The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is a dedicated, case-activated charging system engineered exclusively for the Dillon Square Deal B progressive press. Unlike universal measures that prioritize broad compatibility across multiple brands, the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is a specialized component designed to fit the unique, smaller-diameter toolhead and proprietary dies of the Square Deal B platform. This assembly is the heart of the press’s automated operation, combining powder dispensing and case-mouth belling into a single, synchronized station to maximize efficiency for high-volume handgun reloaders.
- Tool Category: Case-Activated Progressive Powder Measure
- Operation Type: Automatic (Press-Actuated)
- Mechanical Standout: Proprietary body collar and integrated case-expanding system
Best For: High-volume handgun reloaders using the Square Deal B press who require a dedicated, “set-it-and-forget-it” charging system for specific pistol calibers.
Technical Specifications & Market Pricing
The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B utilizes a high-strength casting and precision-machined steel internal bars to maintain a volumetric accuracy of within +/- 0.1 grains.
| Field | Value |
| Model | Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B |
| MPN | 20001 |
| Materials | Cast Metal Body / Polished Steel Powder Bars |
| Weight (lbs) | 2.2 lbs |
| MSRP | $149.00 |
| Approx. Street Price | $135.00-149.00 |
Pricing Analysis
The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is priced as a premium component, reflecting its role as a critical sub-assembly for an automated press. In the 2024-2026 market, users often find that purchasing the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B as part of a “Quick Change” kit provides the best value, as it allows for caliber swaps without re-adjusting the powder bar settings. While standalone units are available, most Square Deal B owners prefer having a dedicated Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B for each caliber they frequently load, such as 9mm Luger or 45 ACP.
Build Quality, Materials, and Ergonomics
The build of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is centered on industrial durability. The main body is a heavy-duty casting that resists the thermal expansion and contraction that can cause cheaper plastic measures to drift in accuracy. Internally, the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B uses a horizontal slide bar system. This design is particularly effective for handgun powders, as it minimizes the “powder crunching” often associated with rotary drum measures when using large-flake propellants like Alliant Unique.
Ergonomics and Mechanical Advantage
Because it is an automatic system, the ergonomics of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B are defined by the press’s handle stroke. The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B features a “Harley-style” shifter linkage in its modern iteration, which provides a positive mechanical “clunk” at the top of the stroke. This vibration is actually a design feature; it helps settle the powder in the bar for a more consistent volumetric fill. The adjustment bolt on the powder bar is accessed from the side, allowing the user to tune charges for 38 Special or 357 Magnum with a standard wrench.
Comprehensive Setup, Calibration, and Operation
Setup of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is specific to the SDB toolhead and cannot be performed on standard 7/8-14 presses without modification.
- Die Installation: Ensure the Square Deal B powder die is correctly installed in station two of the toolhead.
- Mounting the Measure: Slide the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B over the top of the powder die. Secure it using the single-screw body collar clamp specific to the Square Deal B.
- Failsafe Rod Assembly: Insert the failsafe return rod through the slotted hole in the lock-link of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B. Connect the bottom of the rod to the spent primer bracket.
- Wing Nut Adjustment: With the press handle pushed forward (simulating primer seating), tighten the blue wing nut on the failsafe rod until the spring is compressed enough that a business card barely fits between the coils. This ensures the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B bar returns fully every time.
- Belling the Case: Adjust the depth of the powder die to achieve the desired amount of case-mouth flare. This is critical for smooth bullet seating in later stations.
- Calibration: Fill the hopper with powder, such as Winchester 231 or Hodgdon Titegroup. Throw at least 10 charges to settle the column before verifying the weight on a scale.
Maintenance
Maintain the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B by keeping the steel powder bar clean and dry. Periodically wipe the interior of the hopper with an anti-static cloth to prevent powder sticking. If the bar of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B feels sticky, disassemble the unit and clean the metal-to-metal contact surfaces with a residue-free solvent or 100% alcohol.
Internal Brand Hierarchy
Dillon Precision maintains a strict hierarchy for its automated powder measures based on the specific press frame size:
- Proprietary Level: The subject Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is built only for the SDB press due to its unique mounting collar.
- Standard Level: The Dillon Precision Case Activated Powder Measure Assembly RL550, XL650, XL750 uses a larger body collar for standard powder dies.
- Magnum Level: The Dillon Precision Belted Magnum Powder Measure RL550, XL650, BL550 includes an extra-large powder bar for high-volume rifle charges.
