FCLC45, in 2024 I'm revisiting this video that thank you. I end up buying this and the Perfect Powder Measure that uses the same drums, and it's been a huge aid to my reloading at such an affordable price. Home run from Lee, I'm so glad they are dedicated to excellence and affordability.
First or latest TH-cam video on this, no matter. This was an outstanding overview of the powder measure. A concise guided tour of everything you need to know. THANKS! Saved me lots of time searching and trying to translate words to reality with this.
Hi after almost 50 years of reloading on a single stage press and conventional powder measure I decided to speed things up a little and just picked up the Lee Classic Turret 4 hole press and also one of these new auto drum powder measures for loading my handgun rounds. Your video is very informative and a great help to get me started out right with this measure. Thanks!
+Albert Kranbuhl Jr -- That is a good setup you now have. It should serve you splendidly. Please let me know if you have any problems or questions...Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Congratulations Fortune Cookie 45 for posting the very first TH-cam video on this new product from Lee. You have established the gold standard for future videos on this new product. Great job on the video and happy reloading !
+Peter Manetta -- Appreciate the kind words... not often we can be the first on TH-cam ... feels kinda neat like a news reporter scooping all the other newsrooms... Best to ya, FC
Thanks again for this clear video. Once again, anything regarding reloading or casting I need clarity on, you are there. I go back and forth between you and Elvis Ammo. You are very detailed in your explanations. I wish there was something I could do to show appreciation to you and the other guy South Carolina. Thanks again, Steve..
FC45LC: I didn't read ALL the comments, but one thing I noticed when I used the Auto-Drum, there was an issue when I removed the dis-connector. I load on a Lee Turret Press and the vibration from the rotating tool head would sometimes cause the disconnect rod to gradually move back in the slider causing a partial powder drop. What I did was put a drop of hot glue from a glue gun in the "hole" to keep the disconnect rod from moving back in the slider. PS I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work.
Three things he did not mention is that you DO NOT always need the riser. You only need it with certain die setups. And the second is that the little adjusting key is easily stored in the hole next to the adjusting screw. The third piece of the setup he failed to mention is that you can use a pencil to write the grain weight or powder you are using on the flat ares of the adjusting screw housing. But it was a good video and very informative.
So excellent that I’m helping a neighbor set up his press and he has that very thrower with no manual. I knew that you would have covered it thoroughly at some time.
I have been using the Lee 4 hole turrent press for years now and love it but since I mostly shoot 9mm, I decided to upgrade to the Loadmaster for that caliber. Thank God for you tube and videos like yours to get it running properly. I also use the auto drum powder measure and agree with you on the disconnect feature but instructions for removing this feature were vague and your video helped to do this. Since my wife has an AR9mm carbine she can go through ammo in staggering amounts and with this press I can turn out replacement ammo quick enough to feed this voracious beast's appetite !
Ben Workman - Thanks for your great comment. However, I don't know about you calling your wife a voracious beast - but then again, that sure makes you a very lucky man..!! You are going to have the short happy life... ;) ;) ;) Best Regards, FC
excellent video! I had no idea that they even made that. looks like the disconnect feature was a problem, but can easily be bypassed which I like. to me the pot metal that's used on the powder measure is not that big of a deal because I feel that a powder measure is a light duty device. looks like I'm gonna have to pick one up. thank you again for sharing the video I really enjoyed it I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
Thanks for the great video. My Lee reloading kit should arrive tomorrow. I am completely new to reloading and your video explaining how individual parts work was really helpful.
Dave - Congrats on the embarking of a voyage of discovery and satisfaction...Please keep in touch and feel free to post questions and comments as you go...We are all continued students as there really aren't any masters out there. Those that tell you that their way is the best or only way are fooling themselves. It's the safety and procedural fundamentals that are the base points from which everything else is built. Glad to have you on board the Hot Lead Zone Express... Best to ya, FC
+GeorgiaTack -- Thanks for your comment... I liked this measure so much, I now have two of them...and the disconnector was removed in both of them... Best Regards to ya, FC
Thanks for responding! Used it again today with 100 cases and running smooth and consistent to the .05 grain !!! Yeah, the manufacturing is on the cheaper spectrum of things but I think the design is very innovative- props to Papa Lee ;)
Christopher Hart - When the ADPM runs smoothly (most of the time), it's a great measure. When you get clicks and pops, the throws are not as accurate...so we run the case a second time and always get smooth accurate throws on the second pass...therefore, the best is that when clicks and pops happen, then we need to run all the cases through for neck expand and mouth flare first and then add the PM for a second time through - the throws will all be good. If on a progressive, need an extra neck expand/mouth flare die - one station to expand, and next station has the PM on the die for smooth charges...works well when sizing decapping wet tumbling polishing are done so one of the stations on the prog press is opened up anyway. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
FC - Thanks for the video. Very well done and informative. Just got my Lee Classic 4 hole turret press and placed the auto drum powder measure on the turret. Got tried for swapping out reforming dies, bullet seating dies and crimping dies on my single press. Along with hand charging powder and then trickling powder for accuracy.
Thanks cookie. Got my two Auto-Drums the other day and LOVE them, so much better than the disks. Immediately removed the reset device, and working to figure out how to fix the wobbling fit on top of the die. Ran powdered-graphite through them to set them up/break them in, and added the Prairie-Dog double-baffles. Oh, drops of super glue (let them dry of course) around the lip keeps the lid on tight.
wrthrash - Sorry the delayed reply was because Google did not post your comment in my inbox - I won't see such for months... My three Auto Drums have been singing a fine song... we make music together... Best to ya, and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
Hot Lead I got my new Lee Drum Auto Measure. I have to say it's not bad. I follow your instructions I took 50 charges like you did and the charges came really close to what I wanted. I did get a lot of popping and I fixed that problem by cleaning the drum. I disconnected the disconnector and found out that the popping stopped. Keep up the good work. I also got the riser and that worked just like you said it would work. Good Video.
Ernie Murdock - Sorry to not reply until now - whenever Google does not post a comment in my inbox, I won't see it for months...I'm using my LADPMs a lot and they are serving very well...Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
Thanks for the informative video. I just picked up one of these from Midway this week, along with the classic turret press (after 40 years of using a single stage) It looks like Lee listened to everyone regarding the disconnect as it no longer comes installed on the unit, but now as a separately bagged accessory that must be installed if wanted.
Winchester 296 jams my Hornady powder measure and its built better than my Lee equipment .I use the Lee Auto disc when i drop that powder.Lee has some nice features as you pointed out.Great and very thorough review FC!
Hello, my friend, I have a couple of friends that I am helping get started with reloading, and we got one of these. I kind of liked the idea for the disconnector, but they made the chain holder such that the chain will slip through rather than break if misadjusted. IMO this made it very easy to bump your hand on the chain and lose the setting, causing a real risk of squib loads. We had to pull down some ammo for safety. It only took a few minutes of use before I was convinced to disable the disconnector as you have done, even for my loadmaster progressive press. You were very right, sir, and my opinion has changed.
GunFun ZS - Many years ago, I had a reloading mentor named Doug that really helped me get started. What you did with those two friends will have influence way into the future. Thanks for your additional assessment on the Auto Drum... With your experience and expertise, your comments carry a lot of weight and are much appreciated... Have a great day to ya, friend GunFun - FC Steve
As always, outstanding video on an excellent new product. I did not even know that this product from Lee was even available. All my presses are from Lee and I have absolutely no complaints. Been watching your videos for some time now and enjoy them all, from casting to reloading. Another good product for advancing in my reloading. Will be ordering one soon. Thank you for all that you do. Hoping you and your family have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
+ArmyVet 8892 -- You vets are America's finest...and every sacrifice made from each and every one of you should ever be heralded and never be forgotten... May you dwell in peace, freedom, abundance and satisfaction in all your endeavors...for you have earned it. Good reloadin' and good shootin' to ya.... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you also... FC
Christopher Hart - It's perhaps the most accurate powder measure out there as long as it isn't doing the "click and pop". If you get that, best to run the cases through the expander and flare die first, then install the PM and charge cases by running them through again...the PM doesn't "click and pop" with the second run through and the charges are accurate. The click and pop = variance throws. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
Great video and superbly presented with very clear information. Thank you for steering me the right way...will be buying one of these now although hard to find in Australia.
+Oz Camp n Hunt Dan -- Reason is that this ADPM is still rather new...but the word on its goodness is getting out fast...Lee is filling orders, but a lot of dealers are selling them quickly. Will take just a bit more time to get out to be fully distributed in your land Down Under...Hail to all you fantastic Aussies..!! And hello to the New Zealanders also. FC
I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Jiujitsu! Well done sir! you should be getting a commision because I have just ordered one based on your reviews! Thanks!
+Yissnakk Lives! -- No commissions...I do not work for Lee or any other related company. So far, no negatives to report - I'm going to use my Auto Drum again this afternoon. I now have two of the Auto Drum measures - You may find that this measure has been too long in coming.... Good reloadin' to ya. FC
thanks.... I finally figured it out for both at the end of the day yesterday. your videos are great and very informative. I used the old vmd charts from my disc set to figure the volumes and grains. tested by using dippers too. thanks
Michael Gorton - The Lee Auto Disks have served reloaders for many years, but we just worked around its limitations 1) limited adjustability of charges thrown 2) Powder charge setting change not conveniently made 3) limited capacity of charges thrown. 4) Hopper has no cut off feature. The Auto Drum solves all those, plus can handle stick powders nicely. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
Christopher Hart - And Thor's Axe777 had a great idea - on his Dillon 650, he uses one station to mouth flare / neck expand first (with an additional neck expand/mouth flare die) and then the next station for the Lee Auto Drum PM - that way, the case has been pre expanded so that the PM is doing the second pass with every case - and every second pass is assured to have no "chatter" so that accurate charges are always dropped...fantastic way to go... Best to ya, FC
Thank you for doing this video, I have been searching for info on this product and did not find too much about it until now. Thank you !!! I will be ordering one soon. Thanks again!!!
