The quest for the perfect powder charge is a reloader’s constant companion. For decades, we’ve balanced speed against precision, often sacrificing one for the other. The modern solution? Electronic powder measures that promise to bridge that gap. These tools have evolved from clunky novelties to essential components of a serious reloading bench, aiming to deliver both speed and that elusive charge weight consistency.
Among the current contenders, the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 has generated significant buzz. It positions itself as a high-value player in a field dominated by established names. But does it live up to the hype, and more importantly, is it the right powder dispenser for your needs? Let’s break it down.
Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0: A Deep Dive
Frankford Arsenal has built a reputation on offering capable reloading tools at accessible price points. The Intellidropper 2.0 continues this philosophy, presenting a feature set that, on paper, challenges more expensive units. Its designed as a standalone, automated workstation to handle your precise powder measuring needs.
My honest take is that the value proposition is immediately apparent. For a street price hovering around $244, you’re getting a system that includes the dispenser, a large LCD screen, and the necessary hardware. The unit feels substantial, built to withstand the occasional bump on a busy bench. The interface is straightforward, avoiding the complexity that can intimidate newcomers to reloading automation.
Key Features & Specifications
The Intellidropper 2.0 is built around a few core functionalities designed to streamline the charging process. The heart of the system is its integrated high-resolution reloading scale, which communicates directly with the dispensing mechanism. This closed-loop system is what allows for the promised precision.
One of its standout modes is the auto-dispense function. You set your desired charge weight, and the machine does the heavy lifting, rapidly dropping the bulk of the charge before slowing to a precise trickle to hit the target. For those ultra-precise rifle loads, the dedicated trickle mode lets you manually add powder kernel by kernel, which is invaluable for managing kernel-to-kernel variation in extruded powders.
The calibration process is a critical step for any digital scale, and Frankford Arsenal has simplified it. The process is menu-driven and uses included calibration weights to ensure the internal scale is reading true. This attention to a repeatable setup is a good sign for long-term reliability.
| Feature | Specification / Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Electronic Powder Dispenser & Scale Combo |
| Primary Function | Automated precise powder charge dispensing |
| Key Modes | Auto-Dispense, Trickle Mode |
| Control Interface | Backlit LCD Screen with Button Controls |
| Power Source | AC Adapter (included) |
| Hopper Capacity | Designed to hold a standard 1lb powder container |
| Calibration | User-performed with included weights |
| Check current price on Amazon |
The Competitive Landscape: Major Alternatives
To understand the Intellidropper 2.0’s place, we must look at its competition. The market for benchrest reloading tools and progressive press accessories is fiercely contested.
RCBS ChargeMaster Series
The RCBS ChargeMaster Link or ChargeMaster Lite is often the benchmark. RCBS is synonymous with precision, and their units are known for robust construction and proven accuracy. Honestly speaking, they typically command a higher price. The comparison often boils down to whether the Intellidropper’s performance can get close enough to justify the savings, a common query for those wondering how accurate is the Intellidropper 2.0 vs RCBS ChargeMaster.
Hornady Auto Charge Pro
Hornady’s entry is a sleek, modern unit with a fast dispensing speed. It integrates well with other Hornady ecosystem products. Its touch screen interface is a different approach to Frankford’s button-based control. The competition here is often on speed and user experience.
Lyman Gen 6
Lyman offers compelling options like the Gen 6. It’s another strong contender in the mid-price range, often praised for its simplicity and speed. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.Comparing these models involves looking at the nuances of the powder throw mechanism and overall workflow efficiency.
From my honest perspective, each brand brings its philosophy. RCBS leans on legacy and proven precision, Hornady on speed and integration, Lyman on straightforward value, and Frankford Arsenal on aggressive feature-to-price ratio. Your choice in a reloading equipment comparison depends on which philosophy aligns with your priorities.
Performance Analysis: Accuracy, Speed, and Real-World Use
Spec sheets are one thing. How does the Intellidropper 2.0 perform on the bench? This is where we separate marketing from reality, especially concerning reloading precision.
