Updated: January 6th, 2021
If you are a person who creates your own ammunition, you probably have realized that there is a big savings in reloading your own cartridges. Not only is it a way to create ammunition that is often times more accurate than what you would get from the manufacturer or in the store, but there are considerable savings that can be made when buying the materials to make your own cartridges.
However, these savings can quickly be lost if you are not accurately measuring out such things as gunpowder. Your great cost-saving endeavor can quickly turn against you. This is why it is important that you get the best powder scale for reloading. This will assist you in making sure that your gunpowder is not wasted.
It is for this reason that I have done much of what you are doing right now. I have read the reviews, tried out many different products, and consulted friends and family looking to find the perfect equipment, including the perfect scale for measuring out powder. I’ve done the research, and you can have confidence that the information I am providing is of value to you.
I have taken my personal obsession and expertise and written this review to assist you in finding the best scale for yourself.
How to Choose the Most Accurate Reloading Scale?
Before discussing the best options for scales, it is important for you to understand what makes for an accurate and good quality scale. After all, the best piece of reloading equipment is really just the one that works best for your personal needs. So here are some things to pay attention to:
- Type of Scale. There are two primary types of powder measure scales that you can purchase: digital and mechanical or balance beam. The digital powder scale (or electronic powder scale) is one that is measuring your powder electronically, while the mechanical or balance beam scales are allowing you to do this manually. Some find the manual more accurate, it’s really a question of what you like best. Just make sure you take the time to decide on what works best for you – digital or mechanical, as well as other factors – and you will have the scale that can work for you for a decade or more.
- Sensitivity. No matter which kind of scale you are speaking of, you want to look for something that provides you with a great deal of sensitivity, at least 1/10 grain accuracy. This will give you great precision and ensure that you don’t have waste. Just remember to be smart and safe in everything you do surrounding the use of your weapon, including the reloading of your cartridges. Do this and your experiences will be better than ever and you will have great ammunition, great equipment, and great fun.
- Capacity. Whether you are planning on doing a small number of cartridges or a big batch, being able to weigh the amount you are looking for at any time is an important consideration. Make sure you get a capacity that fits how you reload your cartridges.
- Durability. Durability is a crucial factor with just about any product, but it is especially important with reloading scales. If you are a person who reloads your cartridges while you’re out at the range or out on a hunting trip, then you need something that’s going to be durable. The more mobile you need your scale to be more durable you needed to be.
- Price. Of course, price is always a concern. While you want the highest possible quality scale, you also want to get one that works well within your budget. So, having an idea of the other kinds of factors that matter to you most will help you to determine what you can afford.
7 Best Digital Electronic Scales on the Market!
Now that you have some ideas about important factors to pay attention to when choosing a scale, let’s get right into the best reloader scales on the market. For those who have decided that they would like the digital scale option, here are my top seven digital scales that I discovered.
- Skip to the best mechanical or balance beam scales
#1 RCBS Chargemaster Combo 1500, 110V-AC
This was my personal favorite digital electronic scale and that started with a fantastic design. It was easy for me to be able to load in the gunpowder and then choose the display screen to set exactly how much powder was to come through the device and onto the scale. It was able to hold at least 1 pound of powder in the hopper and is perfect for those using smokeless powder.
The precision of this scale is +/- 0.1 grains and I was able to dispense anywhere from between two up to 300 grains. The precision of the scale is amazing, ensuring I got an accurate amount of powder for every time that I measured, perfect for those who want to ensure they are not wasting powder during reloading.
Extremely fast in terms of your ability to get the powder amount you want to weigh out correctly, and the display is easy to use so that you can get the exact kind of measurements you are looking for. You will be amazed at how quickly this cuts your reloading time, and you are able to use it with the multitude of different kinds of powders.
A great design that is extremely durable. You can easily take this anywhere, and it allows you to use batteries to keep it charged on the go. Absolutely loved it.
