For meticulous black powder cartridge reloaders, a precise brass black powder measure is an essential tool. Accuracy is paramount in black powder reloading, ensuring consistent performance and safety. This guide delves into the features, benefits, and selection criteria for choosing the right brass black powder measure for your needs.
Why Choose a Brass Black Powder Measure?
While plastic or other materials might seem cheaper, brass offers several key advantages:
- Durability: Brass is inherently robust, resisting wear and tear from repeated use with abrasive black powder. This longevity translates to a longer lifespan compared to less durable materials.
- Corrosion Resistance: Unlike some metals, brass exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, crucial in the presence of black powder's potentially corrosive components. This ensures your measure maintains accuracy and functionality for years to come.
- Static Reduction: Brass is less prone to static electricity build-up than plastic. This is especially important with black powder, as static discharge could pose a safety risk.
- Consistent Performance: The consistent density of brass ensures uniform weight distribution, leading to more reliable powder measurements compared to less dense materials.
Key Features to Consider When Selecting a Brass Black Powder Measure
Choosing the right measure involves considering several crucial factors:
1. Capacity and Graduation Increments:
The measure's capacity should align with the powder charges you typically use. Look for clearly marked graduation increments for precise measurements. Smaller increments offer finer control, beneficial for fine-tuning loads.
2. Type of Measure:
Several designs exist, each with pros and cons:
- Drop Measure: Simple and reliable, dispensing a consistent charge with each drop.
- Volume Measure: Measures a specific volume of powder, requiring careful leveling.
3. Construction and Build Quality:
Inspect the measure for any imperfections or flaws. A robust, well-constructed measure will ensure accurate and consistent performance over time.
4. Ease of Cleaning:
Black powder residue can be challenging to clean. Choose a measure with a design that facilitates easy and thorough cleaning to maintain accuracy and prevent potential malfunctions.
Maintaining Your Brass Black Powder Measure
Proper maintenance is vital for preserving the accuracy and longevity of your brass black powder measure:
- Regular Cleaning: After each reloading session, thoroughly clean the measure using a suitable cleaning brush and solvent. Pay close attention to removing any residual powder or debris.
- Storage: Store the measure in a dry, safe place away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality brass black powder measure is a critical step for any serious black powder reloader. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and practicing diligent maintenance, you can ensure consistent, accurate powder charges, contributing to safer and more reliable reloading practices. Remember, safety is paramount; always consult reloading manuals and follow established safety procedures.
