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Every grain matters when you are building ammunition. A charge that is off by two-tenths of a grain can shift your point of impact at distance, and a charge that is off by two grains can be downright dangerous. That is why finding the best reloading scales for your bench is not a luxury purchase but a safety decision.
Our team has spent years handloading for precision rifle matches, hunting rifles, and high-volume pistol ammo. We have used balance beam scales, pocket digitals, bench-top electronics, and automated dispensers across thousands of rounds. Along the way we learned what separates a scale you can trust from one that drifts, skips, or flat-out lies to you.
This guide covers 10 reloading scales ranging from budget pocket digitals to full electronic dispensing systems. We break down accuracy specs, real-world reliability, calibration requirements, and the trade-offs between speed and precision. Whether you are loading match-grade rifle ammo for PRS competition or cranking out practice rounds for your hunting rifle, we have a recommendation that fits your needs.
One thing we want to address right away: there is no single scale that works for everyone. A competition shooter who needs sub-0.05 grain consistency has very different requirements from a beginner who just wants to verify their powder measure is throwing consistent charges. We organized our picks by use case so you can find the right tool for your specific bench in 2026.
After testing all 10 scales on our bench, three stood out clearly from the pack. These picks represent the best balance of accuracy, build quality, and value across different reloading scenarios.
The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series took our editor’s choice slot because it delivers professional-grade accuracy and a complete accessory kit at a mid-range price. The DS-750 wins best value as a no-frills digital scale that just works. And the Lyman Gen6 earns premium pick status for reloaders ready to invest in automated dispensing.
Before we get into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of every scale we tested. This table lets you scan capacity, accuracy rating, and key features at a glance.
| Model | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Frankford Arsenal Platinum Precision |
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| Frankford Arsenal DS-750 |
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 Hornady G3-1500 Electronic |
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 Lyman Brass Smith 500 Mechanical |
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 RCBS M500 Mechanical |
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 Hornady Lock-N-Load Beam Scale |
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 Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Kit |
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 RCBS 1500 Grain Pocket Scale |
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 MAXUS Reloading Scale 50g |
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| Lyman Gen6 Digital Powder Measure |
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1500 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
3-point calibration
Dual power: AC or battery
The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Precision Scale is the first scale I reach for when accuracy is non-negotiable. I have run this unit alongside beam scales and more expensive digitals, and the readings match every single time. With over 4,100 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the community has validated what our bench testing confirmed.
What sets this scale apart from cheaper digitals is the 3-point calibration system. Frankford includes two calibration weights, and the multi-point process ensures accuracy across the entire weighing range rather than just at a single reference point. That matters when you are switching between a 25-grain pistol charge and a 75-grain rifle load in the same session.
The scale handles up to 1,500 grains, which covers any powder charge you will ever throw plus bullets, cases, and other components. The backlit display is readable in any lighting, and the stability indicator tells you when the reading has settled so you are not guessing.
The 3-point calibration is what sold me on this scale over the DS-750. Single-point calibration only verifies accuracy at one weight, usually around 50 grams. The Frankford Platinum lets you calibrate at multiple reference points, which catches drift across the full range. One user on a reloading forum mentioned leaving a 4.2-grain charge on the pan overnight with zero change in the reading, which speaks to the stability of the load cell.
The limited lifetime warranty adds peace of mind. Frankford Arsenal stands behind this product, and based on the overwhelmingly positive long-term reviews, they do not have to use it very often. The scale has been on the market since 2013 and still ranks among the top sellers, which tells you something about its staying power.
I appreciate the dual power design. You can run the scale off the included 110V adapter for bench sessions, or switch to 4 AAA batteries when you need portability. The 220V adapter is also included, making this a viable option for reloaders outside North America.
The molded plastic storage case keeps everything organized, and the included powder pan, protective cover, and calibration weights mean you have a complete weighing solution out of the box. No extra purchases needed.
This is our editor’s choice for a reason. It hits the sweet spot between price and performance that works for the vast majority of reloaders. If you load both pistol and rifle ammunition, want verified accuracy without spending premium money, and value a complete kit with warranty coverage, the Frankford Platinum is the scale to beat.
