As posted, you have to lower the handle with authority to shear the little logs in two.
As to which proceedure is best, that's up to you. Whatever works best for you.
I use a down stroke, slight lift and tap (to make sure the reservoir emptys , up stroke smartly, slight tap to settle the powder and make sure the hopper fills, down stroke with authority, repeat.
The "secret" to consistant loads is consistant opeeration of your meter. The more you use your measure, the better you'll get. You will not find one that doesn't bind with stick powder.
