I have some question on reloading

[19trax95]

I have been wanting to get into reloading for a few years now, but just never took the leap. But having bought a few larger caliber rifles, I am re-evaluating. I don't personally know anyone that reloads to get any info from.

So basically, here are my questions.

1. Cost. What does it cost (average equipment) to get into reloading for say 2 or 3 different calibers

2. Space needed. Is a dedicated work bench suitable?

3. Time. Obviously this would depend on the type of equipment and how many rounds I want to do.

4. Extra materials. What else is good to have?

So all in all, I'm looking for a fairly basic setup but something that I can grow into if I decide I really enjoy it. Thank you for any input on any of the questions or just input in general.

[Danatkins8605]

Pick one of the kits that they sell and have fun

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[J.Baker]

Probably the best kits on the market right now are the RCBS Rock Chucker Special-5 Explorer Plus kit and the Hornady Lock-n-Load Classic Deluxe kit. Both are a step above the basic kits and include some additional or upgraded items (powder measure stand, digital scale v. beam scale, etc.). The Lee kits are another option that's cheaper, but I'm not a fan of their beam scale or their powder measure and I think most would agree that in the long run the above two kits are well worth spending the extra $$ on.

As for the specific questions...

1) However much you want or can afford to spend.

2) I would recommend at least a 3 or 4' long workbench area for your press, powder measure and scale while still having enough room for a couple case trays and boxes of components.

3) Time for what? To learn? To load 100 rounds?

4) Several different reloading manuals from different bullet and powder manufacturers. They're a wealth of information on reloading, and different manuals have data for different powders/bullets or combinations thereof.

[Deadshot2]

Probably the best kits on the market right now are the RCBS Rock Chucker Special-5 Explorer Plus kit and the Hornady Lock-n-Load Classic Deluxe kit. Both are a step above the basic kits and include some additional or upgraded items (powder measure stand, digital scale v. beam scale, etc.). The Lee kits are another option that's cheaper, but I'm not a fan of their beam scale or their powder measure and I think most would agree that in the long run the above two kits are well worth spending the extra $$ on.

As for the specific questions...

1) However much you want or can afford to spend.

2) I would recommend at least a 3 or 4' long workbench area for your press, powder measure and scale while still having enough room for a couple case trays and boxes of components.

3) Time for what? To learn? To load 100 rounds?

4) Several different reloading manuals from different bullet and powder manufacturers. They're a wealth of information on reloading, and different manuals have data for different powders/bullets or combinations thereof.

I recommend kits pretty much on the basis of how much of the original package will still be in use 5 years later. I think the RCBS is the one that fits the criteria of "highest percentage" with the Lee being the one with the least. I still have all of my RCBS tools and equipment from almost 40 years ago. Yes, I bought it piece by piece, not in a kit, but it all adds up to what's in the kit today.

[Danatkins8605]

The hornady has a caliper (required) and the cartridge length gauge thing but that's not really needed

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[19trax95]

Does anyone have experience with this hornady setup? https://www.amazon.com/Hornady-Lock-...tag=rateinc-20

[J.Baker]

Does anyone have experience with this hornady setup? https://www.amazon.com/Hornady-Lock-...tag=rateinc-20

A progressive press like this is NOT what you want just getting started. You need to learn the basics and to learn what to watch for before you jump into that. Gotta walk before you can run.

[Danatkins8605]

My buddy has one I'm getting ready to buy. Keep it clean and it'll run like a monster

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[srjdsmith]

Do you live in an urban area? Good garage sales? My cousin bought a great starter set of things for pennies on the dollar. He needed/wanted s few things that had to be bought later but his initial investment was very reasonable. Also, there's always 'that guy' at gun shows that has dies and bullets and brass.

I have a single stage RCBS press (before the one they call the Rockchucker I think) and it's great. Don't expect to be fast, certainly not at first. Be slow and methodical- be safe. For shotgun shells, I can fly along and produce a box in no time. Rifle and shotgun are different- more precise, more critical, so go slow at first.


