There’s one more powder check system that we’re going to look at on our reloading safety series- the “RCBS Powder Checker Die”. This unit is very simple, easy to setup, and works well. It’s comparable to the “Hornady Powder Cop Die”.

This system is quite versatile, and intuitive to setup and use. Let’s take a look at the parts that make up the RCBS Powder Checker Die assembly, and then, we’ll look at setup and use.

OK, now that we know the parts and pieces, let’s talk setup! The good news is, it’s easy.

Setup steps for the RCBS Powder Checker Die:

1. Install the proper guide rod tip on the powder guide rod (use the largest one that will fit in the case neck you’re loading with some space
2. Push the guide rod up into the die body past the case guide
3. Install the guide rod cap on the powder guide rod
4. Make sure the indicator guide rod and O-Ring are installed
5. Raise the ram on your reloading press to the top
6. Screw down the die (exact height not critical, should not contact shellplate)
7. Charge a case and advance the press to the powder check station, raise the ram to the top of its stroke
8. Confirm vertical movement of the powder guide rod, adjust the die height if needed
9. With the ram at the top of its stroke, adjust the height of the O-Ring on the indicating guide rod until it is aligned with the powder guide rod cap
10. Remove case, recharge, and run through the powder check station again to confirm setting, adjust if needed

That’s it! Sounds like a lot, but in practice, this is probably the fastest powder check system to setup.

Here’s a video showing assembly of the die and setup on the Dillon XL-650 5 station progressive reloading press:

That should tell you most of what you would need to know about this system. I have enjoyed using this product, and appreciate its simple but effective design.

Do you have experiences that you want to share? Please leave your comments here.

Thanks,
Gavin