750 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Auto calibration
2 AAA battery powered
The Frankford Arsenal DS-750 proves you do not need to spend big money to get reliable powder measurements. At roughly a third the price of the Platinum Series, this little scale handles most reloading tasks with surprising competence. With over 4,400 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it is one of the most popular entry-level reloading scales on the market.
I keep a DS-750 in my range bag as a backup and field-verification tool. The 750-grain capacity covers all standard powder charges, and the 0.1-grain accuracy matches what you get from scales costing three times as much. For a reloader who primarily throws charges with a powder measure and just wants to verify consistency, this scale gets the job done.
The DS-750 registers weights faster than most pocket scales in this price range. The blue-backlit LCD is easy to read even in dim garage lighting, and the auto shut-off after 60 seconds helps preserve battery life. Some users wish the shut-off timer was longer, but for a budget scale this is a minor complaint.
The tare function works smoothly, letting you zero out your powder pan before adding powder. The counting function is a bonus if you sort bullets or cases by weight.
Here is where the budget price shows its limitations. The DS-750 is not ideal for trickling powder kernel by kernel. The load cell does not always register tiny incremental additions quickly enough for precision trickle work. If you hand-trickle every charge for match ammo, you will want the Platinum Series or a beam scale instead.
That said, for general reloading where you throw a charge with a measure and verify the total weight, the DS-750 is more than adequate. One reviewer with 24 years of reloading experience mentioned he bought this scale as a companion to his RCBS 10-10 beam scale and was pleasantly surprised by its performance.
This is the best reloading scale for beginners and budget-conscious reloaders. If you are just starting out, loading practice or hunting ammunition, and want a quick digital readout without investing heavily, the DS-750 delivers outstanding value. It also makes an excellent portable backup for experienced reloaders who already run a primary bench scale.
1500 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Constant readout to 500 grains
Compact pocket design
The Hornady G3-1500 caught our attention with its speed. This scale acquires weight readings noticeably faster than the Frankford and Lyman pocket scales we tested. If you are weighing bullets, cases, or verifying multiple charges quickly, that speed advantage adds up over a loading session.
Hornady built this scale with a precision load cell that delivers 1/10th grain accuracy and maintains a constant readout up to 500 grains. That constant-readout feature means you can watch the number climb as you trickle powder into the pan, which is essential for precision work.
The biggest complaint from users, and one we experienced firsthand, is that the G3-1500 is extremely sensitive to air currents. A ceiling fan, HVAC vent, or even walking past the bench can cause readings to fluctuate. Hornady includes a draft cover, and you should absolutely use it.
This sensitivity is actually a sign of a responsive load cell. The trade-off is that you need to control your environment. Set up the scale away from vents and fans, let it acclimate to room temperature before use, and use the included draft cover. Under those conditions, accuracy is excellent.
The G3-1500 has a compact footprint that takes up minimal bench space. It runs on two AAA batteries, making it truly portable. One user compared it against a 50-year-old Lyman balance beam scale and found the Hornady consistently within 0.1 grain.
The 1,500-grain capacity handles powder charges and component weighing with room to spare. The included 10-gram calibration weight, powder pan, and draft cover give you everything needed to start weighing immediately.
This scale is ideal for reloaders who prioritize speed and have a controlled bench environment. If your reloading area is away from drafts and temperature swings, the G3-1500 delivers fast, accurate readings in a compact package. It is also a great secondary scale for quick charge verification.
505 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Magnetic dampening
Aluminum body
The Lyman Brass Smith 500 is the mechanical scale I recommend when reloaders tell me their digital scale “gets moody.” That phrase comes directly from a verified purchaser who uses the Lyman as a trusted backup. Beam scales do not drift, do not need batteries, and do not require warm-up time. They just work.
Built on a sturdy aluminum body, the Brass Smith 500 reduces vibrations and provides a stable platform for weighing. The magnetic dampening system brings the beam to rest quickly, which is the feature that separates modern beam scales from the old ones that took forever to settle.
