Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Ammunition-Gunsmithing > Reloading
o

Notices

Reloading All Reloading Topics Go Here


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:38 PM
johngalt's Avatar
johngalt johngalt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: St. Paul (smokey!) MN
Posts: 5,335
Likes: 1,443
Liked 6,647 Times in 2,564 Posts
Default Ever get tired of reloading?

I've been reloading since 2007, I find I don't really enjoy it all that much. It has its benefits - I've been able to shoot through all the recent shortages and panics, I have the ability to customize for my preferred bullet style and power level. It does give you a certain amount of freedom.

But I find it tedious, even more so lately. Plus I have to store all this stuff, which takes up space. Powder, primers, bullets, brass, tools, etc. I moved all this stuff once, and will probably do so again.

I sometimes wish I could find someone local who I could trust to load ammo the way I want, give him all my stuff, on the condition that he load my ammo for me until the components are used up.
__________________
Common sense isn't so common.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #2  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:46 PM
sellersm's Avatar
sellersm sellersm is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: CO
Posts: 598
Likes: 341
Liked 335 Times in 181 Posts
Default

I totally understand what you're saying. I think it's like most things in life, after a while, we get tired of it.

I reload so that I can afford to shoot. I cannot afford factory ammo so I load my own. I don't compete, so I don't need huge volumes, just enough to stay proficient and have some fun with the kids & others.

One way to kind of rekindle the interest, is to get a new little gadget! Maybe a new case gauge, or a new LED lamp, or some new little doo-dad to "play with". Or maybe start a new workup of a new load. Or maybe shoot for a new reason: competition, style, etc.

I sure don't look forward to moving all the stuff I've got stored up, so I can understand that point!
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:48 PM
eb07 eb07 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Arizona
Posts: 2,232
Likes: 2,809
Liked 5,794 Times in 1,452 Posts
Default

To sum it up:

NO
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #4  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:50 PM
Rocket3 Rocket3 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: North Texas
Posts: 418
Likes: 390
Liked 403 Times in 176 Posts
Default

John,
I started in 85. I have had times when it seemed a little laborious. But I still enjoy it as long as I don’t to have rush. I have found Sunday before church has become a good time.

I have in the past let it all set and gone with factory ammo for up to a year. Good break and helps you appreciate your own stuff.

Finding someone to do it for you is an interesting Idea if you could find a retired guy that wanted to make a little extra cash on the side.
Jay
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:56 PM
kbm6893 kbm6893 is offline
SWCA Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Pennsylvania
Posts: 6,625
Likes: 636
Liked 6,861 Times in 2,541 Posts
Default

I reload in small quantities at a time. No more than 100 rounds. So I don't spend any more than an hour at the bench at a time. I don't love reloading, but I do love shooting for less money, so I do it and will continue to, even if it's only a few hundred rounds a year. At this point, with the amount of ammo I have already loaded, I have already paid for my equipment and components.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #6  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:57 PM
venomballistics's Avatar
venomballistics venomballistics is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: between beers
Posts: 8,873
Likes: 4,772
Liked 6,925 Times in 3,301 Posts
Default

yes and no ... if I am looking at a 100 round run. no problem.
Load development, love it.
1500 rounds to keep an auto fed ..... yeah buddy, that gets old.
For this, I developed a coated cast load that'll tolerate a reasonable amount of COAL run out and a reasonable range of powder charge float and dedicated it to a progressive.
in this equation, you could load perfectly safe ammo while stone drunk, just keep the powder measure reasonably full.

A little forethought going into it and all the tedium can be eliminated.
__________________
it just needs more voltage
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 06-24-2015, 12:59 PM
gwpercle's Avatar
gwpercle gwpercle is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Baton Rouge, La.
Posts: 6,838
Likes: 7,394
Liked 8,049 Times in 3,652 Posts
Default

I've been reloading and casting bullets since 1967, geeez that's 48 years! Time sure flies...Anyway I enjoy it, I find the tedious little steps sort of therapeutic, me , alone at my bench, no outside world, I guess it's my form of meditation.
And I find great satisfaction when everything comes together and I develop a load that groups in one ragged hole....Sweet!
I also like to be the master of my ammo supply. Not being dependent on political winds, and shortages is also very satisfying .
I would take you up on your offer, but I've got way too much reloading equipment now . 48 years of buying "must have" stuff does that.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #8  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:03 PM
MichiganScott MichiganScott is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: God's Country
Posts: 4,711
Likes: 1,235
Liked 3,535 Times in 1,770 Posts
Default

