Redding model 3 powder thrower: interchangable chamber?

[bakereloadprune]

Hello everyone - I've been a long time lurker and recent joiner, really appreciate all the knowledge and experience I've been able to access in these forums.

I have a quick question that I can't seem to find an answer to here or elsewhere: In short, I have been kindly gifted a model 3 classic powder measure with pistol metering chamber (0-10gr). The box notes there is a different chamber for rifles (and can be purchased for £70). I want to know if a Match-Grade Model 3BR chamber will fit this, as I want to load rifle calibers. Call me "thrifty" (or worse), I see a number of used Redding models (3BR etc)
on the 'bay and thought it would be a good way to get a backup or second setup over time.

I've sent a message to Redding last week, alas no response so far. Wondering if anyone has any experience with them? I read that the barrel is honed to each dispenser so that's a no-no but not sure about the micrometer part...

Many thanks in advance if anyone has some info!

Bakereloadprune

 

[Muir]

I cannot speak for interchangeable chambers but in my experience, I would avoid putting too much money into a Redding measure. I bought the Match Grade version and have never been able to meter accurate charges with any but the finest powders. In fact, my measure is labeled: "For pistol powders only", just in case one of my visiting reloader friends gets the idea to use it for rifle powders/charges. I think the price on this unit was just under $300 and hardly worth it. JMHO ~Muir

 

[bakereloadprune]

Thanks Muir, point noted. Exactly how/why I'm trying to keep the costs down right now. Luckily I have a beam balance scale and a digital scale, plus dippers to get my feet wet without too much outlay. Fingers crossed the metering chamber can be swapped out across the models.

Getting hold of the right powders and primers is the next task, though from my calls around it's not empty shelves just yet...

Once I hear back from Redding I'll update the post again.

Bakeprunereload

 

[crow juice]

I have had a similar experience with my Redding as MUIR . It gives consistent charges with ball bowders and that is about it . If you use extruded powders you need to throw a lite charge and dribble up to the desired weight. I have had decent results with the cheap Lee Perfect Powder Measure which here in the US is about $35.

I use my Redding these days for loading 223's with Ramshot Xterminator( a fine ball powder ) and it does this job well.

Like all the Redding Equipment I have the 3BR is beautifully made from premium materials . If you are going to get a press you might look a The Boss which is their small press. It is a very well made piece of equipment that is not discussed often and it's small size makes it optimum for a guy with limited space ( it will easily load ammo in the 7mm Rem Mag length range). On the used market an Old RCBS jr would be a good choice.

 

[Kiwiguy]

Redding state in their catalogue that the Model 3BR Pistol and Universal metering chambers only fit the 3BR powder measure. For your Model 3 Classic you would need the specific model for that measure.