#2 Hornady 050108 Electronic Scale, 1500 Grain
If you are looking for a well-designed scale that has the capacity of 1500 grains, here’s the choice for you. It is perfect for any reloading bench, and comes with a plug that gives you three different kinds of outlets to use in almost any kind of socket. You can literally take this anywhere, and I mean anywhere across the globe.
There is a large LCD display, which makes it easy to read and stay lit, so even if you were out creating cartridges as the sun is going down, you can still get a good reading with your powder without giving away your position. Plus, it gives you precision up to one tenth of a grain. You can easily weigh bullets, powder, rifle rounds, cartridges, cases, and much more.
Included with the scale are a variety of measuring tools, which not only include micrometers and calipers, but you also get tools that allow you to measure rim thickness, the seating depth of your bullet, and other tools that help to create uniformity in each cartridge you make. This is a great scale built to give you an accurate read each and every time. You will also like the fact that is so small that it easily fits on your workbench area without taking up much room.
#3 RCBS Scales Chargemaster Lite 120/240 Vac-US/Intl
This is a great 300 grain powder dispenser, which has an accuracy up to 0.1 grains. It is specifically built for everyone, no matter whether you are right-handed or left-handed, and you will love the fact that it is easy to get an accurate amount of powder with each setting. Dispensed from the hopper, powder comes onto the tray as you determine, giving you the exact measurement you want each and every time.
The LCD display is easy to read and easy to use. This is one of the things that I really loved about the scale, because it took a very short learning curve for me to be able to get the amount of powder I needed and every time. The interface is just excellent, and you will love how responsive it is.
Setting the calibration is easy. It is a durable device that enables you to be able to take it with you wherever you want. Battery-operated if you so desire. I personally like the fact that it was built as a rather small device, making it easy to store on my workbench or to take with me. Really ideal for the on-the-go hunter.
#4 Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Precision Scale with LCD Display and Case for Reloading
If you want something that is much more than just a scale, then this Frankford option is exactly what you are looking for. Not only do you get a fantastic case to protect your scale and make it easy to take with you, but you get incredible calibration at this, as accurate as .01 g. The capacity is 1500 grains or 100 g and you have two different calibration weights making it so that you can measure in either grains, grams, carrots, or ounces. This is a fantastic scale.
This is one of the easiest scales you will find to use, which can either run on 110 V, 220 V, or by using for AAA batteries. It will automatically shut off after 180 seconds of idle time making sure that your power is not wasted.
Plus, you will like the fact that its size makes it that you could store it virtually any place, even when it is out of the case.
Included with the scale and case, are calibration weights, a metal powder Pam, a storage case, the adapters for power supply, and a clear protective cover. This is a scale that is specifically built to give you maximum potential in terms of the hand loads you are creating, and you will love the fact that you can take this with you anywhere you go. Plus, it has a large black lit display that makes it easy to read no matter where you are.
#5 American Weigh Scales GEMINI-20 Portable Milligram Scale
This is a great portable scale, powered by the use of two AAA batteries. This is a very small digital scale that weighs up to about 20 g of any substance, allowing you to increase or decrease in increments of 0.001 g.
Included with the scale is a carrying case that also provides you with such things as tweezers, calibration weights, and a tray. They flip down shield protects the scale, so not only do you get accurate measurements but you do not have to worry about the scale being damaged. The scale is made with an extremely durable and hard plastic.
There are six different weight units that you can use, including ounces, grams, and grains among three others. The diameter of the scale is 1.3 inches, and is made of a strong stainless steel to give you a great scale. There are separate on and off buttons, along with an easy-to-read LCD display. The user guide is easy to follow, and included are two different 10 g calibration weights.
What many have liked is that the company has completely redesigned the weighing platform, making it much more accurate and easier to use. Not only can you weigh powder and cartridges, but virtually any kind of material you would like, as I was even able to weigh tea extract and different supplements I have been using to improve my health.