The beam is double-sided with black markings on a white background. This makes readings easy from any angle and in any lighting. The pan has two handles so both right-handed and left-handed reloaders can use it comfortably.
The 505-grain capacity covers all common powder charges. The scale reads in 0.1-grain increments, and with the magnetic dampening, settling time is reasonable for a beam scale.
A mechanical scale like the Brass Smith 500 excels as a verification tool. Even if you primarily use a digital scale, having a beam scale on your bench gives you a drift-free reference point. Many experienced reloaders on forums recommend exactly this approach: use a digital for speed, verify with a beam for certainty.
The main trade-off is speed. Weighing charges on a beam scale takes longer than reading a digital display. For high-volume reloading, this gets tedious. For precision work where you are carefully weighing each charge, the beam scale forces a deliberate pace that can actually improve consistency.
This is the best reloading scale for traditionalists and for anyone who wants a battery-free backup that will never drift. It is also an excellent choice for new reloaders learning the fundamentals, since the visual feedback of a balance beam teaches you about powder charges in a way a digital number cannot.
505 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Magnetic damping
Made in USA
RCBS has been making reloading equipment in America for 80 years, and the M500 mechanical scale carries that heritage. This is a die-cast, no-nonsense beam scale that does exactly what it promises: measures powder charges accurately without batteries, circuits, or warm-up periods.
With 337 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the M500 has a strong following among traditional reloaders. Users consistently praise the sensitivity and repeatability, noting that the beam swings freely without requiring the desk-tapping that older mechanical scales needed.
The magnetic damping system is what makes this scale practical for regular use. Without damping, beam scales oscillate for 20 or 30 seconds before settling. The RCBS magnetic damping brings the beam to rest in a fraction of that time, keeping your loading rhythm intact.
The die-cast base provides stability, and the metal pan is designed to resist tipping. The tip-proof pan is a thoughtful feature because a spilled powder pan on a beam scale is frustrating at best and a safety hazard at worst.
Some users report that the beam balance slopes toward the pointer from the factory and may need adjustment. A few noted linearity issues between 5 and 40 grains, meaning the scale might read accurately at the extremes but show slight deviation in the middle range.
These are not deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing. If you get an M500, verify its accuracy with check weights across your typical charge range. Most units are dead-on, but the occasional one needs a tweak.
This scale is the best reloading scale for reloaders who value American-made quality and want a mechanical scale from a brand with deep reloading roots. It pairs excellently with RCBS presses and equipment, and the community support and parts availability are strong.
500 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Magnetic dampener
Laser etched balance bar
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Beam Scale brings a precision engineering approach to the classic balance beam design. The laser-etched balance bar is the standout feature here. Unlike printed or painted markings that can flake and fade over decades of use, laser etching is permanent.
This scale has a 500-grain capacity with 0.1-grain sensitivity. Hornady equipped it with a magnetic dampener for faster readings and hardened pivot pins and bearings for smooth, consistent operation. With a limited lifetime warranty and USA manufacturing, this is a scale built to be passed down.
The laser-etched scale markings are a genuine advantage over time. I have seen beam scales where the painted numbers wore off after years of use and UV exposure, making readings guesswork. The Hornady solves this permanently.
The magnetic dampener brings the beam to rest efficiently. Users report consistent, repeatable measurements when the scale is set up on a stable surface away from air currents.
Like all mechanical scales, the Lock-N-Load requires a level, stable surface. The beam mechanism is sensitive to air currents, so avoid setting it near HVAC vents, fans, or drafty windows. Users who take the time to find the right spot for this scale report excellent accuracy.
The slightly lower 4.4-star rating compared to the RCBS M500 reflects a small number of users who had setup or calibration challenges. Most of these stem from environmental factors rather than the scale itself.
This is the best reloading scale for Hornady loyalists and for anyone who wants a beam scale with permanent laser-etched markings and a lifetime warranty. It is an excellent long-term investment for a permanent reloading bench.
