I enjoy your videos. I just finished setting up my Lee Auto Drum Powder Measure on my Redding T7. I cleaned my Lee die with carb cleaner, making sure to remove the O rings. I put some lube on the internal parts avoiding the areas where the powder would flow. Like you demonstrated, I made sure that the measure had smooth and full range. After running a bunch of powder through it just to break it in, I started measuring for 9MM at 5.2 grains and keeping records. I was astounded. 5.2 grains on 15 straight rounds. Changed scales and still right at 5.2. I was measuring Power Pistol which is a ball type powder. I measures well but is really effected by static. At times, I got 5.1 but when I tapped on the case it went to 5.2. Simply amazing. On another video, the guy said to tighten the nut on the Powder measure, to compress the O ring and then back off 1/4 turn as not to bind the drum. Thanks again for the video.

Thanks so much for your videos have learned much from them...For last 10 years been using an RCBS Little Dandy powder measure. Worked well, all charges +/- 2/10 ths of a grain which was fine for my application. But such a slow process. Figured I could cut my time in half with the Auto Drum. First charge out of the box with Alliant Power Pistol was 5.5 grains. Turned adjusting screw 7 flats and came out 6.1 One more little tweak and was at 6.2 grains which is what I wanted. Thru 10 charges. Each one 6.2 on the money. Thru 10 charges and averaged, exactly 62 grains. Wow am I impressed. This is an awesome powder thrower. All my other equipment is Lee and 10 years old. Never a failure of any kind.

Thank you again for another in depth review . Lee does it again as well, i kook forward to adding it to my press.

great video! thank you for a sharing! I can't wait to get my reloading gear out of storage! God bless you and your family! Merry Christmas

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+jiujitsu2000 -- All in due time, moving is always a disruptive event... And Merry Christmas to you as well... Blessings be upon you and your family... FC

@jiujitsu2000

8 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC God bless!

Thanks for the video I did not know this unit was able to work without the safety so this makes my love it even more and it goes to show that even if you know a lot about what you are doing it never hurts to read the directions and what options are available thanks again brother

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

jayboney el toro - And thank you, bro, for taking the time to post comment...that safety on this powder measure is like the storage lock on S & W revolvers - we can put so many safeties on guns so that they are unusable. No other powder measure has that disconnector, and it is another move necessary to load a round. If the chain that is supplied is used to automatically reset the disconnector on progressive presses, then why have it? Best to ya, FC

I set up my Lee Classic Cast Turret Press with this Powder measure. I used a tube of graphite for locks to run thru it first and to dry lube the gears inside the drum. I cycled it many times to gets some break in. Then I removed all of the graphite from the measure. I then followed the directions by running a hopper thru the powder measure. I set up 25 grain charges and had at it. I kept adjusting every ten or so throws to just get familiar with it. Well it took for ever but eventually I got the hopper down. I am doing CFE Pistol and I am getting very consistent 4.9 gr charges on a Dillon Beam Scale. I have emptied the powder measure and refilled it and started over to verify its operation. It balances out every time. I am really impressed with it. I do use the finger safety device. I deprime and size then clean my brass. So I took that die out of my turret and added a Hornady Bullet Feeder. So I add a primer to the primer tool, add a bullet and click the powder measure then place a case and pull the lever 4 times to make a cartridge. Thanks for the great videos !

@thevacuumtubejunky9774

7 жыл бұрын

LIVIN CINCY: Great comment and detailed information, I also use the Hornady bullet feeder die on my Lee Classic press. On the indexing rod I put a drill depth stop with an extended set screws and a mild spring on the set screw,so once the turret does a complete revolution it automatically pushes the finished round into a tray, and with the auto drum, I can produce some very accurate rounds in no time. Lee products are awesome, been using Lee for years, excellent products for the price.

I finally got one of these. Once I got it adjusted, it worked great. I do anything from .380 ACP to 6.5 Grendel on just the small drum!

