Loading your own ammo has numerous benefits. First, it saves a lot of your money. Since you would be bargaining before getting material to reload your own ammo it will save a considerable amount of money. Another benefit is that since you are doing the process by yourself you can experiment. Achieving the best possible accuracy is one of the major factor why reloaders chose to reload their ammo. One factor that highly affects the accuracy is the measurement of gun powder. All your work will be wasted at the end of the gunpowder is not properly measured. To possible the best possible accuracy you need the best balance beam scale for reloading. Therefore we have handpicked some of the more trusted and accurate balance scales after extensive research through reviews, articles, and reloaders itself.
Before we proceed,
1)Best overall-Hornady lock-N-load scale
2)Budget friendly-OHAUS 5-0- balance scale
3)Highest capacity-RCBS M-1000 powder scale
What is beam balance scale?
As the name suggests, the balance beam scale is composed of a beam that connects to platforms on the end of the scale.
One platform is used to place the object to be weighed and on the other platform for placing weights of a known measurement.
You have to add the weight to the substance till the time it becomes equal to the weight on the opposite platform.
Then you have to note down the readings and that’s the weight of the substance. You don’t need any electricity to use beam scales and they wonk of the principle of gravity.
Beam scales provide exceptional accuracy while measuring the amount of powder while measuring your own ammo.
Things to Consider Before Buying Beam Scale for Reloading
Grain Capacity: The minimum capacity that you need is around 500-grain capacity.
Having a higher capacity grain is always an advantage. Higher capacity helps when you need to measure for bullets or for arrowheads.
The capacity is also directly related to the size of the scale. More will be the capacity of the scale bigger will be its size.
Accuracy and precision: Accuracy is very important when it comes to balancing scales.
The main motive to invest in a balance scale is to get very accurate and precise readings.
Your load quality will be hampered in case there is a difference of half a grain. If the scale is providing an accuracy of at least 0.1 then you can go with it.
Build material and quality: A quality and durable balance beam is will serve you for years. Due to the long life of a durable balance scale, a lot of your money will be saved from frequent investments.
The scale should be durable enough that it can withstand some rough handling. It doesn’t mean to spend the money on the most expensive scale on the shelf.
I simply means don’t opt for a plastic balance scale. Plastic has a very high chance of breaking and it even melts it comes in contact with high temperature.
Aluminum and iron are two of the most strongest and durable materials for the beam. It’s a good idea to go with US-made balance scales.
Brand: You should always go with the balance beam brand that has a great history of reputated and top-class products. The brand should be in this field for a long time.
Some reputed brands include Lyman, RCBS, and Hornady. These brands are in the field of hand reloading for around 50 years.
OHAUS is another emerging brand for beam scales that is providing trusted products.
Price: You should always set a budget for yourself before getting a beam scale.The budget should be set in such a way that the scale should not compromise with the quality.
Looking at the other factors, you can look for the desired features in your beam scale and accordingly decide the budget. Keeping in mind, it’s not always true that a low-cost beam scale will have poor quality.
Category | Best overall | Budget Friendly | Highest capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
Product | Hornady lock-N-load scale | OHAUS 5-0-5 balance scale | RCBS M-1000 powder scale |
Capacity | 500 grains | 500 grains | 1000 grains |
Weight | 1.15 pounds | 1 pound | 2.4 pounds |
PRICE |
1)Hornady 050109 Lock-N-Load Balance Beam Scale
- Highly trusted scale
- Sensitivity-0.1 grains
- Capacity:500 grains
- Versatile scale
- Fast and accurate
- Features magnetic dampener
- Readings convenient to read
- Made of durable material
No doubt Hornady has always been one of the most trusted company by thousands of reloaders around the world and this balance beam is one of their most prestigious products.
This balance beam scale is perfect for those reloaders that that believe that old techniques are more effective. The sensitivity of the beam scale is 0.1-grain.
In case you don’t have a weight conversation idea then the base of this beam scale features a weight conversion table which can be very convenient.
This balance beam scale is very versatile and can do reloading work in less time and very accurately all due to its magnetic dampener.
Readings on the laser-carved bar are convenient to read. Since the readings are carved there are chances of readings disappearing in long term.
The life of this balance beam scale is amazing due to its durable material. What makes it more durable is its hardened pivot pins and bearings.
The scale is so sensitive that the balance line will chance even if 1/10 of a grain is added to the existing weighing powder. The capacity of Lock-n-load is around 500-grain which can be less for some reloaders.