I started in 1974 with a Lee Loader. Today I have an 8x12 room dedicated to reloading with over 20 different caliber die sets and 27 different powders. Sometimes I'm positive I shoot just simply so I have some empty brass to reload.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #9  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:08 PM
venomballistics's Avatar
venomballistics venomballistics is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: between beers
Posts: 8,873
Likes: 4,772
Liked 6,925 Times in 3,301 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by MichiganScott View Post
I started in 1974 with a Lee Loader. Today I have an 8x12 room dedicated to reloading with over 20 different caliber die sets and 27 different powders. Sometimes I'm positive I shoot just simply so I have some empty brass to reload.
that represents a good portion of my loading, so I try to keep some clear brass to play with.

Its just that goto standard ball for the sake of keeping certain heavily used guns fed that gets a little annoying with a single stage.
__________________
it just needs more voltage
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:08 PM
Twoboxer's Avatar
Twoboxer Twoboxer is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Eastern Pennsylvania
Posts: 1,033
Likes: 340
Liked 736 Times in 398 Posts
Default

Only been reloading for 3 years, but I can see the OP's point.

For me . . . rifle is fun, a craft . . . pistol is more of a task to be done.

I find that if I can get my pistol reloading done beginning a month ahead of need . . . ie, making 1,000 rounds while I still have 400 or so in the cabinet . . . I actually look forward to pistol reloading too.

If I have to squeeze a pistol reloading session in because I am out of ammo . . . not as much fun.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #11  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:12 PM
RobertJ.'s Avatar
RobertJ. RobertJ. is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Seaside, Oregon
Posts: 6,321
Likes: 24,986
Liked 12,549 Times in 3,779 Posts
Default

I rarely load more than 100 at a time. I've been reloading since 1979, and I use a RCBS Rockchucker single stage press. I enjoy the loading process, and especially load development, but there are certain procedures like trimming that I'm not too wild about.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:19 PM
snowman snowman is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Rural NW Ohio
Posts: 3,387
Likes: 5,180
Liked 2,444 Times in 1,097 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by sellersm View Post
I reload so that I can afford to shoot. I cannot afford factory ammo so I load my own. I don't compete, so I don't need huge volumes, just enough to stay proficient and have some fun with the kids & others.

This describes me also. More power to all those who enjoy it, find it relaxing, do it as a hobby, etc. But to me reloading is a necessary chore -like doing the dishes so one repeatedly has something clean to use for the next meal. It's a chore that I gladly accept in order to afford practicing shooting, but I never find it fun.

Regards,
Andy
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:29 PM
rockquarry rockquarry is online now
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 7,552
Likes: 4
Liked 8,885 Times in 4,121 Posts
Default

Very different perspectives on this topic. I've been handloading since late 1964 and the overall process quickly became a hobby in itself. I don't know how many rifle and handgun cartridges I currently load for, but it's several. I'll not get into the bullet casting aspect.

Handloading to "save money" is a legitimate reason, I guess, to engage in the process. If one looks at it strictly in that economic way, it's probably possible to save money. But then, that outlook pretty much negates any experimental projects that have made the hobby so enjoyable for me and many others. From a "save money" standpoint only, I would have tired of handloading decades ago. But that's okay and not meant as criticism directed at anyone. We all have different interests.

As with most hobbies, there is no limit on the amount of money one can spend on equipment, but handloading needn't be expensive. Many gadgets of questionable worth have been developed for handloaders. I've bought a few over the years but stopped doing so. Just didn't have a need.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:30 PM
Vortec MAX Vortec MAX is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Oct 2014
Posts: 447
Likes: 94
Liked 254 Times in 140 Posts
Default

I find it therapeutic. If I have had a stressfull day, I will go downstairs and pull the handle a few hundred times. Pop some primers, size some brass, throw a load in the tumbler and go watch some TV with the wife. Ahhh. I feel much better now.