I am glad to see that the new measure worked out so well for you and you are so pleased with it. It is quite a good value.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+JunkfoodZombie -- Indeed, it is - I now have two of 'em and am happy with both, err ... either, each... Happy Holidays to ya, Jim....FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+JunkfoodZombie -- Having used it now for a lot of powders and calibers...liking this measure more all the time - just got my third one--- Best to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+JunkfoodZombie -- Sorry to have missed this comment, Jim - Google simply didn't post it in my inbox - how else are we supposed to pick up on these? Thanks for the comment... the new ADPM is indeed a quantum leap in PMs...Best to ya, FC

I watched all your videos .... nicely done. I have two of these in service on my bench. One dedicated to the small drum and one dedicated to the large drum. Adjustments are super simple. Lee did a good job with this.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+vigilannie2 - Thanks for sharing your experiences with this newer Lee offering. I just got my second one also. For favorite loads, who knows? These measures are inexpensive enough for us to have them for dedicated individual loads as well... Happy Holidays to you, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+vigilannie2 -- Thanks for posting. My apologies for not replying sooner, but whenever Google does not post a viewer's comment in my inbox, I'll never know it came in - can only answer when I stumble onto it months later....I find that I'm liking these PMs the more I'm using them (I'm running 3 of 'em = 1 each on my Dillons and 1 floating)... Good reloadin' to ya, FC

Thank you for the great series on the Lee Auto Drum. I just finished a set of 45 ACP loads and loaded consistently. No issues in setup and your reviews and setup videos are a huge help. Setup my first reloading bench an your work has helped. Before I start casting my own lead for my lever action and 45 Colt, is there a good starting lead round to use?

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

EJ Karate - The factory lead rounds are either cowboy loads or full out game thumping penetrators. And the cost is awful - cowboy loads are $1 a round and the max smashers are $2+ a round. But we can reload any of those for as low as 6-10 cents a shot. The savings are really eye opening. The above is not true for 38 Special. Have a great day, FC

Heading over to Midway to check this out now.

In loading for 22. Hornet do i need the riser as well as the small rifle charging die? Does the small riflr die just dispense powder or does it also flair. Sort of confused on this. What do you say??

First of all thank you for your videos, very well thought out and put together! My question is concerning reloading 9mm cast using the lee auto drum. I just set up my new auto drum and it seems I lose the ability to control my case flare because of the auto drum needing the inner expander to have full stroke which results in a full flare. Maybe I am missing something or is a larger case flare something to even worry about, I have read conflicting views. I am new to this and you are the reason I recently started casting... thank you: ) Your thoughts please.

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

kevinbou1 - Thank you for your good comments and questions. The Lee mouth flare can actually be overdone, but if so, the case is crushed. If the flare is on the excessive side, but not crushed, we can tell if the flare is too excessive when the seating process results in major case dragging as the case with the bullet on top enters the seating die. I agree that the Auto Drum PM requires a good flare to work, but I've found you have some wiggle room with the flare and the ADPM still works properly. See if you can back off the flare just a bit so that your measure still gives you a full stroke. Fortunately, 9mm brass does not often suffer from mouth splits on firing (45 acp and 38 spl are two culprits in this regard). Also, 9mm brass is plentiful to pick up at ranges so brass attrition is not a factor. I reload for other calibers and the mouth flares and ADPM have not been issues... Best to ya, and good castin' to ya..!! FC

FC45LC have you had any problems with the thumb screw coming loose? I have three of the drums and two of them have thumb screws that have stripped out and will not tighten. I would blame myself for over tightening them but one of them has never been used and the thumb screw still won't tighten on it. I'm thinking a little teflon tape would probably solve the problem but I did want to bring it to your attention as you are a good way to get information out to the reloading community.

Great video review, I'm going to get a couple of these. Thanks FC :)

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+TehBr0 -- A couple is very handy to have - I have two of 'em now and couldn't be happier. Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

I've got to get me one,and yes I love the plain cast bullets with 45 45 10 it's one of my favorite things I learned from you.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+scott grizzle -- If you check out my Stage 3 lead (lead in the form of load ready bullets), I still keep good supplies of all my favorite bullets in 45/45/10 and I am still loading those and shooting those. The powder coat stuff is being videoed now because that's what the testing is about. Nothing wrong with powder coating also...but it does take more work - might still be a novelty...until we see powder coated bullets on Shooting USA, it has not arrived. Happy Holidays to ya, FC

That is exactly what I did when I bought my new Dillon. I ordered the BL550 rather than the RL550B. This way I can use the investment in Lee Auto-Disk dispensers. ( I own 4). The BL550 is the same as the RL550 but does not come with the primer feed or powder system and is priced at only $260. I am impressed with this new dispenser and have placed an order for one.

