The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is a specialized high-volume charging system engineered specifically for the unique volumetric demands of large-capacity magnum cartridges. Unlike standard measures that struggle with the massive powder charges required for long-range hunting and heavy tactical rounds, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 features a modified internal geometry and an extra-large powder bar designed to drop heavy charges with precision and speed. Built for seamless integration into Dillon’s most popular progressive platforms, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 allows shooters to produce match-grade magnum ammunition at a rate far exceeding manual trickling methods.
- Tool Category: Case-Activated Progressive Powder Measure
- Operation Type: Automatic (Press-Actuated)
- Mechanical Standout: Extra-large “Magnum” powder bar for high-volume volumetric drops
Best For: High-volume magnum reloaders who need to load cartridges like 300 Winchester Magnum or 338 Lapua Magnum on a progressive press without sacrificing charge consistency.
Technical Specifications & Market Pricing
The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is constructed with the same industrial-grade materials that have made Dillon a household name in the reloading community.
| Field | Value |
| Model | Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 |
| MPN | 20700 |
| Materials | Cast Aluminum Body / Polished Steel Slide Bar |
| Weight (lbs) | 2.2 lbs |
| MSRP | $145.00 |
| Approx. Street Price | $130.00-145.00 |
Pricing Analysis
The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 represents an essential upgrade for any progressive reloader moving into the magnum sphere. While the initial investment is moderate, the value is found in the specialized “Magnum” powder bar, which is capable of dropping charges that standard bars simply cannot reach. In the 2024-2026 market, this tool remains the definitive choice for Dillon owners, as third-party magnum measures rarely offer the same “plug-and-play” compatibility with the Dillon failsafe return system.
Build Quality, Materials, and Ergonomics
The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 utilizes a heavy-duty cast aluminum housing that acts as a heat sink to minimize static build-up, a common issue when using large volumes of powder. The internal slide bar is made of precision-ground steel, ensuring that the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 provides a smooth, repeatable stroke even when shearing through large-grained extruded propellants like Hodgdon H1000 or Alliant Reloder 25.
Ergonomics and Mechanical Advantage
As an automatic, case-activated tool, the ergonomics of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 are tied directly to the press operation. The mechanical advantage is provided by the press’s linkage, which actuates the powder bar as the case is raised into the station. This ensures that a charge is only dropped when a case is present, preventing spills and mess. The “failsafe” return rod system on the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 provides positive mechanical return, ensuring the bar reset is never dependent solely on spring tension—a critical safety feature when loading high-pressure magnum rounds.
Comprehensive Setup, Calibration, and Operation
To ensure the highest level of safety and precision with the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550, follow these setup steps:
- Mounting: Install the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 onto the powder die of your RL550, XL650, XL750, or BL550 press.
- Failsafe Installation: Attach the failsafe return rod to the press linkage. This rod is the “brain” of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550, ensuring the powder bar returns fully after every stroke.
- Powder Bar Adjustment: Use the adjustment bolt at the end of the magnum powder bar to set your desired weight. For magnum charges, always verify the weight using a scale like the Dillon Precision D-Terminator Electronic Powder Scale 1500 Grain Capacity.
- Initial Cleaning: Before use, clean the interior of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 with a residue-free solvent to remove any factory oils.
- Operation: Run a few cases through to settle the powder column. The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 works most consistently when the press is operated with a steady, rhythmic cadence.
Maintenance
Periodically check the failsafe rod for proper tension. The powder bar of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 should be kept dry; avoid any liquid lubricants, as they will cause powder to bridge and stick. A light dusting of powdered graphite can be used if the bar movement feels stiff.
Internal Brand Hierarchy
Dillon Precision offers a specific hierarchy of measures tailored to different press configurations and volume needs:
- Standard Level: The Dillon Precision Case Activated Powder Measure Assembly RL550, XL650, XL750 is the go-to for standard rifle and pistol cartridges.
- Magnum Level: The subject Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 features the oversized bar required for belted magnum cases and ultra-high volume rifle charges.