Mike
__________________
NRA Certified Pistol Inst.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #15  
Old 06-24-2015, 01:45 PM
JBnTx's Avatar
JBnTx JBnTx is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Texas
Posts: 498
Likes: 515
Liked 517 Times in 219 Posts
Default

I shoot so I can reload, not the other way around.
I'll never tire of reloading.
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #16  
Old 06-24-2015, 02:08 PM
mikld's Avatar
mikld mikld is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: May 2012
Location: S. Orygun
Posts: 2,461
Likes: 1,962
Liked 1,827 Times in 987 Posts
Default

I have never "gotten tired" of reloading for more than a few days, mebbe a couple weeks. There have been a few times where I just cleaned up my tools and put them away because I was "tired" of reloading and I noticed it was becoming a job. When that happens, I know that concentration will soon wander, and shortcuts may be attempted, so I quit, temporarily, while I'm ahead and before I make a drastic mistake...
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 06-24-2015, 03:00 PM
SMSgt's Avatar
SMSgt SMSgt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Florida
Posts: 6,555
Likes: 3,343
Liked 9,152 Times in 3,432 Posts
Default

What would you do with all that "space' if you didn't reload? Fill it up with other junk I suppose.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 06-24-2015, 03:43 PM
Magload Magload is offline
US Veteran
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: NE Florida
Posts: 2,003
Likes: 217
Liked 692 Times in 462 Posts
Default

I started loading 12ga trap and hunting loads back in 1961 when my dad and uncle bought a MEC 400 as a 50% deal. You get it one week I get it the next. Everyone said that will never work and it didn't I ended you doing all the loading for the 3 of us. Now a 15 year old don't have a car so I had lots of time. Now days I load for my handguns and just what I am needing. I shoot 2 to 4 times a week and the range but never many rounds just enough to get out of the house so I load a 100 rounds. My girlfriend ask me if I will get tired of loading and shooting and I tell her yes as soon as I can shoot one hole groups at a 1000yds with my 40 CORE. Don
__________________
USN Retired/VN VET
M&P X5
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 06-24-2015, 03:54 PM
Bkreutz's Avatar
Bkreutz Bkreutz is offline
US Veteran
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Fruitland Idaho
Posts: 5,076
Likes: 1,586
Liked 4,882 Times in 2,025 Posts
Default

I don't particularly like loading, but I like shooting competition so I really have no choice. Part of it is the the cost (around $0.12 per round) but the main reason is that I shoot 9mm major power factor and that isn't a factory load in any stretch of the imagination. (124gr bullet at 1400fps). I made a few thousand to stock up in case of something happening to my press, since then I just load up what I'll need the next day, or what I'll need for the next road trip match. This coming weekend is the USPSA Area 1 Championship in Idaho Falls and I just finished making my 600 rounds and am packing up the car to leave tomorrow morning early.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 06-24-2015, 04:09 PM
Just another 22 shooter's Avatar
Just another 22 shooter Just another 22 shooter is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: midwest
Posts: 1,760
Likes: 4,703
Liked 2,708 Times in 908 Posts
Default

Been reloading 42 years. I enjoy it. It is my therapy to get away from the world, while adding to my ammo stock pile, all at the same time. I enjoy shopping for components. I enjoy shooting my own ammo. I enjoy seeing prairie dogs splattered at 300+ yards with loads I worked up so my rifles will shoot that well.
I don't know if like to reload so I can shoot more or if I like to shoot so I can reload
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #21  
Old 06-24-2015, 04:18 PM
federali's Avatar
federali federali is offline
Absent Comrade
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Cary, NC
Posts: 3,082
Likes: 12,877
Liked 7,548 Times in 2,081 Posts
Default Since the early 60s

I've been reloading more than 50 years. I too find it boring cranking out load after load on my Dillon 550. I also have an RCBS Rockchucker for rifle ammo.

However, I do enjoy problem solving such as learning to wash and tumble brass or discovering the primer pocket uniformer which makes seating primers a breeze.

I've thought of upgrading to a Dillon with an automatic case feed but I don't shoot enough to warrant the investment. I too am satisfied to crank out 100 rounds at a sitting.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 06-24-2015, 04:27 PM
bananaman's Avatar
bananaman bananaman is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Hillsdale, Mi.
Posts: 7,474
Likes: 6,987
Liked 7,016 Times in 2,928 Posts
Default

I reload when I feel like it. I make sure that there is plenty ready to shoot. So when I am in the mood, do my thing & load. Bob
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 06-24-2015, 04:46 PM
BB57's Avatar
BB57 BB57 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: NC
Posts: 4,710
Likes: 3,527
Liked 12,557 Times in 3,342 Posts
Default

I started reloading 38 years ago on an RCBS junior press to hand load ammo for my .243. Back then 40 rounds was a lot.

