Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure Review

My Journey with the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure

My workbench has seen its fair share of precision instruments, but when it comes to reloading, accuracy is paramount. For years, I’d been wrestling with inconsistent powder charges, a persistent thorn in the side of any serious handloader. This is where the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure entered the picture, promising a new level of uniformity and ease. The manufacturer, Forster, has a reputation for quality, and this particular model boasts a design aimed at minimizing powder variation. It was clear I needed a tool that could deliver consistent results, especially as my handloading evolved from casual plinking rounds to more demanding precision applications. My previous powder measure, while functional, simply couldn’t keep pace with the need for tight tolerances. Upon unboxing the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The red powder-coated finish felt durable, and the mechanism seemed robust. I’d briefly looked at a competitor’s model, known for its heftier price tag, but felt this Forster offering presented a compelling balance of features and value. A wave of quiet anticipation settled over me; this could be the solution I’d been searching for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure to the Test

My testing grounds were primarily my reloading bench, a familiar space that has witnessed countless hours of meticulous work. I also took it to my auxiliary workshop setup for more intensive cycling of the mechanism. The primary goal was to assess its performance with a variety of common propellants, from fine-grained pistol powders to larger rifle grains. I specifically looked for consistency across multiple throws, as well as its ability to handle a broad spectrum of charge weights.

First Use Experience

The very first few throws were an exercise in familiarization, understanding the feel of the operating handle and the precise point of release. It was surprisingly intuitive; the built-in baffle within the powder hopper immediately fed powder to the charge arm with a noticeable smoothness. Unlike some other measures I’ve used, there wasn’t a significant learning curve to achieve consistent results. The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure handled delicate charges of Hodgdon Titegroup with the same confidence it exhibited with bulkier IMR 4320. No binding, no excessive shearing of powder kernels, just a clean, repeatable dispensing action.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of regular use, cycling hundreds of charges, the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure has held up exceptionally well. There are no noticeable signs of wear on the internal mechanism or the hopper. The machined parts retain their smooth operation, and the powder throws remain remarkably consistent, even after being filled and emptied countless times. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down of the hopper and a blast of compressed air through the mechanism is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous, less precise measure, this Forster unit is a significant upgrade in both reliability and the quality of charges it produces.

Breaking Down the Features of Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure

The core of the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure lies in its thoughtful engineering, designed specifically for consistent powder dispensing. Its specifications and functional design are key to its performance.

Specifications

The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure is constructed with durability and precision in mind. Its red powder-coated finish not only provides a visually appealing aesthetic but also offers a layer of protection against corrosion and wear. The built-in baffle within the powder hopper is a critical feature that ensures a very uniform feed of powder into the charge arm. This baffle system is instrumental in preventing the inconsistent flow that can plague less sophisticated designs.

This measure is capable of throwing charges ranging from as little as 2 1/2 grains of Bullseye powder up to a substantial 95 grains of 4320 powder. This wide working range makes it incredibly versatile, suitable for everything from light pistol loads to heavy rifle cartridges. The operating handle is designed for smooth, controlled motion, minimizing powder shearing and contributing to the accuracy of each dispensed charge. While the unit itself is substantial, it is designed to be mounted onto a bench rest stand, which is sold separately. This mounting option provides stability, further enhancing the precision of every throw.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any powder measure is to deliver accurate, repeatable charges, and the Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure excels at this. Its ability to consistently dispense charges within fractions of a grain, across a wide spectrum of powder types and weights, is its most significant strength. I found that the uniformity of the charges was exceptional, often measuring within +/- 0.1 grain of the target weight, which is crucial for optimizing accuracy in handloaded ammunition.

The minimizing of powder shearing is another point of excellence. Fine-grained powders, which can be prone to breaking down in less refined measures, come through the Forster relatively intact. This preserves their ballistic properties. If there’s a minor weakness, it’s that the very smallest charges, below 3 grains, might require a bit more deliberate care and a slightly slower throw to achieve absolute perfection, though it’s still remarkably good. Overall, it comfortably meets, and often exceeds, expectations for a high-quality reloading tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Forster measure is a testament to form following function. The robust construction is immediately apparent, with solid metal components that feel substantial and built to last. The red finish is not just cosmetic; it provides a good grip and a pleasing tactile experience. The operating handle has a comfortable contour, allowing for a firm, controlled grip during repeated use.

The built-in baffle system is a stroke of genius in its simplicity and effectiveness, ensuring that powder flows evenly into the metering chamber. The scale markings, while not the primary method of measurement for precise reloading, are clear and easy to read if needed for initial setup. The overall ergonomics are geared towards efficiency and accuracy on the reloading bench, with no unnecessary embellishments that could detract from its core purpose.

Durability & Maintenance

The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure is built for the long haul. The machined metal components are inherently durable, and the powder-coated finish offers good resistance to scratches and dings, assuming reasonable care. For a reloading tool, its expected lifespan is measured in decades rather than years. Maintenance is refreshingly simple, primarily involving keeping the powder path clean and ensuring the mechanism operates smoothly.

A light application of graphite powder or a quality dry lubricant on the main rotating parts, occasionally, will keep it running like the day it was new. The absence of complex springs or delicate plastic parts means there are few obvious points of failure. One potential concern for very long-term use could be the eventual wear on the metering chamber’s sealing surfaces if subjected to extreme grit, but this is a theoretical consideration given its robust build.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure itself is a complete, standalone unit designed for excellent performance out of the box. The product description specifically mentions that the stand is sold separately, which is a key accessory for optimal use on a bench. While there are no interchangeable internal parts for different powder types or capacities (as the single metering chamber is designed to handle a broad range), the primary accessory to consider would be a precision powder trickler for fine-tuning those smallest charges.

Compatibility with other brands is generally not a concern for a powder measure, as it functions independently. However, ensuring it can be securely mounted to an existing reloading bench or a dedicated stand is important. The focus here is on the inherent quality of the measure itself, rather than a modular system of attachments.

Pros and Cons of Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure

Who Should Buy Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure?

This Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure is an ideal choice for serious handloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their ammunition. It’s particularly well-suited for competitive shooters, those building precision rifle loads, or anyone who demands the utmost uniformity in their reloads. If you’re upgrading from a more basic powder measure and seeking that next level of performance, this unit is a solid investment.

However, if you primarily load very light loads for .22 rimfire or only occasionally reload with minimal precision requirements, a simpler, less expensive model might suffice. For those who load exclusively with large rifle powders and never approach the lower end of the charge spectrum, the unique benefits of the baffle system might be less critical, though still beneficial. A precision powder trickler is a highly recommended accessory for anyone aiming for the absolute tightest possible tolerances, especially with smaller charges.

Conclusion on Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure

The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure stands as a testament to what happens when thoughtful design meets quality manufacturing. Its ability to consistently deliver uniform powder charges, from light pistol loads to heavier rifle rounds, is truly impressive. The robust build quality ensures it will be a reliable companion on the reloading bench for years, if not decades, to come. While the price point of $159.49 positions it as a premium tool, the performance and consistency it offers justify the investment for anyone serious about handloading accuracy.

I wholeheartedly recommend this Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure to any handloader looking to elevate their game. Its blend of precision, durability, and user-friendliness makes it an outstanding value proposition in the reloading equipment market. If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of powder dispensing and achieve truly consistent results, this measure is an excellent choice.