+Daryl G. -- After doing the second video on this measure, I ordered a second one...at $35 a copy, that is very much enabled. Now I want to order a bunch of extra drums as they are excellent and inexpensive. Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Why doesn't my auto drum go past the 4:00 position? Yours gets to the 5:00 but mine doesn't. I have it tightened as much as it will go. I checked the gears and they look right. Any suggestions?
I cannot, no matter what I try, to get my LADPM to work with the disconnect attached to my LoadMaster and chain. It works perfect with the Disconnect off, but, when I have the disconnect on, the drum will not make a full, complete turn to dump powder into the case. If I keep gentle pressure on the Disconnect when I raise the press, the unit works every time. It makes no sense. I've watched all of your videos and a few others out there on this unit. I really don't need the Disconnect, since I never use my LM as a Single stage, but I liked the idea as a safety measure. It seems like the plastic pieces are allowing too much movement and not enough resistance against the other components within the Powder Measure. Thanks so much for your videos. they've been very helpful in getting me back into reloading after so man years.
@@RancidQueso I just took off the disconnect since I really don't have a problem with the double charge on the Load Master. It works fine without it. But thanks for the offer.
Oh my! I am so glad you made one for this part! I love your gun-usage comparison videos and base my buys off of them as well. I should have gotten a Dillon. The LEE I got (Value 4-hole) has been a science project. Like you said, the instructions are not clear, not specific the product, and is an advertisement to buy more stuff that you (might) need to make the the system work. Plastic on Metal is always bad, especially at torqued points. I spent over 2 hours trying to figure out the "index ratchet"- the plastic square. The indexing is still not reliable, missing the retaining ring for the old primers-tube, and yes, to make attach the hopper, you have to take all the other dies off because it will hit- meaning you have to go that riser (which should have been part of the kit when you bought it). So, the first item to put on the turret is station 2 (hopper), and THEN the others...oh yeah, the base plate for the stand has to installed "upside down" so the holes line up as well as the Z-mounts. They left that particular info out due to space limitations of other LEE "stuff" you can buy. I should have bought a Dillon. Rockchuckers Rule!
Sounds like a great product. Your final thought about they could add the baffle, appears to be built into it. You have the cutoff by twisting the drum to cut it off. At that point is the baffle per se because it leaves the drum and goes into the neck of the powder measure. So wouldn't that in a sense be the baffle.
I've been using this for a few months now and have a few other positives over the Lee Auto disk: Throws charges greater than 1.6 cc without fooling with double disks, fine tunes powder drops, rather than being limited to preset volumes, much easer to clear and empty powder from unit. and much easier to position if using the Lee Safety Prime on a Turret press to eliminate interference.
Hi F.C. I was loosing a lot of powder using the Drum measure with 300 BLK. I contacted Leek and they sent me replacement machined drums. I feel like I am still leaking a lot of powder and going to email them again. My question for you is do you lose powder through the side of three body where you can see the spring? Do you loose powder between the body of unit and the drum at the 6:00 position when you are dumping the powder? Thank-you for your time! Scott
Scott11371 - Yes, I've had powder leak at the drum caused by the drum needing to be snugged up just an extra 1/4 turn. And I've had the powder leak from the body - cause, the powder is leaking into the drum housing and being carried up to the opening in the body at the upper part of the drum housing - will leak out the body = that was cured by replacing to a different drum and no more leak - then I just use the leaking drums for coarser powders and everything is OK...I have 14 drums and two of them leak. If you are still getting leaks after trying different drums, the problem may be in your measure body. That will need a send back to Lee for repair or replacement. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
If I can make a suggestion to your instruction video I would suggest you show how the chain is hooked up for a Lee progressive loader. Great Instructional video.
+Bruno Friia -- Thanks for the comment, Bruno, but I'll do you one better. The only reason to have the chain is to activate the disconnector. But if the disconnector is removed, the measure operates as a stand alone self contained case activated unit not needing any chain or link with any press. The disconnector is totally useless. I've removed it from both my Auto Drums now and say gungha (we used to say that when a member of our golf foursome puts a 300 yard drive into the fairway). No case, no charge - all we have to do is to be sure to advance the shell plate as a matter of course to prevent any double charges. A powder sensor can be installed if the reloader has any problems doing that. Or a light can be positioned to allow inspection of the charge before placing a bullet on the seating station. I just threw those chains away in disgust. Removing the disconnector was easy - Lee provided instructions on doing that (do you think that the easy removal of the disconnector was provided for a reason instead of a permanent disconnector? I would have blasted that measure if it were so). Best to ya, Bruno FC
I have a question about the rubber plug on the large cone- does that always need to be installed?? i am loading 308 and 30-06 rifle and have never used this setup. Which cone small or large is suitable for this and how does it work?? I use the small one to load my 7.62x39 brass for my mini ruger 30 and had ok luck with that but not sure about the rest- thanks
Mike gorton - For your needs, you will want to leave the plug out. The little plug is for shooters who are reloading for pistol and not for rifle. The plug converts the big rifle drum into a small charge pistol drum. For your 308 and /06, you will definitely need the full rifle charges. Depending on the type of powder, the pistol drum will indeed work for the x39. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
My disconnect rod moved several times after removing the lever. Luckily I checked and caught the squib loads before storing them. A simple and reversible fix was to make a hook to hold the rod forward that's secured in place with the screw. Lee really should include such a hook in the kit.
Psyko Klown - That disconnector is worthless. Perhaps it was a "safety" included for legal reasons so that Lee could not be blamed for reloaders doing double charges with catastrophic results. But even with this device, a careless reloader could still double charge a case. Supposedly, putting the screw in the back hole prevents the disconnector from doing its badness. Glad you figured out the fix for this... Best to ya, FC
You are so right, and it makes me wonder if it in fact could have been a legal thing. My issue is how easy it was to get squibs before and after removing it; before by forgetting to press it, and after due to the rod sometimes moving back into the disconnected position because Lee didn't provide a way to lock it into place after removal. It wouldn't have cost them much, if anything to have molded the little latch you remove so that the pin locked into the slot behind the rod to prevent movement. I think Lee really missed that little detail.
Thank you for this video Just got a Lee's reloader and didn't know about this powder measure. How to adjust the powder what was the little key was for . you're right instructions is not that good
I have been contemplating getting one of these little guys. Initially from what i've seen it seems to be a pretty good unit but leakage with the fine powders was the biggest gripe. I'll be looking forward to hearing a re-review of yours down the road once you get some more run time on it. Pretty clever design with the rack & pinion design and I like the drum adjustment along with the 4-pack of drums. Nice that it is die actuated and no crap hanging off it! I think I agree with the removal of the disconnector. It is a little neat if you screw up a stroke on the press and don't want to have to double charge or make a powder mess but the danger of a squib load is a big one and it would be easy to miss an empty case if you didn't inspect them all in a loading block. I don't know if there is a lesser of two evils though with squibs & double charges. Ideally a double charge is going to overflow the case and be very obvious but worst case your using light charges of really fast powder like Titewad, Ba10, Bullseye or N310, something like that and double or triple charge! A double of some of those really hot powders like that are likely to blow a gun up! With a squib, at the very least your barrel will probably be "ringed" by the squib but worst case a rupture in the barrel, case or just destruction of the action of the gun.
mytmousemalibu - Sorry to not reply until now, Chris, but Google did not post the comment in my inbox to see - won't answer until I stumble onto them months later... Like anything, we operators have to pay attention. Just got some LED lights that enable viewing the powder in each charged case on my Dillon 550Bs...should provide an extra degree of safety to the proceedings... Best to ya, and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
+Mr. Tolly (AKA: fatmantolly) - You are going to like this measure - just get rid of that disconnector (or not). This measure and the new Lee Classic Powder Measure, both have all the features of the previous lines of Lee powder measures but incorporated into stronger, durable and quality materials, construction and designs while offering the new easily interchangeable drums preset for our favorite loads. The problem with the Lee Classic is that it uses a cast iron body and the price point is now what the RCBS Uniflow is on sale. But even so, the new Lee Classic Measure (stand alone hand crank measure) beats the RCBS and Hornady because of the nylon drums that provide fully adjustable charge throws at much lower cost than the inserts from the other makers. Also, the ease of handling of the pesky extruded stick powders blows the RCBS and Hornady units out of the water (new video on that). My prediction is that Lee will do very well with the Auto Drum and Classic Powder Measures, but why they didn't come out with these 10 - 15 years ago is a mystery. Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Do you have a video talking about the difference between magnum and standard primers? I've heard some powders need magnum primers to get consistent velocities and other powders don't need magnum primers. Do you bother using magnum primers ?
+Prepare2Survive -- Absolutely. Whenever the reloading manual says use magnum primers, I reach for my supply of Tula Magnum Primers.... to not do so would be inadvised. Thanks for your good question...Happy Holidays, FC
+Prepare2Survive -- Don't know If I answered this one or not since Google has been losing my replies... Best advice for us is to go with the loading data - if magnum primers are in the recipe, we should use them for best results. Some powders like Bullseye and Unique, Red Dot that are easy to ignite, we can use regular primers even if the manual says use magnum primers, but again - going by the loading manual is the best policy. Best to ya, FC
I have been away from the loading bench for some time now. It seems to me that I bought one of these when they first came out. Now I need to go dig and see if I remember correctly. 1/10 grain per flat of revolution of the chamber stem will depend on the powder.....could be more, could be less. The disconnect for the powder throw may prove useful on a progressive or the Lee Classic turret press. Thanks for sharing.
FC - how about an update. I too purchased the Auto Drum and used it for the past 5 months for 9mm and throws have been spot on (+/- 0.1 either side of target). However, today I restarted on my 223 loading and found variations as high as 1.0gn!!! Not good... I find the drum not as accurate at higher charges... your experiences? I love the dispenser but this recent issue has me back with the double disk for rifle and use drum only with pistol at lower drops. Thoughts?
+Lesal8403 -- I've been doing a lot of reloading with the AD recently with videos done, even done some 30/06 loading with it with success. But I have not done any bulk 223 loading with it, as of yet. 1 grain variation is horrible and unacceptable. Have on my cue of videos to do - compare loading 223 (5.56) with the AD against the Hornady Automatic Powder Dispenser and see which ammo shoots more consistent groups... Have a great day, FC.