Over the years as I added calibers, started shooting competitively in High Power rifle, tactical rifle, bullseye and practical pistol, as well as some trap, it got tedious.

The solution for me was to:

1) switch to a progressive press; and
2) load large runs at a time, which limits the set up time.

Over the years I've also added multiple tool heads and quick change kits for my Dillon press, so that I can swap calibers in 3 to 5 minutes and then start cranking out my standard loads with basically no adjustment of the press, measure, etc. Even for new loads, the only adjustments are usually powder charge, seating depth, and crimp (if applicable). In rare cases, I'll neck size for one rifle and FL size for another so I'l have to swap out a die out of a tool head now and then, but there is no adjustment involved.

It's a little cash intensive, but it doesn't hurt much when spread over a few years, and it lets me quickly produce the ammo I need when I need it without the tedium of setting up and adjusting dies, powder measures, etc.

In short, I shoot more than ever, and had load more rounds than ever but spend less time doing it than ever before.
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 06-24-2015, 04:55 PM
johngalt's Avatar
johngalt johngalt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: St. Paul (smokey!) MN
Posts: 5,335
Likes: 1,443
Liked 6,647 Times in 2,564 Posts
Default

I load on a Hornady LNLAP, which is a decent press.

One issue is I live in an apartment, so I don't have a dedicated bench where I can leave everything all set up and ready to go. Every time I load, I have to unpack and assemble everything, since there is so much prep time involved, I need to do a bunch to make it worthwhile. Yesterday I did 500 .45 hardball, by the time I was done I was definitely tired of working at it. The most I've done at once was about 1400 spread across 3 different loads, including a primer size change. I definitely get burnt out trying to do that much.
__________________
Common sense isn't so common.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:11 PM
calmex's Avatar
calmex calmex is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: BC, & soon, Mexico again!
Posts: 1,310
Likes: 186
Liked 2,082 Times in 606 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BB57 View Post
I started reloading 38 years ago on an RCBS junior press to hand load ammo for my .243. Back then 40 rounds was a lot.

Over the years as I added calibers, started shooting competitively in High Power rifle, tactical rifle, bullseye and practical pistol, as well as some trap, it got tedious.

The solution for me was to:

1) switch to a progressive press; and
2) load large runs at a time, which limits the set up time.

Over the years I've also added multiple tool heads and quick change kits for my Dillon press, so that I can swap calibers in 3 to 5 minutes and then start cranking out my standard loads with basically no adjustment of the press, measure, etc. Even for new loads, the only adjustments are usually powder charge, seating depth, and crimp (if applicable). In rare cases, I'll neck size for one rifle and FL size for another so I'l have to swap out a die out of a tool head now and then, but there is no adjustment involved.

It's a little cash intensive, but it doesn't hurt much when spread over a few years, and it lets me quickly produce the ammo I need when I need it without the tedium of setting up and adjusting dies, powder measures, etc.

In short, I shoot more than ever, and had load more rounds than ever but spend less time doing it than ever before.
Excellent points. I shoot a lot too, and I live in a place where everything I need to reload has to go through a myriad of smoke-and-mirror movements to get to me. But I enjoy reloading.

Not too long ago, a rich Mexican boy offered to pay me to reload shells for him. Never mind that the Mexican Army wants reloading to be illegal and runs around acting as though it were (although the Mexican Firearms Law says differently), but reloading for somebody else definitely is illegal down here. I told him "no".

He told me that he had heard me tell some other people that I liked reloading.

"I do like reloading!" I answered without hesitation. "I love reloading and casting bullets and trimming rifle brass so that me and my family can shoot as much as we want to. We have a 365 day shooting season here, and I want to take advantage of that. But I mean, me and my family. I don't give a rat's behind if you don't get to shoot because you don't reload. And there's no way on God's Green Earth I'm loading for you whether you pay me or not."

If you're going to shoot a lot, you practically need to reload unless somebody sponsors you or you are fabulously wealthy. And like most things in life, it helps if you like it.

