So what is the best way for someone who has absolutely no experience with reloading, to learn and start doing their own reloading? Is there a particular book or "bible" on reloading that teaches someone more advanced knowledge on ammunition, the step-by-step process to reloading, and what equipment you need?

 

I've owned long guns for most of my life, and I'm relatively new to pistols and pistol ammo... I've never concerned myself with all the in depth knowledge of ammo and ballistics in the past... but I think that I would really like to learn more about the subject and get into reloading eventually and reload my own ammo. Is it worth investing in reloading equipment (which I know is not cheap) if you're only going to shoot lets say 200 to 400 rounds per month at the range?

 

Any advice from you seasoned reloading guys, would be greatly aprpeciated.

 

Thanks!

Their are guys on this forum with very good advice and years of reloading experience.

I started by reading the reloading books many years ago. Speer, Hornady & Lyman are a few that come to mind. (There was no internet then ) Today, there are tons of videos and books and info that can be readily found to get you started.

 

I found this link some years ago and think from a reading perspective, it simplifies what is needed from start to finish perspective for metallic cartridge reloading. It's a good read. And any good reloading manual will give you the same information and overview of what's involved, and with pretty pictures too.

 

http://home.earthlink.net/~driveabout/part1.htm

http://home.earthlink.net/~driveabout/part2.htm

These two books are a must:

 

ABC's of Reloading - This one explains the basics very well.

http://www.amazon.com/ABCs-Reloading-Definitive-Novice-Expert/dp/0896896099/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1294334471&sr=8-2

 

Lyman reloading manual - This also explains the basics very well. It lists all different types of bullets (jacketed, cast) by different makers and all different powders. Most books stick with their own bullets (i.e. speer, etc).

http://www.amazon.com/Lyman-Reloading-Handbook-49th-Edition/dp/B001FBFW6U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1294334471&sr=8-1

I started doing a lot research and reading. I took it very slow at the beginning and used a single stage press for a number of years. For awhile I only reloaded for my bolt guns until my confidence and skills were at a level where I started to reload for my semi's and then onto pistols.

 

Some of the biggest dangers are the double charges. In rounds like a 223 it is impossible to double up because the case will overflow. Rounds like 30-06 have a lot of empty volume above a full charge and can cause a KB if you over charge. Pistol rounds are very prone to double charges, especially with low volume powder. I am very anal about my reloads and separate all my brass by make. My final QC is a good visual, case gauge check and the final is an overall weight check on my electronic scale. I have documented for each caliber an acceptable range of weights and if a particular round exceeds it, the bullet gets pulled and the powder recycled. It a round is slightly under (not a squib) then it is thrown in with the plinkers. I really got anal about it when I started shooting in Service Rifle competitions. You can make yourself crazy with perfection.

 

Be careful and don't be shy about asking for assistance. Another thing to consider is to take a NRA Reloading Class. Gun for Hire offers it every once in awhile.

+1 on the books Lunker mentioned. ABC's is a great book that discusses reloading A-Z and only reloading. Many reloading manuals tend to have only small intro's to reloading, however, then jump right into hundreds upon hundreds or pages of load recipe's. That's fine though since eventually you'll need several of those kinds of reference books for load data corroboration. Another good tutorial type book called Metallic Cartridge Reloading. It has some dated load info but its tutorial section is very good. Also agree on the Lyman manual being a great generic recipe reference. Once you've familiarized yourself with the processes of reloading, you should check out the various reloading videos on the website below. You can see the various processed in action on all kinds of different hardware.

 

http://ultimatereloader.com/

Also, starting with pistol reloading is marginally easier since there is slightly less steps in the end-to-end process (no lubing, no trimming, less detailed brass inspection).

+1 on finding books to read.

 

Another thing to do would be to find someone to show you how, and walk you through the many steps. A bonus is getting to see a reloading setup in person.

 

It can be a bit overwhelming and intimidating at first, but if you focus on what calibers you'll be dealing with makes it easier to digest it all.

 

Same goes for reloading presses, when you start looking at them all, they're all tricked out in the photos. When truth be told, you probably only need about 1/3 of what is actually in the photos.

The books that Lunker posted are very good. I think I have a Lyman reloading for pistol and revolver which is very good for handguns. It has data for FMJ and lead.

 

It cost me about 1/3 of the cost of factory loads. For example I can load a box of 50 .45 ACP FMJ for about $8.50. The money you save you'll start to invest in supplies and start to shoot more.

 

It can also be very addicting. I like to reload almost as much as I like to shoot. It's a hobby within a hobby.