+Lesal8403 -- Now that I have more time, back to ya on this - The Lee Auto Drum has been a very good measure for me using flake, ball, and extruded powders with small charges of Titewad powder up to 80+ grain charges for the 375 H & H. I now have 3 of these measures - two of them on my Dillon 550Bs and one floater for all my single stage reloading. I do get some chattering with certain calibers, and if chatter occurs, the charges are almost surely +.3 to + .4 grains heavier than if no chatter. If no chatter, I am getting charges with 1/10th grain total variation - amazing accuracy in a measure. I suspect that your 1 grain variations happens with the same chatter as the case is activating the measure. That is totally unacceptable and I would have been appalled to have had that. Have not been hearing of too many complaints with the AD, but yours is significant. There may be others out there having the same inaccuracy. Another just reported that he is getting bad throws with powder bridging and that is something that the AD was supposed to not have happen. Best Regards, FC
Great Video! I agree about the instructions being ambiguous with respect to the disconnect, and also agree that a squib is as much of a concern as a double charge. How old is that can of W296?
Vincent Bozik - Thanks for your comments...much appreciated. That can of WW296 is about 30 years old...reason is that I prefer using H110 (even though 296 is the same powder - H110 seems to be a different granule to me) I really need to use up that 296 before it gets to be 40 years old... Best to ya, FC
just bought one of these on your recommendation. I was wondering if the auto disk riser fits on this or does it have one specific to it? Just purchased a used Lee 4 hole turret press and am trying to get everything set up to use it. not sure I have all the parts for it yet. Been reloading pistol calibers for 3 years. just getting started with rifle due to the fact I've purchased numerous milsurp rifles.
+Cat G -- Your riser will work just fine with that ADPM. When you first use it, if any powder leaks, that means you need an extra 1/4 turn of tightening on the thumb knob after you clean out the powder from the drum / chassis space. That measure should serve you quite nicely... Best to ya, FC
Very good piece!! Nice instruction too. I use the auto disc there are better ones, but hard to beat it for simplicity of loading. I have others but seem to always go back to the auto disc for pistol loads...
+dowdawg -- The Auto Disk is a very workable measure. Reloaders have often complained that the lack of adjustability is problematic when a charge between the chambers is desired, but we can learn to live with what the disks drop... Now, with this measure, we have something with the pre-set easy change drums to boot... Happy Holidays, FC (the newer reloaders can just go right to the new Auto :Drum)
To get rid of the difference in charges caused by the vibration or action of the press, buy a small bullet vibrator and strap it to the hopper with rubber bands. Turn it on while you set your charge and leave it on while you throw your powder charges. They have really cheap ones on Amazon. Just don't let your woman open your mail or you'll never see it again and she might use all your batteries. This will take the shock or lack of from how you actuate your press out of the equation and give you more consistent charges. I've been doing this with my perfect powder measure and it really tightened up my charge variation. I don't get those higher variations from cranking it too hard or too soft like you said might have happened with yours.
Toolness1 - Now that's a creative idea for sure...worth a try, and not much to lose as there are other uses for that rascal as you pointed out ... Best to ya, FC
he now I'm having trouble aligning the drum hole with the powder dispenser shoot whole when I take tension off of the handle the alignment is way off is there a tensioner?
Very professional and REALLY excellent review, much appreciated Fortune Cookie, I just ordered 2 (you should get 12%!!!). And yeah, I never "got" the ridic chain thing, just so stupid-stupid and PC, and you made such a great point of a squib-load being equally or more dangerous than a double-charge... kudos & excellent point there! Progressive is progressive even on a single stage. Love your posts and keep up the great work. Will hopefully figure out how to powder coat or paint mine. Take care.
+wrthrash -- Do not recommend the wet paint systems - I've tried that and you have mess and materials that are messy. The PC is also paint, but put on dry and neat... Plus, nothing wrong with the old standby 45/45/10 system of tumble lubing - worked great for many years, will still work great...I'm doing PC now to give it a good run - it's an option alternative to doing traditional cast bullet lubing - it is not a go to substitute. Once you see all the videos, you can decide for yourself what you want. Have a great day, FC
+spyderxtra777 -- you will find many uses for this Auto Drum - so far, it has handled every type of powder like the stuff was all candy... Best to ya, FC
Set up and first use last night, using Vithi Vouri N140 After making a Mess using the WRONG drum . got the charge set Per instructions using a Weighed load. Threw 50 loads at 25.5 grs. weighing each load after dropping.Today added up the weights and they Averaged 25.4865385 grs! I think that will Work! Received 4 more drums today so I will be Playing Weighmaster for a while. Decided to set each drum to a different Cal and Load Great Piece of Equiptment,VERY easy to install and Set up. Oh its on my new Lee Classic Turret Press
Barry D. Thomas Sr. - I've got three of these now and enjoy using them immensely. Some real fine reloaders have determined that best use is to run the cases through the Lee neck expander / mouth flare die first, then install the PM and run the cases through the second time for the powder drop - this eliminates any popping of the PM that would cause bad drops...The pops only happened on occasion and the newest LADPMs may have had that corrected. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
FortuneCookie - @16:44 you placed the screw back to it's old position. Manual says (page 10, step 4) to "replace the screw in the hole adjacent to the body". I think this is to prevent the connecting link from binding and possibly breaking.
+Batang Sampaloc -- Very observant of you... most impressive - yes, the screw needs to be in the other hole, and that has been corrected...didn't have any problem with that, but I could have. Have a great day, FC
Richie Austin - There wasn't any grease or oil inside any of my three ADPMs...And no powder sticking anywhere after first use with any of the measures either. But you can bet if I found any traces of oil or grease, I would have run mineral spirits rag in there. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
David Hurt - You probably have a particular drum that will not work with fine grain powders...Try switching drums and tightening an extra 1/4 turn. This solved my leakage problems...If every drum leaks for you, then you might have a defective measure housing...return to Lee for exchange would then be the best course. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
I bought one and found the powder container in the drum wasn't rotating fully. The hole in the drum was only half exposed under the hopper and when actuated the drum didn't rotate far enough to dump all the powder. Upon investigation I discovered the geared quadrant to be one tooth out. After re-positioning it worked perfectly for 3 weeks and 1500 reloads...until today !!! The small pin cast into the monkey metal gear quadrant had sheared off leaving the equally flimsy plastic link rod disconnected and dangling. I returned the measure to my local gun shop who offered a replacement but having lost confidence in the brittle & flimsy linkage I opted for an Autodisc measure instead.
Well cookie you did it again, I have a Dillon 550b, However I use my single stage rock chucker press for load development, I've been using my Uniflow powder measure to try out new charge weights and if they are favorable at the range I set up my Dillon press to Mass produce it, This unit made by Lee would save me the time of removing the case from flaring the mouth and throwing the charge as separate steps, Thus speeding up time at the bench, I have to give it to Robert Lee, That Guy gets up on the other side of the bed from the rest of the industry and turns out a product that is Quality without braking the bank. You did a Grate review Cookie, However you need to do a review using extruded powder like IMR 4064, 4895, 4198, 3031, reloader 15, 22, Ect.
I figured that you would get around to putting it through the paces, When I reload Rifle for my M-1 I always throw charges that are under the top charge weight, This measure would be a nice thing to have for Folks that only have a single stage press. It would make life a little more simple, Just do the norm, Size and deprime, seat a new primer, Run them through the charging step and set them in a load block, Pass a flashlight over them to check uniform Volume of the cases, then seat the bullets. (as a precautionary I would weigh every fifth or so round for consistency when throwing charges). Just to make sure the Measure was on target weight. I think I may pick one of these up.
+Thorsaxe777 - Wait'll you see how well extruded stick powders run through this measure with accuracy to boot!! This new Lee measure drops charges of stick powders like other measures drop ball powder... fantastic, almost unbelievable until you see and feel it...that's why I titled the video News Flash:.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Hey fc i see that lee makes a rifle powder charge die for two die rifle sets but is there a powder through die (with no flare) for pistol? i'm trying to use an rcbs 45 acp die set on the turret and I want to charge on the press.
30ROUNDCLIPAZINE -The Lee pistol die sets all come with the powder through, expander, flaring dies. Those same powder through dies are available as separate dies, but they all flare. You can adjust the die to minimum flare while still actuating the powder measure though. Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
Well, I just got mine yesterday. I was adjusting it and attempting to use it this morning, but every 3-5 charges, it spills a bunch of powder out of the bottom. I was really looking forward to using this unit...any advice?
+varanidguy -- Sorry to hear you are getting this... Is the leak happening at the joint of the drum with the drum seat? You might want to change out to the other drum and give it a try. Is the powder spilling out through the bottom drop tube - could be powder bridging happening (can't see how this could be happening though)? A definite phone call to Lee tech support is in order. Sounds like you got a bad powder measure...I did that video VR to you on this measure throwing maximum charges, but decided not to post it since I've already done a video very close to that one - didn't want to duplicate it...We'll see if we can get another angle on that. Please let me know what happens when you call Lee - none of the three of my ADPMs has the problem you describe. Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC Thank you FC! I kept messing with the darn thing and couldn't figure it out. It is pouring out of the bottom, so it could have been powder bridging. I decided to stop messing with it and I'm going to get a new unit exchanged through Midway. When I spoke with Lee, all they offered was for me to send it to them and they would inspect, repair, or replace as necessary. Decided it's brand new, not going to go through the hassle just yet. Just get a new one and hope it doesn't have the same issue.
+varanidguy -- For you to get two lemons would be a perversity of the percentages...Midway is really good outfit. Please let me know how this turns out... Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC Yeah, I agree. At that point, I'd send it to Lee regardless, to see what they say. Thank you for responding so much and being really helpful!
Thanks for the video.. Very informative. I actually made an additional powder measure stand that situates a RCBS powder measure or Little Dandy measure right over the funnel in the pass through die on my Classic Turret press. Yes I have to manually work the measure, but so many tools out there require that anyway, so I was used to the concept. This tool just might alleviate that process.. Well we can't double charge a 357 case with 21 grains of 296 anyway.. You'd have powder all over the place.. I would like to see how it handles a powder like Unique, Herco or Blue Dot for uniformity. Maybe next time. Thanks again.