Last edited by calmex; 06-24-2015 at 05:48 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:19 PM
joeintexas's Avatar
joeintexas joeintexas is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Pensacola, Fl
Posts: 4,388
Likes: 9,733
Liked 7,187 Times in 2,603 Posts
Default

I do enjoy shooting so reloading just falls in place. If memory serves I got into reloading to save money, I quickly found that I was shooting 5 times more often so that wasn't really a savings but the therapeutic aspect sure is. When I go to the bench to load I am in my own little world, nice and peaceful, no bills to pay, no traffic, no problems except which powder to use today. I don't shoot as much these days so I don't load as much but I still never get tired of it, I probably would if I did it every day though. I am tired of mowing the yard though, I may consider giving that up.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:27 PM
damienph damienph is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Kansas
Posts: 626
Likes: 5,546
Liked 999 Times in 347 Posts
Default

I also enjoy reloading. I find it relaxing and actually fun. I would have to count to be sure but I currently load for no less than 28 cartridges and have dies for at least 35.
I have been reloading since 1976 and have five presses on my bench.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:29 PM
AlHunt AlHunt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,317
Likes: 5,374
Liked 2,709 Times in 1,240 Posts
Default

Reloading is just part of shooting. As a kid in the 60's and 70's, when I learned to shoot, I learned to reload.

As an adult I was surprised to meet people who didn't reload. Kind of like they're missing out on part of it.

But, yeah, it can get a little tedious.
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:44 PM
SMSgt's Avatar
SMSgt SMSgt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Florida
Posts: 6,555
Likes: 3,343
Liked 9,152 Times in 3,432 Posts
Default

Here's how I break up the tedium of reloading pistol ammo. I use a lee hand press to do all my resizing/flaring and a hand primer to seat all my primers. This I do while relaxing in my Laziboy recliner in front of the TV. I also keep a small magnifying glass handy to inspect the cases while I'm at it. Before I know it, NCIS is over and I have a pile of primed cases redy for stuffing when I get around to it.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 06-24-2015, 05:55 PM
imakmst's Avatar
imakmst imakmst is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Northeast TN
Posts: 497
Likes: 1,582
Liked 326 Times in 154 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by eb07 View Post
To sum it up:

NO
same for me
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 06-24-2015, 06:35 PM
johngalt's Avatar
johngalt johngalt is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: St. Paul (smokey!) MN
Posts: 5,335
Likes: 1,443
Liked 6,647 Times in 2,564 Posts
Default

What first got me started was wanting target rounds for my .357. After shooting lots of .38 and then the subsequent scrubbing out the chambers, I began thinking "doesn't anyone make target ammo in .357 brass?" Couldn't find any, so I decided to make my own. Then there was the difficulty in finding full wad cutter ammo for my .38. Next I thought "well, might as well load for the .45 also..."

Part of it is I don't really enjoy shooting as much as I did either.
__________________
Common sense isn't so common.
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 06-24-2015, 07:04 PM
garbler garbler is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2013
Posts: 519
Likes: 55
Liked 430 Times in 200 Posts
Default

Like many of previous responders I started loading for my self around the 63-64 and helped an uncle load shot shells for trap matches before that. I have pared down my inventory to six presses now and a lot of other parts. Always been a sucker for a new gizmo, a nice press or a cartridge that looks interesting. That is where the juice is for me. Experimenting and testing at the range other than some light match shooting and putting game in the freezer.

But years ago I bit off big on IPSC then plates and pins all the while still competing in Bullseye. They don't don't go together believe me. But reloading buckets enough to shoot IPSC ruined it for me for a couple of years. I was shooting easily 5-600+ rounds of major power 45ACP a week or more and another 250 Rds or more pin loads, 38 wad cutters, etc. Every spare minute I had was feeding and cranking on my Star presses and worrying if a shipment of bullets, brass or gun cleaners and parts had shown up in time to be ready for a match-- none of which were nearby. Dumping and cleaning brass, loading primer tubes, cleaning and repairing guns, the whole rhythm and cycle just ruined it for me. I started making mistakes not only ordering but loading too. I recall one day having two squibs in a match both forcing the bullet into the rifling and locking up the gun. I just walked off sold my two race guns and it was almost two years before I could set down and talk to my presses again. It was so bad that I actually looked forward to mowing the yard !!
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 06-24-2015, 07:18 PM
LittleCooner's Avatar
LittleCooner LittleCooner is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Northeast Alabama
Posts: 1,267
Likes: 2,778
Liked 1,917 Times in 705 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by johngalt View Post
I've been reloading since 2007, I find I don't really enjoy it all that much. It has its benefits - I've been able to shoot through all the recent shortages and panics, I have the ability to customize for my preferred bullet style and power level. It does give you a certain amount of freedom.