Thanks for all the awesome info, guys! I really appreciate it. So, on the question that I asked in my original post... is it worth investing in reloading equipment, if I were to only shoot a couple of hundred rnds per month at the range?

 

Also, how much would a typical reloading "kit" (all the gear I'd need to get started to reload 9mm and .45acp) run me?

It can also be very addicting. I like to reload almost as much as I like to shoot. It's a hobby within a hobby.

 

Everybody says that. Except me. I like to knock out 100 pistol rounds and head to the range. The idea of spending two hours reloading does nothing for me. I need to find some inner zen or something.

Spend a few hours with some one reloading, talking about ammo design and such. It is better that you understand what you are doing especially if you're the visual type which most men are.

Thanks for all the awesome info, guys! I really appreciate it. So, on the question that I asked in my original post... is it worth investing in reloading equipment, if I were to only shoot a couple of hundred rnds per month at the range?

 

Also, how much would a typical reloading "kit" (all the gear I'd need to get started to reload 9mm and .45acp) run me?

 

Sorta depends on what you mean by *a couple of hundred*. I found quality professional reloaders who sold me 50 rounds of 38spl for $11/50. Over the course of a GOOD month, I could shoot about 400 rounds at matches. I priced it out, and it turned out to only be a $30 difference. So at that time, I passed on reloading.

 

But now that I shoot black, I have to roll my own.

 

As for the price of a *kit* depends on what you go with. Single stage or progressive? Lee, Hornady, RCBS, or Dillion? I got going with a Lee 4 Stage Turrent press, and with dies and a few other things, was rollin' black magic like nobody's business for around $250.

 

But don't forget the added cost of tumbling brass. I would suggest wet tumbling, it's a one time cost without having to always purchase media. That's about $200 or so.

 

Plus space you'll need to set it all up. I don't have space for a permanent set up, so I'm always settin' up, and tearin' it down.

i can help ya with anything and even show you if youd like if your close or ever close to jersey city

Tony,

 

I started reloading less then a year ago. I reload only rifle at present, but match load savings are substantial. I got the Lyman's manual, looked at a ton of youtube video's and asked a lot of questions. If you want you can come by and I can show you first hand how easy it is once you try. It was intimidating the first time, but once your first reload goes bang, you smile. I have reloaded more then 2,000 rounds in less then the year. I have a Dillon 550, and bought the DVD that showed you exactly how to set it up and start reloading. You can borrow it if you like.

I reload batches of a single caliber at a time. There is no time savings doing 50 or a 100 round batches. Triming brass sucks so I went with the RCBS motorized trimmer and several heads. That was a little pricey, but man what a time and finger saver.

 

Half of my shed is dedicated to reloading / shooting / gun-smithing. I have a Lee 4 stage always set up and a single stage that I set up using C-clamps. I have two different powder measures, plus the one for the Lee multi-stage. Some measures stink using stick type powders and others are great. The Lee Precision Powder measure for like $30 is one of the best on the market. No need to buy an $300 digital electronic one.

 

Be forewarned, you will become a brass whore. I don't like shooting places where I can't salvage my own brass. When I do the week long shooting instructor development or tactical courses, I go thru around a 1,000 rounds of pistol and rifle on average. That is went the cost savings kick in. Some ranges allow me to keep my brass, others don't because they resell it for scrap to offset range costs. My favorites times are when we have 40 guys shooting and they go, you want all this brass? That is when I get wood. The last class I did, the brass I collected more then paid for my daily gas and mileage out to Allentown, PA everyday.If I can't police my brass, I shoot Wolf or my reloads that have been reused at least four or five times.

 

At the very least, buy a basic set up and keep all your brass. When SHTF, being able to roll your own will be of great value. Also, lead and brass are worth more then gold. Some call it ballistic wampum. Why trade or sell your good stuff, barter the good, but well used brass. I have several thousands of rounds just for such a rainy day.

 

Again, don't be shy. If you are every waaaay up on 287, I'll give you a tutorial if you so desire.

 

Oh, and no beer drinking or smoking before or while reloading.

Cheers.

 

Oh, and no beer drinking or smoking before or while reloading.

 

 

 

If this was the 1950's, that would be required.

I am just getting into reloading myself. I had a friend of mine show me the ropes and would highly recommend you take up some of these offers from some experienced reloaders to show you how to do it. As others have said it's a little intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it it's not too complicated.

 

If your looking to make a lot of ammo quickly you will want a progressive press, if you are looking to do match loads a single stage press is enough.

