Fairly new to reloading question

[leadtag101]

I just purchased a Savage 110 Long Range Hunter in 338 Lapua, I don't wish to spend boat loads of money on dies but was wondering if you gentlemen could give me a suggestion as to a set that would yield acceptable accuracy for long shots at 800 yards or more While elk and deer hunting.
Do you also think I should get a bullet seating depth tool? I believe thats what it's called where I can check how far off the lands I am with my newly reloaded round.
Thanks for any help!

[wbm]

Might consider testing "out of the box" accuracy first before spending a lot on equipment.

[Stumpkiller]

You chose the WRONG caliber for economy.

Redding Deluxe Die Set. Will get you going in the right direction.

And I'd recommend the Type S Match set (full length) with the Competition (micrometer) bullet seater and a set of their graduated shell holders. The shell holder set lets you resize just a hair of the case/shoulder as well as the neck for a hunting round that may need to feed in less than ideal conditions.

That's what I'm currently using for my .260 Rem and it allows all kinds of flexibility. I get 0.001 run-out from just normal care in loading.

Though if you sprung for a 338 Lapua you might want to go with a bushing set.

https://www.grafs.com/catalog/product/productId/14914

Hornady Over-All-Length Gauge with dummy case is what you are looking for.

https://www.grafs.com/retail/catalog/product/productId/7256

https://www.grafs.com/retail/catalog/product/productId/7259

And you need a vernier caliper as well.

https://www.grafs.com/catalog/product/productId/5376

Happy hunting!


BUT - note that it is not "with your round". It is with an unfired Hornady "dummy" case but at least it gives you a base-line that is close. You can add a Headspace Compataror and play around even more - or drill and tap a case fired in your chamber for the best results.

[PhilC]

Might consider testing "out of the box" accuracy first before spending a lot on equipment.
Tend to agree especially if you aren't already reloading for long range accuracy.

[Marchboom]

I completely agree with Stumpkiller. Sage advice.

Regarding reloading, there are some things where you don't want to go cheap. Dies are one of those areas. Quality dies will give you quality ammo providing you do your part. QUALITY measuring equipment is another area that deserves a few more of your dollars. A few years from now you will be glad that you bought the good stuff and you will realize that it really didn't cost that much more for quality. Buying cheap stuff usually results in buying the good stuff later on. Buy once, cry once. Cheap equipment only brings on frustration.

Remember, only rich people can afford cheap stuff.