1500 grain capacity
Touch screen controls
Lighted display
Kit with funnel pan and scoop
The Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Scale Kit is built for the reloader who wants everything in one box. Lyman includes the scale, a Powder Pal funnel pan, a powder scoop, and a calibration weight. For someone setting up their first reloading bench, this kit covers the essentials without nickel-and-diming you on accessories.
With 808 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the Pocket Touch 1500 has earned a solid reputation in the reloading community. The 1,500-grain capacity handles any powder charge you will encounter, and the touch screen controls make operation straightforward even for first-time reloaders.
The touch screen interface is a step up from button-based controls on competing pocket scales. The lighted display is visible in any lighting condition, from a brightly lit garage to a dimly lit basement workshop.
The scale measures in both grams and grains, which is useful if you work with load data from international sources that use metric units. The calibration function keeps readings honest, though you will want to calibrate regularly for best results.
Some users report sensitivity to electromagnetic interference, meaning the scale may fluctuate if placed near motors, fluorescent lights, or other electronic devices. This is not unique to Lyman, but it is worth noting if your bench has a lot of electrical equipment nearby.
A few users mentioned that the plastic covering can warp over time. Treat the scale gently and store it properly when not in use to maximize its lifespan.
This is the best reloading scale for new reloaders who want a complete kit at a reasonable price. The included accessories save you money and the touch screen makes operation intuitive. It is also a solid choice as a portable field scale.
1500 grain capacity
0.1 grain accuracy
Self-calibrating
Compact digital design
The RCBS 1500 Grain Pocket Scale brings RCBS quality to a compact, affordable digital format. With 263 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this scale serves reloaders who want RCBS reliability without the cost of a full bench system. The 1,500-grain capacity covers any standard powder charge, and the 0.1-grain accuracy is adequate for most reloading applications.
RCBS includes a powder pan, check weight, and batteries, so the scale is ready to use right out of the package. The self-calibration feature with the included weight simplifies maintenance, which is important because even the best digital scales need periodic calibration.
The pocket-sized form factor is where this scale shines. It fits in a drawer, a range bag, or even a large pocket. For reloaders who travel to different locations or want a verification scale at the range, the compact size is a real advantage.
The digital display is clear and easy to read, and the included batteries mean no delay between unboxing and first use.
The RCBS 1500 Pocket Scale has two notable limitations that came up consistently in reviews. First, some users report accuracy drift over time, meaning the scale may lose calibration after extended use. Periodic recalibration with the included check weight addresses this.
Second, the scale may skip 0.2-grain increments when trickling. This means as you add powder kernel by kernel, the display might jump from 29.8 to 30.0 without showing 29.9. For general reloading this is rarely an issue, but for precision trickle work it can be frustrating.
This is a solid choice for reloaders who need a portable, affordable digital scale from a trusted American brand. It works best as a verification tool or for general reloading rather than precision trickle weighing. The compact size and included accessories make it a convenient grab-and-go option.
50g capacity
0.001g accuracy
Powder trickler included
6 weighing units
The MAXUS Reloading Scale stands out immediately for one spec: 0.001g accuracy. That translates to approximately 0.015 grain resolution, which is finer than any other scale in this guide. If you want to see every single kernel of powder register on the display, this is the scale that does it.
With nearly 1,600 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the MAXUS has developed a strong following. The fact that it includes a powder trickler and two 20g calibration weights makes the package value exceptional for a precision instrument at this price point.
The 0.001g resolution is genuinely impressive at this price. In practical terms, it means you can watch individual powder kernels register on the display as you trickle. For reloaders who chase single-digit standard deviations in their loads, this level of visibility is valuable.
The 50g capacity equals approximately 771 grains. This covers all standard rifle and pistol powder charges. The six weighing units (g, oz, ozt, dwt, ct, gn) give you flexibility across different measurement systems.
The cycle mode is a standout feature for consistent tracking. It records consecutive measurements so you can review your charge history without writing down each number. The three backlight colors let you match your bench lighting or personal preference.