 

As far as cost savings, you will save the most money on less common calibers and the more expensive rounds such as 45 and 380 in pistol. Calibers like 9mm you will still save some money, but you may question if it's worth your time.

Thanks guys! I'm definitely going to pick up a couple of the recommended books and start from there. I appreciate all the offers for help and showing me some reloading stuff... I'll probably take you all up on that as I get into it a bit more.

 

Thanks!!!

Thanks guys! I'm definitely going to pick up a couple of the recommended books and start from there. I appreciate all the offers for help and showing me some reloading stuff... I'll probably take you all up on that as I get into it a bit more.

 

Thanks!!!

 

By the way, if you are going to start reloading and have to make a choice as to which caliber, I have a suggestion.

45ACP -The savings over store bought ammo will be substantial. This is a low pressure round, so your margin for error is greater which is good when you are first starting out. 45ACP brass can be used over and over again. Because of the low pressure, and because the ejectors on 1911 are not harsh on brass, I have yet to wear out a piece of 45ACP brass (i.e. make it too brittle or hairline cracks, swelled base, etc). It can be picked up off any range floor or brass bin, assuming the range doesn't care. The other consideration would be powder. Although something like Bullseye is a good powder and is very cost effective because you use so little of it, I would start out with something less dense. It is very easy to double or triple charge a 45ACP load with Bullseye. You don't want to run a round like that through your gun. Buy some Trail Boss powder. You will practically fill the case with powder, so there is no risk of overcharging.

Thanks guys! I'm definitely going to pick up a couple of the recommended books and start from there. I appreciate all the offers for help and showing me some reloading stuff... I'll probably take you all up on that as I get into it a bit more.

 

Thanks!!!

 

i recommend that you first buy the abc's of reloading book and read it cover to cover before you venture off into the reloading world. its an endless money pit reloading is!

I learned metalic reloading with 308, snipers hide being a big help along with manuals and google. Taught myself, no kabooms!

Ok, I'll play...

I don't want to scare you away from it, but it can be dangerous if you can't follow directions. (so can using a chainsaw, driving, boating, etc...) Just be aware, don't be afraid.

 

I started after I bought a s&w 500. To shoot this beast, it was about $3.00 per round. I couldn't deal with that. I saw an ad in one of the magazines. Bought a Lee single stage. It was wonderful. I cut my cost into a third for the .500.

 

I say to myself, Why aren't I reloading on all my calibers.

 

I started to cast my own lead too.

 

Depending on my load, I can load .38 for about $3.00/100

 

Cost savings a major plus.

 

It is a hobby, perhaps a disease. You will start to love reloading too. Not just because it enables you to shoot.

 

You will probably not save any money ever. You will shoot a heck of a lot more.

 

just read up on it. Pay attention. You can start with a Lee kit for under $150

I started off with a friend after watching one of our friends giving us the basics on his setup. After that we purchased a dillon 650 with all the bells and whistles, some reloading manuals, tutorial vcr tape from dillon, and reloading components and away we went. If you can find someone to "mentor" you, it would be a great help. I wish I had the funds to pick up a Camdex. It would cut down my reloading time immensely.

http://www.camdexloader.com/

I started off with a friend after watching one of our friends giving us the basics on his setup. After that we purchased a dillon 650 with all the bells and whistles, some reloading manuals, tutorial vcr tape from dillon, and reloading components and away we went. If you can find someone to "mentor" you, it would be a great help. I wish I had the funds to pick up a Camdex. It would cut down my reloading time immensely.

http://www.camdexloader.com/

 

Jumping Jehovah...I never saw that one before. 4K rounds a minute! I am going to need a Sugar Momma to fund this purchase. Ron, when they don't list the price, it has to be pricey. Any ideas on the coin needed for any of the set ups?

Jumping Jehovah...I never saw that one before. 4K rounds a minute! I am going to need a Sugar Momma to fund this purchase. Ron, when they don't list the price, it has to be pricey. Any ideas on the coin needed for any of the set ups?

4k rounds an hour not a minute. But you can dial it down.

I have the brochure for when I win the lotto, but they start at a measly $28,000

Get 30 friends that all shoot the same ammo(component wise) and split the cost at about a 1k each.

Then you need some bucks just to keep it fed. Load for 2-3 days, have enough ammo to last a long time.

Tony,

 

I'm just getting started myself. Just placed the order for everything that I would need to reload .308. I was talked out of going the "kit" route and piecing it together with high quality components. The logic that was explained to me is to start out with something that you can upgrade as you move deeper into it, instead of having to re-buy everything over again when you want to move up.

