RCBS Powder Dispensers Compared
By Amis Thains Updated 5 min read
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You are looking for a reliable way to meter powder without the guesswork of a scale, but you want to know if the Hornady measure holds up under pressure. This page cuts through the noise with specific details on its strengths and the few quirks that trip up new users.
In short: The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is a solid, no-frills manual dispenser that suits most pistol and standard rifle powders. It is not an automatic scale, so consistency depends on your technique and the powder's flow characteristics. For the majority of hand-loaders, it offers the right balance of speed and accuracy without the complexity of digital auto-drippers.
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This accessory lets you drain the hopper without removing the unit from the press, saving time during long sessions.
Who this measure is for (and who should skip it)
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is built for the reloader who wants speed without electronics. It works best for those using extruded powders that flow well, such as most common pistol loads. We go through review dillon xl750 step by step in its own article.
If you load primarily with fast-burning rifle powders that tend to bridge, this manual measure requires extra attention. These powders often need a dedicated trickler to prevent inconsistent drops.
- Ideal user: The high-volume shooter using ball or flake powders who wants a simple, mechanical tool.
- Not a fit: The reloader who insists on automatic scale feedback or loads extremely sensitive match powders exclusively.
Skippers should look at electronic measures instead. The Hornady unit requires you to verify your first few shots with a scale before you trust the rest of the batch.
Safety first: Always verify the weight of your first three charges with a digital scale before beginning a full batch. Powder flow changes with humidity and temperature.
The drain insert simplifies cleaning and setup, keeping your workflow efficient without removing the main unit from your press.
- Powder Measure Drain Insert – A helpful accessory for your Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
- No Waste – This insert is used to drain powder from the Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
What stands out in daily use
Reliability is the headline feature here. There are no batteries, no firmware updates, and no screens to fail. It is a purely mechanical device that you set once and use for months.
The metering chamber is accessible, making it easy to clear bridges. When powder stops flowing, you do not need a special tool or a manual lookup; you just clear the mechanism directly.
For pistol loads, the speed is impressive. You can throw dozens of cases in minutes. The consistency is generally within a tenth of a grain for most powders, which is acceptable for standard loads. It helps to understand hornady measuring tool before going further.
The drawbacks you need to know
The main complaint is the manual adjustment process. Moving the knob to change the charge weight can be a bit clunky, and it is not always intuitive for fine-tuning very small charges.
Second, it is not a trickler. If you are working with a powder that meters inconsistently, you cannot simply add a ‘trickle’ to even out the charge. You have to re-calibrate the whole unit or use an external method.
This measure is also specific to Hornady presses and stands. While adapters exist, the integration is tightest when you are already in the Lock-N-Load ecosystem.
Pro tip: If you switch to a new powder, run three test charges through the measure and weigh them before loading cases. Do not assume the previous calibration still holds.
If the Hornady manual measure fails to provide consistent results for your specific powders, the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper offers electronic auto-trickling and
- Features a self-optimizing powder calibration, auto and manual trickle capability and a
- Features a large, backlit LCD display with easy-to-see controls
Setup and use tips for consistency
Start by calibrating the measure with your specific powder. Pour the powder into the hopper until it is level, then close the lid.
Set the metering knob to your desired charge weight. Drop three test charges into a small cup and weigh them on a digital scale. The other half of this decision is rcbs chargemaster link review.
If the weight is off, adjust the knob slightly and repeat the process. Once you are within your target tolerance, mark the knob with a piece of tape or paint so you can quickly reset it for future sessions.
- Fill the hopper and close the lid.
- Adjust the metering knob to your target weight.
- Drop three test charges and weigh them on a scale.
- Adjust the knob based on the scale result.
- Mark the final knob position for quick reference.
This routine takes less than two minutes and is the difference between safe, consistent loads and potential problems downrange.
Alternatives worth a look
While the Hornady Lock-N-Load measure is excellent for its price and simplicity, some reloaders prefer electronic systems for faster feedback.
The Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper is a strong alternative. It uses a scale and automatic trickle to ensure every charge is within a tenth of a grain, regardless of powder type.
If you do not need a dedicated measure, a high-precision reloading scale works for many. You dispense powder manually and weigh every charge. It is slower, but it is the gold standard for accuracy.
A high-precision scale is a necessary companion to any measure, allowing you to verify every charge and catch inconsistencies early.
- 100g CAPACITY RELOADING SCALE WITH GRAIN & MILLIGRAM PRECISION：Built for reloaders who
- SMART TARGET WEIGHT ALERT WITH COLOR GUIDANCE：Set your target weight and tolerance
The bottom line
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is the right choice for the reloader who wants a simple, durable tool that gets out of the way. It is not the most precise electronic option, but it is unmatched for ease of use and lack of maintenance.
If you are already using Hornady presses and work with flow-friendly powders, stick with it and use the drain insert for cleaner transitions. If you load match-sensitive rifle powders or want automatic error correction, step up to an electronic measure like the Intellidropper.
- Powder Measure Drain Insert – A helpful accessory for your Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
- No Waste – This insert is used to drain powder from the Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the Hornady Lock-N-Load powder measure?
For most extruded powders, it maintains consistency within 0.1 to 0.3 grains. Accuracy depends heavily on the powder’s flow characteristics and your calibration technique. It is not as precise as a digital scale, so it is best paired with one for verification.
Can the Hornady measure be used with non-Hornady presses?
Yes, but it requires an adapter. The measure is designed to mount directly on Hornady Lock-N-Load progressive presses. For other brands, you will need a third-party mounting solution or a dedicated stand.
What should I do if the powder stops flowing (bridging)?
Open the metering chamber and gently tap the side of the hopper. If the powder is still stuck, use a non-metallic tool to gently break the bridge. Never use metal tools inside the chamber, as they can create sparks.
Does the Hornady Lock-N-Load measure work with all powders?
It works well with most powders, but fast-burning and very fine powders can be tricky. These powders have a higher risk of clogging the metering chamber. Always test a new powder before relying on it for a full batch.