Thanks for sharing! I've got one on back order based on your recommendation.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+CountryBoyPrepper -- Hope you had a great Christmas Celebration... this Auto Drum is a fine powder measure - might be the best press operated measure out there. Best to ya, FC

@RyanVandeWetering

7 жыл бұрын

FortuneCookie45LC I ca'n't get a consistent charge on mine. I weighed probably 200 charges today, and it never was consistent. It's driving me nuts. Not sure what it is. Could it be a faulty unit? I have checked the tightness of the wing nut. To me it doesn't look like the drum is rotating all the way. Seems to me to stop short on the return. Any ideas?

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Ryan Van de Wetering - You have answered your own comment - the drum must turn right to the end or you will not get complete powder drop - Also, with some powders, you have to pause just a moment to allow full powder drop. You need to adjust your neck expand, mouth flare, powder drop die to go to full stroke while getting the proper adjustment...Lee has designed that to work just fine. If your unit still does not drop accurately, then it does need to go back to Lee. This has been a very good seller for Lee, and I'm sure they don't want to discourage any sales with bad reviews out there. I have three of these units, plus also have additional drum sets - might even order more drums. Best to ya, FC

New to your channel. After watching your auto-drum videos, I ordered the powder measure. Should arrive by end of Dec. Want to try it on my Lee and LNL AP. Looks so much simplier and much easier to clean up afterwards. Thanks for the great details.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Lnl Dreamer -- Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone..!! It is a very impressive piece of reloading equipment. I had one experience with powder leakage with Win 296 powder, but it was caused by a loose drum...1/4 more tighten turn stops the leakage. Otherwise, this measure performed as advertised... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Lnl Dreamer -- Sorry to not have answered this comment - When Google doesn't post a comment in my inbox, no way I'll see it until I stumble onto it later...Google also has bee losing my replies so that readers who might want to see a reply are seeing nothing as if I didn't reply - it's kind of frustrating and not fair to readers, but we just have to put up with it... Congrats on ordering the PM, how is it working out for you? Best Regards, FC

@lnldreamer6083

8 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC Working great. I am going to order another measure and set of drums. Glad I came across your vids. Thank you.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Lnl Dreamer -- Please post often...people need to hear your stuff... Thanks... FC

Does it leak with fine powders?

Good work honest no BS. I'm in Australia and i got mine yesterday from Lee and can't wait to use it. If you have purchased 3 of them it must be pretty good.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

Corporal Punishment -- Hail to Australia - our countries and our people are friends... Glad to hear that this PM is available to Aussie reloaders...Please keep in touch as you use it so we can compare notes... Have a great day, FC

@corporalpunishment1133

7 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC Hail FortuneCookie45LC from Australia I've used my Auto drum a bit now and at first I've did not think it was that much better than the lee perfect powder measure at first but after a couple of hudred rounds it is a huge leap in function and accuracy. In Australia Lee products have a bad reputation but I think they are excellent for the price the auto drum is $45 USD and it is the better than products 4x the price. For example I just made 100 .223 rem cartridges and weighed each power charge on quality balance beam scales I would say it worked excellent. At first it was not that accurate like the manual says and i think its more accurate when the hopper is full and during less humid dry weather. I have a lee loadmaster and it works excellent it did not fail to index once did not spill a grain of powder or fail to prime or damage a primer. I have 7 turrets 5 shell plates and reload .223rem .308win 68spc 8mm mauser 303brit 7.5swiss 30-30win 6.5Swedish. It is a learning curve but once you get it right it's a pleasure to use.

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Corporal Punishment - Glad it's working well for you - and continued Good Reloadin' to ya... Best Regards from the USA - FC

Great video i want one sitting on top of my loadmaster. Richard Lee: genius.... i think lee makes pretty good stuff, i have a few lee products that work very well, the perfect powder measure is one of the most consistant ones i have, very precise and easy to use too, thanks for the good information.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Don E -- Most users are reporting good use of this PM. There have been a couple of bad units having problems though. I'm very happy with mine - and my Dillon 550Bs like 'em also... Have a great day, FC

Thank you, FortuneCookie45LC, for doing such a thorough job on reviewing the Lee Auto Drum powder measure. I'm sure I speak for others when I say this has GREATLY helped me in my decision for the next powder measure.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Slade McCuiston -- If this measure had been around when I bought my Uniflow 40 years ago (or was it 35? Who's counting?), I never would have gotten my Uniflow...I now have two of these and couldn't be happier... Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

Im considering replacing one of my auto disc measures with this. Specifically for better metering of blue dot. Any chance you tried it with blue dot?