#6 Hornady Auto Charge
Here’s another great option from Hornady. The Hornady Auto Charge is a powder measure which was made for speed and efficiency above all else. I’m happy to report that it meets all these claims and more.
This measure is so popular because it has the added “dispensing” feature. A handy dispenser sits atop the machine, which automatically dispenses powder directly onto the scale. The dispenser is especially useful because you have precise control over the speed of the dispensing. It can operate as slowly as a trickle.
The scale also has automatic and manual dispensing settings. You can automatically dispense the amount you need, or you can do it yourself manually.And once you dispense the powder onto the scale, the scale itself is very accurate and precise. It’s accurate up to 0.1 grains, with a scale capacity of 1000 grains.
If you’re looking for a gun powder scale with ultimate convenience and accuracy, this is the one you’re looking for. And since it’s from Hornady, you can depend on its quality. It even has a one-year warranty to back up these claims.
#7 Frankford Arsenal Digital Reloading Scale
Here’s a useful little scale that we really like. If you’re looking for the ultimate in portability, without sacrificing accuracy, then you’re looking for the Frankford Arsenal Digital Reloading Scale.
This scale is accurate up to 0.1 grains, and has a 750 grain capacity. This is quite impressive for such a small, portable scale.The scale is powered by two AA batteries which are included in the package. It has an easy-to-read LCD display which automatically shuts off after a minute of inactivity.
This scale comes with everything you need for functionality and portability. It has a sleek carrying case, a powder pan, and a calibration weight.
We like this scale so much because of its simplicity. It’s not fancy, it’s not big and bulky, but it simply has everything you need. After all, the most important part of a scale is that it works and that it gives accurate reads, and this one does. We really like this little scale, and we think you will too.
5 Best Mechanical or Balance Beam Scales to Buy!
While digital scales can be a great option, you have also seen that many have issues with their ability to zero out. This is why there are people who are much more comfortable with using either the mechanical or balance beam scales, and here are six you may want to consider.
#1 Ohaus 30332167 10-10 Reloading Scale
If you are a person who prefers to do things manually and wants the best reloading scale on the market, then you are really going love this one. This comes with a 511 grain plus a 500 graying counterweight that enables you to be able to weigh over 1000 grains. The 10-10 has a lockable micrometer that makes the accuracy of the weight system even more accurate.
This scale is made of an extremely rugged, diecast foundation, with a leveling foot that provides a great deal of stability. You are not going to find much that will disturb the accuracy of your weighing outside of an earthquake, and you will love that each scale is made so that it can be leveled quickly by adjusting the scale at one single point. Here’s how you can measure powder with Ohaus reloading scale:
There is no need for a battery or any kind of power source. You get an accurate scale out-of-the-box that is dependable and ensures that every measurement you take is exactly what the weight is. Also, because of how durable it is, you can take this scale anywhere you go making it ideal for those who like to create their cartridges while they are out on the range or out in the field.
For those who love the accurate measurement of doing things mechanically, this is one of the best scale you’re going find and, best of all, you can use this to measure just about anything. No limitations here.
#2 RCBS 98916 M1000 Mechanical Scale
This is a great reloading scale, which comes with a sharp design and easy to read values that make it the perfect choice for a person who is looking for accurate measurements. This scale allows you to measure up to 1000 grains and the pieces are easy to adjust, making calibration and determination of the weight you desire a snap.
The grooves on the scale are the perfect depth, ensuring that they hold in place without skipping from one value to the next. It’s perfectly made for a person who is either left or right-handed and it comes with a clear plastic cover that will help to protect it during transport.Here’s a short video how you can operate your RCBS Mechanical Scale:
The base of the scale ensures that you get an accurate measurement each time, as it provides great stability. You are able to level the scale easily and its total weight is just 2.4 pounds. That makes transportation even easier, which is ideal for those who love to take their scale with them while they are out for the day.
