Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly Review

What to Expect from the Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly

For reloaders meticulously measuring powder charges, precision is paramount. The Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of powder dispensing by providing a stable platform for cases or powder pans. My own reloading bench often sees a flurry of activity, and I was looking for a way to minimize spills and ensure consistent powder drops, especially when working with smaller, more sensitive charges.

This accessory promises a more secure method for holding components directly beneath the scale’s pan lifter, preventing any unwanted movement or spreading of powders. The initial impression of the assembly is one of straightforward functionality; it’s built from what appears to be robust, rust-resistant polished steel, suggesting it’s designed to withstand the inevitable knocks and scrapes of a busy reloading environment. While I briefly considered some DIY solutions involving bent wire or repurposed clips, the dedicated design of this Redding part felt like a more reliable and time-tested approach. The immediate thought was that this could be the missing piece to a smoother, more precise reloading process, offering a welcome sense of order to my often-chaotic bench.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this scale pan hook assembly were my own reloading bench, a space that sees daily use and varied environmental conditions, from the dry air of winter to the more humid summer months. I primarily tested it in conjunction with my Redding powder scale, attaching the hook to the scale’s pan lifter. The scenarios involved weighing small charges of precise rifle powders, where even a minor disturbance could lead to significant variance, and larger charges of common pistol powders, where efficiency is key.

Performance was notably stable. Even with repeated cycles of placing a case or a powder pan, securing it, and then releasing it, the hook maintained its position without any sliver of movement. Dust and powder residue, common antagonists on any reloading bench, did not seem to affect its grip or functionality. The assembly was remarkably intuitive; there was no significant learning curve. It attached directly to the existing pan lifter mechanism, and its intended use was immediately apparent.

One minor surprise was how much steadier a small powder pan felt once secured by the hook. Previously, I’d sometimes have slight shifts or tip-overs, especially when trying to balance a large pan on a small surface. This assembly effectively eliminated that concern, leading to cleaner pours and fewer lost grains of powder.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, averaging perhaps 50-75 weighing cycles per session, the Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly has held up exceptionally well. It has become an integral part of my reloading routine, performing its function without complaint.

Durability has been excellent. There are no visible signs of wear and tear; the polished steel remains unblemished by scratches or rust, despite the constant contact with brass cases and powder. The spring mechanism that holds the pan or case feels just as strong as it did on day one, with no signs of loosening or fatigue.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth to remove any residual powder is all that’s needed. It’s far simpler than trying to clean out a small, awkwardly shaped container or adjust a makeshift holder. Compared to other scale accessories I’ve used, some of which can become sticky or require precise alignment, this Redding part is refreshingly low-fuss. It has consistently outperformed my initial expectations for a simple metal hook, proving its worth through reliable, everyday performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly

Specifications

The Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is engineered with simplicity and effectiveness in mind. Its primary material is a rust-resistant polished steel, which is crucial for a component that will be in contact with metallic components and potentially exposed to various environmental factors on a reloading bench. The design is intended to permanently install on the Redding Pan Lifter (sold separately), integrating seamlessly with the scale’s operation.

This assembly is specifically designed to firmly hold a case or a powder dispensing pan while the reloader operates the scale’s handle. It is capable of holding a single case, a 0.2-pound powder pan, a half-pound powder pan, and a quarter-pound powder pan. These specifications are important because they dictate the versatility of the hook. The ability to hold various pan sizes means it can accommodate a wide range of powder dispensing needs, from minuscule pistol charges to larger rifle powder quantities. The robust steel construction ensures it can handle the weight of these pans and their contents without bending or deforming.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is to provide a stable mounting point for cases or powder pans directly under the scale’s measurement pan. In this, it performs admirably, exceeding expectations for such a seemingly simple accessory. It provides a no-spread design pan interface, which is critical for preventing the accidental scattering of expensive or sensitive powders, especially those used for precise rifle loads.

