Starting reloading, what is needed

[ArchAngelCD]

Or find a reloading class to take. Understanding the process & getting some questions answered, far better than trying to figure it out on your own IMO.

Taking a class is a very good idea. In many parts of the country there are NRA certified reloading classes available. Buy nothing but books before you attend. In the class different tools to handle different jobs are discussed which will probably save you money buying tools you don't need or are not right for your application.

 

[4barrel]

I’ve been reading this thread with great interest, as I will soon be setting up my own reloading bench. I think everybody for all the comments. Regarding this book by George Nonte, I just found one on Amazon, used for $7. Also, ordered Lyman #50. Can’t wait to start reading!

Lyman is the reloading Bible.

 

[fredj338]

Taking a class is a very good idea. In many parts of the country there are NRA certified reloading classes available. Buy nothing but books before you attend. In the class different tools to handle different jobs are discussed which will probably save you money buying tools you don't need or are not right for your application.

I teach on basic ss presses. The learning is on how to adjust dies & things like oal, why to choose this or that piwder. Then I let them run a progressve just to see efficiency v cost.

 

[BC38]

It can be really simple...
reloading/611082-reloading-made-sim...m/reloading/611082-reloading-made-simple.html

 

[gwpercle]

If you're loading .44 Magnum, you'll pay for your equipment in fairly short order.

One important thing no one has mentioned: an inertial bullet puller. You'll need this to break down your mistakes. You will make mistakes.

After buying all the basic tools to reload ammo ...the Inertia Bullet Puller came next... I call it my reloading mistake eraser or unloader .
When getting started you make a few errors and pulling the ammo down is the easiest way to correct them .
Do pick one up ...sooner or later, at some point in time , you gonna need it .
Gary

 

[tlawler]

It can be really simple...
reloading/611082-reloading-made-sim...m/reloading/611082-reloading-made-simple.html

BC38...the link isn’t working.

 

[AlHunt]

Late to the party, but this is a nice little overview of the process:

[ame]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmeiRMDiuBs[/ame]

 

[Dahak]

As a novice myself, I would suggest picking your bullets from your reloading manuals instead of trying to find a load that fits whatever bullets you randomly pick up. Plated is different than jacketed which is different than cast and FMJ is different than JSP, even if all are the same weight.

You'll soon be ready to translate and decide what is analogous, but for your first batches, removing that variable would be a good idea.

Here's a thread I started when I got confused on 124 grain 9mm loads. 9mm load data - what am I not understanding? (new reloader)

 

[Qc Pistolero]

Whatever you want to reload for,don't go at first quantity minded.Start slow with basic equipment and let the basics of reloading impregnate you.
Whatever you start with,you'll need what you feel is improved material down the road.The ''lesser'' equipment(lesser like less volume,not less quality)will not be money thrown away since it will have been used for getting acquainted with the safe basic procedures of reloading.
I've been reloading since the mid 70s and I pretty often go back to these basic tools when doing some experimentations.
Progressives are fun and efficient but to a beginner can be frustrating if not downright dangerous if misused.
Start slow and have fun while being safe practicing one of the most pleasurable hobby.

 

[dla]

.

STAY AWAY from: light weight aluminum presses. Durability comes from mass or at least thick castings.


Ivan

Clearly your education and experience are lacking.

You dont like Dillon? You've never used an LCT?

 

[dla]

The Lee Classic Turret is the best press for the $.

 

[WestDivide]

All good comments, and for a good bench:

A solid core door makes a good bench top. A few 2x4's, or 4x4's, etc for legs, a little 1 x 4 for cross braces and you can't destroy it! it's easily sizeable to what space you have. Used lumber places, junk yards, maybe your buddy who's remodeling, are plausible sources. They can be cleaned up as much as you like: as fancy or plain as needed. PM me for any particular questions. Use a steel plate under your press to prevent damaging the particle board door insides.

-West