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Mechanical balance scale

Re: Mechanical balance scale

Redding #2, and an RCBS 10-10 that has been 'super-tuned' by a guy out of Kalifornia (chem prof. who has some experience accurizing balance scales).

Of the two, the RCBS is a smidge (barely!) more accurate, according to my electronic lab analytical balance... but I prefer the layout/operation of the Redding, to be honest. That and I was shocked how close it runs to the 'tuned' 10-10.

I kept mine around for when the Acculab was acting funky. With the lab scale in the house... they mostly collect dust. Some day I plan on making up a scale box for taking one to the range for weighing charges...
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

I use the Dillon balance beam scale. All of the brands looked the same to me (probably even sourced from the same supplier). I use mine as a back up to my electronic scale as well since its more reliable.

You might want to pick up a circular bubble level to keep on your work desk to help you even out the surface. It's not entirely necessary but I do it because I hate it when I bump my scale and it loses calibration because the table isn't even in all directions. Also keep it covered when not in use.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 427Cobra</div><div class="ubbcode-body">RCBS 505 or 1010 would be my choice </div></div>

Yessir, you aren't gonna find many that beat the standard.

I bought a Chargemaster a few years ago, but I still use my 505 to keep the Chargemaster honest.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: kwak</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If the measuring device is plus or minus 1/10 grain how critical is that? </div></div>

Not critical at all, and the law of diminishing returns starts to apply.

You could buy a Prometheus (the best scale in the world) for $1200 (which uses many RCBS parts), and gain about .05 grain accuracy.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

I bet if you had a prometheus you would sleep better at night... i would
smile.gif
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

Use a 5-0-5 RCBS scale.. No need for a back up.

Just buy one of those science scales all the drug dealers use to back it up if your that unsure with out blowing a unnecessary $300.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: kwak</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If the measuring device is plus or minus 1/10 grain how critical is that? </div></div>

Well, I guess I think it is pretty important. I also want something that works when the power is out.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

I guess I should mention that, for me, I get a more accurate reading by having the beam scale at eye level. I have noticed that many people put them on the bench below eye level, forcing them to take a reading at an angle.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

My RCBS 505 is at eye level on a shelf over the bench. The Redding dump measure is attached to the shelf beside it. I dump to the scale pan, hang it on the scale, and trickle the last tenth or two.
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I bet if you had a prometheus you would sleep better at night... i would
smile.gif

</div></div>

I don't sleep any better or worse, but I'm glad I have it!
 
Re: Mechanical balance scale

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Skg_Mre_Lght</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I guess I should mention that, for me, I get a more accurate reading by having the beam scale at eye level. I have noticed that many people put them on the bench below eye level, forcing them to take a reading at an angle. </div></div>

I read about this prism in the Daily Bulletin that looks to be a solution to your concern.

http://bulletin.accurateshooter.com/2010/12/09/