The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is a specialized precision instrument engineered specifically for the extreme volume requirements of long range shooting. As the sport of precision rifle shooting has evolved toward larger magnum cartridges, the need for a measure that can handle massive charges with the accuracy of a benchrest tool has become paramount. The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure addresses this by scaling up the proven mechanical precision of Redding’s competition line to accommodate the heavy powder columns required for consistent long-range performance.
- Tool Category – Mechanical Powder Measure.
- Operation Type – Manual Drum with Micrometer Metering.
- Mechanical Standout – Oversized metering chamber designed to accurately throw charges up to 140 grains.
Best For: The dedicated long-range or ELR (Extreme Long Range) shooter who needs to throw high-volume powder charges for large magnum cases without sacrificing the micrometer precision typically reserved for smaller calibers.
Technical Specifications & Market Pricing
The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is built with heavy-duty components to maintain structural integrity while managing large volumes of propellant.
| Field | Value |
| Model | Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure |
| MPN | 03800 |
| Materials | Cast Iron Frame and Hardened Steel Drum |
| Weight (lbs) | 3.5 lbs |
| MSRP | $324.90 |
| Approx. Street Price | $265.00 – $285.00 |
Pricing Analysis
The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure represents a significant investment compared to standard measures, but it occupies a unique niche in the market. While a standard Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is highly capable for standard rifle calibers like 308 Winchester, it often struggles with the 100+ grain charges used in Extreme Long Range (ELR) shooting. The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure provides a mechanical solution for these heavy loads, offering a faster alternative to digital dispensers while maintaining high consistency.
Build Quality, Materials, and Ergonomics
Like all entries in the Redding Competition series, the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is built around a heavy cast iron body. This material choice is intentional, as the added mass dampens vibrations and provides a stable platform that resists the “chatter” often associated with lighter, aluminum-bodied measures.
Precision Metering and Drum Design
The heart of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is its precision-ground drum and micrometer. The drum is hand-lapped to the cast iron body to create a seal so tight that even fine spherical powders like Winchester 748 or Accurate 2230 will not leak. The micrometer allows for minute adjustments that are repeatable to within 0.1 grains, a necessity when tuning loads for calibers like 338 Lapua Magnum or 300 PRC.
Ergonomics and Mechanical Advantage
The handle of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is designed for a smooth, consistent stroke. Because large-grain extruded powders like Hodgdon H1000 or Alliant Reloder 25 are common in long-range loading, the measure provides enough leverage to cleanly “shear” a kernel of powder if it becomes trapped in the drum. This shearing action is crisp and does not disturb the rest of the powder column, maintaining the uniformity of the charge.
Comprehensive Setup, Calibration, and Operation
Successful operation of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure depends on establishing a consistent rhythm.
Assembly and Mounting
- Secure the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure to a sturdy bench or a dedicated stand, such as the Short Action Customs Modular Funnel Stand.
- Clean the internal surfaces of the measure with a non-filming solvent to remove any factory anti-rust oils.
- Run a full hopper of powder through the system and return it to the bottle; this coats the internal parts with a microscopic layer of graphite to prevent static cling.
Operation and Accuracy
To maximize the accuracy of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure, the operator should use a consistent “tap” at the top and bottom of each stroke. This settles the powder in the chamber and ensures the drum is completely emptied into the case or scale pan. For the most demanding long-range applications, many shooters use the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure to throw a charge slightly light and then finish it with a tool like the Redding #5 Powder Trickler on a high-end scale like the Hornady Precision Lab Digital Powder Scale.
Internal Brand Hierarchy
Redding offers a variety of measures tailored to specific shooting disciplines. The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure sits at the top of the volume range.
- Redding Competition 10X-Pistol and Small Rifle Powder Measure: Optimized for small charges (1-25 grains), perfect for pistol and small varmint calibers.
- Redding Competition BR-30 Powder Measure: The gold standard for benchrest shooters, designed for the 10-50 grain range.
- Redding Match Grade 3BR Powder Measure: A versatile “do-it-all” measure with interchangeable chambers.
- Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure: The “big brother” of the lineup, capable of 25-140 grain charges.
Competitive Market Analysis
The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is one of the few mechanical measures designed specifically for high-capacity magnum loads.