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Hank Rearden - No, BD is my favorite powder for shotgun slugs and was not available for a long time - I used my Uniflow for that and if the Uniflow can measure it, the Lee Auto Drum will do well with it... Good reloadin' to ya, FC

I ordered two Lee auto drums today from titan reloading. After doing some searching they came up with the best reviews and no sales tax. I also got 2 Lee auto disk risers and the Lee rifle disk die set that I hope works with the auto drum measure. Can't wait til I get them

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+bubbacrabb -- I got that rifle die set also and have already been using it - works just fine for doing our rifles - dandy!! I'm currently running three of these ADPMs, myself - smilin' the whole time.. Best to ya, FC

Hi Steve, I would like if it came with a clear Hopper but I'll settle with red. I mark my favorite loads with a white china marker/grease pencil. Happy Holidays!

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+DON C -- And hello to you, Don..!! Happy Holidays to you and yours as well. Yes, the clear would have been better. I've got my second Auto Drum now...so I have a total of four drums available - more can be ordered if desired... Happy Holidays to ya, FC Steve

How much tension or resistance does the measure produce when using the case activated feature?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Mike Barnes -- Not enough to be worth mentioning as any problem at all...To me, it's smoother than the Auto Disk - and I'm not going to be using my Auto Disk much any more as I now have two Auto Drums... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

Hey FC45LC, got a question, I recently picked up this new Lee Auto Drum, I wanted it mostly to load 223 and 30 Carbine, do u find it crushing the top of the case?? I tried brand new Hornady cases and 556 and I cant seem to get it to compress the spring to drop the charge without completely scrunching the top of the case. I have had no problems with Lee's other powder measure, { besides leaking powder}...... I even took off the safety button, thinking it may be causing a hiccup...... No luck...... Rob....

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Robert Tooker -- Hmmm, Robet - first thing I thought of was that you had the powder thru die overadjusted, that would guarantee the case crush, but obviously that isn't what is happening. Are you using the short rifle powder die with the 223? Turns out that the 223 is right between the short and the long rifle powder dies...but the short one is the one we should use. The 30 carbine has its own powder thru die so perhaps you aren't having any problem with that... I did crush a couple of cases doing the 30/30 so it can happen with our rifle loading, but only until the die was adjusted. Have not crushed any handgun cases yet... You might want to give Lee tech support a call if the 223 problem does not resolve. Good reloadin' to ya, FC

@bobbertee5945

8 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC Hey FC, thank u very much for your reply, I actually never knew about the "long and short" powder die's, I assumed there was 1 size, which was the "long" that I had. Anyway I ordered and received the short Lee powder die and it works terrific, no problems at all, I'm pretty impressed with the powder measure itself too, getting very consistent drops with it. Thank u very much for your help, Happy Safe Reloading to u sir..... Thanks again.... Rob

I've appreciated the videos on this powder measure. I'm having some leakage with W231 in 38spcl. I thought the set up was suppose to prevent this. Have I set it up wrong, or am I just gullible. It measures great and very consistent.

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Jess Jessup - When I got leakage, I just tightened up the thumb screw another 1/8 turn and that solved it. Then I got leakage again, but the tighten didn't help - it was with 296 powder. When I changed drums, that solved it - so I relegated the previous drum to do coarser powders. Then I went and bought two of the 4 packs of extra drums...Another one that leaked with fine powders, I labeled for other powders. Most of the drums are OK, but there are some that leak and 296 is a real culprit. Good reloadin' to ya... FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Jess Jessup - Additional thought...My fear when I got the leakage the first time (296 also leaks in my Dillons) was that there was a problem with the seal because of the metallic measure body...if so, the measure was going back to Lee. You might see if there is any solution for your in switching drums, tightening the drum a shade, or going to coarser powder...if not, Lee should send you out a replacement...I have three and all are working just fine... Best to ya again, FC

I wonder how it would react mounted on a turret when it's subjected to all the vibration...perhaps set the throw by indexing the turret through all the stages and back before each adjustment...? then the increased load density might be accounted for like any other measure?

