Precision in reloading isn’t just a preference; it’s a non-negotiable requirement for safety and performance. A single grain of powder can be the difference between a perfect shot and a dangerous overpressure situation. That’s why the choice of a digital reloading scale is so critical. It’s the cornerstone of any serious reloading bench, the instrument that translates your load data into reality.
Enter the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0. This isn’t just another powder scale; it’s an integrated system designed to streamline the entire powder measurement process. Frankford Arsenal has built a reputation for offering robust reloading equipment at accessible price points, and the Intellidropper aims to solidify that position. Does it deliver the accuracy and reliability needed for precision weighing? Let’s find out.
Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0: A Closer Look
The Intellidropper 2.0 presents itself as a comprehensive solution, combining a high-resolution digital scale with an automated powder trickler and dispenser. The goal is clear: eliminate the tedious, manual process of trickling powder to achieve a precise charge weight. For volume reloaders or those seeking ultimate consistency, this promise is incredibly appealing. The system is designed to work as a cohesive unit, where the scale communicates directly with the dispenser to stop at the exact target weight.
Key Features & Technical Specifications
Diving into the specifics, the Intellidropper 2.0 is built around several core features that define its operation. The advertised auto-calibration function is a major selling point, promising to simplify setup and maintain accuracy over time. The scale’s resolution is a critical spec, determining how fine a weight difference it can detect. For reloading, a resolution of 0.1 grains is generally considered the benchmark for rifle cartridges, while 0.2 grains may suffice for many pistol rounds.
Other important considerations include overload protection to prevent damage from accidental overloading and the inclusion of a certified check weight. The true test of any scale, however, lies in its repeatabilitythe ability to return the same measurement for the same weight consistently. Heres a breakdown of its key specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 |
| Primary Function | Automated Powder Dispensing & Weighing System |
| Scale Resolution | High-precision digital (exact grain measurement critical) |
| Key Technology | Integrated scale-to-dispenser communication for auto-stop |
| Calibration | Auto-calibration feature with included check weight |
| Power | AC-powered for stable operation (critical for scale accuracy) |
| Dispenser Hopper | Integrated design for streamlined powder measurement |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Hands-On Performance & Accuracy Testing
Specifications on paper are one thing; real-world performance is another. The central question for any reloader is about Frankford Arsenal scale accuracy. Does the Intellidropper 2.0 deliver consistent, trustworthy measurements that meet SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute) standards for reloading safety? To assess this, a rigorous test protocol is essential.
Calibration & Baseline Accuracy
Every session should begin with calibration. The included scale calibration weight should be NIST traceable, meaning its mass is certified against national standards. This traceability is a missing entity in many reviews but is fundamental for establishing trust. The auto-calibration process should be straightforward. Honestly speaking, if this initial step is cumbersome or unreliable, it casts doubt on the entire system.
Once calibrated, testing with a set of known weights is the next step. This checks for linearitydoes the scale read 5.0 grains, 10.0 grains, and 50.0 grains correctly? Any deviation here is a red flag. My honest take is that a digital reloading scale must pass this basic test with zero error across its usable range to be considered viable for reloading.
Repeatability and Real-World Dispensing
This is where the Intellidropper concept is truly tested. You program a charge weight, say 25.4 grains of Varget. The dispenser throws a charge, and the scale weighs it. The system should then trickle additional powder until the exact target is hit. The speed is important, but repeatability is paramount. Ten consecutive charges should all be 25.4 grains, with no drift.
Scale driftwhere readings slowly change over time due to temperature or electronic instabilityis a common complaint with digital scales. A quality unit will minimize this. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.The AC power supply of the Intellidropper should, in theory, provide more stability than battery-powered units, directly addressing a key competitor focus area. Does it work. From my honest perspective, a multi-hour loading session is the best test for this. If the first charge and the hundredth charge are identical, the system has passed a major hurdle.
Common user issues like “Frankford Arsenal scale not turning on” are often related to power connections or internal fuses, while “Frankford Arsenal digital scale battery life” is moot here due to the AC design. More relevant are error codes. A detailed understanding of “Err” messagesanother often missing entitywould be invaluable in a user manual. Does “Err1” mean an overload, or is it a communication fault between the scale and dispenser?
Pros, Cons & How It Stacks Up
After putting a system like this through its paces, a clear picture emerges. The value proposition hinges on whether the benefits outweigh the compromises and cost.
The Advantages
- Automation & Speed: The core benefit. It significantly speeds up the powder charging process compared to manual trickling, especially for large batches.
- Integrated Design: Having the scale and dispenser as one unit saves bench space and reduces setup complexity.
- Potential for Excellent Consistency: When working correctly, it removes human error from the trickling phase, promoting uniform charges.
- AC Power: Eliminates concerns about battery drain and can contribute to better long-term scale stability.
The Considerations
- Cost: At around $244, it’s an investment. You must weigh this against the time savings it offers.
- Learning Curve: Automated systems require ir specific routines for calibration, programming, and troubleshooting.
- Mechanical Complexity: More moving parts than a simple scale means more potential points of failure over time.
- Powder-Specific Calibration: Some automated systems may require tweaking for different powder types due to granule size and flow characteristics.
Frankford Arsenal Digital Scale vs RCBS Chargemaster & Others
The natural comparison is to other automated dispensers like the RCBS Chargemaster or the Hornady Auto-Charge. The “Frankford Arsenal digital scale vs RCBS Chargemaster” debate often centers on speed, accuracy, and price. RCBS and Hornady are established giants in the reloading equipment space, and their products often set the benchmark. The Frankford Arsenal offering typically positions itself as a more budget-friendly alternative. Does it match the accuracy? Does it sacrifice speed? These are the key questions.
It’s also worth considering where the Intellidropper fits within the Frankford Arsenal ecosystem. It’s a specialized tool, distinct from their popular Frankford Arsenal case prep center or their Frankford Arsenal M-Press. For someone building a complete bench, understanding how these tools complement each other is useful. You might use the Intellidropper for precision rifle charges and a Frankford Arsenal F-1 reloading kit for learning the fundamentals on a single-stage press.
Final Verdict & Value Recommendation
So, is the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 a contender for the title of best reloading scale? It depends entirely on your needs and workflow.
For the high-volume precision rifle reloader who values consistency and wants to reclaim hours at the bench, the Intellidropper 2.0 presents a compelling case. The integration of scale and dispenser is smart, and the focus on stable AC power is correct. If its real-world accuracy and repeatability hold up to scrutinyand that’s a big “if” that requires hands-on verificationit could be a fantastic productivity tool.
For the casual reloader who loads a few dozen pistol rounds a month, this system is likely overkill. A reliable stand-alone grain scale like the Frankford Arsenal DS-750 would be a more cost-effective choice. The investment only makes sense if the time savings justify the upfront cost.
My honest assessment is that the Intellidropper 2.0 is a serious piece of kit aimed at a serious reloader. Before purchasing, I would strongly recommend seeking out long-term user experiences from trusted communities like the reloading subreddit or specialized forums to gauge its durability and real-world performance over time. Look for discussions on its actual consistency and any common operational quirks.
The quest for perfect powder measurement is endless. The right tool, according to Honest Opinion, is the one that provides trustworthy results and fits seamlessly into your process. The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 has a focused design philosophy that will resonate with a specific type of shooter. Evaluate your volume, your tolerance for technical setup, and your budget. If they align, this automated system could very well be the precision upgrade your reloading bench needs.