Introduction:
The Dillon powder measure is a staple for many reloaders, known for its reliability and efficiency. However, even a great powder measure can benefit from upgrades to enhance its accuracy and precision. This article dives deep into various Dillon powder measure upgrades, exploring their benefits, installation, and potential impact on your reloading process. We'll cover everything from simple adjustments to more involved modifications, ensuring you get the most out of your Dillon equipment and achieve consistently accurate powder charges.
Understanding Your Dillon Powder Measure
Before diving into upgrades, it's crucial to understand your specific Dillon powder measure model. Dillon offers several models, each with its own nuances and upgrade possibilities. The most common upgrades relate to the following:
- Dillon 550B: This popular progressive press often uses the standard Dillon powder measure. Upgrades focus on improving metering accuracy and reducing powder inconsistencies.
- Dillon 650: This model shares similarities with the 550B, but may have specific upgrades related to its larger capacity and features.
- Dillon 1050: High-volume reloading demands exceptional precision. Upgrades for the 1050 often involve advanced metering systems and fine-tuning for optimal performance.
Common Problems & How Upgrades Solve Them
Many reloaders encounter issues like inconsistent powder charges, bridging of powder, or difficulty adjusting for different powder types. Upgrades directly address these issues:
- Inconsistent Charges: Upgrades like the Dillon Competition Powder Measure or the Micrometer Adjustment Kit allow for incredibly precise adjustments, significantly minimizing charge variations.
- Powder Bridging: Certain powder types are prone to bridging, obstructing the powder flow. Upgrading to a larger powder hopper or a modified powder funnel can alleviate this problem.
- Difficulty Adjusting: Older Dillon measures might lack precise adjustment mechanisms. Upgrading to a micrometer adjustment greatly simplifies the process of fine-tuning your powder charge.
Popular Dillon Powder Measure Upgrades
Let's explore some of the most popular and effective upgrades available:
1. Dillon Competition Powder Measure
This is arguably the most significant upgrade for accuracy. The Dillon Competition Powder Measure boasts a far more precise adjustment mechanism compared to the standard measure. This translates to tighter charge weights, crucial for high-performance reloading. It's a significant investment, but the resulting accuracy is often worth the cost for competitive shooters or those pursuing the ultimate precision.
2. Micrometer Adjustment Kit
For a more budget-friendly upgrade, a micrometer adjustment kit provides incremental adjustments for fine-tuning your powder charge. This eliminates the guesswork often associated with the standard adjustment mechanism, offering greater control and repeatability.
3. Larger Powder Hopper
A larger powder hopper is a practical upgrade, reducing the frequency of powder refills during long reloading sessions. This is especially beneficial when working with larger batches of ammunition. Increased capacity minimizes interruptions and improves the overall reloading workflow.
4. Modified Powder Funnel
Some reloaders modify the existing powder funnel or replace it with a custom-designed one to improve powder flow. A wider or differently shaped funnel can address issues like powder bridging or clumping, leading to more consistent charges.
5. Case-Specific Powder Drop Tubes
While not strictly a measure upgrade, specialized powder drop tubes optimized for specific cartridge cases can enhance accuracy and reduce powder spillage. These tubes ensure the powder is properly metered and delivered to the case, minimizing inconsistencies.
Installation and Calibration
Installing most Dillon powder measure upgrades is straightforward, often involving simple adjustments or replacements. However, precise calibration is critical after any upgrade.
Calibration Steps:
- Clean Your Measure: Begin with a thoroughly clean and dry powder measure.
- Install Upgrade: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the chosen upgrade.
- Zero Your Measure: Adjust the measure to the lowest setting.
- Weigh Charges: Using a precise scale, weigh several powder charges to determine the baseline.
- Adjust and Repeat: Adjust the measure according to the scale readings and repeat the weighing process until consistent charges are obtained.
- Verify Accuracy: Test your upgraded powder measure with a larger batch to ensure consistent and accurate powder drops.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Reloading Game
Upgrading your Dillon powder measure can significantly enhance your reloading experience. Improved accuracy, consistency, and reduced troubleshooting are just some of the benefits. Consider your specific needs and budget when selecting upgrades, focusing on the improvements that will make the most significant impact on your reloading workflow and the accuracy of your final product. Remember to always prioritize safety and handle powder with care. Happy reloading!