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Charles Irby - Already have used it on the Lee 4 hole Classic Turret Press - works like a charm...you adjust the charge and any vibration from the press use is standardized in the operation. The measure works on any progressive press also... Have a great day, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Charles Irby - If you watch all my videos on this measure, you will see there are some quirks with it, but the quirks are minimal - there are no perfect powder measures. But this one sure works well and the reasonable price is a game changer. Best to ya, FC

Would you recommend getting the Auto Drum measure and classic turret press for a beginning reloading vs the pro-auto disk and press?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

MrJimay - Yes, the AD is much more versatile and convenient than the pro-auto disk. You can throw charges in excess of 80 grains with the AD. Infinite adjustment of powder charges and interchangeable drums. No powder leakage (unless you get a bad drum, but even then, the bad drums are still good for flake and stick powders). Good reloadin' to ya... FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Leslie S - The strength of the Lee Auto Disk that you have is if the charge that drops happens to be what you want and works well in your gun, then keep that measure there for that particular load and don't try to keep messing with that Auto Disk. The Lee Auto Drum allow infinite adjustment and also quick change drums for favorite loads, plus infinite adjustment of the charge being dropped. You don't need anything else to have the Lee Auto Drum join your team... Best to ya, FC

Is this measure similar to the "Lee Classic Powder Measure" for metering ? or are the two completely different, I was thinking about the flexible cut off wiper and it's advantage for measuring long grain powders.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Englishman French -- The Lee Classic Powder Measure is a bench measure - not designed for case activation or linkage activation for use in presses. It is Lee's foray into cast iron body powder measure with through and through chassis. Problem is that the price point is much higher because of the cast iron...If Lee had used the same alloy as on the Auto Drum and kept the price down, the value would be there. As it is, you can buy a Hornady LNL powder measure on sale for the same price. Where the Classic beats the competition would be in the removable low cost drums - much less costly than the pistol and rifle inserts used by the other makers. With the Auto Drum, I don't need the Classic. Much better dropping the charge at the same time the cases are mouth flared and expanded whether that is in a single stage or progressive press.. Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Englishman French - The Lee Classic PM is another new offering by Lee. But that one is not the high value we see from other Lee products. Because of its cast iron chassis, the Classic PM costs nearly as much as any other PM on sale... Why Lee didn't stay with the zinc alloy is baffling...Best to ya, FC

I'm having some leaking issues on my auto drum. I'm using hs6. Have you had any leak problems? I did take the drum out and clean it and the cavity with no improvement.

@FortuneCookie45LC

6 жыл бұрын

johnmiller102 - So the progression to cure powder leak from Lee ADPMs is 1) tighten the thumb screw an extra 1/4 turn...if still leaking 2) switch out drums - some of 'em leak with certain powders and not others - save the leaking drums for coarser powders that do not leak 3) If leaks with all drums, problem is in the housing so back to Lee it goes for replacement. Best to ya and Good reloadin' to ya, FC

@johnmiller102

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the advice. I actually called Lee and they told me pretty much the same thing. I was able to stop the leaking. I think that once it starts leaking it is probably a good idea to take the drum out and clean the pm and drum and reinstall making sure that the drum is good and tight. Lee told me to tighten it up until it stopped rotating and then back off just enough to let the drum rotate from 1 oclock to 430. That should allow the proper charging of the case. I still think for the price of the auto drum you cant beat it. Even my Dillon powder measure leaks once in a while. Happy Thanksgiving to you and you family.

Fortune Cookie, Do you find that it leaks flake powders? How is it with stick powders? Thanks

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

GLOCKCOPG23 - The first time I loaded W296 with it, the powder leaked. But I found out that an extra 1/4 turn tightening of the thumb knob stopped that. Then I got powder leaking with one of my other Auto Drums, but a switch of the nylon drums solved that...apparently, some drums leak with certain powders. But others don't - I saved the ones that leaked to use for coarser powders and they worked fine. If all drums leak, then the problem is in the measure body and back to Lee would be the solution. My three Auto Drums have been working very fine. Best to ya, FC

@GLOCKCOPG23

7 жыл бұрын

FortuneCookie45LC Thank you for your response. Good info. Take care.

Hey FC, my 2015 Lee catalog has the price on that as TBD. On Amazon they have it for $47.99 ! Is Lee selling it cheaper and my catalog is old ? (2015 ) Also, are the disks for this measure specific to rifle and pistol ?

