Powder Drop Test Part 1 - Prometheus, Auto Trickler, Chargemaster, Hornady, Harrells

Published on February 21, 2018
Duration: 8:19

This video conducts a powder drop test comparing five different powder dispensers: Prometheus, Auto Trickler, RCBS Chargemaster, Hornady Lock-N-Load Auto Charge, and Harrell's Powder Drop. The experiment aims to determine the impact of powder charge accuracy on rifle group dispersion downrange. Data collected includes charge weight accuracy verified on a lab scale, drop times, and will be correlated with speed and accuracy data from Lab Radar.

Quick Summary

The Prometheus and Auto Trickler are the most accurate powder dispensers tested, with variances as low as 0.04 grains, crucial for minimizing vertical dispersion in rifle groups. Less precise options like the RCBS Chargemaster and Hornady Lock-N-Load Auto Charge have variances around 0.2 grains.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to Powder Drop Debate
  2. 00:26Powder Dispenser Comparison Setup
  3. 01:15Experiment Genesis and Rifle Selection
  4. 03:04Initial Powder Drop Accuracy Results
  5. 03:40Factors Affecting Group Dispersion
  6. 04:18Rifle and Load Specifications
  7. 05:30Controlling Variables in Reloading
  8. 05:52Data Collection with Lab Radar
  9. 06:06Accuracy Comparison: Auto Trickler vs. Prometheus
  10. 06:14Average Drop Times
  11. 06:33Hornady Lock-N-Load Issues
  12. 07:27No Company Affiliation Disclosure
  13. 07:41Powder Dispenser Pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

Which powder dispensers are most accurate for precision reloading?

According to this test, the Prometheus and Auto Trickler demonstrated the highest accuracy, with variances as low as 0.04 grains. This precision is critical for minimizing vertical dispersion and achieving tight rifle groups downrange.

What is the typical accuracy variance for popular powder dispensers like RCBS Chargemaster?

The RCBS Chargemaster and Hornady Lock-N-Load Auto Charge typically show a variance of around 0.2 grains. While this is acceptable for many shooters, it's less precise than high-end dispensers like the Prometheus or Auto Trickler.

How does powder drop accuracy affect rifle shooting performance?

Powder charge accuracy directly impacts vertical dispersion downrange. Consistent charges lead to more predictable velocities and thus tighter groups, while significant variances can cause shots to spread vertically, affecting overall accuracy.

What factors influence the impact of powder drop accuracy on shooting groups?

Key factors include the type of gunpowder used, ambient temperature, and the specific harmonic node width of the rifle barrel. A rifle with a wide accuracy node may be more forgiving of minor powder charge variations.

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