+Tonsofgunsoffun -- It's a good unit and will serve us well... I'm enjoying it already... will post on using it with those pesky extruded stick powders next... Happy Holidays, FC
I believe that lee offers a baffle for the measure or you can purchase one manufactured by another company that will fit this measure and several others, or you can cut your own from a thin piece of aluminum. I am a strong believer in the baffle for what it does. I've used one in my Dillon xl650 and a RCBS measure for many years for uniform powder throws. I also believe in filling the measure to its max for the same reason. Uniform throws even if I'm only going to load a smaller amount of rounds. I don't have any problem with dumping the powder out after I';m through. In fact I highly recommend emptying the measure after each loading even. Powder with etch the inside of the hopper.
nevadajim775 - You are a well experienced reloader. Baffles do even out the powder pressure for more uniform metering. I did wonder why Lee does not offer baffles for their Auto Drum or Perfect Powder measures. Then it occurred to me after much use of the Lee Auto Drum that no baffle is needed since the powder cut off is already providing a baffle to the powder chamber immediately below the cut off. Of course, we could add a baffle in the powder reservoir if we desire. I've gotten fine performance with the Lee ADPM as it is. Keeping the powder level up is certainly a good idea. Thank you for your comments, FC Steve
I've heard about these and the new case trimmer they've got to. I wonder how well the measure will do with really small powder drops say in the 2.5 to 3 grainish range of say bullseye thats what I use for me 32 longs and the micro adjuster doesn't do that very well at all. The auto disk's work well for that. But also does the adjustment screw look like there's a way to put the scale from there single non press powder measure on there? That would be nice to see where the charge is at if you only have the one drum or just for referance in general.
+MIshooter - I've tested the new Lee ADPM with small charges of Bullseye - no problemo - works like it was made for BE target shooters in mind... Best to ya, FC
My bad, it's "powder" I thought you were saying potter, or podder, so relieved I don't have to buy anything else to start reloading. Now all I have to do is find powder and primers, they seem so rare these days.
It's tempting to try but my first thought is on static electric charges in the metering cone there...as the weather changes we see a difference in the static potential and we already know how some of the very small ball powders react to the static in the hopper. Great presentation but I'm still on the fence with this one. Thanks 45...charlie
+phillip rubin -- No compatible connectors there, but the Lee expander dies are not expensive - I pop it in there along with my Dillon dies on my 550Bs with no problems at all - they talk to each other like long time buddies... Best to ya, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC Hi, thanks for your response. I load a dozen different calibers and wouldn't want to buy a new expander die for each of them. I'd be using this powder drop, on a stand, in place of RCBS, when working up and loading for rifle's. The 550B, loads (for three gun) 223 and 7.62x39 flawlessly...
+phillip rubin -- Phillip, this new PM only works as a case activated measure in any of our reloading presses. It needs the Lee powder thru die to activate the drop. You can get universal rifle powder dies to use this measure for rifle shooting, but the Lee handgun die sets all have the powder thru die that will work with this measure. They are not expensive and can be used with other die sets. If you want the stand operated measure, the new Lee Classic Powder Measure may be the one, but the reviews on that one have been + and -. I'm hesitant to get that one because this ADPM is working so well... Best Regards, FC
Finished watching the video. Someone's been interrupting my youtube time, so it took me a day or two. The baffle is a good idea. I've been meaning to make one for a while. The same design should work for the autodisc pro hopper, and also the Lee Perfect hopper, so I can make a few at a time. I will definitely be buying a few of these measures as I get the opportunity. They will be much better for the very large or very small cases. I might be a bit more inclined to mess with those pesky stick powders too.
+GunFun ZS -- Lee says the baffles are not necessary, perhaps if their hopper was a foot tall, but not with their little shorty hopper. That was probably their thinking, but I'd still prefer the baffle. It's those new low cost quick change drums that is the innovation that will really sell these things out the doors...Good reloadin' to ya, FC
Jim Koonce - Congrats on your decision to get into reloading...you will find your shooting vistas opened up in ways you never imagined...plus it will be a very enjoyable and challenging pursuit... The Lee ADPM will be a good addition to your reloading bench with lots of usefulness... Good reloadin' to ya... FC
I hadn't heard of this one yet. Yeah I would remove the dis-connector as well. I always wait a moment as the powder flows in the case with any of my powder measures.
+TRprepper -- The instruction manual does make it clear that the bigger the powder charge being thrown, the more need to take an extra second or two to allow for powder flow. But you've already got that as part of your standard operating procedures (SOP). Happy Holidays to ya, FC
+TRprepper -- You know what you need and best procedures with PMs...I now have 3 of these rascals and they work better the more they are used...Best Regards to ya, FC
$48.00 at Midway USA at time of this post. It is $99.00 in Amazon, I was going to get the other one but given the features decided for this one better.
Thank you for this video, great demo. I would like to see this powder measure operating on the Pro 1000, I hope you make another video of this powder measure mounted on Lee Pro 1000..... Thanks....
That's NOT the reason, at all!!!! It's because "pot metal" isn't electrically conductive and won't spark and kill you with the explosion that follows. It's all about SAFETY and not corrosion.
Update; Well I just received a new Lee Drum Powder Measure yesterday. It came WITHOUT the dis-connector installed, so I didn't have to remove it. The dis-connector parts were in a little baggy. So the measure came ready to go, and it is working out well so far.
Swede109g - Just goes to show that Lee is responsive to users - that disconnector was put in for legal purposes as it is really useless - if it was good, all the other press mounted powder measures would have disconnectors. Wish they just didn't have it at all, would save a couple dollars on the cost of the units... Happy Thanksgiving to ya -- FC Steve
I am a new fish to being an owner of a reloading set. I have used my buddies lee classic turret press for quite some time and deciding to make the investment of getting my own. I purchased the Auto-Drum Powder Measure and your video is very informational and has contributed to getting my setup in order. The only issue I have is I am having numbers across the board with 9mm Luger from 4.7-5.4 in about 20 loads, quite a big gap there. I am going to say it mat be the powder I am using which is "fluffy"; Alliant Powder Unique. Can anyone shed some light on my post? Thanks!
plow - I've used the ADPM with Win 296 - very fine powder as you know...first time, the drum leaked a bit, so I switched drums - solved the problem. Then labeled the other drum for use with other more coarse powders. Good reloadin' to ya, and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays !! FC
this is the first ive heard of this. very exciting! looks like it will work great on my classic turret and loadmaster! i wonder how this will work with stick powder
oafaloaf - The instructions do not specify the addition of any lubricants to the works...the less lubes in there the better....but you could certainly try it sparingly... Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!! FC
Nice measure device, but will probably stay with my chain pull system for now, it's all set up for my main load of 38 special light loads for cowboy action. Maybe down the road it will be put to use.
+Nick J -- That's where the new quick change drums will come in handy. You can have your cowboy loads on one drum and your recreational, target or +P loads on another drum and quick change on demand. Have a great Holiday Season... FC
FCLC45, in 2024 I'm revisiting this video that thank you. I end up buying this and the Perfect Powder Measure that uses the same drums, and it's been a huge aid to my reloading at such an affordable price. Home run from Lee, I'm so glad they are dedicated to excellence and affordability.
That was about the most complete review one could do. Thank you for taking the time.
First or latest TH-cam video on this, no matter. This was an outstanding overview of the powder measure. A concise guided tour of everything you need to know. THANKS! Saved me lots of time searching and trying to translate words to reality with this.
Hi after almost 50 years of reloading on a single stage press and conventional powder measure I decided to speed things up a little and just picked up the Lee Classic Turret 4 hole press and also one of these new auto drum powder measures for loading my handgun rounds. Your video is very informative and a great help to get me started out right with this measure. Thanks!
+Albert Kranbuhl Jr -- That is a good setup you now have. It should serve you splendidly. Please let me know if you have any problems or questions...Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Congratulations Fortune Cookie 45 for posting the very first TH-cam video on this new product from Lee. You have established the gold standard for future videos on this new product. Great job on the video and happy reloading !
+Peter Manetta -- Appreciate the kind words... not often we can be the first on TH-cam ... feels kinda neat like a news reporter scooping all the other newsrooms... Best to ya, FC
Thanks again for this clear video. Once again, anything regarding reloading or casting I need clarity on, you are there. I go back and forth between you and Elvis Ammo. You are very detailed in your explanations. I wish there was something I could do to show appreciation to you and the other guy South Carolina. Thanks again, Steve..
FC45LC: I didn't read ALL the comments, but one thing I noticed when I
used the Auto-Drum, there was an issue when I removed the dis-connector.
I load on a Lee Turret Press and the vibration from the rotating tool
head would sometimes cause the disconnect rod to gradually move back in
the slider causing a partial powder drop. What I did was put a drop of
hot glue from a glue gun in the "hole" to keep the disconnect rod from
moving back in the slider.
PS I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work.
Ki
Thanks for making the vid. Very helpful. I love my auto drum but you're right. Lee did a crap job in the instructions that came with the unit.
Three things he did not mention is that you DO NOT always need the riser. You only need it with certain die setups. And the second is that the little adjusting key is easily stored in the hole next to the adjusting screw.
The third piece of the setup he failed to mention is that you can use a pencil to write the grain weight or powder you are using on the flat ares of the adjusting screw housing.
But it was a good video and very informative.
So excellent that I’m helping a neighbor set up his press and he has that very thrower with no manual. I knew that you would have covered it thoroughly at some time.
I have been using the Lee 4 hole turrent press for years now and love it but since I mostly shoot 9mm, I decided to upgrade to the Loadmaster for that caliber. Thank God for you tube and videos like yours to get it running properly. I also use the auto drum powder measure and agree with you on the disconnect feature but instructions for removing this feature were vague and your video helped to do this. Since my wife has an AR9mm carbine she can go through ammo in staggering amounts and with this press I can turn out replacement ammo quick enough to feed this voracious beast's appetite !