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[Danatkins8605]

While I agree that a progressive isn't a good idea he could go one shell at a time on it

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[Deadshot2]

While I agree that a progressive isn't a good idea he could go one shell at a time on it

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Even if a person gets a progressive press to start with, eventually they will own a single stage as well. Hard, if not impossible to perform some specialty tasks on a Progressive but those same tasks are a piece of cake on a Single Stage. Especially if it's a Rock Chucker.

If you're just getting started take baby steps. When getting the progressive the old press won't be obsolete. And people often change their minds on progressives after starting out with single stages.

[Danatkins8605]

Even if a person gets a progressive press to start with, eventually they will own a single stage as well. Hard, if not impossible to perform some specialty tasks on a Progressive but those same tasks are a piece of cake on a Single Stage. Especially if it's a Rock Chucker.

If you're just getting started take baby steps. When getting the progressive the old press won't be obsolete. And people often change their minds on progressives after starting out with single stages.

Like what? Nothing I can think of that would be done on a press couldn't be accomplished on a solid progressive unless you want to set a single up for nothing but depriming, which to me is just a waste

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[Robinhood]

It all depends on what you want out of your reloads. This is the proverbial rabbit hole. Ask lots of questions before you buy...like you are.

Having a hand primer seater is a good thing. Quality case mouth deburr tool and a COAL trimmer of some sort may be in your future. A quality beam scale if you are looking for good accuracy.

[WV1951]

I went through the same questions before I started, and a quick google search and a few you tube videos covered a multitude of information and answered a lot of questions. Just google something like "should I reload or not", "reloading basics", "is reloading worth it", etc.

[19trax95]

My goal is to be able to load my own rounds as sort of a hobby. Most likely would be .308, 30-30, and .45. So not looking to do high volume per say at the moment. Mostly just reload what I shoot at the range.

I just watched a good (or I thought it was) video on the rock chucker kit from iv8888 and he went over pretty much the basics.

I think you guys are right about the progressive press being not the best for a first Time reloader. It seems like the so for stage will almost force you to take your time and triple check everything, which is good because safety is key.

So for starting out, if I go this route, I would need the following.

https://www.amazon.com/RCBS-Chucker-...tag=rateinc-20

-Powder (correct type to be determined by reloading manual I assume)

-Die sets for the various calibers

-Cases

-Bullets

-Primers

-And a good caliper (which I have a digital one already)

[m12lrs]

My goal is to be able to load my own rounds as sort of a hobby. Most likely would be .308, 30-30, and .45. So not looking to do high volume per say at the moment. Mostly just reload what I shoot at the range.

I just watched a good (or I thought it was) video on the rock chucker kit from iv8888 and he went over pretty much the basics.

I think you guys are right about the progressive press being not the best for a first Time reloader. It seems like the so for stage will almost force you to take your time and triple check everything, which is good because safety is key.

So for starting out, if I go this route, I would need the following.

https://www.amazon.com/RCBS-Chucker-...tag=rateinc-20

-Powder (correct type to be determined by reloading manual I assume)

-Die sets for the various calibers

-Cases

-Bullets

-Primers

-And a good caliper (which I have a digital one already)

It is.a.great hobby. Quite addicting. the.only way you will ever reach your rifle's full potential

But it certainly is.not cheaper than buying ammo.

Most of that "Starter Kit" will be replaced in the.first few years with the exception of the press. I still have my rockchucker i started off with well over 40 years ago.

I probably have more invested in reloading equipment than rifles.

[psharon97]

I haven't seen a single kit that had everything I use in one kit. What I would do is to start with a kit and order a few extra things.

The kit that MrFurious suggested has a lot of items that will be used for more than 5 years. I prefer scales that don't require batteries, but that will still allow you load precision ammo.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/45...h-priming-tool --I'm not a fan of hand priming tools. This is the tool I use
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/72...r-and-9-pilots --case trimmer
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/15...tainless-steel --micrometer
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/46...-to-60-caliber

You will need some good reloading books. The Berger manual is an awesome add as well.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/17...loading-manual

[19trax95]

Is this a decent setup?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00T9...KIKX0DER&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004T...KIKX0DER&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00HA...KIKX0DER&psc=1

[J.Baker]

