The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is a versatile and precision-engineered mechanical tool designed to deliver consistent volumetric powder charges for both handgun and rifle cartridges. Built to accommodate a wide range of reloading needs, it can meter powder from light-weight pistol charges (approximately 0.5 grains) up to large rifle charges (up to 150 grains) without the need for swapping internal parts or disassembling the unit. This “all-in-one” capability is made possible by a specialized metering insert that features a sliding rod for coarse adjustments and a micrometer thimble for fine-tuning, providing a level of adaptability that is uncommon in its price class.
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is engineered for high accuracy, maintaining a charge consistency of approximately +/- 0.1 to 0.3 grains depending on the powder type used. Its robust construction – featuring a CNC-machined steel cylinder – ensures that it remains a durable fixture on the reloading bench for years. Designed for ease of use, it can be mounted to standard presses or a dedicated stand, making it an excellent choice for single-stage and turret press users who prioritize speed and repeatability.
- Tool Category – Mechanical Volumetric Powder Measure
- Operation Type – Manual crank-operated rotating drum with adjustable chamber
- Mechanical Standout – CNC-machined steel metering cylinder with a dual-adjustment micrometer thimble
Best For: The versatile reloader who works with a wide variety of calibers and requires a single, durable tool capable of handling everything from sub-1-grain pistol loads to massive magnum rifle charges with high repeatability.
Technical Specifications & Market Pricing
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is built with industrial-grade materials to ensure long-term performance and high precision.
| Field | Value |
| Model | Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure |
| MPN | 7767700 |
| Materials | Cast aluminum frame, CNC-machined steel cylinder/chamber, clear polymer reservoir |
| Weight (lbs) | ~1.5 lbs (Shipping weight: 3.25 lbs) |
| MSRP | $94.95 |
| Approx. Street Price | $65.00-75.00 |
Pricing Analysis
While the MSRP for the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is listed at $94.95, it is almost universally available at a street price between $65.00 and $75.00 at major retailers like MidwayUSA, Brownells, and Titan Reloading. This makes it a highly competitive option in the mid-range market, offering precision and build quality that typically rivals units costing significantly more. Its value is further enhanced by the inclusion of a powder baffle and two drop tubes as standard equipment, which are often sold as separate accessories for other measures.
Build Quality, Materials, and Ergonomics
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is characterized by its solid, all-metal construction for the main working components. The frame is made of die-cast aluminum, finished in a bright orange powder coat that matches the rest of the Brass Smith series.
Ergonomics and Versatility
A standout feature of the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is its ambidextrous design. The metering cylinder and handle can be easily reversed for left-handed or right-handed use, and the handle itself can be mounted at six different angles to suit the reloader’s preference and comfort during long sessions. The micrometer adjustment thimble is laser-engraved with reference lines, making it easy to return to specific settings for different cartridges, such as 308 Winchester or 9mm Luger.
Comprehensive Setup, Calibration, and Operation
To achieve the best results with the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure, proper installation and “seasoning” are essential.
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Press or Stand Mounting: The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure features standard 7/8-14 threads. Screw it into a standard reloading press or a dedicated stand, such as the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure Stand.
- Drop Tube Selection: Choose the appropriate drop tube for the caliber you are loading (small for pistol, large for rifle) and secure it to the base of the measure.
- Cleaning: Before the first use, thoroughly clean the steel cylinder and internal metering chamber with a solvent to remove factory oils, which can cause powder to stick.
- Calibration: Fill the hopper with powder, such as Hodgdon Varget or Alliant Unique, and ensure the powder baffle is in place. Throw 10-20 initial charges to settle the powder column before verifying the weight with a scale like the Lyman Brass Smith 500 Balance Beam Mechanical Powder Scale.
Maintenance
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure requires minimal maintenance beyond keeping the moving parts clear of powder dust. If the steel cylinder starts to feel stiff, a small amount of dry graphite can be used to ensure smooth rotation.
Internal Brand Hierarchy
Within Lyman’s powder handling lineup, the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is the modern, versatile standard.
- Lyman E-ZEE Flo Universal Adjustable Powder Trickler: A basic manual trickler for fine-weight adjustments.
- Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure: The primary volumetric tool for high-speed rifle and pistol reloading.
