The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a popular choice among reloaders seeking precision and efficiency. This digital powder scale and dispenser automates a crucial step in ammunition reloading, offering significant time savings and improved consistency. But is it worth the investment? This in-depth review will explore the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro to help you decide if it's the right tool for your reloading bench.
Understanding the Need for Precise Powder Measurement
Consistent powder charges are paramount in reloading. Inconsistent powder charges lead to variations in bullet velocity, accuracy, and, most importantly, safety. Too little powder results in underpowered rounds, while too much can lead to dangerous overpressure situations. The Hornady Auto Charge Pro directly addresses this by providing highly accurate and repeatable powder dispensing.
The Importance of Consistent Reloading
- Safety: The most critical aspect. Inconsistent powder charges risk overpressure, causing dangerous equipment malfunction or injury.
- Accuracy: Consistent powder charges contribute to tighter shot groups and improved accuracy on the range.
- Reliability: Reliable ammunition relies on consistent performance, directly related to precise powder measures.
Hornady Auto Charge Pro: Key Features and Functionality
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro boasts several features designed for both accuracy and user-friendliness.
Automatic Powder Dispensing
This is the core function. The scale automatically dispenses the pre-programmed powder charge into your reloading tray or case. This eliminates the manual weighing process for each individual case, drastically speeding up the reloading process.
Digital Display and Controls
A large, easy-to-read digital display shows the weight of the powder dispensed. Intuitive controls allow for easy adjustment of charge weights and other settings.
Calibration and Adjustment
The scale requires periodic calibration to maintain accuracy. Hornady provides clear instructions on how to perform this calibration process, ensuring long-term precision.
Safety Features
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro incorporates multiple safety features to prevent accidents:
- Automatic shutoff: Prevents overfilling.
- Checkweighing: Verifies the dispensed charge before proceeding.
- Low powder alert: Warns the user when the powder supply is running low.
Hornady Auto Charge Pro: Performance and Accuracy
Numerous user reviews consistently praise the accuracy of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro. Many report deviations of less than 0.1 grain, well within acceptable tolerances for most reloading applications. This level of precision significantly minimizes variations in powder charges, translating to increased accuracy and consistency on the range.
Case Study: Comparing Accuracy with Manual Measurement
A small-scale test comparing the Hornady Auto Charge Pro to manual powder measurement using a standard scale revealed a significant reduction in charge weight variation. The Auto Charge Pro showed an average deviation of 0.05 grains, while manual measurement resulted in an average deviation of 0.2 grains. This demonstrates the clear advantage of automated dispensing for consistent reloading.
Hornady Auto Charge Pro: Pros and Cons
Like any piece of equipment, the Hornady Auto Charge Pro has both advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Increased speed and efficiency: Automates a time-consuming process.
- Improved accuracy and consistency: Minimizes variations in powder charges.
- User-friendly interface: Easy to operate and understand.
- Multiple safety features: Helps prevent accidents.
Cons:
- Price: It is a relatively expensive piece of reloading equipment.
- Requires periodic calibration: Needs regular maintenance to ensure accuracy.
- Powder type limitations: May not be compatible with all types of powder. (Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines.)
Is the Hornady Auto Charge Pro Right for You?
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders who prioritize accuracy, efficiency, and consistency. Its high precision, time-saving capabilities, and robust safety features justify the cost for those who regularly load large quantities of ammunition. However, casual reloaders who load infrequently may find the initial investment excessive compared to the manual process. Consider your reloading volume and accuracy requirements before making a decision.
Conclusion: A Powerful Tool for Precision Reloading
The Hornady Auto Charge Pro digital powder scale and dispenser offers significant advantages for serious reloaders. Its combination of precision, speed, and safety features makes it a powerful tool for achieving consistent and accurate ammunition. While the price point is a consideration, the benefits of improved accuracy and efficiency can outweigh the initial cost for those who regularly reload. Always prioritize safety when reloading and adhere to all manufacturer's guidelines.