That should get you up and running. Only thing I see that's missing is a case trimmer. Since you're only looking to do a few standard cartridges I would suggest these from Lee. They're cheap, make trimming to length idiot proof, and you can use a cordless drill with it to speed up the process. You basically buy the universal cutter and lock stud, then get the specific gauge for each cartridge you're reloading for (.308, 30-30, .45 ACP) for $5-6 each.

https://www.amazon.com/Lee-Precision...Lee+Case+gauge

https://www.amazon.com/Lee-Precision-Cutter-Lock-Stud/dp/B000NOQIOU/ref=pd_sim_200_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000NOQIOU &pd_rd_r=QZDYXJ21X7JDHMV68KA6&pd_rd_w=3Jiam&pd_rd_ wg=ZAYVG&psc=1&refRID=QZDYXJ21X7JDHMV68KA6


If you want to upgrade down the road to a lathe-type trimmer you can, but I have both and rarely ever use the lathe as it's a PITA to get set to the proper length when changing from one cartridge to another.

[jpx2rk]

I won't get into which press is best or not as it seems to be a personal preference to me. I have a Lee Challenger press and a newer Lee single stage that uses the quick install bushings for the dies. I like both but I only load for 223 & 204, not sure these would work well for the 308 brass.

I have both of my presses mounted to this https://www.midwayusa.com/product/62...eloading-stand with one on each side and offset to have some working space. It's very stable for the 223 & 204, mostly neck sizing but no difference in stability when FL sizing.

I have this in a small BR 10x10 or 12x12, I also use an old computer desk with the elevated shelf for my RCBS 505 scale. It's very stable and I use the lower level for case prep/etc. I bought a cheapo fold up work bench from HD, and I use the lower shelf for storage and the worktop area for collection of stuff I need to put away. Cheapo cabinet/shelf kit from wally world holds most of my reloading supplies. An old office chair works in this space. I can spin around from the presses to the computer desk (powder measure/scale) and use both of these areas for processing brass or measuring out powder loads, then spin around to load bullets on the presses as needed. I've seen pictures of some nice setups inside a small closet, mine is just a big walk in closet size room. I keep the door closed for the most part so the wife won't %^&$# as much.

The Lee scale that comes with a Lee kit is difficult to use IMO, I tried it and did not like it, the RCBS 505 is easy to set up and use, accurate when compared to a small & cheap digital scale. Lots of good reviews on Lee powder throwers/measures, but look for one that handles the type of powder(s) you use most. Some handle different types better than others, so...

I bought a FA brass press center and like it, you can get 'em on sale for ~$150 at times, it has 3 inter-changeable functions to suit your need/purpose and full time trimmer. Saves the hands and fingers for this old fart. This fits on the main level of the old computer desk when processing brass, but sits on the floor when not in use to clear the area for other things. I use an old cake baking pan under it to catch the brass shavings & powder/primer residue.

It all boils down to how much do you want to spend to save a few $$ on ammo. You can make it cheaper AND BETTER but it costs $$ to do this.

[Texas10]

You ask about cost so you should be warned that unless you plan on shooting thousands of rounds per year, it's cheaper to buy factory ammo. But cost is not what drives shooters to get into hand loading, it's a desire to learn a valuable skill and accomplish on the target what can't be done with factory loads. And besides, it's cool

Even if you buy mostly online and save tax and shipping, or wait for sales at Cabelas (they always have good sales in the fall and Christmas) you should figure on spending at least a thousand hard earned dollars to get set up. You'll need much, much more than whats on your short starter list in order to load safely.

For instance, I know a guy who loaded for 30 years and never trimmed his brass to SAMMI spec. and he got away with it, until the day he pinched a bullet in the chamber. He wasn't hurt, but he did replace some parts. Another guy (commercial reloader) put CFE for pistols in a rifle cartridge instead of CFE223 for rifles. Customer's rifle suffered a catastrophic failure on the firing line. So this is dangerous stuff if you're not careful and pay attention and have all the tools you need to assure quality in your product.