Ben Workman - Thanks for your great comment. However, I don't know about you calling your wife a voracious beast - but then again, that sure makes you a very lucky man..!! You are going to have the short happy life... ;) ;) ;) Best Regards, FC
HaHa, I was referring to the AR9 and its appetite for the 9mm ammunition.
Ben Workman - Dontcha love the English language..?? lol, FC
Old video but it still helped me a ton today. Thanks for the great explanation
excellent video! I had no idea that they even made that. looks like the disconnect feature was a problem, but can easily be bypassed which I like. to me the pot metal that's used on the powder measure is not that big of a deal because I feel that a powder measure is a light duty device. looks like I'm gonna have to pick one up. thank you again for sharing the video I really enjoyed it I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
+jiujitsu2000 -- And Merry Christmas to you and yours as well...we're going to have fun in 2016..!!
Thanks for the great video. My Lee reloading kit should arrive tomorrow. I am completely new to reloading and your video explaining how individual parts work was really helpful.
Dave - Congrats on the embarking of a voyage of discovery and satisfaction...Please keep in touch and feel free to post questions and comments as you go...We are all continued students as there really aren't any masters out there. Those that tell you that their way is the best or only way are fooling themselves. It's the safety and procedural fundamentals that are the base points from which everything else is built. Glad to have you on board the Hot Lead Zone Express... Best to ya, FC
Thank you for this excellent video. Specially liked the instructions to disable the reset.
+GeorgiaTack -- Thanks for your comment... I liked this measure so much, I now have two of them...and the disconnector was removed in both of them... Best Regards to ya, FC
i also learned a Great Deal from Watching your Videos for the last Couple Months. They are truly Great Info put forth in a Very Clear Precise manner.
Thanks for responding! Used it again today with 100 cases and running smooth and consistent to the .05 grain !!! Yeah, the manufacturing is on the cheaper spectrum of things but I think the design is very innovative- props to Papa Lee ;)
Christopher Hart - When the ADPM runs smoothly (most of the time), it's a great measure. When you get clicks and pops, the throws are not as accurate...so we run the case a second time and always get smooth accurate throws on the second pass...therefore, the best is that when clicks and pops happen, then we need to run all the cases through for neck expand and mouth flare first and then add the PM for a second time through - the throws will all be good. If on a progressive, need an extra neck expand/mouth flare die - one station to expand, and next station has the PM on the die for smooth charges...works well when sizing decapping wet tumbling polishing are done so one of the stations on the prog press is opened up anyway. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
FC - Thanks for the video. Very well done and informative. Just got my Lee Classic 4 hole turret press and placed the auto drum powder measure on the turret. Got tried for swapping out reforming dies, bullet seating dies and crimping dies on my single press. Along with hand charging powder and then trickling powder for accuracy.
Thanks cookie. Got my two Auto-Drums the other day and LOVE them, so much better than the disks. Immediately removed the reset device, and working to figure out how to fix the wobbling fit on top of the die. Ran powdered-graphite through them to set them up/break them in, and added the Prairie-Dog double-baffles. Oh, drops of super glue (let them dry of course) around the lip keeps the lid on tight.
wrthrash - Sorry the delayed reply was because Google did not post your comment in my inbox - I won't see such for months... My three Auto Drums have been singing a fine song... we make music together... Best to ya, and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
Hot Lead I got my new Lee Drum Auto Measure. I have to say it's not bad. I follow your instructions I took 50 charges like you did and the charges came really close to what I wanted. I did get a lot of popping and I fixed that problem by cleaning the drum. I disconnected the disconnector and found out that the popping stopped. Keep up the good work. I also got the riser and that worked just like you said it would work. Good Video.
Ernie Murdock - Sorry to not reply until now - whenever Google does not post a comment in my inbox, I won't see it for months...I'm using my LADPMs a lot and they are serving very well...Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
Happy New Year to you and your family.
Thanks for the informative video. I just picked up one of these from Midway this week, along with the classic turret press (after 40 years of using a single stage) It looks like Lee listened to everyone regarding the disconnect as it no longer comes installed on the unit, but now as a separately bagged accessory that must be installed if wanted.
Winchester 296 jams my Hornady powder measure and its built better than my Lee equipment .I use the Lee Auto disc when i drop that powder.Lee has some nice features as you pointed out.Great and very thorough review FC!
+Badbob -- Thanks, BabBob - After my next test, the Auto Drum may even be better than we realize...Best to ya, FC
Hello, my friend, I have a couple of friends that I am helping get started with reloading, and we got one of these. I kind of liked the idea for the disconnector, but they made the chain holder such that the chain will slip through rather than break if misadjusted. IMO this made it very easy to bump your hand on the chain and lose the setting, causing a real risk of squib loads. We had to pull down some ammo for safety. It only took a few minutes of use before I was convinced to disable the disconnector as you have done, even for my loadmaster progressive press. You were very right, sir, and my opinion has changed.
GunFun ZS - Many years ago, I had a reloading mentor named Doug that really helped me get started. What you did with those two friends will have influence way into the future. Thanks for your additional assessment on the Auto Drum... With your experience and expertise, your comments carry a lot of weight and are much appreciated... Have a great day to ya, friend GunFun - FC Steve
As always, outstanding video on an excellent new product. I did not even know that this product from Lee was even available. All my presses are from Lee and I have absolutely no complaints. Been watching your videos for some time now and enjoy them all, from casting to reloading. Another good product for advancing in my reloading. Will be ordering one soon. Thank you for all that you do. Hoping you and your family have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
+ArmyVet 8892 -- You vets are America's finest...and every sacrifice made from each and every one of you should ever be heralded and never be forgotten... May you dwell in peace, freedom, abundance and satisfaction in all your endeavors...for you have earned it. Good reloadin' and good shootin' to ya.... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you also... FC
Used it for my first 45ACP and was very impressed with it's consistent throws! Nice having a powder measure right there on the powder through die!!!
Christopher Hart - It's perhaps the most accurate powder measure out there as long as it isn't doing the "click and pop". If you get that, best to run the cases through the expander and flare die first, then install the PM and charge cases by running them through again...the PM doesn't "click and pop" with the second run through and the charges are accurate. The click and pop = variance throws. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
Thanks for the video. I didn't even know that Lee had come out with this new product. Have a good one, and best of luck with it!
Don’t bother with it . It will leak with the finer grain powder and you will end up with squibs or worse over charge
Great video and superbly presented with very clear information. Thank you for steering me the right way...will be buying one of these now although hard to find in Australia.
+Oz Camp n Hunt Dan -- Reason is that this ADPM is still rather new...but the word on its goodness is getting out fast...Lee is filling orders, but a lot of dealers are selling them quickly. Will take just a bit more time to get out to be fully distributed in your land Down Under...Hail to all you fantastic Aussies..!! And hello to the New Zealanders also. FC
Thank you and be well !
I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Jiujitsu! Well done sir! you should be getting a commision because I have just ordered one based on your reviews! Thanks!
+Yissnakk Lives! -- No commissions...I do not work for Lee or any other related company. So far, no negatives to report - I'm going to use my Auto Drum again this afternoon. I now have two of the Auto Drum measures - You may find that this measure has been too long in coming.... Good reloadin' to ya. FC
FortuneCookie45LC I got that - I was just meaning that they should pay you :-)
+Yissnakk Lives! -- Your comment is very much appreciated... and to you and jiusitsu2000 - a very good 2016 to ya, FC
thanks.... I finally figured it out for both at the end of the day yesterday. your videos are great and very informative. I used the old vmd charts from my disc set to figure the volumes and grains. tested by using dippers too. thanks
Michael Gorton - The Lee Auto Disks have served reloaders for many years, but we just worked around its limitations 1) limited adjustability of charges thrown 2) Powder charge setting change not conveniently made 3) limited capacity of charges thrown. 4) Hopper has no cut off feature. The Auto Drum solves all those, plus can handle stick powders nicely. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
Thanks, you too
Absolutely- great input! I have been looking at this option recently for my T7 turret/ 45acp set up and now...buying one asap! Thank you :)
Christopher Hart - And Thor's Axe777 had a great idea - on his Dillon 650, he uses one station to mouth flare / neck expand first (with an additional neck expand/mouth flare die) and then the next station for the Lee Auto Drum PM - that way, the case has been pre expanded so that the PM is doing the second pass with every case - and every second pass is assured to have no "chatter" so that accurate charges are always dropped...fantastic way to go... Best to ya, FC
Thank you for doing this video, I have been searching for info on this product and did not find too much about it until now. Thank you !!! I will be ordering one soon. Thanks again!!!
+Daryl G. -- After doing the second video on this measure, I ordered a second one...at $35 a copy, that is very much enabled. Now I want to order a bunch of extra drums as they are excellent and inexpensive. Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Why doesn't my auto drum go past the 4:00 position? Yours gets to the 5:00 but mine doesn't. I have it tightened as much as it will go. I checked the gears and they look right. Any suggestions?
I cannot, no matter what I try, to get my LADPM to work with the disconnect attached to my LoadMaster and chain. It works perfect with the Disconnect off, but, when I have the disconnect on, the drum will not make a full, complete turn to dump powder into the case. If I keep gentle pressure on the Disconnect when I raise the press, the unit works every time. It makes no sense. I've watched all of your videos and a few others out there on this unit. I really don't need the Disconnect, since I never use my LM as a Single stage, but I liked the idea as a safety measure. It seems like the plastic pieces are allowing too much movement and not enough resistance against the other components within the Powder Measure.
Thanks so much for your videos. they've been very helpful in getting me back into reloading after so man years.
If you make a video of the issue and upload it im sure you'll get the responses you need to get it working
@@RancidQueso I just took off the disconnect since I really don't have a problem with the double charge on the Load Master. It works fine without it. But thanks for the offer.
@@johnmcdougald1238 that takes care of that!
Very well made and filled with helpful details and ideas. Thanks for posting!
+Jcp Rio -- Thanks for taking the time to post... Happy New Year, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC Back at ya. Have a great year.
