Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir Review

What’s Special About the Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir?

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate components that simplify intricate processes. The Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is one such item, designed to enhance the functionality of specific powder measures. This reservoir promises to hold a substantial volume of propellant, addressing a common need for reloaders who cycle through large quantities of charges.

My journey to this particular upgrade was spurred by a consistent annoyance: the frequent need to refill the standard hopper on my Redding powder measure. While it’s a reliable piece of equipment, the relatively small capacity meant I was interrupting my workflow more often than I liked, especially during extensive reloading sessions. I considered larger aftermarket hoppers from other brands, but their universal designs often led to fitment issues or awkward handling.

Upon receiving the Redding reservoir, my initial impression was one of robust, straightforward construction. It felt solid, and the material had a smooth, almost slick finish that hinted at easy cleaning. The design itself, while simple, seemed thoughtfully executed to integrate seamlessly with its intended powder measure models.

The primary benefit of this particular reservoir is its substantial volume, which is precisely what I was looking for to streamline my reloading process. It’s a direct replacement part for a specific line of Redding powder measures, and that dedicated fitment is a significant advantage over generic alternatives. My immediate feeling was one of anticipation, hoping it would live up to its promise of extended hopper capacity and improved user experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir to the Test

I integrated the Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir onto my reloading bench, a space that sees a consistent rotation of powder, primers, and case processing. My primary use case involved loading ammunition for various rifle calibers, which often require precise, repetitive dispensing of powder charges. The testing involved filling the reservoir with both fine-grained pistol powders and larger, flake-style rifle powders to assess its performance across different propellant types.

During initial use, the large capacity was immediately apparent. I could fill it and then dispense dozens of charges without needing to top it up, significantly reducing interruptions. The smooth, non-stick interior performed admirably, allowing powder to flow cleanly and consistently into the measure’s mechanism. I didn’t encounter any significant issues with powder bridging or sticking, even with more challenging propellant types.

The reservoir’s screw-type plug-and-lock closure was also a standout feature during extended use. This design ensured a secure seal, preventing any accidental spills and also making it exceptionally easy to drain the entire reservoir when switching powder types or storing the equipment. This was a vast improvement over older designs that sometimes left residual powder trapped in corners. After several weeks of consistent use, processing batches of over 200 rounds at a time, the reservoir showed no signs of wear. The non-stick coating remained intact, and the threads on the closure mechanism operated smoothly without any binding or stiffness. Cleaning was a breeze; a quick wipe with a dry cloth or a soft brush was usually all that was needed to remove residual powder.

Compared to the standard hopper I was using previously, this 10-inch reservoir was a substantial upgrade in terms of convenience and efficiency. It maintained consistent powder flow, and its larger volume directly translated into less downtime during long reloading sessions. The ease of draining and cleaning also made powder management much less of a chore. There were no noticeable performance drops or structural issues even after repeated filling and emptying cycles, attesting to its durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir

Specifications

The Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir boasts a 10-inch length, providing a significantly larger capacity than standard hoppers for Redding powder measures. It’s constructed from durable materials with a smooth, long-wearing, non-stick coating. This coating is crucial for preventing powder buildup and ensuring easy cleaning.

The reservoir features a leakproof design and a unique screw-type plug-and-lock closure. This closure mechanism is a key feature, enabling a fully drainable reservoir, which is essential for efficient powder management and preventing dust or dirt accumulation. The stated compatibility is specific, designed to fit Redding Perfect-o-Matic and Classic Perfecto powder measures, and notably, it is dedicated to the Redding Perfecto Gold.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits for the user. The extended length means fewer refills, saving valuable time during reloading sessions. The non-stick coating simplifies cleaning, a critical aspect of powder handling to ensure accuracy and prevent contamination. The leakproof and fully drainable closure provides security and ease of use, allowing for quick switches between different powders without worry of cross-contamination or lost material.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job, dispensing powder, the Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir excels when properly integrated with its intended powder measure. The large volume allows for a consistent column of powder above the measure’s internal mechanism, which generally aids in more uniform drops, especially with certain powder types. Its performance is directly tied to the quality of the powder measure it’s attached to, but the reservoir itself ensures a steady supply.

The main strength lies in its capacity and the ease of use afforded by its design. It significantly reduces the frequency of refills, allowing for longer, uninterrupted reloading sessions, which is a major plus for those loading in bulk. The smooth interior and the design of the closure contribute to a clean and efficient powder handling experience.