This is one of those scales that a person can buy and hang on to for years, as it provides great accuracy, with a 0.2 grains margin of error. It is built of durable materials that will enable you to use the scale for years to come. Truly one of those purchases that you can hang onto for decades.
#3 Redding Reloading – Powder & Bullet Scale #2 Master
If you are looking for a smaller sized reloading scale that still provides you with great accuracy then this is one you will really like. This scale is much smaller than many of the other balance beam reloading scales I observed, but still gives you a lot of bang for the buck.
It has a capacity of 505 grains and yet still divides an accuracy of 1/10 of a grain. It is built with an extremely simple design, giving you two counterpoise systems which make your use of the scale extremely simple. It also has a high degree of sensitivity so you get accurate measurements.
This scale weighs less than a pound, making it absolutely ideal to take with you anywhere. In fact, you are likely to find that it could fit in a small bag or in whatever case you use when you go hunting. It’s extremely durable, so it can handle a little wear and tear. Re-zeroing of the scale takes a matter of a couple of seconds before you are ready to use.
#4 RCBS M500 Mechanical Scale
Here is another smaller size scale from RCBS, weighing just 1.2 pounds, which is ideal for those who are looking for a little bit of a larger scale to measure their powder, and one that is suited for those with bigger fingers and hands.
This scale is made of the highest quality materials, ensuring that you’re getting a durable scale that will last you for years. You will love the fact that the leveling knob is underneath the scale, making it easier for you to be able to stabilize the base. Here’s a quick video on RCBS Mechanical Scale:
The granulation marks- at 1/10 intervals which is perfect for getting an accurate measurement, and I love how easy it was to be able to get the pan off the scale. While you can measure up to 500 grains, it is better equipped for no more than 300 to get the best level of accuracy.
Extremely sensitive scale, which provides you with accurate results each time. The magnetic damping settles down quickly, making it so that you can have a repeatable process each time with great accuracy. You simply can’t beat how great this scale is for the price you are paying.
#5 Hornady Lock-n-Load Balance Beam Scale
This is one of the simplest reloading scales I found, although, it is also one of the best constructed. It weighs less than 1 pound, and is built with a tough phenolic that lets you know it will last.
What I liked about it, and many of the reviews I read about it seem to like as well, is that this is a no-frills scale. It is built to look very much like a teeter totter, where you are able to determine the measurement by monitoring the leveler. It provides an incredible level of accuracy up to 0.1 grain, but still is able to handle the capacity of 500 grains on the beam.
I found the scale to be extremely easy and quick to use, giving me accurate measurements each and every time. I will say it takes a little practice to get used to using it, but once you do, you’re going to be amazed at the measurements you receive. Truly a fantastic product. This is one that I actually use to confirm the values I’m getting from my portable electronic scale.
Comparison Chart
| Powder Scales | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| #1 RCBS Chargemaster Combo 1500 |
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| #2 Hornady 050108 Electronic Scale |
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| #3 RCBS Scales Chargemaster Lite |
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| #4 Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Precision Scale with LCD Display and Case for Reloading |
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| #5 American Weigh Scales GEMINI-20 Portable Milligram Scale |
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| #6 Hornady Auto Charge |
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| #7 Frankford Arsenal Digital Reloading Scale |
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| #8 Ohaus 30332167 10-10 Reloading Scale |
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| #9 RCBS 98916 M1000 Mechanical Scale |
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| #10 Redding Reloading – Powder & Bullet Scale #2 Master |
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| #11 RCBS M500 Mechanical Scale |
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| #12 Hornady Lock-n-Load Scale |
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Most Frequently Asked Questions
I am frequently asked questions by friends and family related to issues or purchases, and so I have put together a list of some of the common questions I receive related to reloading scales. Hope these help.
Why reload your own ammunition?
Many wonder whether the process of reloading their own ammunition is even worth it.
The most common reason that people reload their own ammunition is cost savings. However, once they start, many find the process immensely enjoyable and rewarding. There’s just something so satisfying about firing a round that you have created yourself. Not to mention the process of making the ammunition sort of lulls you into a trance. You sit down, craft ammo, and relax.