 

Its a decision that you will have to make. Some may be happy with a simple kit setup. I know my personality, I would have started looking to step it up as soon as I got the starter kit.

 

I did some calculations for my ROI. With reloading "match grade" .308 168gr HPBT ammo (cost is a little over $1 per round for commercial), my setup will pay for itself at about the 1000 round mark give or take a few hundred rounds.

 

If you want to know the setup that I just ordered, let me know. I used a combination of Cabelas and Natchez web sites.

Tony,

 

I'm just getting started myself. Just placed the order for everything that I would need to reload .308. I was talked out of going the "kit" route and piecing it together with high quality components. The logic that was explained to me is to start out with something that you can upgrade as you move deeper into it, instead of having to re-buy everything over again when you want to move up.

 

Its a decision that you will have to make. Some may be happy with a simple kit setup. I know my personality, I would have started looking to step it up as soon as I got the starter kit.

 

I did some calculations for my ROI. With reloading "match grade" .308 168gr HPBT ammo (cost is a little over $1 per round for commercial), my setup will pay for itself at about the 1000 round mark give or take a few hundred rounds.

 

If you want to know the setup that I just ordered, let me know. I used a combination of Cabelas and Natchez web sites.

 

Hi Dan,

 

I agree with the logic on buying good equipment right from the start. Can you send me a PM and let me know what setup your ordered and how much it cost? I'm very interested to learn more about it.

 

Thanks!

So, I've been doing a lot of reading on the internet and watching a lot of online videos on reloading... and I don't feel so intimidated by it any longer. It doesn't seem like it's really all the hard to do. As long as one is careful and pays great attention to the details, reloading ammo is a pretty straightforward thing to do. I have a technical mind and career background, so the process doesn't seem all the complex to me. Obviously I will learn more and more, as I increase my hands-on experience.

 

Do you guys think it's a good idea to start with a simple breech lock press? I was looking at the Lee kits, especially the Lee 50th Anniversary Kit. I know it doesn't have a digital scale (that can be ordered separately), and the gear isn't top of the line... but it will do the job, right? I seem to be finding that a lot of reloaders are using these Lee Breech Lock presses, while reading and watching a lot of the videos. I know I can spend a lot more and get much better equipment... but in reality, the only thing that the expensive gear will do for me is allow me to reload a much higher volume of ammo in a shorter timeframe, right? Is there any reason why I should steer away from this equipment and go for "better" stuff? I don't foresee myself reloading huge amounts of ammo... so I don't think an expensive progressive press is something I need.

 

Any comments and advice would be appreciated.

So, I've been doing a lot of reading on the internet and watching a lot of online videos on reloading... and I don't feel so intimidated by it any longer. It doesn't seem like it's really all the hard to do. As long as one is careful and pays great attention to the details, reloading ammo is a pretty straightforward thing to do. I have a technical mind and career background, so the process doesn't seem all the complex to me. Obviously I will learn more and more, as I increase my hands-on experience.

 

Do you guys think it's a good idea to start with a simple breech lock press? I was looking at the Lee kits, especially the Lee 50th Anniversary Kit. I know it doesn't have a digital scale (that can be ordered separately), and the gear isn't top of the line... but it will do the job, right? I seem to be finding that a lot of reloaders are using these Lee Breech Lock presses, while reading and watching a lot of the videos. I know I can spend a lot more and get much better equipment... but in reality, the only thing that the expensive gear will do for me is allow me to reload a much higher volume of ammo in a shorter timeframe, right? Is there any reason why I should steer away from this equipment and go for "better" stuff? I don't foresee myself reloading huge amounts of ammo... so I don't think an expensive progressive press is something I need.

 

Any comments and advice would be appreciated.

 

The best conversation I had on reloading was giving Dillon customer service a call. I spoke with an older gentleman named John (?). We talked for half an hour about reloading, needs versus wants, recommendations on starting up. He didn't use the hard sell at all, left all the final decisions to me. It was an excellent experience. I knew that I was going to be spending $600 on a progressive setup because I wanted to load pistol for starters and didn't want to be upgrading a year later. I got a Dillon 550B press with a vibratory cleaner and tumbler, one die and caliber change kit and I was ready to start loading. I don't reload huge quantities of ammunition, but typically it is 100 rounds per week. I do appreciate the ability to knock out 200 rounds in less than an hour. Often I bang out 100 rounds in 1/2 hour before I head out to the range on a Tuesday night. The Dillon press was one of the best purchases I have ever made.