- Commercial Level: The Dillon Precision Powder Measure 1050, RL1100 is optimized for the faster cycle rates of commercial-grade presses.
Competitive Market Analysis
The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 exists in a market where aftermarket upgrades are common, yet it remains the baseline for Dillon users.
1. Hornady Lock-N-Load 50 BMG Powder Measure
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 50 BMG Powder Measure is one of the few measures that can out-volume the Dillon. However, it requires significant modification to fit a Dillon press, whereas the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is ready out of the box.
2. Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure
The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is a manual bench measure that offers slightly higher ultimate precision but lacks the automated speed of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550.
3. RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure 3
The RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure 3 can be adapted for case-activation, but the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 offers a more integrated and reliable failsafe system for progressive press enthusiasts.
4. Frankford Arsenal Progressive Press Case Activated Powder Measure
The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Press Case Activated Powder Measure is a budget-friendly alternative. While functional, it does not possess the “no-BS” lifetime warranty or the heavy-duty slide bar construction of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Dillon Belted Magnum | Redding LR-1000 | Hornady 50 BMG | Frankford Arsenal |
| Operation | Case-Activated | Manual | Case-Activated | Case-Activated |
| Max Charge | ~120+ Grains | ~140 Grains | ~265 Grains | ~100 Grains |
| Frame | Cast Aluminum | Cast Iron | Cast Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Price Class | Premium | High-Premium | Premium | Mid-Range |
Real-World Feedback & Troubleshooting
Reloaders frequently report that the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is one of the only progressive measures that can handle 338 Winchester Magnum charges without leaking.
Pros
- Exceptional reliability with the failsafe rod system.
- Large hopper capacity allows for long sessions between refills.
- Handles magnum charges up to 120 grains with ease.
Cons
- The large powder bar can be “clunky” when cutting very large extruded grains.
- Requires a dedicated powder die for each toolhead to maximize speed.
- More expensive than aftermarket universal measures.
Troubleshooting
- Short Charges: Ensure the failsafe rod is properly adjusted. If the rod doesn’t pull the bar back fully, the next charge in the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 will be light.
- Powder Leaking: Usually caused by using ultra-fine ball powders like Ramshot Magnum. Ensure the powder bar is clean and the tensioning screw is snug.
- Static Build-up: If powder sticks to the hopper walls of the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550, wipe the reservoir with a dryer sheet.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 for 9mm loads?
A: No, the magnum bar is far too large for pistol charges. You would need the Dillon Precision Case Activated Powder Measure Assembly RL550, XL650, XL750 with a small powder bar for that.
Q: What is the maximum charge this measure can throw?
A: Depending on the powder density, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 can reliably drop between 110 and 125 grains.
Q: Does it include the failsafe rod?
A: Yes, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 comes with the complete failsafe return kit.
Q: Is it compatible with the new XL750?
A: Absolutely. Despite the name, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is fully compatible with the XL750 press.
Q: How do I handle Hodgdon Retumbo?
A: Since Hodgdon Retumbo has very large grains, operate the press smoothly to allow the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 to shear the grains consistently.
Q: Does it work with the Dillon Precision Super Swage 600 Primer Pocket Swager?
A: These are separate tools; the swager is for case prep, while the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is for the charging stage on the press.
Q: Can I use this with Alliant Reloder 22?
A: Yes, it is excellent for throwing large charges of Alliant Reloder 22 for magnum rifle rounds.
Q: Does it fit the BL550?
A: Yes, the Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is specifically listed for the BL550 platform.
Conclusion & Expert Verdict
The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 is the gold standard for high-speed magnum reloading. It takes the guesswork out of high-volume charging by providing a mechanically linked, failsafe system that is specifically tuned for the large-bore requirements of magnum cases. While it is a specialized tool, its performance with cartridges like 7mm Remington Magnum and 300 PRC is unparalleled on a progressive press.
Expert Pro Tip: For the most consistent magnum charges, always keep the hopper of your Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 at least half full. The weight of the powder column provides the necessary downward pressure to ensure the magnum bar fills completely every time.
