Reloading equipment spans from cheap single stage presses that take one die at a time to massive progressive presses that crank out complete rounds. Many reloaders start with a single-stage press to learn the process before moving on to a more advanced setup.
Quality reloading supplies undergo rigorous testing to ensure consistent performance. They also give the reloader control over variables that affect accuracy, like bullet selection and powder charge.
1. They’re a one-time investment
One of the biggest reasons people learn to reload is to save money on ammunition. Anywhere from 65% to 80% of the cost of a box of ammunition is tied up in the reusable cartridge cases.
A basic single-stage reloading press can be purchased from companies such as RCBS for under $300, including the powder dispenser, scale and other accessories. The reloading press is responsible for generating the force necessary to resize the case, seat the bullet and crimp the case mouth.
The powder dispenser is the part of the reloading press that adds gunpowder to each cartridge by dropping it one granule at a time. Once it is adjusted to the specific powder you are using and the scale is calibrated you can load 100 rounds in about an hour. This is a significant savings over buying factory ammo. The initial investment in equipment is quickly recovered and then some by saving the money on the high cost of ammunition.
2. They’re easy to maintain
There are many tools that reloaders use to get the job done but the must-have ones include a reloading press, power case trimmer and powder scale. Single-stage reloading presses are usually the choice for beginners because they are relatively inexpensive, require little maintenance and can accommodate a range of calibers.
Reloading dies are cylindrical, threaded tools that insert into the reloading press to de-prime the cartridge, resize the brass within specification and seat and crimp the bullet in place. They are available as individual dies or in sets to save money.
A powder scale is essential for reloaders because it allows them to accurately determine the amount of powder being used. There are balance, electronic and digital scales available that have a price range that will appeal to any budget. Many reloaders also opt to purchase a pre-made data book where they can record information like cartridge type, bullet type, shot size, velocity, conditions and other important information.
3. They’re accurate
Reloading is an extremely precise process that requires your undivided attention. It should be done away from any distractions and under no circumstances when you are intoxicated or on medication that impairs judgment or motor function.
Reloaders can save money by choosing cheaper, faster-burning powders, which require smaller charges. They can also reduce the number of rounds required to achieve the same level of accuracy by using a lighter bullet.
Investing in quality reloading supplies and dies will improve accuracy. A quality reloading press is essential and can be found for under $100. Die manufacturers like Redding offer elite reloading dies with integral micrometers to adjust seating and neck-sizing for superior accuracy.
A good bullet puller will allow you to easily separate the spent casing from the reloaded cartridge. Hornady sells an inexpensive collet-type bullet puller that can be caliber-specific. The tool will save you time and effort over the long run and will help you evaluate the results of your reloading data.
4. They’re fun
Whether they’re plinking with used range brass or developing finely-tuned match loads for precision shooting irons, reloaders enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from putting together their own ammunition. Especially during times of ammo shortages, the self-reliance fostered by reloading provides shooters with peace of mind and security against a potentially lengthy interruption in their shooting.
Reloading equipment includes the tools and machinery needed to size, fill, and seat a bullet into a metallic cartridge case. While it may seem complicated to the uninitiated, it’s actually quite simple once you understand the basic process.
Getting started with reloading is as easy as purchasing one of the many kits available from manufacturers such as RCBS, Lee, and Hornady. These kits come with everything you need to begin loading your own ammo, including a single-stage press, balance beam scale, powder measure, funnel, shell plate, primer pocket brush, and reloading manual.