The included powder trickler pairs naturally with the high-resolution display. You can trickle directly onto the scale and watch each addition register in real time. The USB power option is convenient for bench use, while battery power keeps it portable.
This is the best reloading scale for precision-oriented reloaders on a budget. The 0.001g resolution, included trickler, and cycle tracking mode make it a powerful tool for anyone who wants lab-grade precision without the lab-grade price tag.
1500 grain capacity
Automated dispensing
0.1 grain consistent
Compact footprint with trap door
The Lyman Gen6 Digital Powder Measure represents a different category of tool. Rather than just weighing powder, this device dispenses it automatically to your specified charge weight. For high-volume reloaders, this is a workflow-changing investment that can save hours of manual trickling.
With 780 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the Gen6 has proven itself in reloading rooms across the country. Users consistently praise its accuracy, typically delivering charges within 0.1 grain of the target. The automated dispensing mode handles the entire throw-and-trickle process hands-free.
The Gen6 measures powder charges accurately across various powder types, from fine ball powders to medium extruded powders. The auto-dispensing mode throws a fast initial charge and then trickles the final few tenths of a grain with precision. Most charges complete in under 30 seconds.
The system measures consistently within 0.1 grain, which meets the accuracy requirements of the vast majority of reloaders. For competition shooters who need even tighter tolerances, periodic verification with a beam scale or high-resolution digital is recommended.
The compact footprint is a pleasant surprise for a device that does so much. The Gen6 takes up less bench space than you might expect, and the aluminum construction feels solid and durable. The trap door system makes cleaning and powder changes quick and easy.
One consideration is that extruded stick powders can be finicky. Some users report that longer stick powders like H4350 may require adjustment or slower dispensing speeds. Ball powders and short-cut extruded powders work smoothly without intervention.
This is the best reloading scale and dispenser combination for serious reloaders who load significant volume and want to automate the charge-weighing process. If you reload for multiple calibers, load batches of 100-plus rounds at a time, or simply value your time, the Gen6 pays for itself in convenience and consistency.
Choosing from the best reloading scales requires understanding your specific needs, your budget, and the trade-offs between different scale technologies. Here is what matters most when making your decision.
Digital scales use load cells that convert pressure into electronic readings. They are fast, easy to read, and often include features like tare functions and multiple measurement units. However, they can drift over time, require periodic calibration, and are sensitive to environmental factors like temperature and air currents.
Mechanical beam scales rely on physics rather than electronics. A known weight balances against your powder charge on a calibrated beam. Beam scales never drift, never need batteries, and provide absolute reference measurements. The trade-off is slower operation and the need for manual reading.
Many experienced reloaders run both. They use a digital scale for speed during loading sessions and verify periodically with a beam scale. If you can only choose one, digital makes sense for most reloaders due to the speed advantage. If you load precision match ammunition and value certainty over speed, a beam scale is the better choice.
Capacity determines the maximum weight the scale can measure. For powder charges, any scale with at least 500-grain capacity handles common loads. If you also weigh bullets and brass cases, look for 1,000 grains or more.
Resolution is the smallest increment the scale can display. Standard reloading scales offer 0.1-grain resolution, which is adequate for nearly all reloading applications. For ultra-precision work, scales like the MAXUS with 0.001g resolution (approximately 0.015 grain) provide visibility into even single kernel additions.
Do not confuse resolution with accuracy. A scale that displays 0.01 grain but is only accurate to 0.1 grain gives false precision. Look for verified accuracy, not just impressive display numbers.
This is an area where many reloading scale reviews fall short. Environmental factors dramatically affect digital scale accuracy, yet few guides address it. Temperature changes, air currents, vibration, and electromagnetic interference can all cause readings to fluctuate.
Based on forum discussions and our own testing, here are the rules for environmental stability. Let your digital scale warm up for 5 to 10 minutes before use, especially if it was stored in a different temperature environment. Keep scales away from HVAC vents, fans, and open windows. Avoid placing scales on surfaces that vibrate from nearby equipment. Use draft shields when available.