@fisoxlt

8 жыл бұрын

+Nick J www.titanreloading.com/lee-autodrum-powder-measure

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Nick J -- Midway has this measure for $35. It is the best price I've seen so far. The drums will cover everything from 1 grain to 80 and the smaller one handles common pistol charges. If that one won't throw a charge big enough for the job at hand, then we switch out to the bigger one. It's easy to tell them apart - the larger one has a little adapter on the front of it that if used, will block off the large drum to the capacity of the smaller in the event the reloader is loading more pistol than rifle. Happy Holidays to ya, FC

OK.. You convinced me. Have been using a Lee Turret press for majority of work. Have had a Lee 100 Pro sitting around for years which I failed to use because I didn't trust their powder measure. Since this one will hadle stick and ball, figure this is a goer. Thanks.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Fred Fagan -- That Auto Drum is an easy merge onto any progressive press out there...Lee hit a home run on this one... Best to ya, FC

@fredfagan7631

8 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC ..Dropped the hammer & bought the Lee Loadmaster. After hours of watching You Tube I finally got everything set up. Yesterday I loaded a couple hundred rounds of .223 and the Auto Drum was spot on. Next thing will be handgun rounds. Thanks for your assistance and great info. Fred

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Fred Fagan -- Probably the reason I don't use a LoadMaster is because I got one of the original Dillon 550Bs way back when and have been running 2 550Bs for quite a while... Best to ya, FC

I have one and I prefer the hornady one but really for the price Lee products are for the most part very hard to beat. Nice video!

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+patruick marco -- My Dillon powder measures will now stay with the toolheads for popular loads. The Auto Drum is going to be swapped out among the other calibers...because it is much easier to do that... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

Does a baffle really help with those difficult powders to measure? Would a baffle help me get more consistent powder throws with my RCBS Uniflow and those pesky difficult to measure powders?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+gapster46 -- The more I thought of this (Why didn't Lee put in a baffle?) Turns out they did -- the powder cut off is the baffle, the powder goes from the cut off partition to a separate chamber on top of the loading drum. The baffle is part of the design, not an added part in the hopper... Happy Holidays, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+gapster46 -- Interesting thing is that we have determined that Lee already has the baffle - it's part of their powder cut off - that is already a baffle there, and Lee doesn't even advertise that... Such baffles as in the hoppers of measures we have seen - do nothing to help the metering of coarse extruded powders. Best Regards to ya... FC

@gapster46

8 жыл бұрын

FortuneCookie45LC How about flake powders, like Unique?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+gapster46 -- Works fine with Unique. But I'm going to test with Bullseye soon also... Best to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+gapster46 -- That Auto Drum is great with any powder. In the beginning, I got a small amount of leakage with 296 powder, but after giving the knob an extra quarter turn of tightness, the leakage went away... We want the knob snug, but not overtightened. The baffle in the Lee hopper is part of the design. No so on other brands of PMs - the hopper goes right to the metering drum so that a baffle in those measures would help even the powder pressure into the drum. Best Regards, FC

+Fortunecookie45LC where did you find your load for the Titewad in 38 sp? I shoot a lot of 38 and a buddy of mine just gave me 4 lbs of Titewad that he mistakenly bought looking for Titegroup. So far I've only found data for 45acp

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

DustinHamptonCE - And right you are - hard to find loading data for TiteWad for handguns...I shot a lot of Titewad in my trapshooting days... fast powder. I worked up loads for 38 many years ago 2.4 grains of TiteWad behind the 148 wadcutter bullet (take care though, even 2.6 grains of TW will occasionally blow the skirt off of HBWCs in the 38 - not joyful - anytime you get a keyhole or two holes in the target - you have to check your barrel for obstructions). 2.9 grains of TW in 357 cases with the 148 WCs, but the loading density is so low, this load is not recommended, better to use the 38 spl brass. You can shoot 2.4 grains of TW for standard load 158 SWCs in 38 Spl also. Work up your loads with care with TW - it will serve you well. I use TW behind the 105 Lee SWC also - a video is up on that one. Best to ya, FC

I was wondering can you buy the bottles with the on off piece with it. I could not find anything on the web. Also new to reloading

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+bradmanou812 -- You won't be able to buy the hoppers from dealers, but a call to Lee Precision should be able to get one - don't know what the cost would be though... Best to ya, FC

@bradmanou812

8 жыл бұрын

+FortuneCookie45LC thanks I just picked up the drum powder measure. Also bought lee bulged buster. Thanks for your review. I know when I watch your videos I get a great opinion good and bad. It makes it easier for someone like me new to reloading help to make the right decision without regret. Thank you.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+bradmanou812 -- Good reloadin' to ya, FC --then off to the range!!