But I find it tedious, even more so lately. Plus I have to store all this stuff, which takes up space. Powder, primers, bullets, brass, tools, etc. I moved all this stuff once, and will probably do so again.

I sometimes wish I could find someone local who I could trust to load ammo the way I want, give him all my stuff, on the condition that he load my ammo for me until the components are used up.
Got your problem solved. Sell all your guns and reloading gear on ebay, various web sites, etc. Take the money and go buy a set of golf clubs.

I still have and still use the Herters single press purchased in 1965. Reloading is just a part of shooting. I consider that a simple fact of gun ownership. At times, it is a burden when I was pressed for time, but other times, an enjoyable part of the gun ownership, shooting hobby. I use to shoot 8,000 to 12,000 rounds a year, keeping the barrel manufactures happy. Probably have not shot 500 rounds of factory stuff in the past 40+ years. I am serious, if you do not like reloading, sell the guns and go buy a set of golf clubs or a play station with a big screen TV, you are in the wrong hobby to enjoy and wind down after all the other stresses of life.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 06-24-2015, 07:20 PM
M1A's Avatar
M1A M1A is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: 1945
Posts: 1,088
Likes: 2,261
Liked 1,850 Times in 627 Posts
Default

No. Forty + years now. I load carefully on my Dillon 450. Always something knew to reload. It's relaxing and productive.
Not that much time is required.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 06-24-2015, 07:48 PM
Magload Magload is offline
US Veteran
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: NE Florida
Posts: 2,003
Likes: 217
Liked 692 Times in 462 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bkreutz View Post
I don't particularly like loading, but I like shooting competition so I really have no choice. Part of it is the the cost (around $0.12 per round) but the main reason is that I shoot 9mm major power factor and that isn't a factory load in any stretch of the imagination. (124gr bullet at 1400fps). I made a few thousand to stock up in case of something happening to my press, since then I just load up what I'll need the next day, or what I'll need for the next road trip match. This coming weekend is the USPSA Area 1 Championship in Idaho Falls and I just finished making my 600 rounds and am packing up the car to leave tomorrow morning early.
Good shooting there let us know how it went. I might want to talk with you about the Major loads for my 9 Pro. Don
__________________
USN Retired/VN VET
M&P X5
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 06-24-2015, 08:28 PM
serger's Avatar
serger serger is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: North Dakota
Posts: 824
Likes: 2,268
Liked 1,180 Times in 434 Posts
Default

I started reloading when I was about 4. My father and I would watch the TV series Combat! and then the Friday Night Fights while doing it. We reloaded with a Lyman 310 tool. We'd load a box of 308's for his Model 70. On Saturday we'd go and shoot that 20 rounds and then he'd let me look for lead slugs to use as fishing weights. On Sunday after church we'd go fishing.

Over the years I've reloaded everything I shoot with the exception of the 50BMG.

I do most of my loading on the Dillon 550.

No I never get tired of reloading. The thing I hate is picking up brass. And lubing/sizing cast bullets.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:04 PM
Bugkiller99's Avatar
Bugkiller99 Bugkiller99 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: North Florida
Posts: 3,097
Likes: 5,674
Liked 5,191 Times in 1,861 Posts
Default

No. One thing I will not do is load against a hard deadline. Then I feEL "forced" to reload.
I reload until I WANT to stop. Sometimes I go for a few minutes, sometimes hours.
It's relaxing. If it's not, DON'T.
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:20 PM
tomf52 tomf52 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: North East PA
Posts: 530
Likes: 62
Liked 175 Times in 88 Posts
Default

The reloading I can tolerate, but casting, sizing, and lubing bullets is soon to be a thing of the past with me.
__________________
Lost in Penn's Woods

Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:21 PM
Vulcan Bob's Avatar
Vulcan Bob Vulcan Bob is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: central pa
Posts: 5,336
Likes: 2,745
Liked 2,492 Times in 1,182 Posts
Default

In a word no! I've been hand loading since 1970 or so and still love it. I find the reloading process the second half of the fun of shooting, heck I even like cleaning the firearms. I think this is why I do not shoot a lot of .22lr, nothing to load after shooting! But one of the perks is that when my wife is watching a "chick flick" I can retire to the man cave and load em up with no bleeding through the nose and ears.
__________________
Stay safe people!
Reply With Quote
  #40  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:34 PM
rwsmith's Avatar
rwsmith rwsmith is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: (outside) Charleston, SC
Posts: 30,907
Likes: 41,495
Liked 29,151 Times in 13,779 Posts
Default Never say never.....