Oh my! I am so glad you made one for this part! I love your gun-usage comparison videos and base my buys off of them as well. I should have gotten a Dillon. The LEE I got (Value 4-hole) has been a science project. Like you said, the instructions are not clear, not specific the product, and is an advertisement to buy more stuff that you (might) need to make the the system work. Plastic on Metal is always bad, especially at torqued points. I spent over 2 hours trying to figure out the "index ratchet"- the plastic square. The indexing is still not reliable, missing the retaining ring for the old primers-tube, and yes, to make attach the hopper, you have to take all the other dies off because it will hit- meaning you have to go that riser (which should have been part of the kit when you bought it). So, the first item to put on the turret is station 2 (hopper), and THEN the others...oh yeah, the base plate for the stand has to installed "upside down" so the holes line up as well as the Z-mounts. They left that particular info out due to space limitations of other LEE "stuff" you can buy. I should have bought a Dillon. Rockchuckers Rule!
The website says it's cast out of aluminum. what is a potter charge? I got a lot to learn. Good content, thanks.
Sounds like a great product. Your final thought about they could add the baffle, appears to be built into it. You have the cutoff by twisting the drum to cut it off. At that point is the baffle per se because it leaves the drum and goes into the neck of the powder measure. So wouldn't that in a sense be the baffle.
I've been using this for a few months now and have a few other positives over the Lee Auto disk: Throws charges greater than 1.6 cc without fooling with double disks, fine tunes powder drops, rather than being limited to preset volumes, much easer to clear and empty powder from unit. and much easier to position if using the Lee Safety Prime on a Turret press to eliminate interference.
+Steve Richmond -- All great points - and valid as well. Thanks for posting, Best to ya, FC
Hi F.C. I was loosing a lot of powder using the Drum measure with 300 BLK. I contacted Leek and they sent me replacement machined drums. I feel like I am still leaking a lot of powder and going to email them again. My question for you is do you lose powder through the side of three body where you can see the spring? Do you loose powder between the body of unit and the drum at the 6:00 position when you are dumping the powder? Thank-you for your time! Scott
Scott11371 - Yes, I've had powder leak at the drum caused by the drum needing to be snugged up just an extra 1/4 turn. And I've had the powder leak from the body - cause, the powder is leaking into the drum housing and being carried up to the opening in the body at the upper part of the drum housing - will leak out the body = that was cured by replacing to a different drum and no more leak - then I just use the leaking drums for coarser powders and everything is OK...I have 14 drums and two of them leak. If you are still getting leaks after trying different drums, the problem may be in your measure body. That will need a send back to Lee for repair or replacement. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
If I can make a suggestion to your instruction video I would suggest you show how the chain is hooked up for a Lee progressive loader. Great Instructional video.
+Bruno Friia -- Thanks for the comment, Bruno, but I'll do you one better. The only reason to have the chain is to activate the disconnector. But if the disconnector is removed, the measure operates as a stand alone self contained case activated unit not needing any chain or link with any press. The disconnector is totally useless. I've removed it from both my Auto Drums now and say gungha (we used to say that when a member of our golf foursome puts a 300 yard drive into the fairway). No case, no charge - all we have to do is to be sure to advance the shell plate as a matter of course to prevent any double charges. A powder sensor can be installed if the reloader has any problems doing that. Or a light can be positioned to allow inspection of the charge before placing a bullet on the seating station. I just threw those chains away in disgust. Removing the disconnector was easy - Lee provided instructions on doing that (do you think that the easy removal of the disconnector was provided for a reason instead of a permanent disconnector? I would have blasted that measure if it were so). Best to ya, Bruno FC
I have a question about the rubber plug on the large cone- does that always need to be installed?? i am loading 308 and 30-06 rifle and have never used this setup. Which cone small or large is suitable for this and how does it work?? I use the small one to load my 7.62x39 brass for my mini ruger 30 and had ok luck with that but not sure about the rest- thanks
Mike gorton - For your needs, you will want to leave the plug out. The little plug is for shooters who are reloading for pistol and not for rifle. The plug converts the big rifle drum into a small charge pistol drum. For your 308 and /06, you will definitely need the full rifle charges. Depending on the type of powder, the pistol drum will indeed work for the x39. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
My disconnect rod moved several times after removing the lever. Luckily I checked and caught the squib loads before storing them. A simple and reversible fix was to make a hook to hold the rod forward that's secured in place with the screw. Lee really should include such a hook in the kit.
Psyko Klown - That disconnector is worthless. Perhaps it was a "safety" included for legal reasons so that Lee could not be blamed for reloaders doing double charges with catastrophic results. But even with this device, a careless reloader could still double charge a case. Supposedly, putting the screw in the back hole prevents the disconnector from doing its badness. Glad you figured out the fix for this... Best to ya, FC
You are so right, and it makes me wonder if it in fact could have been a legal thing. My issue is how easy it was to get squibs before and after removing it; before by forgetting to press it, and after due to the rod sometimes moving back into the disconnected position because Lee didn't provide a way to lock it into place after removal. It wouldn't have cost them much, if anything to have molded the little latch you remove so that the pin locked into the slot behind the rod to prevent movement. I think Lee really missed that little detail.
Thank you for this video
Just got a Lee's reloader and didn't know about this powder measure.
How to adjust the powder what was the little key was for .
you're right instructions is not that good
Great vid! Do you happen to know the the accuracy +, - of the hornady scale?
I have been contemplating getting one of these little guys. Initially from what i've seen it seems to be a pretty good unit but leakage with the fine powders was the biggest gripe. I'll be looking forward to hearing a re-review of yours down the road once you get some more run time on it. Pretty clever design with the rack & pinion design and I like the drum adjustment along with the 4-pack of drums. Nice that it is die actuated and no crap hanging off it! I think I agree with the removal of the disconnector. It is a little neat if you screw up a stroke on the press and don't want to have to double charge or make a powder mess but the danger of a squib load is a big one and it would be easy to miss an empty case if you didn't inspect them all in a loading block. I don't know if there is a lesser of two evils though with squibs & double charges. Ideally a double charge is going to overflow the case and be very obvious but worst case your using light charges of really fast powder like Titewad, Ba10, Bullseye or N310, something like that and double or triple charge! A double of some of those really hot powders like that are likely to blow a gun up! With a squib, at the very least your barrel will probably be "ringed" by the squib but worst case a rupture in the barrel, case or just destruction of the action of the gun.
mytmousemalibu - Sorry to not reply until now, Chris, but Google did not post the comment in my inbox to see - won't answer until I stumble onto them months later... Like anything, we operators have to pay attention. Just got some LED lights that enable viewing the powder in each charged case on my Dillon 550Bs...should provide an extra degree of safety to the proceedings... Best to ya, and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to ya..!! FC
I was just looking at this measure, thanks for testing it out. I'll be picking one up soon.
+Mr. Tolly (AKA: fatmantolly) - You are going to like this measure - just get rid of that disconnector (or not). This measure and the new Lee Classic Powder Measure, both have all the features of the previous lines of Lee powder measures but incorporated into stronger, durable and quality materials, construction and designs while offering the new easily interchangeable drums preset for our favorite loads. The problem with the Lee Classic is that it uses a cast iron body and the price point is now what the RCBS Uniflow is on sale. But even so, the new Lee Classic Measure (stand alone hand crank measure) beats the RCBS and Hornady because of the nylon drums that provide fully adjustable charge throws at much lower cost than the inserts from the other makers. Also, the ease of handling of the pesky extruded stick powders blows the RCBS and Hornady units out of the water (new video on that). My prediction is that Lee will do very well with the Auto Drum and Classic Powder Measures, but why they didn't come out with these 10 - 15 years ago is a mystery. Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Do you have a video talking about the difference between magnum and standard primers? I've heard some powders need magnum primers to get consistent velocities and other powders don't need magnum primers. Do you bother using magnum primers ?
+Prepare2Survive -- Absolutely. Whenever the reloading manual says use magnum primers, I reach for my supply of Tula Magnum Primers.... to not do so would be inadvised. Thanks for your good question...Happy Holidays, FC
+Prepare2Survive -- Don't know If I answered this one or not since Google has been losing my replies... Best advice for us is to go with the loading data - if magnum primers are in the recipe, we should use them for best results. Some powders like Bullseye and Unique, Red Dot that are easy to ignite, we can use regular primers even if the manual says use magnum primers, but again - going by the loading manual is the best policy. Best to ya, FC
I have been away from the loading bench for some time now. It seems to me that I bought one of these when they first came out. Now I need to go dig and see if I remember correctly.
1/10 grain per flat of revolution of the chamber stem will depend on the powder.....could be more, could be less. The disconnect for the powder throw may prove useful on a progressive or the Lee Classic turret press. Thanks for sharing.
FC - how about an update. I too purchased the Auto Drum and used it for the past 5 months for 9mm and throws have been spot on (+/- 0.1 either side of target). However, today I restarted on my 223 loading and found variations as high as 1.0gn!!! Not good... I find the drum not as accurate at higher charges... your experiences?
I love the dispenser but this recent issue has me back with the double disk for rifle and use drum only with pistol at lower drops. Thoughts?
+Lesal8403 -- I've been doing a lot of reloading with the AD recently with videos done, even done some 30/06 loading with it with success. But I have not done any bulk 223 loading with it, as of yet. 1 grain variation is horrible and unacceptable. Have on my cue of videos to do - compare loading 223 (5.56) with the AD against the Hornady Automatic Powder Dispenser and see which ammo shoots more consistent groups... Have a great day, FC.
+Lesal8403 -- Now that I have more time, back to ya on this - The Lee Auto Drum has been a very good measure for me using flake, ball, and extruded powders with small charges of Titewad powder up to 80+ grain charges for the 375 H & H. I now have 3 of these measures - two of them on my Dillon 550Bs and one floater for all my single stage reloading. I do get some chattering with certain calibers, and if chatter occurs, the charges are almost surely +.3 to + .4 grains heavier than if no chatter. If no chatter, I am getting charges with 1/10th grain total variation - amazing accuracy in a measure. I suspect that your 1 grain variations happens with the same chatter as the case is activating the measure. That is totally unacceptable and I would have been appalled to have had that. Have not been hearing of too many complaints with the AD, but yours is significant. There may be others out there having the same inaccuracy. Another just reported that he is getting bad throws with powder bridging and that is something that the AD was supposed to not have happen. Best Regards, FC
It's a great video! Very helpful. It's exactly that I was looking for. Thanks!