Here's a final thought on the auto drum. It has now transformed into a rifle target, it's more useful that way. I am so sick of babysitting these things I've had it. I'm adapting a Lyman Brass smith to my turret and will hand throw each charge on the turret.

After see this series, I can see that this powder measure will make caliber changes even easier. Lee Powder through expander dies are cheap enough to add them to my existing sets and relegating the presses powder measure to one caliber set up, if even desired.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Brian Cowan -- You can certainly do that - I've now got two of these Auto Drum measures and couldn't be happier with them... Fantastic!! Happy Holidays to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Brian Cowan - Plus these fine measures are cheap enough for us to have more than one... Best to ya, FC

How do you feel about the measure being cast from zinc? Seems a bit fragile to me.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+SomeGuyInSandy -- Great question - appreciate all your well thought out comments..!! Though not as robust as a cast iron chassis, the zinc alloy is not without the feel of strength. The more I use it, the zinc alloy is fine - there's no leakage once the drum is properly tightened - not too tight, but not too loose. If powder leaks, tighten the drum another 1/4 turn. The alloy is plenty strong. If we can break the measure body, send it back and Lee will replace it...they value their customers and the reputation of the company too much to not stand behind their products, especially new products... Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+SomeGuyInSandy -- The zinc alloys we call pot metal might be a bit unfair...the metal is more than strong enough for our needs. If Lee used cast iron or steel as in their new Classic Powder Measure - would raise the costs and do nothing for the performance. If the chassis broke on the Auto D:rum, Lee would replace it - I'm practically sure of that because no company can afford to have that kind of negative PR in this day and age for a new product. Best to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+SomeGuyInSandy -- Not at all, at first, I didn't like it - but it's a good material that allows Lee to sell that at the attractive price point... Best Regards, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+SomeGuyInSandy -- At first, I was questioning the zinc alloy "pot metal" we call it...but it turns out to be quite sturdy and good - plus it keeps the cost down to give us the price point we like = high value. Plus, those doggone nylon drums are plain flat out good - at $3 each - they are part of what makes this PM a star... Best to ya, FC

Thanks...bought one with Christmas gift cards.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Richfgpt -- Way to go, Richfgpt..!! And a happy 2016 to ya, FC

Well, I've ordered one for my Dillon Press to give it a run through, Funny thing was they were sold out at the places that I looked on line. If it works for me I will probably order one for each tool head I have for my Dillon press. It was a informative review Cookie, Thanks.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Thorsaxe777 - I've already got my second one - and happy with 'em... Happy Holidays to ya, FC

@Thorsaxe777

8 жыл бұрын

I have found out that it doesn't like AA#7, The throw's are inconsistent, It's a heavy flake powder and I think most people have been saying that's the only drawback to the measure.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Thorsaxe777 -- Good to know, in fact, I've got some AA7 and I'm going to try that right away - it would be the first powder it doesn't like - good to have some negative review to balance everything out... Appreciate the help... Happy 2016 FC

@Thorsaxe777

8 жыл бұрын

If You have any luck with it let me know sense this is the first powder I have used in the Measure. Maybe I have something out of adjustment..

Great videos on the Lee Auto Drum Powder Measure. I have a question either for you or ANY of your viewers/subscribers. I know that everyone will say that this is a no-no, but has ANYONE used REAL Black Powder in the Drum Powder measure and how did it work? Any problems?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Skid Plate -- Black powder is not recommended in this powder measure. We are told that BP should only be metered in measures designated as having been made for black powder. However, if you are interested in the best answer, a call to Lee Precision would be in order... Good reloadin' to ya, FC

Will it throw trail boss fine?

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+bill chase - Have not tried it with Trail Boss - but there is no reason that it would not work well - we just have to test it...Have a great day... FC

Glad ya all are doing well with your Drums. Entire weekend wasted trying to make this thing work. Ended up putting my perfect powder measure on and gettin it done. Peter at Lee is condescending and rude. Dealt with him several years ago. After a week of telling me to sand the inside of a .223 die down, I threw it away and bought RCBS dies. Bout to replace all my Lee shit just cuz of Peter's attitude.