I've eaten my own words too many times and said that I would always do certain things that were part of my life and ended up where I never thought I would be. Well, life changes things drastically sometimes and I don't want to say I'll always be reloading as long as I can shoot. For now though, I'm happy to load up a batch of anything. Right now I'm out of my house due to a fire waiting for the power in my house to be restored so I can do some reloading.
__________________
"He was kinda funny lookin'"
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:35 PM
Skeet 028 Skeet 028 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Wyoming
Posts: 6,137
Likes: 6,330
Liked 7,047 Times in 2,984 Posts
Default

1958 shotshells on a Mec 250.. 1959 swaging bullets on a Rock Chuck Bullet Swage press..loaded 'en on an old Pacific. by 1962 we had a business shooting pigeons. I was the designated reloader In 1966 Bought a Ponsness Warren 800BGot so tired of loading over the next 8 yrs. 80,000 rounds a year for that time. We closed the business down in1975. Quit shooting for 6 yrs other than hunting. Seems like all I did was shoot and reload from age 11 to 25. It got very old reloading.
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 06-24-2015, 10:43 PM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,606
Likes: 3,693
Liked 7,173 Times in 2,997 Posts
Default

No. I've been reloading since 1966 and, except for Trap loads, I'm not
a high volume shooter so I usually load in small batches. I load on a
single station Rockchucker and sometimes it can seem a little tedious
but I am always anxious to see the results of my efforts. Any time I
try a different handload I'm aiming for a specific velocity so the payoff
for me is to run right outside in my back yard to chronograph the new
load to see how close my prediction was. Despite the shortages and
high prices these really are good times for handloaders. Knowledge
increases constantly, in part due to excellent gunwriters, and the
number of powders available today provides an endless variety of
possible load combinations. There's plenty to keep handloading
interesting and rewarding these days.
Reply With Quote
  #43  
Old 06-25-2015, 12:30 AM
fredj338's Avatar
fredj338 fredj338 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Kalif. usa
Posts: 6,836
Likes: 2,665
Liked 3,927 Times in 2,366 Posts
Default

Yes & no. I've been at it for 40yrs now. I reload for more than 25cal, let some others drop by the wayside. I don't love it anymore, it's a means to an end. I think once I passed the 200k mark, it just became another task related to my shooting, like cleaning guns, also not a love.
So I use progressive equip to reduce the time involved. I still enjoy tinkering with loads, but I shoot 600-800rds a month, time still matters. I do enjoy bullet casting & even swage my own 223 for fun, but I wouldn't have the time for that if I was grinding out 200rds a week on a ss of even turret.
__________________
NRA Cert. Inst. IDPA CSO
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #44  
Old 06-25-2015, 01:00 AM
Duster340 Duster340 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Illinois
Posts: 527
Likes: 1,128
Liked 477 Times in 185 Posts
Default

I find reloading to be very therapeutic. It's nice to relax and immerse myself in reloading.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #45  
Old 06-25-2015, 08:40 AM
chief38's Avatar
chief38 chief38 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 17,759
Likes: 7,836
Liked 25,615 Times in 8,661 Posts
Default

Reloading is my LEAST FAVORITE part of the sport but a necessary evil for me to shoot as often as I do.

For 30 years I had a Dillon Square Deal B for pistol and a Rock Chucker for rifle cartridges and I managed to suffer through it but would do marathons just to load up enough so I could walk away from the press for a year or so. About 2 years ago I sold my SD-B and bought a Dillon 650 with an automatic case feeder. This thing is so fast, so effortless, and so easy to use I actually kind of enjoy it.

