my bullets, but an extra hole makes the check system possible. I just hate powder spills and also like it when my charges are consistent, so pick up on the ram was something I wanted to nail down before making the move.

As always, thanks ahead of time for any real life experiences.

[Rwnielsen]

If you use a Dillon powder check system it comes with three plastic actuator rods. On the ends are brass plunger tips of different sizes for different calibers. I have one of these on every tool head I own. It doesn't pick up any powder at all and is surprisingly accurate. I still check weights every 20 or so rounds but I rarely, if ever, need to make adjustments.
Richard

[fguffey]

lock out die, powder die

Bill, I will not load on a progressive press without a lock out die or a powder checker, My lock out dies are RCBS, the powder checker is Hornady. As you know the lock out is used with straight wall cases. The powder die is visual, the lock out die locks the press.



F. Guffey

[Fyathyrio]

Used both Hornady and RCBS, no powder is picked up. I prefer the RCBS for it's stopping the press design, but it'll allow a couple grains variance before locking.

[noylj]

Sorry there is only one powder-check die to buy and that is the RCBS Lock-Out. The powder-cop dies are only visual and, if you can look at the die, you can look into the case. The Dillon makes noise, but a dead battery has been known to happen. The RCBS is entirely mechanical and Locks the press. Virtually fool-proof.
The plastic part that contacts the powder may pick up a couple of kernals, but it is too little to affect anything. Rubbing a static-sheet will eliminate it, as will degreasing it well. I do wish they used metal.
The RCBS Lock-Out die is very sensitive and will lock up just from a change in brass capacity. I leave mine loose so I can turn it in or out a little to get it to release. So far, every charge has been spot on, but I like the verification. It has a white ring around the rod and if it locks up and there is no white ring visable, then it is detecting a low charge. It the white ring is well above the top of the die, you have a possibly over charge.
I would not trust any other die.

[Bill Steele]

Thanks guys for the timely. real world advice.

How great is it to be able to just post a question and get expert advice back in less than 24 hours.

[f4tweet]

Skip the powder check die, use the RCBS lockout die. Thank goodness I was shooting a Ruger.