Lee classic powder measure?

[bja1981]

Has anybody tried the new Lee classic powder measure yet? I'm using an RCBS now but thinking about buying one the Lee measures due to the interchangeable rotors. I think it would be handy to not have to do all that adjusting to go from small charges to larger charges. I'm mainly concerned with the consistency of the dropped charges as a little variation makes a noticeable velocity change in these small cases.

[dmsims21]

I had not heard about the Lee Classic Powder Measure, so I just looked it up.
I haven't actually seen or used one, but I have a few thoughts. I have their standard powder measure.
I think the new classic powder measure might be a pretty good.

1. The Lee reloading manuals and equipment use cubic centimeters (cc), along with grains, for powder measuring. This is kind of unique (most only use grains) but very helpful. Measuring powder by weight is the standard, but powder dispensers meter out powder based on volume. If you have a Lee reloading manual you know that they list the grains and cc for each load. That way you can quickly get close to the right powder measure setting, throw a charge, and then confirm with your scale.

2. One of the first things I do when I get a new can of powder, is determine the Specific Volume (opposite of density) of the powder. I set my powder measure to a known volume, throw a charge, do the math to get cc/gr, then repeat several times for an average. I write the Specific Volume on the can.
When I start reloading, I take the charge I want in grains, and multiply it by the Specific Volume. The result is the volume setting for the powder measure.
Example
Desired charge of 8208 XBR - 28.0 gr
Specific Volume of 8208 XBR - 0.0741 cc/gr
Metering Chamber Setting - 28.0gr X 0.0741cc/gr = 2.0748cc

This gets me pretty close to the final adjustment. Finally, when I settle on a good load, I write the volume down in my log book. That way I can get set up quickly the next time I reload.
(Please remember that these volume calculations are for getting close to the desired charge weight. Don't forget to confirm the actual charge weight with your scale.)

All of that said, I think the Lee Classic Powder Measure will be an improvement in set up speed over your RCBS - even without the interchangeable rotors. Instead of dedicating a rotor to a specific load, just record your cc setting on the metering chamber. You will be able to change charge volume faster than swapping out drums.

I apologize if my post is hard to follow. Please ask any questions you have.
I am also sorry that my post may not answer your question.

[Kendoist4162]

What he ^ said. The Lee Classic is a very accurate measure when used properly. Been using one for quite some time. The Lee Perfect Powder measure is the all plastic version and is still good but wears out quickly especially if using ball powders like W748, H335 or such. Grains get caught in between the rotor and body.

[dmsims21]

Anyone else have any actual experience with the new Lee Classic Powder Measure?

[dieselmudder]

Looks great for volume reloading, may work decent with extruded and spherical powders, I use the the Lee perfect for extruded, because it doesnt cut grains. I use Hornady LNL for spherical, because its less mess. For consistency and accuracy I use an electronic dispenser/scale combo. Looks like you may be the guniea pig here, get one, and report back

[Bwild97]

I love my lee powder measure, very consistent drops with stick and ball Powders, better than my hornady LnL droper. The one thing about the Lee that is anoying, is it leaks CFE, and LvR, but is ok with BLC and Win 748. I have also purchased the micro adjust slide, worth every penny! Large stick powders will chew up the poly wiper so pick up a few extra if you use those types of powders.

[Bwild97]

Sorry op. I referenced the incorrect mesure, didn't realise that Lee had redesigned their "Perfect" powder measure and now call it "Classic". I have the "Auto Disc" powder measure. I do also have the "Perfect" powder measure, it's the reason I have the Hornady LnL, if you catch my drift.