Regarding presses, I really like the Hornaday because of it's cam lock bushings. You can set up your dies just once, and quickly change from one to another in a few seconds without having to check dimensions or buy the really good locking collars that will actually lock onto the die. Its quick, and exact.

For now, forget the powder dropper. Use a balance scale and learn to weigh all your charges. Buy a Lee powder dipper kit, it's cheap and you will learn to use the one that when filled completely will deliver just under your desired weight, then scoop a little more powder and trickle the last few kernels into the pan. Really quick and accurate.

As for manuals, buy those who's bullets you intend to shoot. That way you get the best information for that manufactures bullets, you can't expect to load a Sierra 180 gr bullet using a Hornaday manual and get the same results. What you get will be safe, but not precise.

Hornaday has a good set of gages for measuring base to shoulder (important for setting up your full length sizing dies) and OAL (important for setting up your cartridge overall length). You'll need the modified case for each chambering you intend to load also. More dollars...LOL.

For a work bench, I'd recommend you buy two kitchen cabinets from Lowes and a pre-made counter top along with a sheet of 3/4 inch plywood to reinforce the counter top. This gives you storage space and a good smooth, flat and easy to clean work space you can drill holes in to mount your press. Home Depo has some butcher block style work bench kits with drawers too, but you might want to check the "butcher block" to see if it's really laminated wood, and not just a clever overlay onto MDF.

Powders; Pay attention to lot numbers. If you developed a load with one lot, and purchased new, you'll have to re-develop your load. Powder lots are only guaranteed to within 10% of each other. Different enough to overpressure your brass if you're loaded to the max to start with.

Buy good brass, and resist the temptation to pick up range brass to use for your hand loading, you'll be doing yourself a big favor and maybe prevent an injury to yourself or your buddies on the firing line.

Good luck, have fun, and try not to hit the sides as you fall down the rabbit hole of hand loading.....LOL.

[Mozella]

You ask about cost so you should be warned that unless you plan on shooting thousands of rounds per year, it's cheaper to buy factory ammo. But cost is not what drives shooters to get into hand loading,............. snip...............Good luck, have fun, and try not to hit the sides as you fall down the rabbit hole of hand loading.....LOL.

Texas10 has written a great post. Reloading is the single most expensive thing related to the sport of shooting. But if you want the best ammo, you must do it. I will add this to what Texas10 says.
Read his post again. It has the best recommendations in this thread.
You'll need a sturdy bench. I use a Harbor Freight bench. When I put it together I used yellow glue on every joint and it is as solid as a rock; cheap too.
Some say start with a single stage press. I didn't and I'm very happy with my Hornady Lock N Load progressive. The cam lock die holders are great. I often use it like a single stage, but just yesterday I loaded a batch of plinking ammo in the progressive mode which takes me about 1/4 the time. I built my own DIY case feeder for a few dollars. I'm glad I didn't try to save money by buying a Lee.
Realize, as some have said, that this CAN be dangerous. So read a lot, start slowly, be extra careful. If you think there is ANY chance you made a mistake (and you will) pull the bullet, empty the case, and start over.

[psharon97]

If you're trying to get into reloading to load standard 308, 223, 9mm, 45, ect, I completely agree, it's far cheaper to run into a store or order your cartridges online than it is to reload. Some of us on this forum can't do that. For example one of my bench guns is a 284 winchester, another one is a 260 remington. There aren't many commercial loadings to choose from to start with.

I also shoot the 44 magnum, which will drive you into the poor house if you intend on buying factory ammo. Match grade 7mm rem mag is also very pricey.

[Danatkins8605]

Psharon 44 is expensive even reloading unless you pud load it with cast lol

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[19trax95]

I'm not really doing to be able to shoot for less $$ per round. Although it would be nice haha.

I'm doing it for more or less a hobby and something to do when I'm bored. And it's something I've always wanted to try since I started shooting.

I ordered the kit I posted, some dies, brass trimmer, a bullet hammer, and some reading material.

I'm going to wait on the powder and such until I give some of the reloading manuals a good read.

They are running a rebate as well so if I fill it out and pay shipping, i can get either $50, or 500 speer bullets of my choice (from their list). To me the obvious choice is the bullets since that's a better value price wise.