While balancing, make sure you have a steady balance table and there is no wind blow from the fan or from the window. Overall this is one of the best balance beam scale for reloading at an affordable price.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILED PRODUCT USER MANUAL BY CLICKING HERE.
2) OHAUS 30393272 5-0-5 Reloading Scale
- Compact design
- Easy to carry
- Sensitivity:0.1 grain
- Capacity:500 grains
- Scale very stable and durable
- Made of die-cast steel
- Equipped with built-in leveling foot
- Readings easy to read
One of the most compact balance beam scale is the OHAUS reloading scale. Due to its compact size, this reloading scale is very easy to carry. When it comes to industrial use, this beam balance scale is very popular.
The rider increases with 10g increments on the main beam and 2 riders are on the minor beam. With the help of the first rider, you can set weight in 1g increments.1/10 of a grain reading with the help of the minor beam.
The base of this beam balance scale is very stable and extremely durable as it is made up of heavy, die-cast steel. To extend its functionality, this balance scale is equipped with a built-in leveling foot which further increased the stability.
The beam is composed of black aluminum, but reading is very convenient due to the black and white high-visibility faceplate. The weight indicator is also clear.
The capacity of this balance scale is 500 grains. This scale helps you achieve the accuracy of 0.1 grains which is very precise.
With the help of pair of aluminum weights, the calibration process is very easy. The scale’s functionality is very good and accurate even though the scale is made in China.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILED PRODUCT USER MANUAL BY CLICKING HERE.
3) RCBS 98916 M1000 Mechanical Scale
- With improved and additional features
- Readings are easy to read
- Capacity:1000 grains
- For both left and right-hand users
- Made up of cast iron
- Equipped with magnetic damper
- Calibration very easy
Another well-reputed brand on our list is RCBS. For more than 75 plus years, RCBS has been delivering top-notch reloading products on which thousands of reloaders rely upon.
RCBS has released the RCBS M1000 with improved design and additional features as compared to older models. The balance beam scale with the largest capacity in our list of best balance beam scale for reloading is RCBS M1000 mechanical scale.
The readings on the beam are clearly visible due to the black backdrop. The capacity of this scale is around 1000 grains per session. Does matter if the pan position is on right or left, both right, as well as left-handed users can easily use this scale.
The base of the scale is rigid and well-grounded as it is composed of cast iron. The product will be included a 694.6g calibrating weight which will help in calibration.
With the help of a magnetic damper, the calibration can be done perfectly. You just have to tighten or lose the thumbscrew in order to caliber the scale.
What makes it even more stable is its wedge-shaped design which prevents it from losing its balance. The pouring is very convenient as the measuring bowl is consists of a long sprout. You will also receive a plastic cover for protection from dust and dirt.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILED PRODUCT USER MANUAL BY CLICKING HERE.
4) Lyman, Scales, Brass Smith 500 Metal
- Composed of aluminum
- Capacity:505 grains
- Accuracy:1/10 of the grain
- Ambidextrous scale
- Pan has 2 handles
- Enhanced accuracy with magnetic dampener
- Easy to read readings
- Positive customer feedback
At number 5 we have Lyman brass smith 500 balance beam which is another awesome creation by a well-reputed brand, Lyman. In case you are serious with your reloading, you should definitely look at this item.
This rigid body on this scale is composed of aluminum which significantly reduces the vibrations. This scale is ambidextrous as the beam is double-sided with markings available on both sides therefore easy to approach and the pan has 2 handles.
The movement of weights is very convenient with the help of precision-ground knife edges. The capacity of this scale is around 505 grains.
The scale can precisely measure up to a tenth of a grain. Due to its magnetic dampener, the weight marker sets even more quickly.The black markings are super clear as they are carved on a white background just make sure you read the readings at eye level.
The calibration process is very simple and you just need to loosen and tighten the screw in order to calibrate it. This balance scale will provide consistent and accurate results on which you can rely.
Even though the scale is precalibrated but it’s always a great choice to the caliber before using it. What made it to our list of best balance beam scale for reloading is its overwhelming positive feedback from its users.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILED PRODUCT USER MANUAL BY CLICKING HERE.
5) Redding Reloading - Powder & Bullet Scale
- Compact size
- Can be carried anywhere
- Capacity:505 grains
- Accuracy:1/10 of grain
- Weight: less than a pound
- Very durable material
- Highly sensitive
- Easy to caliber
This balance scale is perfect for those who want a smaller scale but delivers top-notch accuracy. As compared to other beam scales, this scale is more on the most compact and easy to carry.
The capacity of this scale is 505 grain and the accuracy provided is around 1/10 of a grain. The design of the scale is very clean and direct and very easy to understand.
