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Hornady Auto Charge Pro: A Comprehensive Review for Reloading Enthusiasts

The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a popular electronic powder dispenser and scale designed for reloading ammunition. It aims to provide reloaders with a precise and efficient way to measure powder charges, ultimately contributing to more consistent and accurate ammunition. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, pros, and cons of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro, helping you determine if it’s the right tool for your reloading needs.

What is the Hornady Auto Charge Pro?

The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is an electronic powder measure that automates the process of dispensing precise powder charges for reloading. It combines a digital scale with an automated dispensing system, allowing reloaders to program their desired charge weight and have the machine accurately dispense it. This eliminates the need for manual powder trickling and weighing, saving time and improving consistency.

Key Features of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro

Digital Scale: The integrated digital scale provides accurate weight measurements, typically down to a tenth of a grain.
Automated Dispensing: The unit automatically dispenses powder until the desired weight is reached, then shuts off.
Programmable Settings: Users can program specific charge weights and save them for future use.
Overthrow Compensation: The Hornady Auto Charge Pro learns and compensates for powder overthrow, improving accuracy.
Large LCD Display: A clear and easy-to-read LCD display shows the current weight, target weight, and other relevant information.
Various Dispense Modes: Offers different dispense modes, such as automatic, manual, and trickle, to suit various reloading preferences.
Universal Power Supply: Compatible with different voltage standards, making it suitable for use in various countries.

Setting Up the Hornady Auto Charge Pro

Setting up the Hornady Auto Charge Pro is relatively straightforward. The process generally involves:

Placing the unit on a stable and level surface.
Calibrating the scale using the included calibration weights.
Filling the powder hopper with the desired powder.
Programming the desired charge weight.
Selecting the desired dispense mode.

Performance and Accuracy

The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is known for its accuracy and consistency when dispensing powder charges. Many reloaders report that it consistently dispenses charges within +/- 0.1 grain, which is crucial for achieving consistent velocities and accuracy in their ammunition. The overthrow compensation feature plays a significant role in maintaining this accuracy, especially with powders that tend to overshoot the target weight.

However, the performance can be affected by several factors, including:

Powder Type: Some powders, particularly stick powders, may not flow as smoothly and consistently through the dispenser, potentially leading to slight variations in charge weight.
Static Electricity: Static electricity can sometimes interfere with the scale’s readings, especially in dry environments. Using an anti-static brush or spray can help mitigate this issue.
Calibration: Regular calibration is essential to ensure the scale’s accuracy.

Pros and Cons of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro

Pros:

Accuracy: Provides accurate and consistent powder charges.
Efficiency: Automates the powder dispensing process, saving time and effort.
Programmability: Allows users to save specific charge weights for future use.
User-Friendly: The large LCD display and intuitive interface make it easy to use.
Overthrow Compensation: Improves accuracy by compensating for powder overthrow.

Cons:

Price: Can be relatively expensive compared to manual powder measures.
Powder Sensitivity: Performance can be affected by powder type and static electricity.
Calibration Requirement: Requires regular calibration to maintain accuracy.

Tips for Using the Hornady Auto Charge Pro

To get the most out of your Hornady Auto Charge Pro, consider the following tips:

Calibration: Calibrate the scale regularly, especially before each reloading session.
Powder Selection: Choose powders that flow smoothly through the dispenser.
Anti-Static Measures: Use an anti-static brush or spray to minimize static electricity.
Warm-Up Time: Allow the unit to warm up for a few minutes before use to ensure accurate readings.
Cleanliness: Keep the unit clean and free of powder residue.
Software Updates: Check for and install any available software updates to improve performance and address potential issues.

Alternatives to the Hornady Auto Charge Pro

While the Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a popular choice, several alternatives are available, including:

RCBS Chargemaster Link: Another popular electronic powder dispenser with similar features.
Lyman Gen6 Compact Touch Screen Powder System: A compact and user-friendly option with a touch screen interface.
Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper: An advanced powder dispensing system with smartphone connectivity.

When choosing an electronic powder dispenser, consider your budget, reloading needs, and desired features. [See also: Reloading Equipment Essentials] Each model has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to research and compare them carefully.

Is the Hornady Auto Charge Pro Right for You?

The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a valuable tool for reloaders who prioritize accuracy, consistency, and efficiency. Its automated dispensing system saves time and effort, while its programmable settings and overthrow compensation feature help ensure precise powder charges. However, it’s essential to consider its price, powder sensitivity, and calibration requirements before making a purchase. If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate electronic powder dispenser, the Hornady Auto Charge Pro is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion

The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a well-regarded electronic powder dispenser that offers a significant advantage to reloaders seeking precision and efficiency. While it may not be perfect for every reloading scenario, its accuracy, programmability, and user-friendly design make it a popular choice among both novice and experienced reloaders. By understanding its features, performance, pros, and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether the Hornady Auto Charge Pro is the right tool for your reloading needs. The Hornady Auto Charge Pro remains a strong contender in the market for precise powder dispensing. Investing in a Hornady Auto Charge Pro can streamline your reloading process and improve the consistency of your ammunition. The Hornady Auto Charge Pro is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders. The capabilities of the Hornady Auto Charge Pro make reloading more efficient. Consider the Hornady Auto Charge Pro for your reloading setup.