Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap Review

One Week with the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of accessories designed to streamline workflows. The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is one such item, promising a practical solution for a common reloading task. Manufactured by Redding Reloading, this seemingly simple cap is intended to facilitate the temporary filling of powder measures, particularly for test charges or when preparing for production runs. My own journey to this particular cap began with a growing frustration during load development sessions. Constantly having to fill and then refill the main reservoir of my powder measure for even minor adjustments felt like an unnecessary drain on time and, more importantly, precious propellant. It was a small inefficiency, but one that began to grate.

Upon receiving the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The material felt robust, and the fit onto my Redding powder measure was precise. It wasn’t flashy, but it exuded a sense of functional integrity. I had briefly considered generic plastic alternatives or simply using a small cup, but the dedicated design and the reputation of Redding for precision reloading components ultimately steered me towards this specific solution. My first reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that a minor, yet persistent, annoyance might soon be a thing of the past.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap was my home reloading bench, a space that sees a constant rotation of projects from precision rifle ammunition to bulk handgun loads. I first used it during a particularly meticulous session of fine-tuning charges for a new rifle caliber. The process of attaching it was straightforward; it simply screws onto the existing powder measure reservoir.

The cap performed admirably under these initial conditions. I filled it with a small quantity of powder for an initial test charge, and it held securely without any leakage or powder sifting out. What was immediately apparent was the elimination of the cumbersome two-step filling process that I had grown accustomed to.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of about a week, which involved several load development sessions and the preparation of approximately 50 rounds of ammunition, the reservoir cap proved to be a reliable companion. I subjected it to repeated filling and emptying cycles, sometimes with fine-grained powders and other times with more granular types. In all instances, it maintained its seal and prevented any unintended powder escape.

There were no signs of wear and tear on the cap itself. It remained stiff and held its shape, and more importantly, it didn’t introduce any unwanted static cling that sometimes plagues plastic powder-handling accessories. Cleaning was as simple as unscrewing it and tapping out any residual powder, a task that took mere seconds. Compared to improvising with other containers, which could be prone to spilling or static issues, this dedicated cap was a significant improvement in terms of both efficiency and cleanliness.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap

Specifications

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is designed to be a direct replacement or add-on for existing Redding powder measure reservoirs. While specific volumetric capacity isn’t explicitly stated in the product description, its function clearly indicates it’s sized for holding test charges or dummy/production ammunition while the main reservoir is being filled. This implies a capacity sufficient for a few rounds’ worth of powder, not for bulk storage.

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is manufactured to exacting tolerances. This precision is crucial for reloading accessories, as even slight deviations can lead to issues like powder leakage or difficulty in attachment. The material appears to be a durable, resilient plastic, suitable for repeated use and contact with various propellant types. The product comes as a single unit and includes a replacement bolt specifically for the cap, indicating a focus on secure and long-term functionality.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap excels. Its main function is to provide a temporary, contained space for powder, allowing users to avoid filling the entire main reservoir multiple times during incremental adjustments or when setting up for production. This is achieved by simply marking the inside of the cap to indicate a desired volume, pouring the powder into it, and then transferring that measured amount into the main measure. This capability alone saves significant time and reduces potential powder spillage.

The key strength of this accessory lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It directly addresses a common reloading bottleneck. Its intended use eliminates the need for multiple partial fills of the main reservoir, thereby preventing dilution of established settings or accidental over-filling when transitioning between load development stages. The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap functions exactly as advertised, providing a reliable intermediary powder holding point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is purely functional, prioritizing utility over aesthetics. It features a threaded interface that mates precisely with the corresponding Redding powder measure reservoir. The internal surface is smooth, which aids in easy powder dispensing and minimizes residual powder clinging due to static.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple screw-on component. There’s no complex grip or handling required, making it intuitive for anyone familiar with the Redding powder measure system. The inclusion of a replacement bolt is a thoughtful touch, acknowledging that small hardware can sometimes go missing or wear over time. The overall build quality feels sturdy, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of a reloading environment.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its straightforward construction and the materials likely used, the Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap appears to be built for longevity. As a piece of equipment that doesn’t involve moving parts or high stress, it’s likely to last for many years under normal reloading conditions. The plastic material is resistant to common propellant chemicals, and the threading should remain functional with basic care.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple: unscrew the cap, invert it, and tap out any remaining powder. A quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually sufficient. There are no complex seals or mechanisms to worry about degrading. Potential failure points would likely be dropping the cap onto a hard surface, which could cause cracking, or cross-threading it, which could damage the threads on both the cap and the reservoir.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap itself is a functional accessory for the Redding powder measure. It doesn’t come with additional accessories in the traditional sense. Its primary “customization” feature, as mentioned in the product description, is the ability to mark off the inside of the cap to denote specific volumes. This allows reloaders to create custom volume markings for their frequently used test charges, thereby personalizing its utility.

Compatibility is limited to Redding powder measures designed to accept this type of reservoir cap. It is not intended to be a universal accessory for all powder measures on the market.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap?

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is an ideal accessory for any handloader who utilizes a Redding powder measure and engages in frequent load development or precise charge adjustments. If you spend time meticulously dialing in your loads, whether for precision rifle cartridges, competitive shooting, or simply seeking the optimal performance from your firearm, this cap will be a significant time-saver. It’s particularly beneficial for those who find themselves constantly refilling the main reservoir for minor weight adjustments during the testing phase.

Conversely, if you primarily load large batches of the same ammunition and rarely deviate from established powder charges, or if you use a powder measure from a different manufacturer, this specific cap might not be a necessary purchase. For users who demand sterile, laboratory-grade powder handling for highly sensitive applications, this accessory, while precise for its intended purpose, is not designed for such specialized environments. A must-have accessory would be a fine-tip permanent marker to make those internal volume markings clear and durable.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is a testament to the power of well-designed, purpose-built reloading accessories. For its modest price of $4.81, it delivers a tangible improvement in workflow efficiency, particularly for those dedicated to the art of load development. Its simple yet effective design directly addresses a common reloading frustration, saving time and reducing the potential for errors or wasted propellant.

The Redding Reloading Measure Reservoir Cap is a product that performs its intended function with admirable reliability. I would readily recommend it to any user of compatible Redding powder measures who values precision and efficiency at their reloading bench. It’s one of those small upgrades that, once you’ve used it, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.