Great Video! I agree about the instructions being ambiguous with respect to the disconnect, and also agree that a squib is as much of a concern as a double charge.
How old is that can of W296?
Vincent Bozik - Thanks for your comments...much appreciated. That can of WW296 is about 30 years old...reason is that I prefer using H110 (even though 296 is the same powder - H110 seems to be a different granule to me) I really need to use up that 296 before it gets to be 40 years old... Best to ya, FC
just bought one of these on your recommendation. I was wondering if the auto disk riser fits on this or does it have one specific to it? Just purchased a used Lee 4 hole turret press and am trying to get everything set up to use it. not sure I have all the parts for it yet. Been reloading pistol calibers for 3 years. just getting started with rifle due to the fact I've purchased numerous milsurp rifles.
+Cat G -- Your riser will work just fine with that ADPM. When you first use it, if any powder leaks, that means you need an extra 1/4 turn of tightening on the thumb knob after you clean out the powder from the drum / chassis space. That measure should serve you quite nicely... Best to ya, FC
Thanks. I got that after I finished watching the rest of your video. Lol
Very good piece!! Nice instruction too. I use the auto disc there are better ones, but hard to beat it for simplicity of loading. I have others but seem to always go back to the auto disc for pistol loads...
+dowdawg -- The Auto Disk is a very workable measure. Reloaders have often complained that the lack of adjustability is problematic when a charge between the chambers is desired, but we can learn to live with what the disks drop... Now, with this measure, we have something with the pre-set easy change drums to boot... Happy Holidays, FC (the newer reloaders can just go right to the new Auto :Drum)
To get rid of the difference in charges caused by the vibration or action of the press, buy a small bullet vibrator and strap it to the hopper with rubber bands. Turn it on while you set your charge and leave it on while you throw your powder charges. They have really cheap ones on Amazon. Just don't let your woman open your mail or you'll never see it again and she might use all your batteries.
This will take the shock or lack of from how you actuate your press out of the equation and give you more consistent charges. I've been doing this with my perfect powder measure and it really tightened up my charge variation. I don't get those higher variations from cranking it too hard or too soft like you said might have happened with yours.
Toolness1 - Now that's a creative idea for sure...worth a try, and not much to lose as there are other uses for that rascal as you pointed out ... Best to ya, FC
Do they make an adaptor from a 7/8x14 or #55 lyman to accept the threads on this measurer?
he now I'm having trouble aligning the drum hole with the powder dispenser shoot whole when I take tension off of the handle the alignment is way off is there a tensioner?
Very professional and REALLY excellent review, much appreciated Fortune Cookie, I just ordered 2 (you should get 12%!!!). And yeah, I never "got" the ridic chain thing, just so stupid-stupid and PC, and you made such a great point of a squib-load being equally or more dangerous than a double-charge... kudos & excellent point there! Progressive is progressive even on a single stage. Love your posts and keep up the great work. Will hopefully figure out how to powder coat or paint mine. Take care.
+wrthrash -- Do not recommend the wet paint systems - I've tried that and you have mess and materials that are messy. The PC is also paint, but put on dry and neat... Plus, nothing wrong with the old standby 45/45/10 system of tumble lubing - worked great for many years, will still work great...I'm doing PC now to give it a good run - it's an option alternative to doing traditional cast bullet lubing - it is not a go to substitute. Once you see all the videos, you can decide for yourself what you want. Have a great day, FC
I'm thinking about buying one specifically for loading .357 with H110 on my dillon, if it doesn't leak it's worth it for that one application.
+spyderxtra777 -- you will find many uses for this Auto Drum - so far, it has handled every type of powder like the stuff was all candy... Best to ya, FC
Set up and first use last night, using Vithi Vouri N140 After making a Mess using the WRONG drum
. got the charge set Per instructions using a Weighed load. Threw 50 loads at 25.5 grs. weighing each load after dropping.Today added up the weights and they Averaged 25.4865385 grs! I think that will Work! Received 4 more drums today so I will be Playing Weighmaster for a while. Decided to set each drum to a different Cal and Load
Great Piece of Equiptment,VERY easy to install and Set up. Oh its on my new Lee Classic Turret Press
Barry D. Thomas Sr. - I've got three of these now and enjoy using them immensely. Some real fine reloaders have determined that best use is to run the cases through the Lee neck expander / mouth flare die first, then install the PM and run the cases through the second time for the powder drop - this eliminates any popping of the PM that would cause bad drops...The pops only happened on occasion and the newest LADPMs may have had that corrected. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
FortuneCookie - @16:44 you placed the screw back to it's old position. Manual says (page 10, step 4) to "replace the screw in the hole adjacent to the body". I think this is to prevent the connecting link from binding and possibly breaking.
+Batang Sampaloc -- Very observant of you... most impressive - yes, the screw needs to be in the other hole, and that has been corrected...didn't have any problem with that, but I could have. Have a great day, FC
Did you do any cleaning before the first use? If so, would you detail your process? Thanks!
Richie Austin - There wasn't any grease or oil inside any of my three ADPMs...And no powder sticking anywhere after first use with any of the measures either. But you can bet if I found any traces of oil or grease, I would have run mineral spirits rag in there. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
I am using win 231. I cant seem to get a consistent throw (off by several grains) and it is leaking very badly. What am I doing wrong
David Hurt - You probably have a particular drum that will not work with fine grain powders...Try switching drums and tightening an extra 1/4 turn. This solved my leakage problems...If every drum leaks for you, then you might have a defective measure housing...return to Lee for exchange would then be the best course. Good reloadin' to ya, FC
I bought one and found the powder container in the drum wasn't rotating fully. The hole in the drum was only half exposed under the hopper and when actuated the drum didn't rotate far enough to dump all the powder. Upon investigation I discovered the geared quadrant to be one tooth out. After re-positioning it worked perfectly for 3 weeks and 1500 reloads...until today !!! The small pin cast into the monkey metal gear quadrant had sheared off leaving the equally flimsy plastic link rod disconnected and dangling.
I returned the measure to my local gun shop who offered a replacement but having lost confidence in the brittle & flimsy linkage I opted for an Autodisc measure instead.
Well cookie you did it again, I have a Dillon 550b, However I use my single stage rock chucker press for load development, I've been using my Uniflow powder measure to try out new charge weights and if they are favorable at the range I set up my Dillon press to Mass produce it, This unit made by Lee would save me the time of removing the case from flaring the mouth and throwing the charge as separate steps, Thus speeding up time at the bench, I have to give it to Robert Lee, That Guy gets up on the other side of the bed from the rest of the industry and turns out a product that is Quality without braking the bank. You did a Grate review Cookie, However you need to do a review using extruded powder like IMR 4064, 4895, 4198, 3031, reloader 15, 22, Ect.
+Thorsaxe777 -- Yes, that is coming up next...the extruded powders are always the most difficult to measure. Best of the Holidays to ya, FC
I figured that you would get around to putting it through the paces, When I reload Rifle for my M-1 I always throw charges that are under the top charge weight, This measure would be a nice thing to have for Folks that only have a single stage press. It would make life a little more simple, Just do the norm, Size and deprime, seat a new primer, Run them through the charging step and set them in a load block, Pass a flashlight over them to check uniform Volume of the cases, then seat the bullets. (as a precautionary I would weigh every fifth or so round for consistency when throwing charges). Just to make sure the Measure was on target weight. I think I may pick one of these up.
+Thorsaxe777 - Wait'll you see how well extruded stick powders run through this measure with accuracy to boot!! This new Lee measure drops charges of stick powders like other measures drop ball powder... fantastic, almost unbelievable until you see and feel it...that's why I titled the video News Flash:.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Hey fc i see that lee makes a rifle powder charge die for two die rifle sets but is there a powder through die (with no flare) for pistol? i'm trying to use an rcbs 45 acp die set on the turret and I want to charge on the press.
30ROUNDCLIPAZINE -The Lee pistol die sets all come with the powder through, expander, flaring dies. Those same powder through dies are available as separate dies, but they all flare. You can adjust the die to minimum flare while still actuating the powder measure though. Good reloadin' to ya, FC Steve
Thanks for the reply Steve.
Always appreciate your videos.
Well, I just got mine yesterday. I was adjusting it and attempting to use it this morning, but every 3-5 charges, it spills a bunch of powder out of the bottom. I was really looking forward to using this unit...any advice?
+varanidguy -- Sorry to hear you are getting this... Is the leak happening at the joint of the drum with the drum seat? You might want to change out to the other drum and give it a try. Is the powder spilling out through the bottom drop tube - could be powder bridging happening (can't see how this could be happening though)? A definite phone call to Lee tech support is in order. Sounds like you got a bad powder measure...I did that video VR to you on this measure throwing maximum charges, but decided not to post it since I've already done a video very close to that one - didn't want to duplicate it...We'll see if we can get another angle on that. Please let me know what happens when you call Lee - none of the three of my ADPMs has the problem you describe. Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC Thank you FC! I kept messing with the darn thing and couldn't figure it out. It is pouring out of the bottom, so it could have been powder bridging. I decided to stop messing with it and I'm going to get a new unit exchanged through Midway. When I spoke with Lee, all they offered was for me to send it to them and they would inspect, repair, or replace as necessary. Decided it's brand new, not going to go through the hassle just yet. Just get a new one and hope it doesn't have the same issue.
+varanidguy -- For you to get two lemons would be a perversity of the percentages...Midway is really good outfit. Please let me know how this turns out... Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC Yeah, I agree. At that point, I'd send it to Lee regardless, to see what they say. Thank you for responding so much and being really helpful!