Beam scales are less affected by temperature but still sensitive to air currents and surface level. Always ensure your bench is level when using any scale.
Calibration is the single most important maintenance task for any reloading scale. Digital scales should be calibrated at the start of each loading session using check weights. This takes 30 seconds and catches drift before it ruins a batch of ammunition.
Forum consensus among experienced reloaders is clear on one point: invest in check weights. Even if your scale includes a calibration weight, having independent check weights in your typical charge range lets you verify accuracy at the weights that matter most to you.
For long-term reliability, look at the warranty and brand reputation. RCBS, Hornady, Frankford Arsenal, and Lyman all have established service networks and replacement parts availability. A lifetime warranty, like those offered by Frankford Arsenal and Hornady on select models, provides long-term confidence.
Budget scales under $50 like the Frankford DS-750, MAXUS, and Lyman Pocket Touch deliver surprising accuracy for general reloading. They are best for beginners, backup use, and reloaders who throw charges with a measure and verify totals. Expect occasional recalibration needs and some limitations with precision trickling.
Mid-range scales from $50 to $120 like the Frankford Platinum, Hornady G3-1500, and beam scales from RCBS and Hornady offer better build quality, more features, and stronger warranties. This is the sweet spot for most serious reloaders who want reliable daily performance.
Premium dispensing systems like the Lyman Gen6 represent a category investment. These devices automate the dispensing process, saving significant time for high-volume reloaders. The investment makes sense if you reload regularly and value the workflow efficiency.
The most accurate reloading scale for most reloaders is the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Precision Scale, which offers verified 0.1-grain accuracy with 3-point calibration. For extreme precision beyond 0.1 grain, the Au0026amp;D FX-120i is the community gold standard among PRS competition shooters, though it costs significantly more. The MAXUS scale offers 0.001g resolution for budget-conscious precision reloaders.
RCBS, Hornady, Frankford Arsenal, and Lyman are the most trusted brands for reloading scale accuracy. RCBS and Hornady beam scales are made in America with decades of engineering heritage. Frankford Arsenal leads in digital scale value and features. Lyman offers reliable options across both digital and mechanical categories. For lab-grade precision, Au0026amp;D is the community standard.
Digital and beam scales can both achieve 0.1-grain accuracy. Digital scales are faster and easier to read but can drift over time and are sensitive to temperature and air currents. Beam scales never drift and need no batteries, making them more reliable as long-term reference tools. Many experienced reloaders use a digital scale for speed and a beam scale for verification.
For beginners, the Frankford Arsenal DS-750 or Lyman Pocket Touch 1500 Kit are excellent affordable starting points. For most reloaders, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series offers the best balance of accuracy and value. For precision shooters, a beam scale like the RCBS M500 or Hornady Lock-N-Load provides drift-free reference measurements. For high-volume reloaders, the Lyman Gen6 automated dispenser saves significant time.
Digital reloading scales should be calibrated at the start of each loading session using the included calibration weight or independent check weights. This 30-second process catches any drift that occurred during storage. Mechanical beam scales should be zeroed before each use and checked periodically with known weights. Always recalibrate if the scale is moved to a new location or after any impact.
After testing 10 scales across multiple categories, our recommendations come down to what you load and how you work. If you want one scale that handles everything with verified accuracy and a lifetime warranty, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Precision Scale is our editor’s choice. It balances precision, features, and value better than anything else we tested.
For budget-conscious reloaders, the Frankford Arsenal DS-750 delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost. For precision shooters who trust mechanical instruments, the RCBS M500 and Hornady Lock-N-Load beam scales offer drift-free American-made reliability. And for high-volume reloaders ready to automate, the Lyman Gen6 dispensing system transforms your workflow.
The most important thing is not which scale you choose but that you use it consistently and calibrate it regularly. Even the best reloading scale only works if you trust it, verify it, and maintain it. Invest in check weights, control your bench environment, and make calibration part of your routine. Your ammunition, and your safety, depend on it.
