Let’s Dive into RCBS Powder Checkers
Reloading ammunition is a meticulous process. It demands precision and unwavering attention to detail. The RCBS Powder Checkers offer a simple yet effective visual confirmation that your powder charges are consistent, providing a crucial layer of safety and quality control to the reloading process. I’ve spent over a decade handloading for everything from precision rifle competitions to high-volume pistol practice, and consistent powder charges are the bedrock of accurate and safe ammunition.
I was experiencing unsettling variations in my loads. These inconsistencies were causing erratic velocities and opening up my groups at the range. I needed a reliable way to verify my powder charges on my progressive press without slowing down my process too much.
The RCBS Powder Checkers immediately struck me as a robust and straightforward solution. The design is simple, but the build quality felt solid. The black oxide finish provided good contrast, making it easy to visually assess the powder level in the case.
I considered the Hornady Powder Cop Die, but the user feedback consistently pointed to the RCBS version being more accurate and having better stem travel. I also looked at some electronic powder scales that mount inline, but these were far more expensive and complex. The RCBS Powder Checkers seemed like the best balance of accuracy, simplicity, and cost.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it lived up to the positive reviews and would significantly improve my reloading process.
Real-World Testing: Putting RCBS Powder Checkers to the Test
First Use Experience
I integrated the RCBS Powder Checkers into my reloading process on my progressive press. The die sits conveniently between the powder charging station and the bullet seating station. I tested it initially with .223 Remington rounds, a cartridge I load in high volume for AR-15 practice.
I ran a few hundred rounds, paying close attention to the probe rod’s movement. The visual confirmation was quick and easy to interpret. The probe immediately indicated any squib loads or overcharged cases.
The RCBS Powder Checkers performed consistently, even when the humidity was high in my reloading room. There was a slight learning curve in getting accustomed to the visual cues, but it was quickly mastered after about 50 rounds. My only concern after the first use was the lock ring.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the RCBS Powder Checkers have proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my reloading setup. The durability has been excellent; there are no signs of wear or tear on the die or the probe rod. I’ve loaded thousands of rounds across various calibers.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s required to keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to manually weighing each powder charge, the RCBS Powder Checkers significantly sped up my process while providing a reasonable degree of confidence in the powder level.
It has outperformed my expectations by providing a rapid and reliable visual check, preventing potential errors and ensuring greater consistency in my ammunition. I feel more confident in my reloads now.
Breaking Down the Features of RCBS Powder Checkers
Specifications
The RCBS Powder Checkers is designed for use with straight-wall or bottleneck rifle and pistol cases. It works with .22 caliber and larger projectiles. RCBS manufactures it in the USA.
- Projectile Caliber: .22 Caliber and larger. This is a critical specification as it dictates the range of cartridges the die can be used with.
- Quantity: 1. The product includes one powder checker die.
- Color: Silver. The silver color contrasts with the black oxide finish on the probe rod.
- Country of Origin: USA. This indicates a potentially higher standard of manufacturing quality.
These specifications are important. They affect the versatility of the die and the overall user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The RCBS Powder Checkers excels at providing a quick and easy visual confirmation of powder charges. The probe rod rises to a predictable height based on the powder level in the case. This allows you to quickly identify undercharges, overcharges, or no charges at all.
The main strength lies in its simplicity and speed. It integrates seamlessly into a progressive press setup, allowing for rapid verification without significantly slowing down the reloading process. The weakness is that it’s a visual check; it doesn’t provide a precise measurement of the powder charge. It’s more about detecting gross errors than ensuring perfect consistency.
It meets my expectations as a rapid and reliable way to prevent catastrophic reloading errors, but it’s not a substitute for careful powder weighing when absolute precision is required.
Design & Ergonomics
The RCBS Powder Checkers features a simple and functional design. It’s constructed from durable steel with a black oxide finish on the probe rod. The weight is substantial enough to provide stability on the reloading press.
The die is user-friendly with minimal setup required. Once installed, it requires no adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The RCBS Powder Checkers is built to last. The steel construction and simple design minimize the risk of mechanical failure. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue.
With proper care, this tool should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RCBS Powder Checkers comes as a standalone die and doesn’t include any additional accessories. The main customization option is the lock ring. Many reloaders, including myself, prefer to replace the RCBS lock ring with a Hornady lock ring for easier adjustment and a more secure hold.
The die is compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders.
Pros and Cons of RCBS Powder Checkers
Pros
- Reliable visual powder check: Quickly identifies undercharges, overcharges, and no charges.
- Increases confidence in reloads: Provides an extra layer of quality control.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand years of use.
- Easy to use: Simple to install and integrate into a progressive press setup.
- Speeds up reloading process: Faster than manually weighing each charge.
Cons
- Not a precise measurement: Only provides a visual indication of powder level.
- Requires visual attention: Demands focus to interpret the probe rod’s movement.
- RCBS Lock Ring: Many users prefer aftermarket lock rings.
Who Should Buy RCBS Powder Checkers?
The RCBS Powder Checkers is perfect for reloaders using progressive presses. It is ideal for those seeking to add a layer of safety and quality control to their reloading process. This is an essential tool for high-volume reloaders who want to minimize the risk of squib loads or overcharged cases.
This product may not be necessary for reloaders who primarily use single-stage presses. Those who meticulously weigh each powder charge may not find the visual check to be beneficial.
A must-have modification is replacing the RCBS lock ring with a Hornady lock ring for improved adjustability.
Conclusion on RCBS Powder Checkers
The RCBS Powder Checkers is a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit. It provides a rapid and reliable visual check of powder charges, enhancing safety and quality control during the reloading process. It is not a substitute for careful powder weighing when absolute precision is paramount.
The price of $49.89 is justified for the peace of mind and efficiency it provides.
I would highly recommend the RCBS Powder Checkers to any reloader using a progressive press. It is a simple yet effective tool that can significantly reduce the risk of reloading errors. Add the RCBS Powder Checkers to your reloading bench and experience a safer, more confident reloading process.