Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is a compact, digital scale designed for reloaders who demand accuracy and portability. From Lyman, a trusted name in reloading, this kit offers a complete solution for weighing powder charges on the go or in tight spaces. This scale aims to deliver precise measurements with the convenience of a pocket-sized device.

I was tired of lugging around my larger, bench-mounted scale to the range when I wanted to develop new loads. I needed something accurate, easy to use, and small enough to fit in my range bag, which is exactly what led me to the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit.

Out of the box, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit feels surprisingly solid despite its small size. The included accessories, such as the Powder Pal funnel pan and scoop, add to the overall value. The digital display is clear and easy to read, and the touch controls are responsive.

I considered the RCBS Rangemaster 750 and the Frankford Arsenal DS-750, both popular portable scales. However, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit stood out because of its combination of included accessories and reputation for accuracy within its price range. The positive user reviews I read also swayed my decision.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the small size was appealing, I was eager to test its accuracy against my trusted bench scale. If this little scale could deliver on its promise of precision, it would be a game-changer for my reloading process.


Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit at my local shooting range during a load development session. I was working on fine-tuning a load for my .308 Winchester rifle. The scale performed admirably, providing consistent and seemingly accurate readings throughout the process.

Even in the slightly dusty conditions of the range, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit remained functional. The touch screen was a little sensitive to stray powder grains, but a quick wipe solved the problem. The scale’s portability allowed me to make adjustments to my loads right at the bench, saving me time and trips back to my reloading room.

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit was incredibly easy to use right from the start. The simple touch controls and clear display made weighing charges a breeze. I did consult the manual briefly to understand the calibration procedure, but otherwise, it was intuitive.

The only initial surprise was how quickly the battery seemed to drain. I hadn’t used the scale for more than an hour, but the battery indicator already showed a decline. I will need to look at the battery more closely during further tests.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit has proven to be a valuable addition to my reloading setup. It has consistently provided accurate readings, and its portability has been incredibly convenient. I have come to depend on it for developing new loads and checking existing ones.

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit has held up well with regular use. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. I store it in a padded case when not in use to protect it from damage.

Cleaning the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is relatively simple. A soft brush and a gentle wipe with a dry cloth are usually sufficient to remove any spilled powder. I occasionally use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris from the crevices.

Compared to my previous experiences with other portable scales, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit outperforms them in terms of accuracy and ease of use. It has exceeded my expectations for a scale in this price range. I would, however, recommend using a quality bench scale at home for higher volume reloading.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit

Specifications

  • Maximum Capacity: 1500 grains. This allows for measuring a wide range of powder charges for various calibers.
  • Accuracy: +/- 0.1 grain. This ensures precise and consistent powder measurements, critical for accurate reloading.
  • Units of Measure: Grains, grams, ounces. This provides flexibility for different reloading preferences and requirements.
  • Power Source: 2 AAA batteries (included). The portability of battery power makes it convenient for field use.
  • Includes: Powder Pal funnel pan, powder scoop, check weight. This provides a complete set of tools for weighing powder.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy and ease of use of the scale. The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit boasts a high degree of precision, which is essential for creating safe and consistent loads. The included accessories further enhance the user experience, making the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit a well-rounded reloading tool.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit performs its job exceptionally well, providing accurate and reliable powder measurements. The touch screen is responsive and easy to navigate, and the scale calibrates quickly. Its compact size makes it ideal for reloaders with limited space or those who need a portable solution.

One of the strengths of the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is its accuracy. It consistently provides readings within +/- 0.1 grain, which is crucial for safety and consistency. A potential weakness is the scale’s sensitivity to environmental factors, such as drafts or vibrations, which can affect accuracy.

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit meets and generally exceeds expectations. Considering its price point, the scale delivers impressive performance. I would be even more impressed if the battery life could be extended.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit features a simple and functional design. The materials used feel durable, and the scale is lightweight and easy to handle. Its compact size makes it comfortable to use even in confined spaces.

The touch screen is user-friendly. There is very little learning curve involved. Calibration is straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit appears to be reasonably durable. With proper care, it should last for many years. Storing the scale in a protective case when not in use will help to prevent damage.

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and occasional calibration will keep it in good working order. There are no user-replaceable parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit comes with a Powder Pal funnel pan, powder scoop, and check weight. These accessories are essential for accurate powder measurements and enhance the overall user experience. There are no specific customization options available for this scale.

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is compatible with most standard powder tricklers and funnels. This allows users to fine-tune their powder charges with greater precision. If you already have a trickler, it should integrate easily.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit

Pros

  • Highly accurate within +/- 0.1 grain, crucial for safe and consistent reloading.
  • Extremely portable and compact, ideal for range use or limited reloading space.
  • User-friendly touch screen interface, easy to navigate and calibrate.
  • Includes essential accessories like Powder Pal funnel pan and scoop.
  • Excellent value for the money, offering high performance at an affordable price.

Cons

  • Battery life could be improved.
  • Sensitive to environmental factors such as drafts and vibrations.


Who Should Buy Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit?

The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is perfect for reloaders who need a portable and accurate scale for use at the range or in limited spaces. It’s also a great option for beginners who are just starting to reload and want an easy-to-use scale.

Reloaders who require extreme precision or those who primarily reload large volumes of ammunition might prefer a more robust bench-mounted scale. The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit may not be ideal for those scenarios.

A powder trickler is a must-have accessory to fine-tune powder charges with the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit. A small anti-static brush for cleaning the scale and components is also recommended.

Conclusion on Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit

Overall, the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is a solid and reliable portable scale for reloaders. Its accuracy, ease of use, and included accessories make it an excellent value for the money. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price of the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is definitely justified by its performance and features. It’s a worthwhile investment for any reloader who values accuracy and portability.

I would definitely recommend the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable portable scale. If you need to develop new loads at the range or reload in a small space, you won’t be disappointed. Pick up the Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit today and take your reloading to the next level!

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