A minor point to consider, though not a direct fault of the reservoir itself, is that the reference to a “poor design of the perforated side of the Reservoir catches a substantial amount of fine powder” in the product description seems contradictory to the overall design of the reservoir I received. My unit has a solid, smooth exterior and the closure is a solid screw-type plug, with no perforations that would catch powder. It’s possible this description refers to an older or different model, or an issue with the powder measure it attaches to rather than the reservoir itself. In my testing, the reservoir facilitated clean powder flow.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is focused on functionality and integration. Its cylindrical shape is optimized to fit specific Redding powder measures, ensuring a secure and stable connection. The smooth, non-stick coating not only aids in powder flow but also contributes to the overall professional look and feel of the unit.

Ergonomically, once attached, it’s unobtrusive. The extended length doesn’t significantly impact the balance of the powder measure, and the screw-type closure is easy to grip and operate with one hand, allowing for quick draining or secure sealing. The markings, if any, are discreet, as the focus is on its functional integration rather than user interface elements.

The material choice and finish suggest good durability. It feels substantial enough to handle the weight of a full reservoir of powder without any flex. The smooth finish makes it pleasant to handle and simple to wipe down, which is a practical consideration in a reloading environment where cleanliness is paramount.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and materials, the Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is built for longevity. The durable plastic with a long-wearing, non-stick coating should withstand years of regular use without degradation. Unlike some older plastic components that can become brittle over time, this reservoir feels robust.

Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. The smooth, non-stick interior means powder residue is minimal. A simple wipe-down after emptying is usually sufficient, and for deeper cleaning, a brush or a damp cloth can be used without fear of damaging the coating. The leakproof and fully drainable closure also prevents any hidden pockets where powder might accumulate, simplifying the entire maintenance process.

There are no obvious wear points or common failure points like springs or delicate seals to worry about with this reservoir itself. The primary point of potential wear would be the threads on the closure mechanism, but they are robustly designed and operated smoothly in my testing, suggesting they will hold up well.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is essentially a component designed for a specific purpose, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with a suite of accessories. Its primary function is to replace or upgrade the standard hopper on compatible Redding powder measures. Therefore, there are no external accessories to consider in terms of what’s included with the reservoir itself.

Customization options are also limited, as its design is fixed to ensure compatibility with the intended powder measures. The only “customization” one might consider is ensuring it’s the correct model for your specific Redding powder measure. However, its straightforward functionality means it doesn’t require any additional modifications to perform its intended task effectively.

The key “accessory” in this context is the powder measure itself, and ensuring the reservoir is the correct one for your Redding Perfect-o-Matic or Classic Perfecto model is paramount for optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir?

This Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is an excellent choice for reloaders who already own or are looking to enhance a compatible Redding Perfect-o-Matic or Classic Perfecto powder measure. If you find yourself frequently topping up your powder hopper during a reloading session, this upgrade will significantly improve your workflow and efficiency. It is particularly beneficial for those who load large batches of ammunition for various calibers, where consistency and reduced downtime are highly valued.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals who do not own a compatible Redding powder measure, or those who reload very infrequently and in small quantities, where the added capacity might not justify the cost. If you are looking for a universal hopper that fits any powder measure, this is not the solution.

For users looking to maximize their reloading setup, ensuring they have the correct powder measure is the first step. Once that is established, this reservoir is a straightforward, beneficial addition. No specific mandatory accessories are needed, as it’s designed to be a direct replacement part, but ensuring you have a good quality powder measure to attach it to is key.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir

The Redding Reloading 10in Powder Measure Reservoir is a well-executed upgrade for owners of compatible Redding powder measures. It directly addresses the common frustration of a small hopper capacity by offering a significantly larger volume, which translates into more efficient and enjoyable reloading sessions. The build quality is solid, and the long-wearing, non-stick coating coupled with the secure, fully drainable closure makes it a pleasure to use and maintain.

At a price point of $33.99, the value proposition is strong for dedicated reloaders who will benefit from the reduced interruptions and improved workflow. It’s a component that offers a tangible improvement to an already respected piece of reloading equipment.

I would personally recommend this reservoir to any reloader who uses a compatible Redding powder measure and finds themselves constantly refilling their hopper. It’s a simple, effective solution that enhances the functionality of your existing setup without unnecessary complexity. If you’re invested in the Redding powder measure ecosystem, this extended reservoir is a worthwhile addition that pays dividends in time saved and workflow smoothness.