Manuals etc.

[Stinger4me]

I have a press, some brass and the time. Which of the reloading manuals do the members recommend for getting started in reloading? My timing could have been better. On my last visit to a supplier there was a variety of manuals to choose from. I will plan on doing mostly handgun loads and then perhaps a few rifle loads for deer hunting. Thanks very much for your help with this.

"Stinger"

 

[Waldo]

One is not enough. If you are planning on using cast bullets in your handgun you need Lyman's manual. Then I would figure out which brand of jacketed bullet I was going to use most and buy their manual. Then I would buy a couple more manuals. I always like to check with the powder manufacture also. Either check their web site or see if they have a manual. I don't think you can have too many manuals.

 

[harry carey]

check out used book stores for deals on manuals. also HODGDEN,IMR, WIN, ARE ON THE SAME WEBSITE.

 

[waxman]

The Lyman and the Hornady are the two that I use the most.

 

[3five7]

Mostly I use Speer #14. But it is supplamented by the Hodgdon and Alliant powder company sites on line. I am kind of anal and like to check any recommended load with 2 or 3 souces.

 

[gregintenn]

I have a Sierra reloading manual along with one written be Lee. Aside from those, I also have several freebies from various powder and bullet companies such as Alliant powder. You can find these at most reloading supply stores.

 

[sigmaman]

If I could only have one manual, it would be "Modern Reloading", 2nd Edition, by Richard Lee. To me, it is the Bible of reloading. It is a fairly compact hardcover for its size (over 700 pages), has basically all the data from the powder manufacturers, including lots of handgun loads using cast bullets. Mr. Lee thoroughly explains cast bullet hardness, how to make cast bullets, case trimming, etc. You can usually find these at most gun shops, such as Cabela's etc., for around $15. There's tons more info in this book than in some that I've paid $30 for.
One caution though: If you don't use or like Lee reloading equipment, you might become annoyed because he is always referring to his equipment when explaining a task, such as neck sizing. I believe what it says on the back cover: "A reference book you will keep forever."