@FortuneCookie45LC

7 жыл бұрын

Ben Harmon - Don't know who Peter is at Lee, but I have contacted Andy Lee (grandson of Richard), and found him to be quite helpful...If I ever get shunted onto Peter, I'll be ready for the worst. Best to ya, FC

Cookie, I have found that with the auto drum it will chatter when flaring my .44 Magnum brass, This shakes down the powder and causes inconsistent loads, The only thing that works so far is to Flair the brass as a separate step first, Then the spring doesn't Bounce and chatter in the measure. It doesn't do it with my .38spl brass or .45ACP , Just the .44 magnum. Maybe I'm doing something wrong. or maybe I should Get a Monkey's skull filled with beads on a stick and shake it at it and drive the evil spirits out. I was just wondering if you have experienced the same problem.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Thorsaxe777 -- I get an occasional quick chatter with my two ADs also, but the chatters are minor and not violent plus the accuracy, action and integrity of the measures have not been affected. My thought was that it is in the spring return linkage and not the drum gear and probably associated with the disconnector removal. As such, I have not bothered to report on this unless the measures performance, reliability or durability are affected - but since you are getting inconsistent drops, a video may be in order - Your chatter may be more violent than mine. The reviews on Midway have been good for the most part and no mention of any chatters...Thank you for reporting this, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Thorsaxe777 - new video in the works to explore this in more detail... I considered this a little "pop" while you consider it a "chatter". FC

@Thorsaxe777

8 жыл бұрын

Thanks Cookie, One thing that I did that was just an idea was to use a wooden dowel as a spindle in the expander plug by inserting the dowel for a friction fit (the middle of the expander where the powder goes through) then at low speed in the Drill press I used JB bore bright and JB bore cleaner to polish the outer surface of the expander applying it with an eraser on the end of a pencil, after polishing it to a mirror finish most of that Pop and Chatter was not so bad. But it still lacks consistency in throwing charge weights. I believe that it is just something that I have to live with for now. Lee should explore making a stiffer spring that takes more pressure to compress with the thicker brass, I believe that is the culprit of what is happening and causing the pop and chatter. anyway I'm like you, when something feels wrong and sounds wrong, weigh your charge weight,clear the press and start over. Have a good one Cookie.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Thorsaxe777 -- Sounds like you should get together with the Lee techs as they need to hear good feedback on this measure. I intend to repeat the 50 charge throw test again for accuracy and consistency using 44 mag tonight...and document any chatters vs charge deviations caused by chatter...should be interesting... Best to ya, FC

@Thorsaxe777

8 жыл бұрын

I already Talked to the good folks at Lee, the person that I talked to said they would look at it and send me a new one if they found something wrong with it. My feeling was that there wasn't anyone there to talk to about it, they also said that I could expect at least to be with out it for Six to Eight weeks.. I think that I will just wait to see if there will be an upgrade that they will offer if other people complain that they have the same problem. I also in the end feel that they would just send me a New one anyway rather than see if the one I have had a problem, like I said, I'll just make due with it for now.. It only doesn't like the .44 brass I have., have used it for rifle charging and it works flawlessly, I vary happy with it for that reason. Thanks cookie.

OK......I will have to buy one!.....

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+gman77gas -- Lee's got us with this one...there are going to be lots of reloaders using this powder measure with any number of reloading presses that we already own...At the $35 price point, plus the accuracy and performance - sleek simplicity, the doggone thing is a winner... Best of the Holidays to ya, FC

thank you Lee for this drum system. .. your old pro auto-disk measure goes to garbage even the micro bar also now is in the garbage

first time commenting have problem with auto drum if fpk

The damn thing just leaks with fine powder. No matter what I do

@FortuneCookie45LC

6 жыл бұрын

Bayou Billy - No doubt you have switched out drums - I have fourteen of those drums and have the fine powder leakage problem solved by finding the drums that can handle the tiny grain powders. Of course, we shouldn't have to do that, but it works well enough for me to be happy with it... Best to ya, FC Steve

u speak speak speak but u dont tell how the hell it works??? how do u measure the amount of powder u wanna drop?every time mine drops different grain of powder!!

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+HHH GGG -- We'll have to answer this in a VR...Have a great day, FC

It is not supposed to be used on the forehead. It is made for the temple. Thats most likely the cause of your inaccurate readings.

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Cpnpd922 -- OK, I'm going to the Temple of the Lee Auto Drum again tonight...Best to ya, FC

@FortuneCookie45LC

8 жыл бұрын

+Cpnpd922 -- OK, I'm going to the Temple of the Lee Auto Drum again tonight...Best to ya, FC