Good for you! I did the same thing a couple of years ago with virtually no experience. I live in remote AK. My mentors have been lots of reading, some videos, and mistakes. I could have had at least 10 customs for what I've invested so far but I don't care. It's cheaper than smoking and drinking. Started out sharpening turning tools, then, facing, turning to diameter, then threading. I've chambered a handful of barrels so far, they all seem to shoot pretty good and nothing has blown up yet.

I bought a few reamers from PTG, didn't know any better...I do now. Also rented a couple from 4D with good success.

Do you have experience with a metal lathe?