Of course, you’ll need more than just a scale to craft your own ammunition. Check out our guide to the best reloading dies, as well as our guide to the best reloading presses.
What is “zero out” on a scale?
When you get into reloading, you might hear the term “zeroing out” thrown around when it comes to weighing your powder. Simply put, zeroing out means resetting the scale back to zero, so that you can measure more materials. By doing this, you can compare weights.
For example, if you put some powder on the scale, you can then reset to zero, and add something else. The scale would then give you the weight of only the additional object. Digital scales will often have a setting which allows them to zero out.
If you are going to be creating your own rounds then a reloading scale is absolutely essential. You have to be able to accurately measure the amount of powder you are using in each cartridge, and a scale is the only way you can do that. This also helps you to prevent wasting powder which can become a costly mistake.
The reason behind this is simple. To throw charges with a minimal amount of variation, you want to make sure that you have the same charge for the powder each and every time. To do so, you are looking to get as accurate of a measurement as possible and grains is far more accurate than any other standard unit, especially that of grams or ounces. As an example, there are more than 15 grains in every gram, which would be much harder to determine if you only needed one fourth of a gram. It makes much more sense to simply go with the grain measurement to get the more accurate value.
The truth is that you could measure just about anything. It really depends upon the kind of scale you’re using, as some are not able to measure liquids, but we have seen in this review that I actually used a couple of the scales to measure other kinds of substances. Some will not allow you to measure the water volume for cartridges, and you will likely find that in many of the digital scales this will be an issue. But it is far less of an issue in the balance beam or mechanical scales. However, it is important that if you are making ammunition, you should not be using your scale to measure others kind of substances than the charging powder. The reason behind this is simple. Even the smallest amount of residue from another substance can deteriorate or corrupt your charging powder, which could have catastrophic results. Make this a single-purpose scale.
There are those who choose the digital scale simply because it is the easiest to use. No argument with that whatsoever. Once you have zero on the machine, these can become the easiest things to use. With some scales, you simply choose the amount of powder you wish to have dispensed and weighed and it will provide that for you. Some make it easy to simply pour in the amount that you need and get an accurate measurement. However, I happened to be one who is a strong believer in the mechanical scales. These are much easier to zero, and provide less issues for you. Plus, you don’t have to worry about any kind of power source. Overall accuracy is not as solid, I will agree with that. It’s simply a matter of what you’re used to and what you like best.
What we saw is that most of the digital reloading scales give you incredible accuracy. You are able to measure in the 0.01 to 0.1 grains of accuracy. That’s pretty exceptional, and something that no mechanical scale can provide you with. For a person who is looking for the absolute most accurate amount of charging powder with each round they make, you simply cannot argue with this.
As with any tools, the better you take care of it the better the device will be. You should always store your scale in a place where it is kept secure, free from getting damaged, and free from being knocked over or continually bumped against. The more wear and tear you subject your scale to the less likely it is to be accurate for you. Always clean your scale after you’re done using it. This can simply be done by wiping down the scale with a dry paper towel when you are done using it, or cleaning it with a solution of a mild soap and water. You can even use alcohol rubs. Simply make sure that you treat your reloading scale with the greatest amount of respect and it will last for you for years to come.
Actually it depends on what you like. All of the ones on this list are built with durable materials, so you want to invest in something that’s going to be around for a while, as your enthusiasm and desire to hunt or to shoot competitively increase. One of the things you will love about quality scales is that they are built to last. If you care for your scale and buy a quality product, you can be sure it will be around for that long. Why you need a reloading scale?
Why does everyone measure powder in grains?
What else can I measure with the reloading scale other than powder charge?
Digital vs balance beam reloading scale - what to choose?
How accurate are digital reloading scales?
How to take care of a reloading scale?
What is the best powder scale for reloading?
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