Due to its easy operation, even a beginner can operate it without getting confused. Due to the scale’s high sensitivity, the accuracy of the powder measurements is further enhanced.
You can easily carry this scale anywhere as it just weighs approximately one pound which allows you to measure at any location of your choice.
You just have to place it in a small case and you are ready to go with it anywhere. Due to its amazing durability, the scale can handle rough handling very well.
You just have to do a simple little step before starting the measurement again and that is re-zeroing the scale.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILED PRODUCT USER MANUAL BY CLICKING HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best beam scale for reloading?
Here are some most reputed companies that make the best balance beam scale for reloading:-
Hornady: Hornady is an American-based ammunition and handloading company that was established in 1949.
For around 72 years they have been maintaining an amazing reputation with their top quality products.
They have constantly evolved their products according to the needs of their consumers.
Hornady products never compromise in the quality and you can easily rely on them.
RCBS: Another leading manufacture in us is RCBS that manufactures precision reloading equipment.
For around 75 years, RCBS has been offering world-class quality precision engineered reloading products.
The products are perfectly engineering according to the latest trends and have better functionality
RCBS offers a full line of single-stage and progressive presses, as well as dies, powder dispensers, and everything you need to create your perfect reloading bench.
As compared to other products, Lyman products are comparatively more compact and easy to carry.
Their products are always beginner-centric. Moreover, Lyman has gathered all their reloading knowledge in a very beginner friend ammo reloading handbook to learn A to Z about hand reloading.
Redding: This company was established in 1946 and they are experts at producing the innovative and highest quality American-made reloading products.
Redding is exclusively a reloading company. Redding is always dedicated to its customers and even designs products specifically for the needs of its customers.
How to use a balance beam scale
Before you start the process of measurement, it’s very important to zero the scale. Make sure the reading is zero when you set the balancing weights and then put the tray.
Then level the scale by adjusting it with the help of a dial. The margins have to be aligned for measurement. Once you have placed the powder into the tray, try to balance the scale.
Double-check that the markers are properly aligned and then start taking measurements. Make sure to test the scale regularly in order to see if it’s providing proper readings or not.
Graphite chalk used in pencils can be used to clean the knife edges. You just have to rub the chalk knife edges until the edges are coated.
To understand your scale better make sure to read the manual that you will get with the product to know product-specific details.
Which scale is more accurate digital or beam?
It depends from individual to individual. Some are more comfortable with beam scale and others are with electronic more.
You will be surprised to know the beam scale can actually be more accurate as compared to the electronic one if calibrated properly.
The electronic one can easily be influenced by environmental factors such as wind or minute particles which can hamper the results. Whereas, the effect of environmental factors is not that drastic with beam scales.
What are the other uses of beam balance scale?
The only purpose of a balance scale is to measure therefore anything can be measured on them. There are types of balance beams that can very measure liquids.
One of the major advantages of the beam balance scale is that it allows you to measure the water volume for cartridges which is generally not possible with electric scales.
However, it is always recommended not to measure any other substance other than charging powder while making ammunition.
In case the other substance leaves any residue, it will ruin the accuracy of the measurement of charging powder.
If you want to measure other substances with a balance scale it’s always better to get a separate scale for that purpose.
How to take care of a reloading scale?
Like any other machine, you need to do proper maintenance of the beam balance scale to ensure its long life and proper functionality.
You should always keep your scale in such a place where no one comes frequently as there are chances of someone kicking it or knocking it accidentally.
The accuracy of the scale will gradually decrease if it undergoes continuous damage and harsh handling.
Once you have done the measuring make sure to properly clean the scale. For this purpose, you can use a dry cloth to clean it after use or you can use mild soap and water solution.
Dont forget to look after the scale if you want consistent and accurate results.
Why grains is used as measurement unit ?
Accuracy is what everyone wants while ammunition reloading. To get the same charge for the powder whenever you measure the powder a more accurate and simple unit is used called “grains”.
When compared to grams and ounces, unit grains are easy to understand and are far more accurate. One grain is equal to 1/15 grams or 0.06 grams.
In order to measure one-fourth of a gram, the process will be going to be difficult. Since grains is a larger unit than grams, it’s convenient to use grains as a unit.
Conclusion
Here we come at the end of our guide. We have handpicked one of the best balance beam scale for reloading that is used and trusted by thousands of reloaders around the world. Get your balance scale now and add additional accuracy and convenience to your reading journey. If you have any suggestions or doubts, feel free to leave a comment down below. Thanks for visiting leanoutdoor.com.