Its greatest strength lies in its unwavering stability. Once a case or pan is seated in the hook, it stays put. This eliminates one common source of error and frustration in powder measurement: a shifting target. The hook’s design ensures that whatever is placed within it remains perfectly centered, allowing for accurate readings from the scale. A minor weakness, if one could even call it that, is that it requires the separate purchase of the Redding Pan Lifter. However, for anyone already invested in Redding scales, this is usually a non-issue. Overall, it fulfills its purpose with exceptional reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this scale hook is purely functional, leaning towards utility rather than aesthetics, although the polished steel finish does lend it a certain professional appeal. The build quality feels solid; the steel has a good heft, suggesting it won’t easily bend or break. It’s clear that this part is built to endure the rigors of a reloading environment.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be a permanent fixture on the pan lifter. This means it’s not something you’re constantly manipulating or adjusting for comfort. Its job is to be there, providing a secure cradle, and it excels at this. The way it integrates with the pan lifter is seamless; it’s designed to blend into the workflow rather than disrupt it. Practical design details include the specific contours that allow it to grip various pan sizes securely without crushing them. There are no complex controls, just a simple, effective shape that guides the user into placing their components correctly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from rust-resistant polished steel, the Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is built for longevity in a reloading environment. Under normal use, where it’s consistently holding cases or powder pans, I anticipate this component will last for many years, likely outliving the scale it’s attached to. The material choice is excellent for resisting the fine powder dust that can sometimes be abrasive or corrosive over time.

Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward, as noted earlier. A simple wipe-down with a dry or slightly damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and free of powder residue. There are no moving parts that require lubrication or specialized care. Potential concerns are minimal, perhaps limited to avoiding extreme impacts that could potentially deform the steel, though its thickness suggests it can handle typical benchtop mishaps. It’s designed to be a set-it-and-forget-it addition to your scale setup.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is, in essence, an accessory itself, designed to enhance the functionality of a powder scale and its associated pan lifter. It comes as a complete assembly, including any necessary hardware for its permanent installation onto the Redding Pan Lifter. There are no significant customization options for the hook itself; its design is fixed and optimized for its intended purpose.

However, its functionality is directly tied to the Redding Pan Lifter, which is sold separately. Users will need to ensure they have this component to utilize the scale pan hook. The hook is designed to work seamlessly with a range of powder pans, including those from Redding and potentially other manufacturers, as long as they have compatible bases or edges that can be securely held. Its primary enhancement comes from its ability to stabilize these pans, facilitating a cleaner and more precise powder dispensing process.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly

Who Should Buy Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly?

This Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is an excellent addition for any handloader who is serious about precision and efficiency. It is particularly beneficial for those who frequently weigh small, precise powder charges, where even minor disturbances can lead to significant discrepancies. Reloaders using Redding powder scales, especially those who have already invested in or plan to acquire the Redding Pan Lifter, will find this accessory invaluable.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals using non-Redding powder scales or those who prefer a purely manual, less assisted method of powder dispensing. If you rarely dispense powder or prioritize absolute simplicity over enhanced stability, this might be an unnecessary purchase. For optimal use, ensuring you have the compatible Redding Pan Lifter is a must. No other mandatory accessories are required, making it a straightforward, focused upgrade for the right user.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly

The Redding Reloading No. 2 Scale Pan Hook Assembly is a testament to how a small, well-designed accessory can significantly improve a critical part of the reloading process. Its robust rust-resistant polished steel construction promises years of reliable service, and its ability to securely hold powder pans and cases directly addresses a common source of inaccuracy and frustration. While it necessitates the purchase of the Redding Pan Lifter, the increased stability and precision it offers in powder measurement are well worth the combined investment for serious reloaders.

Considering its straightforward functionality, durable build, and tangible benefits to accuracy, the price of $15.99 is more than justified. It elevates the powder weighing process from a potentially messy, finicky task to a smooth, controlled operation. I would readily recommend this scale pan hook assembly to any reloader who is looking to refine their process and achieve greater consistency in their ammunition. If you value precision and want to minimize powder spillage, this is a simple, effective upgrade that truly delivers.