- Commercial Level: The Dillon Precision Powder Measure 1050, RL1100 is optimized for the high speeds of commercial-grade automation.
Competitive Market Analysis
The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B occupies a niche market because the SDB press does not easily accept third-party measures.
1. Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is a versatile competitor for standard presses. However, it uses a rotary drum which some believe is more sensitive to “clogging” with certain powders than the slide bar of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B.
2. RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure 3
The RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure 3 is a cast-iron staple. While it offers great precision, it requires a significant amount of aftermarket linkage to match the automated speed provided by the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B on a progressive platform.
3. Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool
While not a powder measure, the Lee Auto Bench Priming Tool represents the budget-focused design philosophy of the Lee brand. In contrast, the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is built for industrial-scale handgun loading with a life-time “No-B.S.” warranty.
4. Redding Competition PR-50 Powder Measure
The Redding Competition PR-50 Powder Measure is a manual bench measure with a focus on match-grade rifle precision. The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is focused strictly on the speed and reliability required for pistol competition rounds.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Dillon SDB Assembly | Hornady L-N-L | RCBS Uniflow 3 | Redding PR-50 |
| Activation | Case-Activated | Case or Manual | Case or Manual | Manual |
| Compatibility | Square Deal B ONLY | Universal | Universal | Universal |
| Metering Type | Horizontal Slide Bar | Rotary Drum | Rotary Drum | Rotary Drum |
| Price Class | Premium | Mid-High | Mid-Range | High-Premium |
Real-World Feedback & Troubleshooting
Experienced users of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B often refer to it as “the little engine that could,” noting its reliability for hundreds of thousands of rounds.
Pros
- Extremely consistent with ball powders like Winchester 231.
- Integrated belling and charging reduces the number of stations required on the press.
- Heavy-duty casting ensures the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B survives decades of use.
Cons
- Adjusting the powder charge on the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B can be “fiddly” compared to micrometer systems.
- The “clunking” sound of the failsafe rod can be annoying to new users, although it is mechanically beneficial.
- Limited primarily to pistol-sized powder charges.
Troubleshooting
- Inconsistent Charges: Usually caused by the powder bar not returning fully. Tighten the blue wing nut on the failsafe rod of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B to increase return tension.
- Powder Spillage: Ensure the hopper lid of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is on tight; the mechanical vibration of the press can cause powder to “jump” out of the reservoir.
- Over-Belling Cases: If the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is flaring the case mouth too much, the powder die is set too low. Back the die out of the toolhead in 1/8-turn increments.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B on an XL750?
A: No, the body collar is too small for XL750 powder dies. You would need the Dillon Precision Case Activated Powder Measure Assembly RL550, XL650, XL750.
Q: What is the range of the small powder bar?
A: The small bar installed in the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B throws from 2.1 to 15 grains of powder.
Q: Does it work with Trail Boss?
A: Fluffy powders like Trail Boss can sometimes bridge in the smaller cavities of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B. Consistent handle operation is key.
Q: Is a large powder bar included?
A: Yes, the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B ships with both a small and a large powder bar. The large bar covers 15 to 60 grains.
Q: How do I handle static electricity?
A: Wipe the reservoir of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B with a dryer sheet or apply a light coating of powdered graphite.
Q: Can I add a micrometer to the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B?
A: Yes, several aftermarket companies produce micrometer adjustment knobs that replace the standard bolt for faster adjustments.
Q: Does it fit 32 S&W Long?
A: Yes, the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is compatible with the SDB caliber conversion for 32 S&W Long.
Q: Is the hopper compatible with the Low Powder Sensor?
A: Yes, the standard Dillon Low Powder Sensor can be mounted on the hopper lid of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B.
Conclusion & Expert Verdict
The Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B is an indispensable component for any Square Deal B owner, offering a level of integrated performance that universal measures cannot match. Its specialized design ensures that powder charging and case-mouth preparation are handled with mechanical precision, freeing the reloader to focus on station monitoring and overall safety. While it is limited to the SDB frame, its reliability and simplicity make it one of the most effective automated handgun charging systems ever produced.
Expert Pro Tip: To achieve the absolute best consistency with the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B, always turn the adjustment bolt clockwise when making your final setting. This removes any mechanical “slop” in the threads and ensures the bar of the Dillon Precision Powder Measure Assembly Square Deal B stays exactly where you set it throughout the duration of your loading session.