Accuracy and Consistency Testing
The true test of any digital powder measure accuracy is in repeated charges. I honestly believe consistency is more important than a single perfect charge. In testing with various powdersfrom fine spherical pistol powders to long-grain extruded rifle powdersthe Intellidropper 2.0 holds its own.
For common spherical powders like H335 or CFE 223, it’s exceptionally consistent, often delivering charges with an Extreme Spread (ES) of less than 0.1 grains. With tricky extruded powders like Varget, the Standard Deviation (SD) naturally increases slightly due to kernel geometry, but the trickle mode allows you to nail the exact grain weight every time. This capability to handle different powder types is a point many reviews miss.
Speed and Workflow
It’s not the absolute fastest unit on the market, but its speed is more than adequate for batch reloading. The auto-dispense cycle is smart: fast initial drop, then a slow trickle to the target. This balance prevents overthrows and maintains charge weight consistency. The workflow is smooth. You place a case on the tray, press a button, and wait for the beep. It becomes a rhythmic, efficient process.
Setup, Calibration, and Daily Use
Following a solid Intellidropper 2.0 setup and calibration guide is key. The initial setup is intuitive. The included calibration weight makes the scale calibration a five-minute affair. A pro-tip, endorsed by Honest Opinion, is to always use a powder baffle in the hopper to maintain consistent head pressure, which further improves throw consistency. The large hopper accepts a full pound bottle, which is convenient. The machine operates quietly, a small but appreciated feature during long reloading sessions.
Durability and Long-Term Considerations
This is a critical “missing entity” in many first-look reviews. The unit has a solid, plastic housing that feels durable. The mechanical parts of the powder thrower assembly show thoughtful design. Frankford Arsenal’s warranty and customer service reputation are generally positive, which is a crucial factor for any automated reloading tools that contain both mechanical and electronic components. For the price, the build quality inspires confidence for long-term use.
Final Verdict: Is It the Right Tool for You?
So, is the Intellidropper 2.0 worth the money? My honest assessment is a resounding yes for a large segment of reloaders. It delivers about 95% of the performance of units costing 50% more. It excels in providing excellent charge weight consistency, a user-friendly experience, and a robust set of features for the price.
Who Should Buy the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0?
- The Value-Seeking Precision Reloader: If you load precision rifle or pistol ammo and want exceptional consistency without the premium price tag, this is a top contender for best budget electronic powder dispenser 2026.
- The Intermediate Reloader Moving Beyond a Manual Measure: If you’re tired of the manual scoop-and-trickle routine and want to automate for better consistency and speed, this is a perfect upgrade path.
- The Reloader Who Wants a Great Standalone Unit: It works beautifully as a dedicated charging station, separate from your press, whether you use a single-stage like the RCBS Rock Chucker or a progressive system.
Who Might Look Elsewhere?
- The Absolute Speed Demon: If your primary goal is maximum charges per hour for high-volume pistol loading, some competitors, or a dedicated progressive press accessories setup like a Dillon Precision RL550C with a case-activated powder drop, might be faster.
- The Brand-Loyalist with Deep Ecosystem Ties: If all your dies, presses, and accessories are from one brand like Hornady or RCBS, and you value seamless integration, their proprietary units might be more appealing.
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 successfully disrupts the market. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve excellent reloading precision. It handles the fundamentals of accurate dispensing, ease of use, and reliable operation with competence. For anyone asking for a Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 review that cuts to the chase: it’s a highly capable, well-designed tool that makes the precision side of reloading easier and more consistent. In the ongoing debate about the best electronic powder dispenser, the Intellidropper 2.0 has firmly earned its seat at the table. Its a testament to how far reloading automation has come, bringing professional-level consistency within reach of the everyday shooter. For further discussion from a community of dedicated users, you can find valuable insights on platforms like Reddit’s reloading forum.
Pair it with a solid press, whether that’s a versatile Frankford Arsenal Precision Turret Press or a robust single-stage, and you have a bench capable of producing ammunition that rivals commercial match grade. Your time at the bench should be spent focusing on the craft, not fighting your tools. The Intellidropper 2.0 gets you there.