1. RCBS MatchMaster Digital Powder Scale & Dispenser
The RCBS MatchMaster Digital Powder Scale & Dispenser is a digital rival. While the RCBS is theoretically more accurate, the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is much faster for batch loading and does not require electricity or warm-up time.
2. Hornady Lock-N-Load 50 BMG Powder Measure
For those loading truly massive cases, the Hornady Lock-N-Load 50 BMG Powder Measure is a competitor. The Hornady unit is larger still, but the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is often preferred for “standard” magnums like 300 Winchester Magnum because of its more refined micrometer adjustments.
3. Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure
The Lyman Brass Smith Powder Measure is a more affordable alternative. However, it lacks the hand-lapped drum and precision micrometer of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure, making it less suitable for long-range competition work.
4. Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure
The Forster Bench Rest Powder Measure is highly respected for consistency but is generally optimized for smaller to medium-sized cases. The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is the superior choice when the charge weight exceeds 60-70 grains.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Redding LR-1000 | RCBS MatchMaster | Hornady 50 BMG | Lyman Brass Smith |
| Type | Mechanical | Digital | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Capacity (Grains) | 25-140 | 0.1-1000+ | 50-265 | 1-130 |
| Adjustability | Micrometer | Digital Keypad | Standard Slide | Standard Slide |
| Price Class | Premium | High-End Digital | Specialty | Mid-Range |
Real-World Feedback & Troubleshooting
Users of the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure frequently praise its repeatability. Once dialed in, the measure can throw hundred of charges with minimal drift.
Pros
- Effortlessly handles large charges for 338 Rum and 300 Weatherby Magnum.
- Micrometer settings are easily logged and returned to later.
- No digital drift or “clumping” issues found in electronic units.
Cons
- Expensive compared to standard measures.
- Large extruded powders can still occasionally “crunch” during the stroke.
- Not suitable for very small pistol charges.
Troubleshooting
- Static Build-up: If powder sticks to the hopper walls, wipe the exterior with a dryer sheet.
- Inconsistent Drops: Ensure your handle stroke is identical every time. If you tap the handle once at the top, do it every single time.
- Drum Drag: If the drum becomes hard to turn, disassemble and clean with a dry cloth. Never use grease, as it will contaminate the powder.
FAQ (Extended)
Q: Can I use the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure for pistol loads? A: It is not recommended. The metering chamber is too large to accurately throw small charges under 10-15 grains. Use the Redding Competition 10X-Pistol for that purpose.
Q: How accurate is it with stick powders? A: With consistent technique, it typically stays within +/- 0.1-0.2 grains even with large extruded powders.
Q: Does it come with a stand? A: No, the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is designed to be mounted to a standard 7/8″-14 threaded stand or bench plate.
Q: Is the hopper UV protected? A: Yes, the clear reservoir is designed to resist the yellowing effects of sunlight.
Q: Can I swap the micrometer for a different size? A: The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is built as a dedicated large-volume unit; the micrometer is specific to this drum.
Q: Does it work with Hodgdon Retumbo? A: Yes, it is excellent for large-kernel powders like Retumbo or Hodgdon H1000.
Q: How often should I clean it? A: A deep clean is only necessary if you change powder types or if you notice the drum becoming sluggish.
Q: Will it mount to my Dillon XL 750? A: This is a bench-mounted measure, not a case-activated press measure.
Q: Can it throw black powder? A: No. Mechanical measures with metal hoppers are not safe for black powder due to the risk of static-induced ignition.
Q: Is the micrometer numbered? A: Yes, it features clear, engraved markings for easy recording of your favorite loads.
Conclusion & Expert Verdict
The Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is the definitive mechanical choice for shooters working with large-capacity magnum cases. Its overbuilt construction and hand-lapped internals ensure that even as powder charges scale up, precision does not scale down. For the reloader who wants the speed and reliability of a mechanical drum without the compromises of a standard-sized measure, the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure is an unmatched tool.
Expert Pro Tip: When loading for ELR distances, use the Redding Competition LR-1000 Long Range Powder Measure to throw your charge to 0.5 grains below your target weight, then use an Area 419 Billet Aluminum Powder Cup and a high-precision digital scale to trickle up to the exact kernel. This combines the speed of the Redding with the ultimate precision of a laboratory scale.