Still not my favorite part but now in less than a day I can load enough rounds to last me a year or so in a specific caliber. A few days and I am set for a while
Reply With Quote
  #46  
Old 06-29-2015, 10:52 AM
gojones gojones is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Posts: 14
Likes: 6
Liked 5 Times in 5 Posts
Default

Gee, we have a lot of ole timers on this forum. I too have been reloading since 1965 starting with a lyman 310 tool for 30-06. I upgraded in 1970 to a rock chucker. Then in 2013 I upgraded again to the Hornady LNL AP. Funny, After retirement, I find that I reload for pleasure instead of cost savings. I have spent more money on this since 2013 than I have spent al the years prior to 2013. I too have to be in the mood, but I find that I have time and now with these forums, there is soooo much to learn that I now can try new things and gadgets that i never had before. I find it relaxing.
__________________
NRA Endowment Member
Reply With Quote
  #47  
Old 06-29-2015, 01:40 PM
Rule3's Avatar
Rule3 Rule3 is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Florida
Posts: 22,065
Likes: 10,777
Liked 15,465 Times in 6,787 Posts
Default

When I had some "minor" internal surgery I found it Therapeutic to load rifle 223 and 308 on a single stage. I could not go out and play with the other kids so it passed the time listening to music.

I load a lot of different calibers(handgun) but do not need mass quantities, so that keeps it a little interesting on a turret press, but to be honest, if I had big money I would just buy cases of ammo, as I would rather just SHOOT These darn semi autos just eat up ammo!
__________________
Still Running Against the Wind

Last edited by Rule3; 06-29-2015 at 01:41 PM. Reason: Yes I know it is run on sentence
Reply With Quote
  #48  
Old 06-29-2015, 04:23 PM
Engineer1911's Avatar
Engineer1911 Engineer1911 is online now
US Veteran
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Augusta, GA
Posts: 6,113
Likes: 6,644
Liked 6,156 Times in 2,666 Posts
Default Getting really tired

Loading ammo is not too bad -- even when it is 5,300 rounds of 45 ACP over a long, rainy Thanksgiving weekend.

What really got tiring was melting down 400# of mined bullet scrap from the range backstop, and then casting all those 200 gr SWC bullets.


EDIT: I've been reloading since January 1975 and casting bullets since mid-1977. I expect to start saving money sometime.
__________________
S&WHF 366

Last edited by Engineer1911; 06-30-2015 at 05:57 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #49  
Old 06-29-2015, 05:51 PM
Ceapea's Avatar
Ceapea Ceapea is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Midwest
Posts: 742
Likes: 460
Liked 248 Times in 127 Posts
Default

No!
I find loading my own ammo relaxing and enjoyable. I only wish that I had more time...for loading and most other things, too.
In my first year and a half, I loaded 22,000 rounds on a single stage press.
To do that, you have got to like it.
Not as much time now, but the progressive press kinda makes up for that. Kinda!
__________________
Thugs that comply don’t die!

Last edited by Ceapea; 06-29-2015 at 05:53 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #50  
Old 06-29-2015, 07:58 PM
GB's Avatar
GB GB is offline
Member
Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading? Ever get tired of reloading?  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: SW Wyoming
Posts: 1,064
Likes: 3,777
Liked 2,259 Times in 694 Posts
Default

I too have been reloading since the mid-60s. I have loaded pistol, and rifle for fun, hunting and competition. Cast bullets for pistol and some rifle and have a basement full of equipment and stuff. After retirement I hit it pretty hard and loaded or cast for several months almost every day. I reload in batches and sometimes go for several months without touching the equipment. But I do enjoy almost all facets of reloading except case trimming. ( I trim rifle cases but have never trimmed pistol cases as I see them splitting long before they get to long.) I find reloading/casting to be rather mind settling and as my mind isn't as settled as it should be, I should probably spend more time in the manroom. Hunting season is coming, I need more 41 mag and need to develop a load for my 264 win mag. (who can afford factory ammo for either of those calibers, even if I could find it !)
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
I'm really tired of these. shouldazagged The Lounge 53 06-15-2014 08:08 AM
getting tired of... Boox The Lounge 167 05-28-2014 06:29 PM
Dog-tired... PALADIN85020 The Lounge 14 05-27-2014 07:09 AM
Got tired of being low on .38s ScottJ Reloading 16 11-01-2011 03:45 PM
Tired Pre-27 5in Varangi S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 17 06-12-2011 09:06 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 06:36 PM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)