Introduction:
The Dillon powder measure is a cornerstone of many reloaders' benches. Known for its reliability and speed, it's a favorite for high-volume production. However, even a well-regarded tool like the Dillon can benefit from upgrades to enhance its accuracy and overall performance. This in-depth guide explores various Dillon powder measure upgrades, helping you determine which modifications best suit your needs and budget. We'll cover everything from simple adjustments to more substantial modifications, focusing on improving the precision and consistency of your powder drops. Upgrading your Dillon powder measure can significantly improve your reloading experience and the accuracy of your ammunition.
Understanding Your Dillon Powder Measure
Before diving into upgrades, let's establish a baseline understanding of your Dillon powder measure's components and how they affect powder dispensing. Different Dillon presses (like the 550B, 650, 750, and 1050) may have slightly different powder measure mechanisms but the core principles remain the same. Key components include:
- The Powder Hopper: The hopper's size and design influence powder flow.
- The Powder Measure Body: This houses the internal components responsible for metering.
- The Powder Drop Mechanism: This is where the magic happens, controlling the amount of powder dispensed per charge.
- The Powder Bar: This component interacts with the drop mechanism to regulate powder flow.
- The Adjustment Mechanism: This allows fine-tuning of the powder charge weight.
Understanding how each component works is crucial for effective upgrades. Many issues with inconsistent powder drops stem from problems in one or more of these areas.
Common Problems & Their Solutions
Inconsistent powder charges are a common frustration among reloaders. Several factors contribute to this, and addressing them often involves targeted upgrades:
- Improper Powder Flow: Issues with the powder's flow, often caused by static cling or clumping, can lead to erratic powder drops. Solutions include using a powder funnel with a static reducer, or upgrading to a larger hopper that allows for better powder flow.
- Worn Parts: Over time, wear and tear on the powder bar or other components can affect accuracy. Replacing worn parts with new ones is a simple yet effective upgrade.
- Improper Adjustment: Incorrect adjustments to the powder measure can also lead to inconsistencies. Regular calibration and careful adjustment are essential for optimal performance. A digital scale is crucial for precise calibration.
Table 1: Common Dillon Powder Measure Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Inconsistent Charges | Worn parts, improper adjustment, poor powder flow | Replace worn parts, recalibrate, improve powder flow |
| Bridge-Free Powder | Incorrect powder type, static electricity | Use appropriate powder, anti-static powder funnel |
| Charge Variation | Loose parts, poor adjustment | Tighten components, carefully recalibrate |
Upgrade Options for Enhanced Precision
Several upgrades can significantly improve your Dillon powder measure's accuracy and reliability:
1. Micro-Adjusting Mechanisms: Fine-Tuning Powder Charges
Many reloaders add a micro-adjusting mechanism to their Dillon powder measure. These allow for incredibly fine-tuning of powder charges, often in increments smaller than the standard adjustment mechanism. This is crucial for precise load development.
2. Improved Hopper Design: Enhancing Powder Flow
Larger hoppers with better design can prevent powder bridging and improve consistent flow, leading to more reliable charges. Some aftermarket hoppers feature anti-static coatings or designs optimized for smooth powder delivery.
3. Replacement Powder Bars: Maintaining Consistent Operation
Over time, the powder bar can wear down, leading to inconsistencies. Replacing it with a new, precision-machined powder bar ensures accurate metering.
4. Digital Scale Calibration: Accurate Weighing
Precise calibration with a quality digital scale is paramount. Regularly weighing charges ensures consistent powder drops. Using a scale helps to confirm any modifications' effectiveness.
5. The Case Activated Drop System (CADS): Eliminating Variations
While not a direct upgrade, CADS eliminates several potential sources of variations inherent in the standard drop mechanism. This system uses the case itself to activate the powder drop, minimizing timing differences that can lead to inconsistencies.
Case Study: Improving Charge Consistency
A reloader experienced significant variation in powder charges (+/- 0.2 grains) using a standard Dillon powder measure. After installing a micro-adjusting mechanism, replacing the powder bar, and using a larger hopper with an anti-static coating, the variation decreased to +/- 0.05 grains. This demonstrates the significant impact of targeted upgrades.
Conclusion: Precision Reloading Through Upgrades
Upgrading your Dillon powder measure involves more than just throwing money at the problem. It’s about making informed choices based on your needs and understanding the underlying causes of inconsistencies. By implementing the upgrades and techniques described above, you'll enhance the accuracy and consistency of your powder charges, ultimately improving the safety and precision of your ammunition. Remember that meticulous calibration and regular maintenance remain crucial even with upgrades. This commitment to quality will result in higher confidence and reliability in your reloading process.