- Lyman No. 55 Powder Measure: A classic design that has been in production for decades. While the No. 55 features a “knocker” for consistency, the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is often preferred for its ambidextrous handle and more modern adjustment system.
Competitive Market Analysis
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure competes with several established manual measures.
Deep Dive into Competitors
- RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure 3: A legendary competitor. While both are highly accurate, the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure often comes in at a lower street price while providing similar features like the micrometer adjustment.
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure: Known for its quick-change metering inserts. The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure differs by using a single, widely adjustable insert that covers all calibers, which some reloaders find more convenient.
- Lee Deluxe Perfect Powder Measure: An affordable alternative. The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is generally considered to have superior build quality, featuring a steel cylinder instead of the plastic-on-plastic interfaces found in many budget models.
- Redding 3 Powder Measure with Universal Metering Chamber: A high-end tool. While Redding is often the choice for extreme precision, the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure provides a significant percentage of that performance for roughly half the price.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Lyman Brass Smith | RCBS Uniflow 3 | Hornady L-N-L | Lee Perfect |
| Material | Machined Steel | Cast Iron/Steel | Cast Iron | Plastic/Metal |
| Adjustment | Dual Micrometer | Micrometer (Opt) | Interchangeable | Micrometer |
| Range (Grains) | 0.5-150 | 0.5-100 | 1.0-100 | 2.0-100 |
| Ambidextrous | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Real-World Feedback & Troubleshooting
Users frequently praise the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure for its consistency with ball powders like Winchester 748 or Hodgdon CFE Pistol.
Pros
- Broad metering range (0.5 to 150 grains) eliminates the need for separate pistol/rifle chambers.
- Included powder baffle significantly improves consistency by maintaining even pressure on the metering cylinder.
- High-quality steel and aluminum construction for the price.
Cons
- Manual operation only; not designed for automated press activation.
- Like most drum measures, it can “crunch” long-grain extruded powders like IMR 4064.
Troubleshooting: 3 Technical Quirks
- Setting Screw Loosening: Some users report that the screw opposite the handle can back off during long sessions. Expert Workaround: Apply a tiny amount of blue thread-locker (Loctite) to this screw once the handle is in your preferred position.
- Hopper Emptying: The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure lacks a shut-off valve, which can make emptying the hopper tricky. Expert Workaround: Use the quick-detach nut to remove the entire measure from the press stand and pour it back into the powder bottle.
- Fine Powder Binding: If using extremely fine powders, some granules can migrate between the drum and the frame. Ensure the tension screw is properly adjusted – tight enough to prevent leakage but loose enough for smooth rotation.
FAQ
Q: Is the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure actually made of brass?
A: Despite the name, the main body is die-cast aluminum and the internal cylinder is machined steel. The “Brass Smith” refers to the brand line.
Q: Can I use this with black powder?
A: Because of its steel and aluminum construction, it is safer for black powder than plastic measures, though some specialized black powder measures use aluminum hoppers to further reduce static.
Q: Does it work on progressive presses?
A: Not easily. It is strictly a manual-throw measure and lacks the case-activation linkage required for most progressives.
Q: How accurate is it with Varget?
A: Testing with Hodgdon Varget shows a consistency of approximately +/- 0.2 to 0.3 grains, which is typical for mechanical drum measures.
Q: Do I need to buy a separate micrometer?
A: No, the micrometer adjustment is a standard, built-in feature of the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure.
Q: What calibers do the drop tubes cover?
A: The two included drop tubes cover the full range of standard calibers from .17 up to .45 and larger.
Q: Can it be mounted to a wall?
A: The measure itself cannot, but the Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure Stand features mounting lugs that allow it to be bolted to a wall or a bench-top.
Conclusion & Expert Verdict
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is an exceptional value for reloaders who want a single, high-quality tool for all their volumetric needs. Its ability to throw both tiny pistol charges and large rifle charges with the same hardware is a significant workflow advantage. While it lacks the “knocker” of the older No. 55 or the automated convenience of press-activated systems, its accuracy, durability, and ambidextrous features make it a top choice for traditional bench reloading.
Expert Pro Tip: To ensure the most consistent charges, develop a rhythmic “double-tap” at the end of the throw stroke. This vibration helps clear any powder bridged in the drop tube and ensures the metering chamber is completely empty for every round.
