Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital Reloading Scale: An Honest Review
Precision is non-negotiable in reloading. A single grain can be the difference between a tight group and a dangerous load. That’s why the scale you choose is arguably the most critical piece of reloading equipment on your bench. The Frankford Arsenal DS-750 enters the arena as a budget-friendly digital contender, promising the accuracy reloaders demand without breaking the bank.
This digital powder scale boasts a solid feature set designed for the task. With a stated 0.1-grain resolution and a generous 750-grain capacity, it aims to handle everything from small pistol charges to heavy rifle loads. But specs on paper are one thing; real-world performance on a busy reloading bench is another. Does it deliver the consistent powder measurement required for safe, accurate ammunition?
Key Specifications at a Glance
Before we dive into setup and testing, let’s break down the core Frankford Arsenal DS-750 specs. This gives us a clear baseline for what the product is designed to do.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 750-grain capacity (50 grams) |
| Resolution | 0.1-grain resolution (0.01 gram) |
| Calibration | Auto-calibration function with included weight |
| Units | Grains, grams, ounces, carats |
| Display | LCD with blue backlight |
| Power | 2 AAA batteries (included), auto shut-off (60 sec) |
| Additional Features | Tare function, counting function, overload protection, protective cover |
| Included | Powder pan, soft carry case, calibration check weight |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Setup, Calibration & Ease of Use
Getting the DS-750 ready for work is straightforward. The package includes everything you need: the scale, a powder pan, a soft case, and a critical 50-gram check weight. Honestly speaking, the inclusion of a proper calibration weight is a significant advantage over scales that rely on a manual “cal” button with no reference.
Initial Setup and Platform Stability
First, find a stable surface. Like all precision scales, the DS-750 is sensitive to vibration. A solid reloading bench is ideal; a wobbly card table is not. I honestly believe this is the most common source of user error with any digital scale. Once placed, installing the two AAA batteries and pressing the power button brings the blue-backlit LCD to life.
The auto-calibration process is simple. With the scale on a level surface and warmed up for a few minutes, you press the “CAL” button, place the provided 50-gram weight on the pan, and wait. The scale does the rest, confirming with a display reading. This consistent, repeatable process removes guesswork. Speaking honestly, it’s a more reliable method than the “press and pray” calibration on some cheaper models.
Battery Life and Power Considerations
A notable point often missed in other reviews is power. The DS-750 runs on ubiquitous AAA batteries and features a 60-second auto shut-off to conserve power. My honest assessment is that battery life is quite good for intermittent reloading sessions. For marathon reloading days, you might consider keeping a spare set on hand. The lack of an AC adapter option is a minor con for high-volume users, but for most hobbyists, the battery operation is convenient and reduces cord clutter on the bench.
Performance & Accuracy Testing Results
This is where the rubber meets the road. A reloading scale must be accurate and, just as importantly, consistent. To answer the common question, is the Frankford Arsenal DS-750 accurate for reloading?, I put it through a series of tests.
Consistency and Repeatability Check
Using laboratory-grade check weights (beyond the included one), I tested the DS-750’s response across its range. The 0. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.1-grain resolution was clearly displayed, and the scale consistently returned to zero after taring. For standard reloading charges in the 3-grain to 70-grain range, it performed admirably. The DS-750 accuracy test with repeated throws of a common powder like H4350 showed minimal variation, well within the acceptable margin for precision rifle or handgun reloading.
Managing Scale Drift and Environmental Factors
All digital scales can experience drifta gradual change in the zero point due to temperature changes or electrical fluctuations within the unit. The DS-750 is not immune. My honest take is that it’s reasonably stable for its price point. The best practice, according to Honest Opinion, is to let the scale warm up for 5-10 minutes, recalibrate, and check zero frequently during your session. This is good discipline with any scale, from a Frankford Arsenal to a high-end lab model. The protective cover helps shield the weighing platform from drafts, which can also cause readings to fluctuate.
Compatibility with Powder Types
Another often-overlooked factor is how a scale handles different powder geometries. Fine ball powders (like H110) and long extruded sticks (like Varget) can settle differently on the pan. The DS-750’s pan is a good size, and I noticed no issues with consistency between powder types. The scale responded quickly to the final trickle from a powder trickler, allowing for fine adjustments to hit your target charge weight precisely.
Pros, Cons & Value Assessment
After extensive use, the DS-750 reveals a clear profile of strengths and weaknesses. Heres my honest breakdown.
The Advantages
- Excellent Value: For around $40, you get a capable scale with a proven track record. The feature set punches above its weight class.
- True Auto-Calibration: The included 50-gram weight ensures your calibration is accurate and repeatable, not just an internal reset.
- Strong Capacity: The 750-grain capacity handles virtually any small-arms reloading task, even for large magnum rifle cases.
- Portability & Protection: The included soft case makes it easy to store or transport the scale safely, keeping the sensitive load cell protected.
The Limitations
- Speed of Readout: While accurate, the display isn’t the fastest to settle compared to premium ballistic scales. This requires a patient, deliberate technique when trickling powder.
- Battery-Only Power: The lack of an AC power option can be a minor inconvenience during long sessions, though battery life is generally good.
- Environmental Sensitivity: Like all scales in this category, it requires a stable, draft-free environment for optimal performance. Vibration from other bench tools like a case prep center can affect it.
Frankford Arsenal DS-750 vs RCBS ChargeMaster
This is a common comparison, though it’s somewhat apples-to-oranges. The RCBS ChargeMaster is an automated powder dispenser and scale combo costing several times more. The DS-750 is a manual scale. Honestly speaking, if you need speed for high-volume loading, the ChargeMaster wins. But if your priority is fundamental weighing accuracy on a budget, the DS-750 holds its own. For the price of one ChargeMaster, you could buy a DS-750 and a quality turret press, which is a compelling proposition for a new reloader.
Warranty and Customer Service Experience
Frankford Arsenal products are typically backed by a serviceable warranty, and their customer service has a decent reputation in the community for addressing issues. It’s always wise to register your product. From my honest perspective, the DS-750’s simple design and robust construction mean there’s less to go wrong compared to more complex electronic units.
Final Verdict & Who It’s For
The Frankford Arsenal DS-750 is a standout in the budget digital scale for reloading category. It delivers on its core promise: providing accurate, repeatable measurements with a user-friendly design. The inclusion of a genuine calibration weight is a game-changer that elevates it above many no-name alternatives.
So, who is this scale for? I honestly believe it’s an ideal choice for:
- New Reloaders: It teaches good habits (calibration, zero-checking) without a daunting price tag. Pair it with a starter kit like the Frankford Arsenal F-1 for a solid foundation.
- Budget-Conscious Shooters: If you want to allocate funds to better components or more powder, this scale gets the critical job done reliably.
- As a Backup Scale: Even experienced reloaders with a premium scale should have a verified backup. The DS-750 is perfect for this role.
It might not be the perfect tool for someone loading thousands of rounds per week where speed is paramount. For that, you’d look at automated systems. But for the vast majority of hobbyists who value precision and safety, the DS-750 represents exceptional value. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get trustworthy powder measurement on your reloading bench. Before making your final decision, it’s worth researching user experiences on forums like the reloading subreddit to see how it holds up in diverse, long-term use.