Powder charging, specifically the process of filling brass cases with powder as part of reloading ammunition, can be done using several different methods or tools.
The classic option is a manual powder scoop with a fixed or adjustable volume. An alternative is a mechanical powder measure with its own reservoir, directly operated by the reloader, or a variant where activation is handled by a system connected to the reloading press. Finally, there are digital powder dispensers with built-in scales that precisely measure each charge into the scoop. If you prioritize maximum consistency, this is the optimal choice, but it comes at the cost of a high price, relatively low speed, and more complex operation. These last two drawbacks also apply to scoops, which have the advantage of low cost but, in their non-adjustable version, limit you to a single specific powder charge. It is no surprise that most serious reloaders who are unwilling to accept the drawbacks of digital dispensers use mechanical powder measures instead. The market offers a fairly wide range of powder measures of this type from all major brands. Below, we take a closer look at the Lyman Brass-Smith Powder Measure.
A Solid Classic
Behind its long name lies a traditionally designed powder measure with a hopper at the top and a rotating drum with an adjustable powder chamber. First and foremost, it must be said that this model is of very high quality. Apart from the powder reservoir, everything is made of metal—the cylinder and the powder chamber are machined from steel. Everything that is meant to move operates smoothly, and the craftsmanship is solid and robust.
A major advantage is its adaptability. The operating handle can be easily mounted on either the right or left side, with six different angle positions. Installation is simple, and the package includes a suitable hex key. Another included component is a die with a standard 7/8”x14 thread, which screws into the reloading press. The powder measure is then slid onto it at any desired angle and tightened by hand. The bottom of the die accommodates one of two inserts, depending on the case neck size. Naturally, this model can also be mounted onto standard expanding dies, and the manufacturer offers a heavy-duty standalone stand for 1,016 CZK.
The high-capacity powder chamber is micrometrically adjustable via a threaded rotation mechanism and is marked with graduations. For coarser adjustments over a wider range, simply loosen the appropriate screw by hand, allowing the piston inside the chamber to shift. Operation is both simple and precise, and a baffle inside the powder reservoir ensures consistent powder pressure on the chamber, improving charge uniformity. The charge weight deviation remains below 0.3 grains, which is an excellent value.
Is It Worth It?
I had some concerns about whether the powder chamber would hold its setting since it lacks a locking mechanism, but in practice, this hasn’t been an issue. One limitation of this model is that it is strictly manually operated. It cannot be connected to a press mechanism—at least not without some DIY modifications. This isn’t a problem for single-stage and turret presses, but it wouldn’t be an ideal choice for progressive presses. Additionally, I miss the option to shut off the powder flow from the hopper, which would make emptying easier.
The Lyman Brass-Smith Powder Measure is available on our market for 2,281 CZK. Most competitors are more expensive; the Frankford Arsenal powder measure costs around 4,000 CZK, and RCBS options start at 3,700 CZK. From my experience, I don’t feel that Lyman lags behind in any way. Higher-end RCBS models deserve extra points for their exceptionally well-designed adjustment systems, but this comes at a significantly higher price. On the other end of the spectrum, the Lyman is noticeably better in quality and precision than the Lee Perfect Powder Measure, which costs less than 900 CZK, but its lower quality is evident. The only real competitor to the Lyman in this price range is the Lee Deluxe Powder Measure at 2,638 CZK. I had the opportunity to compare them directly since I previously owned the Lee. While it’s not a bad product and has some useful features, I find the Lyman easier to use and achieve better accuracy with it. Therefore, I can confidently recommend purchasing it.
You can buy the Lyman powder measure at STROBL.CZ s.r.o. For more information, visit
strobl.cz or the manufacturer’s website at
lymanproducts.com.
The manufacturer also offers a standalone stand if you don’t want to mount the powder measure on a press.
Advantages/Disadvantages
+ High accuracy
+ Versatility
+ Good price
- Manual operation only
- Powder dispensing process
Close-up of the adjustable powder chamber.
The package includes a comprehensive reloading manual covering Lyman products in general.
Photo sources: Author’s archive, manufacturer materials
Author: Tomáš Prachař
The article originally appeared in the magazine Lovec by Extra Publishing
