If reloading strictly 9mm, 40sw and 45acp, plated bullets - is a full reloading manual really necessary?

Is the data from the powder and bullet mfrs not enough? 

Truth be told, with the information online I rarely open my reloading manuals

If you are using data from a competent source and are satisfied with the results you don't need a manual.

On the other hand the Lee loading manual is like $15 and contains a very large section on the how and why of reloading. Ask your self how much your eyes or skin is worth. Even if you have the smallest of case failures you will at least destroy a mag, and there are t that many mags cheaper the $15.

definitely get a manual, never trust anything posted online.   Since it seems you are a new loader the manuals go through the basics too. 

I don't use mine,  I go to several sights and correlate  the info online .

I don't use one either. I get info from good friends or compare a ton of online feedback and start low and work up to be safe.

There is so much supplemental information in the manual that I think it is a very valuable resource.  I wouldn't be without one (or two or three…) even though I also use online sources a fair bit.

the missing Malaysian plane flies over --  nuke on board -- air detonation 

 

the resulting EMP takes out all electrical devises

 

what data you gonna use then?

 

 

 

I always look in the books 1st web is secondary 

I would pick up a book or two.  Even if you get an old version.  The information is invaluable. 

I don't think I would be worrying about load data, if a nuke was detonated over my head... 

I'll reccomend the ABC's of Reloading.  it doesn't contain load data but has a lot of info on equipment and usage.

Depends on what you mean by manual. 

 

1) If you mean something like the sierra manual, where it is mostly just load data... not really. 

 

2) If you mean a reloading manual as far as a how to guide, then yes, physical books have their place. The lee is a good all arounder in that regard. I've got a few other old ones that talk about ALL SORTS of interesting stuff like reloading during recessions/depressions, and what you can get away with in gas operated guns in terms of lead, guidelines on reloading steel cases, how to reload berdan primed stuff, stuff on casting and scrounging alloy, making your own jacketed ammo out of spent brass, etc. 

I was initially considering just the loading data, should have considered the finer technical points of the process.

Will look to get my hands on a practical instructional type book.

Thanks.