Do not skip the head space gauges, especially if it's your first time out. There are too many variables in setting head space on a fired cartridge. I really don't think that saving $34.00 is worth the risk. That's not being frugal, that is just cheap.
I know, "Big Gauge" is just ripping us off, but come on. ::)
My eyes, hands, and facial structures are worth more than that to me.
For the experienced members here, I'd honestly be careful recommending short cuts to people when you do not know their skill/experience levels. It's like having somebody stick their hand in a hot 440AC cabinet when you don't know if they know how to use a multimeter. Not really a good idea and one that is going to hurt somebody some day.
If you have been swapping barrels forever, by all means do what works for you, but a new shooter trying this out should really stick to the program and use the correct tools made to do the job. This isn't like swapping a 870 barrel, and bad things can happen.
At least that's my two cents on the matter.
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