Thanks for the video.. Very informative. I actually made an additional powder measure stand that situates a RCBS powder measure or Little Dandy measure right over the funnel in the pass through die on my Classic Turret press. Yes I have to manually work the measure, but so many tools out there require that anyway, so I was used to the concept. This tool just might alleviate that process.. Well we can't double charge a 357 case with 21 grains of 296 anyway.. You'd have powder all over the place.. I would like to see how it handles a powder like Unique, Herco or Blue Dot for uniformity. Maybe next time. Thanks again.
if the drum you have is set and measures consistently, would it be a good idea to put a drop of superglue on the screw to set it in place.
danietkissenle - That’s good thorough thought, but that screw bolt has not come loose requiring any glue to hold it...Good Reloading to ya, FC Steve
Thanks for the video. Ordered one today per your recommendation
+Tonsofgunsoffun -- It's a good unit and will serve us well... I'm enjoying it already... will post on using it with those pesky extruded stick powders next... Happy Holidays, FC
Christopher Walken, is that you?
Thanks for helping me get this thing set up!
Cody Brady - And thanks for taking the time to comment... Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!! FC
I believe that lee offers a baffle for the measure or you can purchase one manufactured by another company that will fit this measure and several others, or you can cut your own from a thin piece of aluminum. I am a strong believer in the baffle for what it does. I've used one in my Dillon xl650 and a RCBS measure for many years for uniform powder throws. I also believe in filling the measure to its max for the same reason. Uniform throws even if I'm only going to load a smaller amount of rounds. I don't have any problem with dumping the powder out after I';m through. In fact I highly recommend emptying the measure after each loading even. Powder with etch the inside of the hopper.
nevadajim775 - You are a well experienced reloader. Baffles do even out the powder pressure for more uniform metering. I did wonder why Lee does not offer baffles for their Auto Drum or Perfect Powder measures. Then it occurred to me after much use of the Lee Auto Drum that no baffle is needed since the powder cut off is already providing a baffle to the powder chamber immediately below the cut off. Of course, we could add a baffle in the powder reservoir if we desire. I've gotten fine performance with the Lee ADPM as it is. Keeping the powder level up is certainly a good idea. Thank you for your comments, FC Steve
Best review, plus I love how your voice reminds me of Christopher Walken.
aaronismrbig I was thinking bullwinkle
@@Sneekapaloopa 🤣🤣
I've heard about these and the new case trimmer they've got to. I wonder how well the measure will do with really small powder drops say in the 2.5 to 3 grainish range of say bullseye thats what I use for me 32 longs and the micro adjuster doesn't do that very well at all. The auto disk's work well for that. But also does the adjustment screw look like there's a way to put the scale from there single non press powder measure on there? That would be nice to see where the charge is at if you only have the one drum or just for referance in general.
+MIshooter - I've tested the new Lee ADPM with small charges of Bullseye - no problemo - works like it was made for BE target shooters in mind... Best to ya, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC HA i forgot I even commented on this! thanks for replying back!
My bad, it's "powder" I thought you were saying potter, or podder, so relieved I don't have to buy anything else to start reloading. Now all I have to do is find powder and primers, they seem so rare these days.
Damn. If I had continued watching you answered the question.
Cat G - Sorry, this video ran a little long... Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!! FC
Awesome explanation. Thanks
Excellent Video! Just bought 2 of them from Lee.
And I just ordered more drums - amazing how many different favorite loadings we have... Have a great day, FC
You have awesome video's. Keep them coming. Thanks
It's tempting to try but my first thought is on static electric charges in the metering cone there...as the weather changes we see a difference in the static potential and we already know how some of the very small ball powders react to the static in the hopper. Great presentation but I'm still on the fence with this one.
Thanks 45...charlie
Charles Irby - Best than to just wait as more reviews will come in on this measure...Lee is selling a lot of 'em... Best Regards, FC
What I'm wondering about, can you use expander die's, 'brands other than Lee?' RCBS for example, to drop powder through?
+phillip rubin -- No compatible connectors there, but the Lee expander dies are not expensive - I pop it in there along with my Dillon dies on my 550Bs with no problems at all - they talk to each other like long time buddies... Best to ya, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC Hi, thanks for your response. I load a dozen different calibers and wouldn't want to buy a new expander die for each of them. I'd be using this powder drop, on a stand, in place of RCBS, when working up and loading for rifle's. The 550B, loads (for three gun) 223 and 7.62x39 flawlessly...
+phillip rubin -- Phillip, this new PM only works as a case activated measure in any of our reloading presses. It needs the Lee powder thru die to activate the drop. You can get universal rifle powder dies to use this measure for rifle shooting, but the Lee handgun die sets all have the powder thru die that will work with this measure. They are not expensive and can be used with other die sets. If you want the stand operated measure, the new Lee Classic Powder Measure may be the one, but the reviews on that one have been + and -. I'm hesitant to get that one because this ADPM is working so well... Best Regards, FC
After 2 years of use, how have the plastic components held up?
LoneWanderer360 - Just fine, no complaints. Should be doing another video featuring the use of these soon... Have a great day, FC Steve
Is there a way to put this on a stand .. instead of being on your press
Finished watching the video. Someone's been interrupting my youtube time, so it took me a day or two. The baffle is a good idea. I've been meaning to make one for a while. The same design should work for the autodisc pro hopper, and also the Lee Perfect hopper, so I can make a few at a time. I will definitely be buying a few of these measures as I get the opportunity. They will be much better for the very large or very small cases. I might be a bit more inclined to mess with those pesky stick powders too.
+GunFun ZS -- Lee says the baffles are not necessary, perhaps if their hopper was a foot tall, but not with their little shorty hopper. That was probably their thinking, but I'd still prefer the baffle. It's those new low cost quick change drums that is the innovation that will really sell these things out the doors...Good reloadin' to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC I think that's part of what I will send you when I make your care package.
+GunFun ZS -- There used to be a stigma to getting care packages, but no longer..... Best of the Holidays to ya, FC
Damn, something else I'll need to get! I am just getting into reloading and have watched several of your vids, going to start bullet casting also..
Jim Koonce - Congrats on your decision to get into reloading...you will find your shooting vistas opened up in ways you never imagined...plus it will be a very enjoyable and challenging pursuit... The Lee ADPM will be a good addition to your reloading bench with lots of usefulness... Good reloadin' to ya... FC
you can adjust it from 1-80 grains of powder. How do you know when it's set right where you want it?
Unrealistic Daydream - The key has plenty of friction - it's not going to move unless we make it so... Great question...Best Regards, FC
21,0 gr. you got 21,07 gr avrage for riflecharge. Is it just as accurate with pistolcharges ??
PE J - Yes, but tell ya what...time for me to make a Dillon 550B reload run...we'll get that LADPM goin'... Best to ya, FC
I hadn't heard of this one yet. Yeah I would remove the dis-connector as well. I always wait a moment as the powder flows in the case with any of my powder measures.
+TRprepper -- The instruction manual does make it clear that the bigger the powder charge being thrown, the more need to take an extra second or two to allow for powder flow. But you've already got that as part of your standard operating procedures (SOP). Happy Holidays to ya, FC
+TRprepper -- You know what you need and best procedures with PMs...I now have 3 of these rascals and they work better the more they are used...Best Regards to ya, FC
Great Video...video well explained on how it works, Thank you good sir
how is the lee auto drum powder measure with loading 45/70 and 30/30 reloads?
+Doug Wilkinson -- Works well - I loaded some 30/06 and that is right in that charge weight zone...Best to ya, FC
$48.00 at Midway USA at time of this post. It is $99.00 in Amazon, I was going to get the other one but given the features decided for this one better.
Thank you for this video, great demo. I would like to see this powder measure operating on the Pro 1000, I hope you make another video of this powder measure mounted on Lee Pro 1000..... Thanks....
Apparently the reason for the “pot metal” is due to corrosion. Steel or cast will rust, unless it is oiled. Oil and powder are not a good combination.
That's NOT the reason, at all!!!! It's because "pot metal" isn't electrically conductive and won't spark and kill you with the explosion that follows. It's all about SAFETY and not corrosion.
John Dent Wrote this some time back. From what I recall the anti-corrosion “pot-metal” reason was given by Lee Corp. themselves.
Update; Well I just received a new Lee Drum Powder Measure yesterday. It came WITHOUT the dis-connector installed, so I didn't have to remove it. The dis-connector parts were in a little baggy. So the measure came ready to go, and it is working out well so far.
Swede109g - Just goes to show that Lee is responsive to users - that disconnector was put in for legal purposes as it is really useless - if it was good, all the other press mounted powder measures would have disconnectors. Wish they just didn't have it at all, would save a couple dollars on the cost of the units... Happy Thanksgiving to ya -- FC Steve
I am a new fish to being an owner of a reloading set. I have used my buddies lee classic turret press for quite some time and deciding to make the investment of getting my own. I purchased the Auto-Drum Powder Measure and your video is very informational and has contributed to getting my setup in order. The only issue I have is I am having numbers across the board with 9mm Luger from 4.7-5.4 in about 20 loads, quite a big gap there. I am going to say it mat be the powder I am using which is "fluffy"; Alliant Powder Unique. Can anyone shed some light on my post? Thanks!
is the Auto Drum Powder Measure a good measure for fins powder, I want to use hodgdon cfe223 powder
plow - I've used the ADPM with Win 296 - very fine powder as you know...first time, the drum leaked a bit, so I switched drums - solved the problem. Then labeled the other drum for use with other more coarse powders. Good reloadin' to ya, and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays !! FC
Merry Christmas thanks
Good job, Man.
this is the first ive heard of this. very exciting! looks like it will work great on my classic turret and loadmaster! i wonder how this will work with stick powder
+Patmclean232 -- Already have other videos out testing those and they are already uploaded.... Happy Holidays to ya, FC
thanks again love your videos keep them coming!!
Thanks for the great video
wonder if spraying some teflon inside the cast drum would be worth it.
oafaloaf - The instructions do not specify the addition of any lubricants to the works...the less lubes in there the better....but you could certainly try it sparingly... Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!! FC
Nice measure device, but will probably stay with my chain pull system for now, it's all set up for my main load of 38 special light loads for cowboy action. Maybe down the road it will be put to use.
+Nick J -- That's where the new quick change drums will come in handy. You can have your cowboy loads on one drum and your recreational, target or +P loads on another drum and quick change on demand. Have a great Holiday Season... FC